Cody Christie

The Minnesota Twins made a bullpen move on Wednesday, designating left-hander Joey Wentz for assignment and selecting the contract of fellow southpaw Anthony Misiewicz from Triple-A St. Paul. Wentz, 27, was a waiver claim last month from Pittsburgh but struggled mightily during his brief tenure with the Twins. He appeared in six games and allowed runs in five of them, ultimately compiling a 15.75 ERA over just eight innings. He served mostly in low-leverage situations, often coming in as a long reliever or mop-up man, and the results made it clear that a change was needed. Once a top prospect in the Braves organization, Wentz was traded to Detroit in the 2019 Shane Greene deal. He debuted with the Tigers but has yet to establish himself in the big leagues. Over parts of four MLB seasons, he’s amassed 239 2/3 innings with a 5.75 ERA, a 20.6% strikeout rate, and a walk rate just over 10%. Issues with home runs (1.50 per nine innings) and stranding baserunners have continued to plague him (62.5 LOB% in 2025). For his career, he has accumulated a -1.6 WAR, so he might be running out of big-league opportunities. Because Wentz is out of minor league options, Minnesota couldn’t send him down without exposing him to waivers. If no team claims him within the waiver period, the Twins could outright him to Triple-A and try to work on his mechanics in a lower-pressure setting. A resolution will likely come within the next week. Stepping into his roster spot is 30-year-old Misiewicz , who joined the Twins on a minor league deal this offseason. Pitching out of the Saints’ bullpen, Misiewicz posted a 4.02 ERA while notching eight saves and a hold. His 24.2% strikeout rate and 8.3% walk rate reflect solid command, and aside from one tough outing in late June (5 ER in 1 IP), he’s been steady including two clean appearances since then. Misiewicz brings plenty of major league experience, having previously pitched for five teams: the Mariners, Royals, Diamondbacks, Tigers, and Yankees. Over 115 2/3 big-league innings, he owns a 4.67 ERA with a 22.8% strikeout rate and 7.6% walk rate. With a fastball averaging around 91.6 mph, a cutter in the high 80s, and a looping curveball, he’s relied more on sequencing and location than overpowering stuff. Like Wentz, Misiewicz is also out of minor league options, so he’ll need to perform if he hopes to stick on the big-league roster. He has three years of MLB service time, meaning the Twins could retain him beyond this season, but that will depend on how well he holds up in the big leagues. As the trade deadline approaches and the Twins keep looking for consistent arms to support their late-inning crew, Misiewicz could get a real opportunity to carve out a role, but he’ll need to prove himself quickly. View full article

Image courtesy of © Troy Taormina-Imagn Images The Minnesota Twins are clinging to the fringe of contention in a tight American League playoff race. Still, their front office may soon face a franchise-defining question: Do they trade their top starting pitcher while his value is at its absolute peak? MLB Network’s Jon Morosi floated the idea this week that the Boston Red Sox and "a number of teams" are keeping tabs on Joe Ryan as the deadline approaches. Now, Morosi's comment leaned speculative, but when a name like Ryan enters the rumor mill, it’s enough to raise eyebrows—and for good reason. Ryan has been one of the best starting pitchers in the American League this year. Through 18 starts, he's compiled a sparkling 2.76 ERA and a minuscule 0.89 WHIP. He’s fanned 116 batters while issuing just 21 walks in 104 1/3 innings. Opponents are hitting .193/.254/.335 against him. His 3.9 rWAR leads all Twins (0.6 rWAR higher than Byron Buxton) and ranks among the top pitchers in baseball. And somehow, he was snubbed from the initial All-Star Game selections, which was thankfully rectified on Wednesday. Ryan is succeeding because he’s evolving. His release point remains one of the most deceptive in baseball, with hitters struggling to pick up a four-seamer that plays up despite modest velocity (93.4 mph in 2025). His four-seamer is one of baseball’s most valuable pitches. He’s mixed in a sweeper with bite (.262 xSLG), sharpened his splitter (.212 BA), and continues to keep left-handed hitters in check (.633 