Cody Christie

Image courtesy of © Nick Wosika-Imagn Images When the MLB trade deadline rolls around each season, front offices around baseball are tasked with making high-stakes decisions in real time. Whether pushing chips in or recouping future value, the best organizations know when to capitalize on a player’s rising stock or spot overlooked talent in another system. In recent years, the Minnesota Twins have done both. They sold high on one prospect whose value was peaking in 2022. A year earlier, they pulled off a shrewd acquisition by targeting a pitcher undervalued by his own organization. These two moves showcase how the Twins have blended scouting insight, data evaluation, and industry perception to shape their roster. Selling High: Steer’s Breakout Opens Trade Window At the 2022 deadline, the Twins were in buy mode. They needed starting pitching, and they needed it fast. But to get value, they had to give it up, and Spencer Steer was one of the hottest names in the organization. Steer had taken a massive step forward that summer. After making adjustments at the plate, he began to show more power and versatility in the infield, rising quickly through the system. Internally, the Twins liked him a lot. But externally, teams were even more intrigued. Former Twins GM Thad Levine recently discussed the deal on Gleeman and The Geek, noting that while Minnesota believed in Steer’s future, the broader baseball industry was even more bullish on him. The Twins ultimately packaged Steer with Christian Encarnacion-Strand and Steve Hajjar to acquire Tyler Mahle from the Reds. At the time, it appeared to be a fair deal. Minnesota was addressing an urgent need in the rotation, and Mahle had been a dependable mid-rotation starter in Cincinnati. But Mahle would throw fewer than 45 innings for the Twins before elbow issues led to Tommy John surgery. Meanwhile, Steer has shown brief flashes, but failed to become a reliable everyday contributor for Cincinnati with a 94 OPS+ over the last two seasons. The Twins didn’t necessarily mis-evaluate Steer; they just chose to sell high when his value peaked. That’s part of the deadline game: maximizing return on a player who might not fit your immediate plan, even if it means taking on risk in the process. Buying Low: Joe Ryan’s Value Hidden in Plain Sight Just a year earlier, the Twins were on the other side of the equation. Sitting outside the playoff picture in 2021, Minnesota dealt veteran slugger Nelson Cruz to the Tampa Bay Rays. In return, they landed a pitcher who wasn’t a top-100 prospect but had the attention of a critical voice in their front office. That pitcher was Joe Ryan. While many across the league viewed Ryan as a limited-upside arm (with a deceptive fastball but little else), Twins Vice President Josh Kalk a pitching guru saw something more. Kalk had worked in the Rays organization before joining Minnesota, and he believed Ryan’s fastball traits, including its unique carry and command, would translate to the major-league level. That internal conviction was a big reason the Twins targeted him. The Rays, as savvy as they are, didn’t value Ryan as highly. In a rare twist, Minnesota may have out-Raysed the Rays. Since arriving in the organization, Ryan has quickly climbed the ladder, debuting late in 2021 and establishing himself as a mainstay in the Twins’ rotation. He’s still evolving as a pitcher, adding secondaries and refining sequencing. Still, his strike-throwing ability and mound presence have made him one of the better value acquisitions in recent Twins history. It’s a textbook case of buying low. The Twins identified a player whose skill set and pitch characteristics aligned with their developmental strengths, and they pounced when the opportunity arose. Deadline Lessons: Timing, Trust, and Targeting In back-to-back deadlines, the Twins pulled off moves that showcased the delicate art of roster building. Selling high on Steer was a bet on immediate need, even if it came at the cost of long-term control. Buying low on Ryan was a projection-heavy play, driven by internal belief rather than external consensus. Neither move came without risk. The Mahle trade didn’t work out for either side in hindsight. But Ryan’s emergence continues to provide value far beyond what many expected at the time of the Cruz deal. As the 2025 trade deadline approaches, the Twins’ past deals remind us that success isn’t just about acquiring the biggest name. It’s about knowing when to strike, trusting internal evaluations, and understanding how others view the talent on your roster and theirs. The process of each deal was sound in its own way, but that doesn't mean either was certain to work out in any particular sense. It's important to understand local maxima and minima of player value, to time transactions well and make smart bets—but equally important to remember that those charted variations in evaluations and expectations can often be just plain wrong. Can the Twins sell high on anyone in the organization in 2025? Leave a comment and start the speculation. View full article

Image courtesy of Daniel Kucin Jr.-Imagn Images As the second half of the season gets underway, the Minnesota Twins find themselves at a familiar crossroads. Hovering near playoff contention but far from guaranteed, they’ll need more than just reinforcements from the outside to make a run. Internal improvements could provide the biggest boost and four players, in particular, could make or break the second half. Here’s a closer look at the quartet that could flip the script and drive Minnesota into October baseball. Pablo López – The Ace Missing in Action It’s hard to overstate how much López’s absence has impacted this team. Before hitting the injured list in late June with a strained shoulder muscle, López had been everything the Twins hoped for atop the rotation. Through 11 starts, he posted a 2.82 ERA with 61 strikeouts in 60 ⅔ innings. His 1.07 WHIP was the best among Minnesota’s starters, and his ability to pitch deep into games had become a steadying force to save the bullpen. Since his injury, the Twins rotation has been forced to lean on a mix of rookies, openers, and bullpen games. The entire staff tanked in his absence in June. López has recently resumed throwing off flat ground, which is a promising sign, but a return before mid-August still seems optimistic. His eventual re-entry into the rotation could be the single most important factor for this club’s postseason hopes. Not just because of the innings he provides, but because of the tone he sets every five days. Carlos Correa – Glimpses Aren’t Enough Correa has stayed on the field in 2025, which hasn’t always been a given in recent seasons. That alone is valuable, but the Twins need more than presence—they need production. He’s the highest played player and the roster isn’t built to succeed without him. Through the All-Star break, Correa is batting .242/.304/.389 (.694) with just seven home runs and a 90 OPS+ in 85 games. Those numbers fall well short of expectations. That said, there are signs of life. He’s been more selective at the plate in recent weeks, and he has posted an .827 OPS over his last 20 games. If the Twins are going to make noise in the Wild Card chase, Correa has to be more than just steady. He needs to be the centerpiece. That might sound like a lot but it’s what he was brought here to do. Matt Wallner – Boom or Bust Few players on the Twins’ roster come with as much power potential as