OPS). He’s an entirely different pitcher from the fastball-heavy prospect the Twins originally acquired at the 2021 trade deadline. At 29 years old, Ryan is under team control for two more years after 2025, and his profile (with a deep arsenal, elite command, and deceptive delivery) makes him an incredibly appealing trade chip. If the Twins are willing to entertain offers, contenders should be lining up. Here’s a look at six potential suitors who could make a big push for Ryan, and why he’d be worth the price. Boston Red Sox: The Center of the Speculation Morosi mentioned the Red Sox by name, even floating the idea of a Joe Ryan-for-Jarren Duran framework. This is something discussed earlier this week at Twins Daily. Duran, an All-Star in 2024, has been a fixture atop Boston’s lineup, leading the league in plate appearances while playing nearly every game for two years running. For the Twins, who’ve struggled to get production from their best players, Duran’s consistency and athleticism would be a significant boost. Boston just dealt Rafael Devers, suggesting they’re open to retooling but not tearing down. Ryan would instantly help the top of their rotation, providing some much-needed rotation stability in 2025 and beyond. It’s hard to gauge if they’d honestly part with Duran, but if they’re serious about pitching, Ryan has been a borderline All-Star for multiple seasons. Chicago Cubs: Rotation Needs and Prospect Capital The Cubs’ rotation has been impacted by injuries, with Justin Steele being the most significant subtraction. He underwent season-ending UCL surgery on April 18. Also missing from the rotation is Jameson Taillon, who has a right calf strain. Chicago is surprising many at the top of the NL Central and could benefit from adding a frontline starter who isn’t a rental. They also have the prospect capital to make it happen, and some reports have them willing to go “all-in.” There is some speculation that they would be willing to trade top prospects Owen Caissie or Kevin Alcántara if that lands them the right pitchers. The Cubs are well-positioned to make an October run, and Ryan could headline their staff for multiple seasons. Houston Astros: Preparing for a Post-Valdez Rotation The Astros are in an awkward spot: still competitive and still dangerous, but clearly no longer the juggernaut they once were. However, they have jumped ahead in the AL West and are looking to keep their winning window open as long as possible. Framber Valdez is set to hit free agency this winter, and Cristian Javier is out until later this year with Tommy John surgery. The Astros are always looking to upgrade, and Ryan could take Valdez’s rotation spot in 2026. Ryan could be the perfect plug-and-play answer. He fits their mold of high-efficiency strike-throwers and would give them a cost-controlled, playoff-caliber starter to go with Hunter Brown and Valdez. The Astros have thinned out their system, but outfielder Jacob Melton and catcher Walker Janek are intriguing pieces who could headline a deal. Los Angeles Dodgers: Never Count Them Out If there’s a big name available, assume the Dodgers are interested, especially when it comes to starting pitching. Ryan fits like a glove in Los Angeles, as he is analytically inclined, strikes out hitters with command and deception, and brings a bulldog mentality to the mound. He’s also a California boy, so that adds to the intrigue. The Dodgers have the ability to overwhelm with prospect depth and would likely be willing to include one of their top prospects in the right deal. Could the Twins pry away someone like Josue De Paula or Zyhir Hope? Perhaps a long-term pitching solution like Jackson Ferris? Ryan wouldn’t just be a short-term fix for LA’s rotation, as he’d be a foundational piece alongside Tyler Glasnow, Yoshinobu Yamamoto, Blake Snell and Shohei Ohtani. New York Mets: Pitching-Starved and Prospect-Rich The Mets are aggressive. They’ve already shown a willingness to be aggressive with trades and free agency, and Steve Cohen’s deep pockets mean there’s never really a full rebuild. Currently, the Mets have five starting pitchers on the injured list, including Tylor Megill, Griffin Canning, Paul Blackburn, Kodai Senga, and Sean Manaea. New York has a clear need for a starter with top-of-the-line stuff. Ryan would give them a weapon in the NL East arms race and fits their desire to acquire players under control beyond 2025. Minnesota could target infielder/outfielder Jett Williams, right-handed pitcher Jonah Tong, or even explore a deal built around outfielder Carson Benge. Cohen wants his teams to make long playoff runs, and Ryan can help make that happen for the Mets. New York Yankees: Reinforcements Needed Now Gerrit Cole, Clarke Schmidt, and Luis Gil are all out, and the Yankees have played poorly in recent weeks. This isn’t the powerhouse Yankees of old, but they are still likely to be one of baseball’s most active teams at the deadline. If New York wants to return to the World Series, it needs rotational upgrades as soon as possible. Ryan would not only deepen the Yankees’ rotation for October, but also give them an option beyond this season. Could the Twins aim high and ask for infielder George Lombard Jr. or outfielder Spencer Jones? The Yankees have pitching prospects like right-handers Ben Hess and Bryce Cunningham, if Minnesota wants to continue building depth on the mound. Would the Twins Actually Do It? It’s a fair question, and one that’s likely being debated internally. Trading Ryan wouldn’t be a white flag on the season, but it would be a bold move for a team still chasing a playoff berth. The return would need to be substantial. Think multiple top-100 prospects, or a cost-controlled MLB regular and a high-ceiling arm. But if there’s a time to trade Ryan, it’s now. He’s pitching like a frontline ace, he’s healthy, and he has team-friendly control. If the Twins believe they can build a more sustainable winner by flipping him for long-term pieces, this deadline could turn into a franchise pivot point. What do you think, Twins fans? Would you trade Joe Ryan, if it meant getting a star outfielder like Jarren Duran or multiple top prospects? Or is Ryan too valuable to let go? Drop your thoughts below and let the deadline debate begin. View full article

Image courtesy of Paul Rutherford-Imagn Images In a stunning revelation set to shake the very foundation of baseball operations, the Minnesota Twins front office has reportedly discovered a revolutionary new metric known as “runs.” According to insiders at Target Field, this cutting-edge stat measures how often a player crosses home plate, contributing directly to something called “winning.” “We’ve been focused on OPS+, wRC+, and even WAR,” said one anonymous front office analyst, furiously scrolling through a spreadsheet filled with acronyms. “But it turns out there's been this really obscure ‘runs’ stat just sitting on Baseball Reference this whole time. It’s wild.” Sources say the revelation came during a midseason analytics meeting after a particularly frustrating series loss to the Miami Marlins. “Someone jokingly said, ‘Well at least we had more quality at-bats,’ and then our intern asked if we actually needed more people to score. The room went completely silent.” Front Office Reaction Twins manager Rocco Baldelli confirmed the existence of the new metric after a game earlier this week. “Yeah, we’re trying something different,” Baldelli said. “The idea is to get runners on base and then have other players hit the ball in ways that allow those runners to reach home. It’s called… I think the intern called it 'run manufacturing'? We’re looking into it.” Team president Derek Falvey, who once based an entire offseason on launch angles and exit velocity, is reportedly leading a new initiative called “Project Touch Plate.” The organization plans to retrain hitters to do something they’re calling “situational hitting,” though early reports suggest this may cause irreparable tension with the team’s long-term relationship with three true outcomes. Some within the front office have even dared to suggest that more outcomes exist. Player Reactions Carlos Correa, when asked about the new metric, said, “I’ve always thought scoring runs was kind of important, but no one ever put it into a chart for us. Now that it’s got a name and color-coding, I’m fully on board.” Brooks Lee added, “So, wait… we’re supposed to try to go all the way around the bases? That changes a few things.” When asked for comment, Christian Vázquez, currently hitting below .170, simply stared into the distance and whispered, “So that’s what