Wallner and few have a swing as puzzling. Wallner’s 10 home runs in just 55 games are among the best HR-per-PA ratios on the team, and when he connects, it’s loud. But a .205 batting average and 30.3 K% have made him tough to rely on for consistent offense. Still, the Twins have stuck with him, hoping the flashes of impact turn into full-blown production. A more balanced second half, where Wallner can still flex his power but make a little more contact, would give Minnesota’s lineup a much-needed left-handed threat. At a time when the team has struggled to string together rallies, Wallner’s ability to change the game with one swing could be a separator. Royce Lewis – Not Yet Electric Lewis has fought through injuries throughout his professional career, and it’s been encouraging to see him stay on the field in recent weeks. However, his offensive profile hasn’t matched the electric player we saw in stretches last year. He ended last season in a terrible slump, hitting .171/.225/.243 (.468) with six extra-base hits in 30 games. Now, the 2025 season has been nearly as bad. With just two home runs and a .302 slugging percentage in 42 games, Lewis hasn’t been able to deliver the extra-base pop the Twins expected. His underlying metrics suggest the bat speed is still there, and the hope is that the power will come with more reps. He’s also looked improved defensively at third base after some throwing issues last season. Much like Correa, Lewis doesn’t need to carry the team, but he does need to be more than average. When he’s firing on all cylinders, he gives the lineup something that’s been missing too often this year: big, game-changing hits. The Core Has to Click| The Twins don’t need to overhaul their roster to make the playoffs (although that likely isn’t an option with the current ownership group). They don’t even need everyone to suddenly break out. But they do need these four players (López, Correa, Wallner, and Lewis) to elevate. If López returns and anchors the staff, if Correa rediscovers his All-Star form, if Wallner can connect more often, and if Lewis taps into his previous potential, the Twins have a path forward. The question now: Will the core click in time? Who do you think will have the biggest second-half surge? Join the discussion below. View full article

Image courtesy of William Parmeter The first half of the 2025 season has tested the Twins' depth, and while the team has managed to stay afloat in the standings, the reinforcements arriving after the All-Star Break might give them the boost they need to make a second-half push. Right-hander Zebby Matthews, infielder Luke Keaschall, and starter Bailey Ober are all trending toward returns over the next week. Each could play a critical role as Minnesota tries to decide the club's long-term direction. Let’s take a look at each player’s progress and what their return could mean for the Twins. Zebby Matthews: From Breakout to Big-League Ready When Matthews landed on the injured list with a right shoulder strain in early June, the Twins lost a sophomore who had started to turn heads with his command and poise. Last season’s breaking pitching prospect had allowed seven earned runs over his last 16 innings with a 20-to-5 strikeout-to-walk ratio. The 25-year-old was just beginning to make his case as a long-term piece in the rotation, and now he may be right back in the mix. In his lone outing with Triple-A St. Paul last Sunday, Matthews looked as sharp as ever, striking out nine batters over four shutout innings. His fastball had life, his changeup had fade, and his breaking ball looked crisp. Matthews took the mound for the Twins on Saturday in Colorado with the team in a must-win game after falling flat in the second half opener. He pitched four innings, allowing five runs on eight eights. Last season, the Twins saw Simeon Woods Richardson provided a lift to the team when the rotation was in shambles. Now, Matthews has an opportunity to do the same. It’s also a critical development with Ober’s health still in flux and trade deadline decisions looming. Luke Keaschall: A Different Kind of Deadline Addition When Keaschall fractured his forearm in late April, he was in the midst of an impressive breakout campaign between Triple-A St. Paul and the big leagues. In seven games with the Twins, he went 7-for-19 with three doubles, five steals, and more walks (5) than strikeouts (2). His absence has been felt especially as the Twins have struggled to find consistent production from the line up. Keaschall began a rehab assignment at Triple-A St. Paul on Friday. He was the team's leadoff hitter and played DH in his first start. He finished the night 1-for-5 with a critical RBI in the ninth inning to add an insurance run. Minnesota will want him to get into multiple rehab games but it’s nice to know he will impact games in August and September. While it remains to be seen whether Keaschall will step right into a starting role, his right-handed bat and on-base ability could prove valuable, especially if the front office decides to trade from the infield surplus (Willi Castro, Ty France, etc.) or make a move at the deadline. Keaschall returning healthy gives them options, and the Twins love options. Bailey Ober: Mechanical Tweaks and the Path Back Perhaps the most impactful player nearing a return is Ober. After a rocky stretch in June, Ober was placed on the IL with a left hip impingement. His velocity had dipped and his mechanics seemed off, raising questions about whether an injury was lingering. It turns out, something was. But now? Things are trending in the right direction and he's made his first rehab appearance on Friday. In his start, Ober retired eight of the final nine men he faced and went four shutout innings allowing four hits while striking out three. He threw 50 pitches, 43 strikes. He threw 18 fastballs with an average velocity of 90.1 mpg and topping out at 91.6 mph. The Twins had few options for the rotation in June so they continued to send him out there despite his poor performance. If all goes well, he could return before the end of July, adding a reliable arm to a rotation that’s been held together by duct tape and rookie adrenaline. With the trade deadline just over two weeks away, having clarity on Ober’s health will be vital. The Twins don’t need to overpay for a starter if they feel confident in Matthews and Ober returning to form. The All-Star Break is a time to reset and for the Twins to reload. With Matthews, Keaschall, and Ober all trending in the right direction, the Twins may be getting back more than just rest. They’re getting back three potential contributors, each of whom could play a pivotal role in the second half. And in a season where the margin for error is slim, internal additions like these might be just as important as any trade deadline splash. Who will have the most significant impact on the Twins in the second half? Leave a comment and start the discussion. View full article