they meant.” Fan Feedback Twins fans have had mixed reactions to the club’s new scoring-based strategy. “I’ve been coming to games since the Metrodome,” said longtime fan Carol Rasmussen. “I thought standing up and clapping was just for pitching changes. You can actually cheer when someone reaches home? I like it!” Another unnamed fan, dressed in a vintage Nick Punto jersey, was more skeptical. “Look, I love analytics as much as the next guy, but if they’re saying we have to score to win, that feels a bit gimmicky.” Despite the fanbase's cautious optimism, the Twins remain committed to integrating “runs” into their long-term strategy. Coaches have begun implementing new terminology during batting practice, with phrases like “productive outs,” “hit the ball the other way,” and “stop bunting with two outs” being added to the team’s daily vocabulary. Meanwhile, the front office is already working on its next discovery: a revolutionary new formula called RS > RA, which early models suggest could lead to something called a "winning record.” “We’re just scratching the surface,” said the anonymous analyst. “Next year, we might even explore what happens when you win a lot of games." Have thoughts about the Twins' new 'runs' initiative? Leave your sabermetric sarcasm in the comments below. View full article

Image courtesy of © Matt Krohn-Imagn Images The Minnesota Twins will only send one representative to the 2025 MLB All-Star Game, and while Byron Buxton is a worthy choice and will even be competing in the Home Run Derby, it’s clear that the roster should include another Twin. Jhoan Duran, Minnesota’s electric closer, was quietly one of the most glaring omissions from this year’s American League squad. Yes, the All-Star selection process has changed. Each league now carries a limited number of relievers, making the path to an All-Star nod even more difficult. When you look at the names who made it (Josh Hader, Andrés Muñoz, and Aroldis Chapman), it’s hard to say any of them are undeserving. But if there’s one reliever who should be heading to Atlanta and isn’t, it’s Duran. Dominant, Despite the Save Total Duran hasn’t piled up the saves like some of his peers this year, with just 13, but that’s no reflection of how dominant he’s been on the mound. The 27-year-old right-hander owns a 1.56 ERA over 41 appearances this season. He’s yet to allow a home run, and his strikeout rate remains excellent (26.8%). He’s anchoring a Twins bullpen that’s kept the team afloat (more or less) during an up-and-down first half. Duran is the type of player who can thrive in a showcase like the All-Star Game, when players are facing the best hitters on the planet. His lack of saves isn’t a matter of performance, but rather a product of Minnesota’s inconsistency in close games. The Twins haven’t provided him with the same volume of save opportunities as teams like the Astros, Mariners, or Red Sox have furnished his counterparts, but when Duran gets the ball in the ninth, he’s almost automatic. For the season, he has two blown saves, and he has yet to allow more than one earned run in any appearance. Duran has already accrued 2.1 rWAR, the second-highest total of his big-league career. He’s been successful this season on multiple levels. He is getting one of the best ground-ball percentages in baseball (70.2%). When batters aren’t smacking the ball into the ground, it's often because they're missing the ball entirely; he's inducing whiffs on 31% of opponents' swings. If hitters do manage to make contact, even in the air, they are barreling the ball less than 3% of the time. His xSLG, wOBA, xwOBA, and xwOBACON each rank in baseball’s top 4%. The numbers are elite for a pitcher who has seen a velocity drop over the last two seasons. A Legacy of Elite Relief Arms If Duran had made the team, he’d be the latest in a proud tradition of Minnesota relievers representing the club in the Midsummer Classic. Glen Perkins made three straight appearances from 2013 to 2015. Taylor Rogers earned a spot in 2021 as a very late addition to the team. Duran could follow a similar path in 2025. “Everyday” Eddie Guardado was a two-time All-Star in the early 2000s, and Joe Nathan became a perennial All-Star during the team’s AL Central dominance in the 2000s. Duran fits right into that lineage, as a high-leverage monster with stuff that leaves hitters baffled and fans buzzing. Unfortunately, this year’s All-Star format didn’t leave enough room to include him. As bullpen usage continues to evolve and relievers take on greater importance in the modern game, limiting each league to a small number of bullpen spots feels increasingly outdated. If any position group deserves expansion, it’s relief pitching. More Snubs in the Twin Cities Duran wasn’t the only deserving Twin left off the AL roster. Matthew Trueblood recently wrote about Joe Ryan's case for inclusion, and he’s right, because Ryan’s underlying numbers are as strong as ever, and he’s become a model of consistency in the rotation. Like Duran, Ryan might have been a victim of the team’s lukewarm standing in the playoff race, making it harder for voters (including his fellow players) to reward his performance. Still, if the goal of the All-Star Game is to highlight the very best of the game at the halfway mark, Duran (and Ryan) belong. Whether it’s lighting up the radar gun or locking down a late-inning lead, there are few pitchers more imposing or more deserving. Here’s hoping the snub fuels a dominant second half, and maybe a late push for some postseason hardware instead. Was Duran snubbed from the All-Star team? Leave a comment and start the discussion. View full article

Image courtesy of William Parmeter (Photo of Marco Raya) The Minnesota Twins are nearing the All-Star break with a flawed roster that will need more than just their current group to carry them the rest of the way. With key injuries and performance questions lingering, some help could arrive from within the organization. The Twins have several upper-level prospects who may be ready to contribute in the second half, and each brings a unique skill set to the big-league roster. Here’s a look at four potential second-half contributors already in the system, and one dark horse who could make things interesting down the stretch. Luke Keaschall: Ready for a Return TD Current Prospect Rank: 2 Keaschall burst onto the scene earlier this year, with a brief but memorable debut in Minnesota. He collected seven hits in his first seven big-league games and showed the type of energy that can reshape a lineup. He also tied the MLB record for most stolen bases (5) in a player’s first five career games. Unfortunately, a fastball to the forearm cut that run short, as he broke his arm. Now nearing a rehab assignment, Keaschall is expected to ramp up later this month and could rejoin the Twins by early August. Over the weekend, the Twins reported that he has progressed to hitting in the cage and off a pitching machine, and could be cleared to face live pitching in a simulated environment within the next few days. His blend of contact ability, sneaky pop, and defensive versatility gives the coaching staff options, especially with the current lineup struggling to score runs. If healthy, Keaschall could be a table-setting force in the final months of the regular season. Emmanuel Rodriguez: The Power Is Real TD Current Prospect Rank: 3 Rodriguez has dealt with more than a fair share of injuries since signing out of the Dominican Republic, but when he’s healthy, his talent is undeniable. The left-handed slugger has been working his way back from a right hip strain after dealing with a left thumb injury earlier this season. There is a strong possibility he will make his major-league debut sometime in the second half. Rodriguez brings big-time power and a disciplined approach that’s rare for a player his age. He’s walked at an impressive clip (19.7%) while still producing extra-base hits (128 wRC+). Depending on the health of Minnesota’s outfield and how things shake out at the trade deadline, Rodriguez could find himself in the mix for meaningful at-bats down the stretch. Marco Raya: Rebounding at the Right Time TD Current Prospect Rank: 11 The Twins added Raya to their 40-man roster this past offseason, with the hope that he’d be part of the long-term pitching puzzle. His early-season results didn’t reflect that optimism, as he posted an 8.66 ERA while allowing a .916 OPS in his first 12 appearances. However, recent outings have hinted at a turnaround. Over his last three starts (16 IP), he has allowed three earned runs while holding batters to a .545 OPS. Raya has sharpened his command and is working deeper into games, putting himself back on the radar as the Twins continue to search for starting pitching depth. It’s also important to note that he was a high school draft pick back in 2020, so he is only 22 years old and has faced older batters in all but 15 of his batter-pitcher showdowns. Minnesota’s rotation has dealt with injuries and workload concerns all season. If the need arises again (and it likely will), Raya could be next in line to fill a gap. He may not be a frontline option just yet, but he’s trending in the right direction at the right time. Connor Prielipp: A Bullpen Weapon? TD Current Prospect Rank: 5 Few pitchers in the Twins’ system have had a more winding road than Prielipp. The former Alabama standout missed significant development time after Tommy John surgery, but he’s finally showing flashes of why the Twins made him their second-round pick in 2022. While the hit rate against him remains high, his strikeout and walk numbers (28.7 K%, 5.3 BB%) suggest he has the stuff to miss bats in high-leverage situations. The Twins are managing his innings carefully, which could point toward a bullpen role if he’s called upon. Prielipp’s slider is a legitimate out pitch, and a short-relief gig could allow him to air it out during the final stretch. Dark Horse: Walker Jenkins TD Current Prospect Rank: 1 Jenkins began the season behind schedule after an ankle injury, but he’s been rounding into form at Double-A Wichita over the past month. The 2023 first-round pick still projects as a middle-of-the-order mainstay, and while there’s no urgency to push him to the majors this season, he remains an intriguing wild card. With his advanced approach and natural ability, Jenkins could force the issue, especially if injuries or trades thin the outfield depth chart. He’s a long shot, but the kind of talent who could arrive ahead of schedule and make a late-season push all the more exciting. The Twins will no doubt explore the trade market in the coming weeks, but internal reinforcements might be the team’s only way to improve in the second half. Minnesota’s front office has been handcuffed at the last two trade deadlines, with minimal payroll space to add players. Keaschall, Rodriguez, Raya, and Prielipp all offer legitimate upside, and their paths to Target Field may be clearer than ever. Keep an eye on this group in coming weeks. Which player will have the most significant impact on the team’s second half? Leave a comment and start the discussion. View full article

Image courtesy of Ed Bailey, Wichita Wind Surge (photo of Walker Jenkins) Welcome to this week’s Twins Prospect Hot Sheet. As the Minnesota Twins navigate the heart of the 2025 season, their farm system continues to provide encouraging developments from a wide range of talented players. From hard-throwing arms in the Florida heat to versatile infielders in Triple A and top prospects climbing toward the majors, the organization is seeing growth at every level. Adrian Bohorquez, Payton Eeles, and Walker Jenkins each offer a unique path to the big leagues, and all three are trending upward as the summer heats up. RHP Adrian Bohorquez – Fort Myers Mighty Mussels The Twins signed Bohorquez out of Venezuela in 2023, and while he didn’t arrive with the same hype as some of the top international names in his class, he quickly earned attention for his electric arm. Last season, he came Stateside and split time between the FCL Twins and Fort Myers. In 53 innings, he posted a 3.23 ERA, a 1.09 WHIP, a 12.3% walk rate, and a 28.3% strikeout rate. His control was still developing, but the raw stuff stood out as some of the best on the Mighty Mussels' staff. Hitting the Hot Button On Monday, Bohorquez was named Florida State League Pitcher of the Week, following a dominant long-relief outing on July 2 against Bradenton. Coming out of the bullpen, Bohorquez retired the first 13 batters he faced and finished with five shutout innings, allowing just one baserunner via hit-by-pitch. He struck out five and topped out at 97.7 mph, while throwing 39 of his 54 pitches for strikes. The performance set a new season high in innings and underscored his growing stamina and confidence on the mound. Ranked by MLB Pipeline as the No. 27 prospect in the Twins