As the trade deadline approaches, the Minnesota Twins continue to tinker around the edges of their pitching depth. On Tuesday, the club quietly acquired right-handed pitcher Noah Davis from the Los Angeles Dodgers in exchange for cash considerations. Davis, 27, was designated for assignment by L.A. after a historically rough outing, but the Twins see enough in his underlying numbers to take a flier. With an open 40-man roster spot and no need for a corresponding move, the Twins have optioned Davis to Triple-A St. Paul, where he’ll join a bullpen mix that has seen plenty of turnover this summer. A Forgettable Fourth Let’s address the elephant in the room: Davis’ last appearance in the majors was the stuff of nightmares. On July 4th, he entered a lopsided game against Houston in the fifth inning and recorded one out to close the frame. But when he returned for the sixth, things spiraled out of control. Davis allowed 10 earned runs on six hits, three walks, and a hit batter in just 1 1/3 innings. The exclamation point came via a grand slam before he could record the inning’s first out. The meltdown ballooned his season ERA to 19.50 and earned him a swift demotion followed by a DFA. It’s the kind of performance that might end a pitcher’s season (or even career) but the Twins are banking on the idea that there’s more under the surface. Finding a New Gear in Triple-A While Davis’ big league ERA is unsightly, his minor league track record in 2025 paints a different picture. In 32 innings at Triple-A Oklahoma City, he’s posted a 3.94 ERA with a 27.5% strikeout rate and a 48.1% groundball rate. His walk rate (10.9%) has crept up, but the whiff and groundball numbers are intriguing. Throughout the 2025 season, the Dodgers have transitioned Davis into more of a full-time relief role. He’s long been a starter in the minors, but shorter outings have allowed him to lean into a more aggressive pitch mix. Pitch Arsenal Breakdown According to Baseball Savant, Davis primarily relies on a three-pitch mix. He has thrown nine four-seamers and four screwballs this year, but they are part of his primary usage: Sweeper (80 mph, 41% usage): His most-used pitch that has held batters to a .187 xBA and a .387 xSLG. He gets a lot of swing and misses with this pitch (50.0 Whiff%), which is one of the reasons he has increased its usage this season. Sinker (94.5 mph, 35.1% usage): This was his most used pitch in 2024, but he’s cut back as he’s increased his sweeper usage. He’s capable of reaching the upper 90s with this pitch in shorter stints. It has the highest Put Away% of any of his offerings (36.4%), but gets hit hard with a .800 SLG (.649 xSLG). Cutter (88.5 mph, 14.2% usage): His expected numbers on his cutter are nearly perfect with a .066 xBA and a .096 xSLG. Last season, he threw this pitch over 20% of the time so it might be an offering the Twins want him to use more regularly. A Low-Risk Addition With Upside For the Twins, Davis checks a few key boxes: Optionable for the rest of 2025: He adds depth without clogging the 26-man roster. Groundball profile: Relievers need to get strikeouts but the Twins could use him in a long relief role similar to Travis Adams. Some of his expected numbers are better than his overall performance this season. Developmental upside: The Twins can stash him at Triple-A and see if he can benefit from mechanical and approach tweaks after joining the organization. There seems to be some more swing and miss to be unlocked in his pitch mix. With rumors swirling about the team considering trades for Jhoan Duran, Griffin Jax, and Danny Coulombe, the addition of Davis may serve as insurance in case the team reshuffles the bullpen ahead of the deadline. He won’t be the centerpiece of any postseason plans, but he could become a useful shuttle arm or even a surprise contributor down the stretch. Davis likely isn’t the kind of name that moves the needle for Twins fans, especially coming off a headline-grabbing disaster in his last MLB appearance. But Minnesota saw something in his underlying metrics and pitch mix that made him worth a look. Given the minimal cost and remaining team control, it’s a worthwhile gamble for a team that has to think creatively when building pitching depth. If the Twins can help Davis harness his stuff, he might be more than just a footnote in a busy July. What do you think of the Twins taking a chance on Davis? Can Minnesota's coaching staff unlock his potential? Share your thoughts in the comments below. View full article

Image courtesy of © Matt Blewett-Imagn Images It’s no secret that the Twins have long eyed the blueprints of front-office success from the Cleveland Guardians and Tampa Bay Rays. These clubs have delivered consistent regular-season excellence, carving out niches through shrewd trades, player development, and long-term sustainability. But when it comes to the MLB trade deadline, a pressure cooker of instant decisions and bold risk-taking, the Twins have largely hesitated, despite organizational ties to two of the sport’s savviest operators. Derek Falvey arrived in Minnesota from the Guardians' front office, a system known for maximizing pitching and churning the roster efficiently. Manager Rocco Baldelli came from the Rays, where roster manipulation and deadline boldness are basically a front-office tradition. On paper, this pairing should have created a modern, nimble, and opportunistic Twins regime. But recent deadline inactivity has left fans wondering: where’s the boldness? To find inspiration, the Twins don’t need to look far. The Guardians and Rays have shown it’s possible to improve the future while still chasing a division crown in the present. Cleveland’s Deadline Calculus In 2023, Cleveland executed one of the most talked-about moves of the deadline by sending starting pitcher Aaron Civale to the Rays for first base prospect Kyle Manzardo. Civale was a solid mid-rotation arm under team control through 2025, but the Guardians, recognizing they had young arms ready to step in, sold high and grabbed a top-50 prospect. The same week, they moved Josh Bell and Amed Rosario while bringing in prospects like Jean Segura and Kahil Watson. These weren’t win-now deals, but they didn’t tank the season either. They were Cleveland’s version of asset optimization, realigning for 2024 and beyond without punting the present. Fast forward to 2024, the Guardians were 23 games above .500 at the trade deadline. Still, Cleveland only added outfielder Lane Thomas and starting pitcher Alex Cobb. If there was a season to bet the farm, it would have been the 2024 campaign for Cleveland but they made minimal moves to keep their winning window open. The Rays’ Neverending Shuffle Meanwhile, Tampa Bay has made a science out of buying and selling simultaneously. In 2023, they acquired Civale, filling a rotation need without sacrificing MLB-ready talent. That same year, they made minor deals to acquire C Alex Jackson from the Brewers for RHP Evan McKendry and added righties Manuel Rodriguez and Adrian Sampson from the Cubs. Tampa isn’t swinging blockbuster bats but they’re constantly adjusting. At the 2024 trade deadline, the Rays were above .500 but in fourth place in the AL East. Seeing the writing on the wall, the front office rebuilt their farm system by trading away multiple players. Not quite a year after their need to reinforce their injury-depleted rotation led them to acquire Civale from Cleveland, the Rays sent Civale to the Brewers for shortstop prospect Gregory Barrios. They also traded away Randy Arozarena, Isaac Paredes, Amed Rosario , Phil Maton, Zach Eflin, and Jason Adam. It’s this constant churn that keeps the Rays competitive without ever fully cashing in or cashing out. It’s a strategy built on confidence in their development system and an understanding that the deadline is not just about stars, but about control and upside. Will Minnesota Follow Suit? Now, the Twins find themselves in a similar situation. They’re not out of the race, but they’re not juggernauts either. The 2025 team has flaws: the lineup can go cold, the bullpen has been taxed, and starting depth is always fragile. And yet, the front office did little in 2024 and even less in 2023 when needs were equally pressing. This year, there’s chatter about dealing Jhoan Duran, Griffin Jax, or even expiring contracts like Willi Castro or Harrison Bader. But rather than signal a full teardown, these moves could be the Twins’ chance to emulate Cleveland and Tampa Bay: sell from positions of strength while retooling for 2026 and beyond. Would they move Duran for a near-MLB-ready bat or a controllable starting pitcher? Could they flip Danny Coulombe for a high-upside prospect? The Guardians and Rays have shown it’s not just possible because it’s essential to their roster model. The other key? Trusting player development. Tampa and Cleveland make moves knowing their farm can backfill. If the Twins want to join that tier, they’ll need to show the same confidence in their depth. The 2025 Trade Deadline Litmus Test The next few weeks offer a referendum on the Twins' front office philosophy. Falvey and Baldelli were brought in, in part, to replicate the disciplined, creative front-office strategies they saw succeed in Cleveland and Tampa Bay. But while the Guardians and Rays stay active and flexible, Minnesota’s recent deadlines have looked more like a waiting game. It’s easy to say you follow the Cleveland model. It’s harder to trade a solid big-leaguer for a prospect when your team is in playoff contention. But if the Twins want to act like the Rays and Guardians, now is the time to prove it, not with words, but with action. Will Minnesota toe the line, reshaping their roster for today and tomorrow? Or will they once again stand still while others pass them by? What would you do at the deadline: buy, sell, or both? Share your trade ideas or frustrations with the front office below. View full article

Image courtesy of David Richard and Jerome Miron-Imagn Images The Minnesota Twins find themselves in a difficult midseason position, caught between contention and caution. Hovering around the playoff picture, they’ve leaned heavily on one of baseball’s best bullpens to stay afloat. But with the trade deadline looming on July 31, there’s a growing case for selling, especially when you look at what top relievers have returned at recent trade deadlines. Could this be the time for Derek Falvey to cash in on Jhoan Duran, Griffin Jax, or even Danny Coulombe? If recent deals are any indication, the return might be too tempting to ignore. Tanner Scott Headlines a Bullpen Boom Last year, the Padres made the biggest bullpen blockbuster, acquiring All-Star closer Tanner Scott and swingman Bryan Hoeing from the Marlins. The return? Four prospects, including Robby Snelling, San Diego’s No. 2 prospect and a top-50 name across MLB, plus fellow top-five system arms Adam Mazur and Graham Pauley. That’s a massive haul for two relievers, the far better of whom (Scott) was a free agent at the end of 2024. Scott’s numbers at the time (1.18 ERA and 53 strikeouts in 45 2/3 IP) were undeniably elite, and he had the “proven closer” label. Duran and Jax, by contrast, bring not just performance but two more years of team control. That’s worth something—potentially, a lot. Lower Tiers Still Yield Talent Not every trade at recent deadlines has been a blockbuster, but even lesser relievers pull in real value: The Phillies gave up two pitching prospects (No. 23 Sam Aldegheri and No. 28 George Klassen) for Carlos Estévez, another rental. Gregory Soto, with a 4.08 ERA, netted the Orioles a top-10 prospect in Seth Johnson and a rising arm in Moisés Chace. Dylan Floro, a 33-year-old journeyman with a 2.06 ERA, was flipped for Andrés Chaparro, a slugging corner infielder with a .950+ OPS in Triple-A. These aren’t just trades for lottery tickets. Teams are paying real talent for relievers, even rentals. That makes you wonder: What would a team offer for Jax or Duran, who are under control through 2027 and carry better numbers than some of the names mentioned above? Coulombe: A Logical Trade Chip If the Twins don’t want to part with long-term assets, Coulombe is the obvious name to watch. The 34-year-old lefty has quietly put together one of the best seasons of his career, with a 0.68 ERA and a 27.9 K%. He’s also a free agent after this season. Think David Robertson in 2023, who brought the Mets two promising FCL-level prospects despite being a 38-year-old rental. He also netted the Cubs intriguing pitcher Ben Brown as a rental at the 2022 deadline. Players at the FCL level and pitchers with long injury histories are wild cards, but if a team like the Twins gets enough wild cards, one will turn into an impact big-league player. Coulombe might not have Robertson’s resume, but he’s been at his best in 2025. Teams looking for left-handed relief will come calling. The Wild Cards: Duran and Jax Let’s be clear: moving Duran would be a massive, headline-grabbing deal. He’s one of the few relievers in baseball with the stuff to dominate in multiple ways, with his sheer velocity commanding attention but his curveball and splinker being the keys to his high strikeout and ground-ball rates. At the 2023 deadline, Jordan Hicks brought back two high-upside Double-A arms as a rental (Blue Jays’ No. 7 prospect Sem Robberse and Adam Kloffenstein). Duran would fetch significantly more, thanks to his elite metrics and extra years of control. Jax is quietly just as valuable, in his own way. He’s become one of MLB’s most reliable setup men, posting back-to-back strong seasons. There has been some bad luck tied to his overall numbers this year, as he has an ERA above 4.00 but a FIP below 2.00. His career-high 37.9% strikeout rate is something that will play in the postseason. A contender looking for a bridge to October might be willing to part with multiple top-100 prospects to solidify their bullpen’s highest-leverage innings, this year and in each of the next two. These Aren’t Perfect Comps, But the Market Is Loud Not every trade listed is a clean comparison. Duran and Jax aren’t rentals, and the leverage of having them locked up through 2027 increases their value, but it also raises the bar for the return. The Twins would need to be overwhelmed to part with either. Still, the message from previous years’ markets is clear: contenders pay heavily for bullpen help, and Minnesota might hold the cards everyone wants. If the Twins choose to take a half-step back, the bullpen is where they could make the most significant leap forward to keep the team’s winning window open as long as possible. After all, relievers are volatile. Prospects are currency. And this deadline, the price has never been higher. The Twins don’t have to sell. But if they do, they might be surprised how much someone’s willing to pay for 100-mph heat and a devastating splinker. What do you think: Should the Twins capitalize on the market for bullpen arms or hold tight for a playoff push? Share your take in the comments below! View full article