system, Bohorquez is now firmly on the radar as a fast-rising prospect. With continued improvements in his secondary offerings and command, he could earn a mid-season promotion and become a key arm in the system’s long-term pitching pipeline. UTL Payton Eeles – St. Paul Saints Eeles was signed by the Twins in 2024 out of the independent leagues and quickly made his mark on the organization. In 2024, Eeles moved from Low-A Fort Myers to Triple-A St. Paul. He batted .306 (with a .932 OPS), while playing all over the diamond. His profile as a scrappy, left-handed hitter with elite bat-to-ball skills and strong plate discipline made him a favorite among coaches and evaluators. Twins Daily recently updated its top-20 prospects, and Eeles snuck in at No. 20 as he worked his way up with consistent production and defensive flexibility. Hitting the Hot Button Back in St. Paul, Eeles started the year on the IL, but has continued to be a do-it-all spark plug. Over his last 15 games, he is slashing .333/.383/.389 with three doubles and seven runs scored. Additionally, he has already played at four different positions for the Saints, including second base, center field, left field, and shortstop. While Eeles may not have a clear defensive home, his left-handed bat, high contact rate, and defensive utility give him a strong chance to debut in Minnesota before the year is out—particularly if injuries or roster shuffling create an opening. He's the kind of player every organization needs stashed in the upper minors to add depth and experience. OF Walker Jenkins – Wichita Wind Surge When the Twins selected Jenkins with the fifth overall pick in the 2023 MLB Draft, they knew they were getting a potential franchise player. A prep outfielder from North Carolina, Jenkins arrived with a highly advanced offensive skill set for a high-school bat. He impressed in his professional debut and followed it up with a strong 2024 campaign, as he progressed from Low A to Double A before turning 20. He hit .282/.394/.439 with 32 extra-base hits and 17 stolen bases in 82 games. His combination of power, plate discipline, and athleticism quickly vaulted him near the top of league-wide prospect rankings, and he entered 2025 as the undisputed No. 1 prospect in the Twins' system. Hitting the Hot Button For the second consecutive season, Jenkins missed time in the season’s first half with an injury. He returned to Wichita on June 18, and his bat has started to warm up. In a league where many top prospects hit speed bumps, Jenkins has thrived, batting .305 with five extra-base hits and a .918 OPS over his first 16 games. His approach at the plate remains beyond his years, with more walks (16) than strikeouts (14). He’s also been a threat on the bases, going a perfect 7-for-7 in stolen base attempts. The Twins have been patient with his development, but Jenkins’s performance may force the issue. If he keeps up this pace, a late-season look in St. Paul is very possible, and he could be ready to impact the Twins outfield as soon as 2026. He continues to look every bit the future All-Star Minnesota envisioned on draft day. The Twins’ farm system continues to demonstrate strength from top to bottom. Bohorquez is showcasing electric stuff in Fort Myers, putting himself on the map as a big-league pitching option. Eeles is proving that versatility, patience, and contact still have a place in modern baseball, and his Triple-A performance has him knocking on the big-league door. Meanwhile, Jenkins continues to show why he’s one of the best prospects in baseball, handling every challenge thrown his way and looking like he could be in the conversation as baseball’s top prospect entering next season. Keep watching, because these aren’t just names on a depth chart. They’re building blocks for Minnesota’s future. Which performance stands out the most in recent weeks? Will Jenkins make it to St. Paul before the season ends? Leave a comment and start the discussion. View full article

Aaron Judge was the only outfielder, in either league, with more player votes than Buxton. Judge earned 898 votes from players. Buxton was second with 700. Buxton finished with the fourth-most votes from the players. Only Judge (898), Seattle catcher Cal Raleigh (823), and Guardians third baseman Jose Ramirez (746) had more.