Image courtesy of © Jordan Johnson-Imagn Images The Minnesota Twins front office has officially entered what insiders are calling their “Hope-and-Hold” era, refusing to trade prospects with fringe potential while simultaneously declining to upgrade a 40-man roster already flush with replacement-level promise. “We’re very proud of what we’ve built,” said President of Baseball Operations Derek Falvey, gesturing vaguely toward a roster carrying a team ERA north of 4.00. “Sure, the numbers might not be ideal right now, but every arm on this roster has the potential to be slightly below league average. You don’t give up on that kind of upside.” The comments came amid growing frustration among fans and players alike as the team continues to cling tightly to mid-20s minor leaguers posting .694 OPS marks in Double-A, and relievers with walk rates nearing their K/9. Why Trade for Proven Talent When You Can Dream on a Future Utility Guy? Despite glaring needs and a logjam of questionably projectable players, the Twins have made it clear: no one is touching their precious top-25 prospects list, especially not those ranked in the 15–25 range. “We’ve got a 24-year-old middle infielder hitting .244 in Wichita who we really think could someday be a fantastic bench option,” said Assistant GM Josh Kalk. “You don’t just trade that kind of ceiling for a boring, effective major league reliever.” The team’s resistance to flipping B-tier talent for real upgrades has drawn the attention of former prospects like Nick Gordon, who was once untouchable in trade talks. “Man, I remember when they wouldn’t trade me for two months of Chris Archer,” Gordon said, shaking his head. “Then I hit .270 for a year and they finally felt like I fulfilled the prophecy.” Added Brent Rooker, “They said I had ‘impact power potential’ in the system. Now I have impact power… just for someone else.” 40-Man Roster: A Sacred Circle of Trust (and 5.23 FIPs) The unwillingness to make roster improvements has extended beyond trades. Asked why the team hasn’t DFA’d struggling players to make room for potential contributors, Falvey doubled down on his protectionist philosophy. “Every spot on our 40-man roster is valuable,” he explained. “Each player on it was chosen for a reason. That reason may have been a decent Arizona Fall League appearance three years ago, but still, there's a process.” Pitching coach Pete Maki added context: “Sure, one of our guys gave up 11 earned runs in two innings last week, but he’s working through something. Mainly, being not that good. But we think he can be less not that good soon.” Even as quality arms remain in St. Paul and the waiver wire teems with relievers under 30, the team remains loyal to its internal solutions. “It’s like a family,” said Falvey. “A family that strikes out a lot, can’t hold a lead, and hasn’t returned a phone call from the Wild Card standings in weeks. But family nonetheless.” No Change on the Horizon And That’s the Point Manager Rocco Baldelli, when asked about the possibility of adding reinforcements, responded with his trademark calm indifference. “I’ve gotten really close with the guys we’ve got,” Baldelli said. “Sometimes I even learn their names.” He then looked over a bullpen usage chart filled with crossed-out names and quietly muttered, “I miss Ronny Henriquez.” With the trade deadline approaching, rival GMs have reportedly stopped even bothering to ask about the Twins’ prospect pool. One anonymous executive noted: “They told me they’d only consider trading a 26-year-old Double-A outfielder hitting .218 if I included a top-5 pitching prospect and cash. I thought it was a joke. They were serious.” In Minnesota, though, it’s not about the numbers because it’s about the dream. The dream that one day, that sixth-round pick from 2021 with a 1.48 WHIP might become a guy you sort of tolerate in your bullpen. After all, as Falvey puts it: “You can’t put a value on eventual mediocrity.” View full article

Image courtesy of Rob Thompson, St. Paul Saints As the Twins look to stay competitive in the AL Central, help may not be far away, with several prospects making noise throughout the minor-league system. Whether it’s a college bat on a power tear, a once-hyped arm finally stringing together dominant starts, or a dynamic infielder terrorizing opposing batteries on the basepaths, Minnesota is seeing real development in key areas. Jaime Ferrer, Marco Raya, and Kyle DeBarge are each making compelling cases for more attention and (possibly) a faster track toward Target Field. C/1B/OF Jaime Ferrer, Cedar Rapids Kernels The Twins selected Ferrer in the 4th round of the 2024 MLB Draft, out of Florida State University. While he wasn’t a headliner on draft day, the organization saw potential in Ferrer’s bat speed, plate discipline, and strength. All tools that gave him a chance to outplay his draft slot. After a solid pro debut (.748 OPS in 24 games), he entered 2025 with a chance to establish himself as a legitimate power-hitting prospect. The Twins moved him between catcher, corner outfield and first base to find the best fit for his glove, while letting the bat do most of the talking. Hitting the Hot Button That bat has been shouting over the last week. In a three-game stretch for High-A Cedar Rapids, Ferrer hit .545, with a double, a triple, two home runs, four RBIs, and four runs scored. His OPS for the series? A staggering 1.947. That kind of offensive explosion isn’t just impressive for a 22-year-old playing his first full professional season. He’s showing the ability to punish mistakes while also controlling the zone, drawing walks and laying off breaking pitches in the dirt. His walk rate has improved from 6.5% to 7.4% in 2025. If the hot streak continues, Ferrer could force his way to Double A before the end of the season and join a growing list of under-the-radar hitters turning into legitimate threats in the Twins’ system. RHP Marco Raya, St. Paul Saints Raya has been one of the Twins’ more tantalizing pitching prospects since being selected in the fourth round of the 2020 MLB Draft out of high school in Texas. Injuries delayed his early development, but by 2023 and 2024, he had emerged as one of the more intriguing arms in the system thanks to a fastball that touched the upper 90s and a sharp slider that missed bats. While he was used carefully to protect his health, the flashes of dominance were enough to keep evaluators and fans excited. He entered the 2025 season looking to build innings and prove he could handle a full starter’s workload. Hitting the Hot Button Raya may be answering those questions. Pitching for Triple-A St. Paul, Raya turned in one of his best starts of the season last Thursday against Iowa. He went six innings, allowing just one run on three hits with one walk and seven strikeouts. It was a commanding performance that showcased the full arsenal. His fastball velocity held deep into the outing, his slider induced empty swings, and his command was crisp throughout. Over his last four starts, he has posted a 1.64 ERA while holding batters to a .547 OPS. Now 22 years old, Raya is starting to show that he’s more than just potential; he’s a near-ready contributor. If the Twins need a spot starter or bullpen help down the stretch, Raya is beginning to look like a legitimate option, especially if he can continue to prove durable and efficient. INF Kyle DeBarge, Cedar Rapids Kernels When the Twins picked DeBarge with the 33rd overall pick of the 2024 draft out of Louisiana-Lafayette, they saw an athlete with energy, bat control, and defensive versatility. What wasn’t immediately clear was how quickly he’d turn into one of the system’s premier base-stealing threats. Still just 21 years old, DeBarge opened his pro career at Fort Myers, holding his own at the plate (.322 OBP) while wreaking havoc on the bases (15-for-18 in SB attempts). He’s played mostly at shortstop and second base, flashing soft hands and solid instincts in the field, but it’s the wheels that are drawing the most attention in 2025. Hitting the Hot Button DeBarge is up to 46 stolen bases on the season, and it’s only mid-July. He’s swiping bags at a rate that few in the league can match, often turning routine singles or walks into immediate scoring threats. He’s only been caught stealing three times. What makes his success even more impressive is the fact that he’s more than a year younger than the average player in High-A, facing older pitchers in over 88% of his plate appearances. Despite that, he’s shown poise and maturity at the plate, keeping his on-base percentage north of .360. DeBarge is smart on the bases, picking the right spots and rarely running into outs. If he continues this level of production and stays healthy, a promotion to Double-A Wichita seems inevitable, and he could enter the Twins’ long-term middle infield discussion in the years ahead. The farm system doesn’t just exist to nurture future All-Stars. It also helps round out rosters, spark midseason promotions, and provide value when trade deadline conversations start heating up. Ferrer’s offensive outburst is putting him on the prospect map. Raya is finally pairing health with performance and showing he’s close to ready. And DeBarge’s elite speed and developing offensive profile make him one of the most unique prospects in the Twins’ pipeline. The Twins have plenty of star power in their top 10 prospects, but this trio reminds us that big-league help often comes from throughout a prospect list. With performances like these, Ferrer, Raya, and DeBarge won’t stay under the radar much longer. Which performance stands out the most? Leave a comment and start the discussion. View full article

Image courtesy of William Parmeter When Byron Buxton steps up for the 2025 Home Run Derby in Atlanta, his chosen pitcher will be Tommy Watkins, the Twins’ third base coach and an organizational icon. It’s a deeply personal connection that underscores Watkins’ impact on the team. A Story 27 Years in the Making Drafted in the 38th round in 1998, Watkins became affectionately known as “The Mayor of Fort Myers” during his time in the Twins organization. He was never seen as a top prospect, but moved his way up the system through hard work and forming life-long relationships that would serve him in his future career. After 10 seasons in the minors, amassing hundreds of games at Triple-A, Watkins finally got the call from GM Terry Ryan himself, during a visit to Rochester. Former Red Wings manager Stan Cliburn called it “one of the most emotional call‑ups [he had] ever been involved with,” describing how the news “set off a joyous celebration in the clubhouse, because of everyone's love, passion and respect for Tommy.” In his big-league debut at age 27, Watkins hit .357 (10-for-28) with four walks and only four strikeouts over nine games. It was a reward for his dedication to the organization, and he performed well in his cup of coffee at the big-league level. Building Bonds That Endure Fast forward to July 2025, and Watkins stands alongside Buxton as his Derby pitcher, an assignment that means more than just lobbing meatballs. When asked about the Derby, Watkins was “caught off-guard… honored, and it was a little emotional. … I think I teared up, and he started to, too.” Their connection goes way back. Watkins coached Buxton at Class‑A Cedar Rapids back in 2013, when Buxton was considered baseball’s best prospect and was still attempting to refine himself as a player. They reunited when Watkins was named the Twins’ first‑base coach in 2019, and have been through the ups and downs that have defined Buxton’s career. Buxton told MLB Network he’s been "just getting into the box, no turtle [batting cage], just feels like you're on an island by yourself a little bit. So, just getting used to the Derby effects and not having the turtle, having a catcher back there and getting used to Tommy." For Watkins, the spotlight isn’t his to steal. “This isn’t about me—this is about Buck,” he told reporters earlier this week. A Coaching Career Forged in Loyalty The moment Watkins donned a Twins uniform for the last time in 2009, a new path opened. In 2009, he started his coaching journey with the GCL Twins, progressing through Beloit, Cedar Rapids, and Double‑A as hitting coach and manager. In 2017, he led Cedar Rapids to a 75–65 record and a playoff berth. By 2019, he was in The Show as the Twins’ first-base coach (2019–21), later moving to third base in 2022. That's where he remains today, now deep into his 16th season and having spent six years at the MLB level. He’s also worked closely with Rocco Baldelli on outfield instruction, helping shape players like Buxton. The Derby: A Moment Defined by Connection This Home Run Derby isn’t just a performance; it’s a celebration of personal stories. Buxton is having the best season of his career, with 21 homers, a perfect 17-for-17 in steals, and top-tier defensive metrics. Yet, the Derby pairing reminds us of the mentorship and bond that have matured behind the scenes. So, as Watkins lobs to Buxton under Atlanta lights, he’ll carry decades worth of loyalty, respect, and the emotional weight of a journey few get to witness. This is Tommy Watkins, a late-draft kid who carved out a career through dedication, earned devotion, and remains the man Buxton trusts most with Derby pitches. Watkins isn’t just a coach or a Derby pitcher, he’s the embodiment of Twins devotion. When you see him in Atlanta, know that you’re looking at the end of a 27-year storybook that speaks to what this franchise truly values: clarity, connection, and community. View full article

Image courtesy of Ed Bailey, Wichita Wind Surge (photo of Kaelen Culpepper) When the Twins selected Kaelen Culpepper with the 21st overall pick in the 2024 MLB Draft, there were a few raised eyebrows. Sure, Culpepper had plenty of tools, but concerns about plate discipline and defensive projection gave some evaluators pause. Less than a year later, Culpepper is not only putting those concerns to rest, he’s making evaluators look like they undersold him. Now firmly entrenched in Double-A Wichita and facing older, more experienced competition, Culpepper has surged into top-100 prospect territory. His all-around game is showing up in the box score and answering every pre-draft question thrown his way. Chasing Down the Concerns One of the most commonly cited red flags at the time of the draft came from The Athletic’s Keith Law, who wrote, “I know some teams had him in the second round because his chase rate was high, albeit not extremely so.” That concern was fair based on his collegiate track record, but Culpepper has responded in a big way. In his first full professional season, Culpepper has trimmed his chase rate significantly, especially against right-handed pitching. His strikeout rate currently sits under 16% for the season, and the right-handed hitter has a 16.25 K% against righties. He’s begun to show a mature ability to lay off pitches just outside the zone, something that was seen as a “maybe someday” skill on draft night and is already a present tool. Even FanGraphs’ Eric Longenhagen, who was skeptical on draft day, has had to take another look. “I have mixed-positive feeling about the Twins' first day because I’m lukewarm on Kaelen Culpepper due to his chase tendencies,” Longenhagen said after the pick. But Culpepper has flipped that narrative. His walk rate is hovering around 11% during the 2025 campaign, giving him a nearly even K/BB ratio. This is no small feat for a 21-year-old adjusting to professional spin and facing older pitchers over 78% of the time. The Shortstop Debate? Maybe It's Over Defensively, there was another looming question: Could Culpepper stay at shortstop, or was a move to third inevitable? ESPN summed it up nicely: “Ultimately, his pro ceiling will likely be decided by whether he can stick at shortstop or if he moves to third base on his way to the majors.” A year later, most evaluators are in agreement that he can stick. Culpepper has shown above-average range, clean footwork, and a plus arm at short. His internal clock is improving, and he’s making throws from deep in the hole that only true shortstops can pull off. The Twins have continued to give him regular reps at the position with only a handful of appearances at second base. Scouts now project him to remain there long-term unless the major-league roster demands a positional shift. That strong arm, once merely a bullet point in the scouting report, is now a calling card. In pre-draft evaluations, he was seen on the fringe between shortstop and third base. Now, he has the potential to be an impact defender as a big-league shortstop. He’s turned potential into production, and if anything, he’s separated himself from many of the other middle infielders in his draft class by staying up the middle. Crushing the Offspeed Test CBS Sports questioned whether Culpepper could handle spin, writing, “Can shortstop Kaelen Culpepper improve his breaking ball recognition?” It’s a valid question for any young hitter, especially one whose college profile leaned more on twitchy athleticism than polish at the plate. But once again, Culpepper’s adjustments have been impressive. Since his promotion to Double-A, he's actually improved his slugging percentage against offspeed and breaking pitches, showing better pitch tracking and timing. Over his last 10 games (49 PA), he is slashing .432/.490/.523 (1.013) with two extra-base hits and as many walks (5) as strikeouts (5). He’s not just laying off the tough stuff, because he’s doing damage when pitchers hang them. Fast Track to Target Field? What’s most exciting is just how quickly Culpepper has acclimated to professional ball. He’s one of only a handful of 2024 draftees already playing at Double-A, and he hasn’t missed a beat. The jump from college to pro ball is steep. The jump from there to Double-A is a leap. Culpepper made both without stumbling. It’s rare for a late first-round pick to push into top-100 territory so quickly, but Culpepper has earned it. His combination of steady defense, improved plate discipline, and surprising offensive production against older pitchers has made him one of the most exciting infield prospects in the system. The draft-day doubts have all been addressed quickly. The Twins believed in Culpepper’s upside when they took him at 21, and in less than 12 months, they may have already found the player who could be their shortstop of the future. If the trajectory holds, Culpepper could be pushing his way to Minneapolis by mid-2026. And when he gets there, don’t be surprised if the same evaluators who doubted the pick are suddenly talking about how obvious it was all along. Which doubt does Culpepper still need to answer? When will he debut with the Twins? Leave a comment and start the discussion on one of the organization's most exciting prospects. View full article

Image courtesy of © Brad Rempel-Imagn Images The MLB trade deadline is fast approaching, and few names carry as much intrigue and raw firepower as Twins closer Jhoan Duran. With the Blue Jays hovering at the top of the AL East and looking to make a serious push in October, the fit between buyer and seller is starting to crystallize. Toronto doesn’t need just any reliever. They need someone capable of shifting the late-inning dynamic in a postseason series. They already paid handsomely for Jeff Hoffman to be the fireman this winter, but we live in the era of the super-bullpen—and if it's 'super' a team is chasing, Duran fits that description better than almost anyone else on the market. The Jays’ Track Record of Aggression Toronto has made a habit of being one of the league’s most active teams at the deadline under general manager Ross Atkins. Since 2016, every year in which they’ve acted as buyers, they’ve pulled off at least three trades, often with a focus on pitching. In 2020 and 2022, they added three or more arms to their staff, and the approach has consistently paid off by raising the club’s floor down the stretch. From Jordan Hicks and Whit Merrifield to José Berríos and Anthony Bass, Toronto has been willing to spend prospect capital in exchange for reliable production. This year, the script feels similar. The Jays are thriving, but injuries have tested their depth at every level. What they lack now isn’t patchwork solutions, it’s elite talent. Specifically, they need a game-changer at the back of the bullpen. Why Duran Could Be on the Block Minnesota finds itself in a complicated spot. The Twins are still on the fringes of the playoff picture, but the front office is likely open to creative deals, if they can fetch long-term value in return. Trading Duran would be a massive move, both symbolically and strategically, but it's not out of the question. Duran, still just 27, remains one of the most electric arms in baseball. He boasts a triple-digit fastball, a wicked splinker, and elite strikeout rates (26.3 K% in 2025). Through the 2025 season’s first half, he’s posted a 1.52 ERA and 1.09 WHIP, while converting 14 save opportunities. Despite being one of the American League’s most dominant relievers, Duran was somehow left off the All-Star roster, a snub that could still be corrected as injury replacements are named over the weekend. Crucially, Duran is under team control through the 2027 season. The Blue Jays, like many teams, have shown a preference for adding players with team control. That extended runway of affordability makes him more than a rental. It makes him a long-term bullpen anchor, which significantly ups his trade value. The Prospect Price Tag If the Blue Jays want to land Duran, they’ll need to come to the table with a significant offer, and they have the pieces to make it happen. According to MLB Pipeline, Toronto’s top five prospects offer a compelling blend of upside and proximity to the majors: SS Arjun Nimmala (No. 1) – One of the most exciting teenage infielders in the minors, Nimmala offers premium bat speed and a strong arm at shortstop. Still just 19, he’s raw but oozes star potential. At High-A, he is hitting .238/.325/.416 with 11 homers and 17 doubles. The Twins would be hard-pressed to pass up a deal involving a talent of this caliber, though it’s unlikely the Jays would consider moving him for even an elite reliever. Nimmala might be in play if, instead, the Jays lock in on Twins starter Joe Ryan. RHP Trey Yesavage (No. 2) – A polished college arm from East Carolina, Yesavage was Toronto’s 2024 first-round pick and has quickly ascended the system as he reached Double-A this season. In 16 starts (67 2/3 IP), he has a 3.19 ERA with a 0.99 WHIP. With a deep pitch mix and strong command, he profiles as a mid-rotation starter who could reach the majors as soon as 2026. 2B/3B Orelvis Martinez (No. 3) – Recently promoted to the big leagues, Martinez brings major right-handed power and positional flexibility. He’s spent time at second base and third base and could help the Twins immediately, though questions remain about his plate discipline. He was a consensus top-100 prospect entering last season, so his stock has fallen. He’s struggled at Triple-A this season, with a .653 OPS in 74 games. LHP Ricky Tiedemann (No. 4) – Once considered one of the top left-handed pitching prospects in baseball, Tiedemann has battled injuries but still flashes frontline stuff when healthy. He underwent Tommy John surgery in July 2024, which will likely sideline him for most (if not all) of the 2025 season. His upside is tantalizing, but durability is the key concern. The Twins would require one of the top three names as the centerpiece in any Duran trade, particularly given his dominance and years of team control. Packaging a bat like Martinez with a pitcher such as Tiedemann or Yesavage could be enough to grab Minnesota’s attention, especially if Toronto is serious about upgrading their bullpen with a true game-changer. Why This Could Work For Minnesota, dealing Duran would be painful but potentially transformative. They could acquire controllable talent to bolster their farm or fill immediate gaps, especially with the pitching pipeline still under development. For Toronto, it’s a matter of maximizing their current window with Vladimir Guerrero Jr., Bo Bichette, and a rotation built to win now. This is the kind of deal that takes nerve. It requires the Blue Jays to bet on Duran being the difference-maker in October. It requires the Twins to look past 2025 and see the bigger picture. But if the market shapes up as expected, with few true closers available and several contenders shopping, Minnesota might hold the single most valuable bullpen chip available. Will the Blue Jays be bold enough to push all their chips in? If so, Duran might just be headed north of the border, and the Twins could walk away with a franchise-altering haul. Would the Blue Jays be willing to overpay for Duran? Leave a comment and start the discussion. View full article

Image courtesy of Rob Thompson, St. Paul Saints Not every top prospect's story ends with big moments and standing ovations at Target Field. Earlier this week, the Minnesota Twins officially released infielder Yunior Severino, a once-promising slugger who led the minor leagues in home runs two years ago. His seemingly abrupt release serves as a sobering reminder of just how steep and unforgiving the climb to the big leagues can be, even for players who show legitimate flashes of big-league potential. From Power Breakout to 40-Man Roster It wasn’t long ago that Severino looked like one of the most exciting bats in the Twins’ pipeline. In 2023, the then-23-year-old slugged his way to the organizational spotlight, launching a minor league-leading 35 home runs across 120 games between Double-A Wichita and Triple-A St. Paul. His .272/.352/.546 slash line placed him among the most productive hitters in the farm system, and his ability to tap into raw power forced the Twins’ hand. They added him to the 40-man roster that offseason to shield him from the Rule 5 Draft. Baseball America named him the 2023 Twins Minor League Player of the Year. He was also the Twins Daily Minor League Hitter of the Year, beating out other players like Brooks Lee and Emmanuel Rodriguez. The Twins organization named Lee the 2023 Sherry Robertson Award winner as their minor-league player of the year. Severino was at the peak of his prospect standing, but there were flaws to his game. Despite the power surge, there were always red flags, most notably his high strikeout rate, which sat just shy of 33%. But in a farm system short on impact corner bats, Severino looked like someone who could offer value as a switch-hitting slugger. He was young for Triple-A; flashed legitimate power to all fields; and offered some positional versatility, at least on paper. Yet, the transition from a breakout season to sustainable success proved to be a hurdle he couldn’t clear. A Disappearing Bat The Twins carried Severino on the 40-man roster for the entirety of 2024, but never gave him a serious look for a call-up. That, in itself, was telling. With injuries and underperformance impacting the major-league roster at times, Severino remained in St. Paul, trying to regain the form that had vaulted him up prospect rankings. That form never returned. Severino’s OPS fell by 123 points in 2024. His isolated power (ISO), a key metric for evaluating raw pop, plummeted from .274 to .180. That’s a steep drop, especially in the hitter-friendly confines of CHS Field and across the power-inflated International League. His strikeout rate did improve slightly, dropping to 27.8%, but it came at the cost of his biggest weapon: the long ball. Pitchers at the Triple-A level began exploiting his approach. Severino showed a persistent tendency to chase pitches outside the zone and often looked off-balance at the plate. Without the loud contact to compensate for the swing-and-miss, the Twins were left with a player whose offensive ceiling suddenly looked far more limited. In 2025, his numbers cratered in St. Paul. The now-25-year-old hit .196/.344/.324, with two home runs and seven doubles in 33 games. His strikeout rate jumped back up over 35% and his wRC+ was below 85 for the first time in his career. The upper minors can be a challenging environment for power-swinging sluggers, and Severino was never able to put it all together. A Man Without a Position Even when the bat was booming, defensive questions trailed Severino. Originally signed as a middle infielder, he’s moved down the defensive spectrum as he’s filled out physically. By 2025, he was primarily limited to first base, where he was considered a below-average defender. He lacked the athleticism to cover ground and didn’t show the soft hands or footwork typically required at the position. He’s also a below-average runner, which further limits his value as a bench piece or utility player. Without a strong defensive position and with a bat that no longer looked major league-ready, Severino found himself in the unenviable position of being a power-first prospect with no clear role. Development Isn’t Linear There’s no question that Severino has legitimate raw power. Players who can hit 30-plus home runs in a minor-league season don’t grow on trees. However, his story highlights the often brutal nature of prospect development. Not every toolsy breakout can carry over to the highest level of competition in the world. Even with gaudy home run totals and a spot on the 40-man roster, Severino couldn’t bridge the gap between upper-minors standout and big-league contributor. Now 25, he’ll look for another opportunity elsewhere, likely with a club intrigued by his power potential and hoping a new environment can unlock a more consistent version of his swing. And for the Twins, the decision to release him reflects the crowded nature of the roster and the importance of finding players who can offer value both at the plate and in the field. Severino’s fall from top prospect to organizational depth to release was swift and disappointing. It’s a tough break for the player and a harsh reality for a front office constantly trying to forecast which players will pan out in the ultra-competitive world of MLB development. Do you think the Twins gave up on Severino too soon? Or was the writing already on the wall? Join the conversation in the comments below. View full article