Image courtesy of © John Hefti-Imagn Images As the 2025 trade deadline creeps closer, contending teams are scrambling to shore up weaknesses. According to Ken Rosenthal of The Athletic, the San Diego Padres have their sights set on upgrading one of the least productive catcher situations in baseball. With a barren market and Minnesota’s Ryan Jeffers standing out as a rare difference-maker, could the Twins be tempted to make a bold move? Padres in Catching Crisis Mode The Padres entered the season with a veteran platoon of Elias Díaz and Martín Maldonado, but the results have been dismal. Through nearly 300 combined plate appearances, the pair has managed a meager .205/.268/.328 line and a 70 wRC+, ranking 27th among MLB teams in offensive production from their catchers. That kind of performance won’t cut it for a club that hopes to stay in the thick of the NL Wild Card race. It's no surprise the Padres are shopping, but the options are scarce. Catchers who can contribute meaningfully with the bat are rare commodities, especially those with team control beyond this season. That’s where Jeffers comes in. Jeffers's Emergence Minnesota’s 28-year-old backstop has become one of the most consistent hitters at his position. In 69 games, he is slashing .231/.331/.376 with a 97 OPS+. Perhaps most importantly for interested teams, he's under team control through the 2026 season. His combination of offense, defense, and affordability would make Jeffers one of the most valuable catchers on the trade market, if the Twins are even willing to listen. A High Price—and High Risk—for Minnesota The idea of dealing Jeffers is far from straightforward. While they do have Christian Vázquez on the roster, he’s an impending free agent, and his offensive struggles have continued into 2025 (39 OPS+). The Twins’ Triple-A depth chart isn’t exactly stacked with MLB-ready options, either. Five different players (Mickey Gasper, Jair Camargo, Patrick Winkel, Diego Cartaya, and Noah Cardenas) have started at least 13 games behind the plate for St. Paul this year. Of those, Gasper is the most intriguing bat, posting a second consecutive monster season in Triple-A (1.027 OPS). Still, the Twins have been reluctant to give him a look in the majors, reportedly due to questions about his defensive reliability. No one within the game thinks he can be more than a once-a-week option behind the plate in MLB. One name to watch in the upper minors is Ricardo Olivar, who has quietly emerged as the Twins’ most intriguing long-term option behind the plate. The 23-year-old has spent the 2025 campaign at Double-A Wichita, showcasing a well-rounded offensive profile with solid contact skills and emerging power (114 wRC+). Defensively, Olivar has made steady strides as a receiver, and his athleticism gives him an edge over many of his catching peers. While he’s not yet viewed as a sure-fire everyday backstop, Olivar’s development trajectory puts him ahead of the pack in a system still sorting through a mix of glove-first veterans and bat-first question marks. If the Twins were to deal Jeffers, Olivar could factor into the future sooner than expected. What Would It Take? For the Padres to pry Jeffers away, they’d need to pay a premium: a combination of near-ready pitching and long-term upside. Many of San Diego's top prospects are in the lower minors, and the Twins might not want to wait out their development. However, San Diego’s system still boasts arms like Braden Nett or Henry Baez, and they could dangle someone like Tirso Ornelas as a big-league-ready outfielder. But the Twins aren’t likely to entertain the idea unless blown away by a multi-player package deal. Minnesota remains on the edges of the playoff picture themselves, and subtracting a key player mid-season runs counter to their recent approach (which has typically been to do nothing). It's worth noting, at least, that the Padres have been willing to pay a hefty price for controllable catching help in a similar position in the past. Five years ago, A.J. Preller traded four intriguing players (Ty France, Andrés Muñoz, Luis Torrens and Taylor Trammell) for late-blooming backstop Austin Nola and two relievers. It's the type of move that has made Preller famous and infamous, and as the 2022 trade involving Taylor Rogers, Emilio Pagán and Chris Paddack proves, Derek Falvey is among those who can match Preller's boldness when the mood strikes. Jeffers may be precisely what the Padres need, but he's also a crucial part of Minnesota’s present and their lone catching option for 2026. If San Diego is serious about acquiring a catcher who can make an impact beyond this year, they’ll have to come to the table with a deal the Twins can’t refuse. Until then, Falvey and company are likely to keep their asking price sky-high. In a thin market, leverage is everything. And right now, the Twins have it. Should the Twins trade Jeffers? What kind of package would it take from the Padres? Leave a comment and start the discussion. View full article

Image courtesy of © Sam Greene/The Enquirer / USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images The Twins may not be sending a flock of players to the Midsummer Classic, but the one they will send is the heartbeat of the team. Byron Buxton is officially a 2025 American League All-Star, named as Minnesota’s lone representative for the game in Atlanta. It is his second All-Star selection, with his other coming in 2022. For Buxton, the honor is more than just another line on the résumé. It’s a recognition of a player fully realizing his star potential, in a season wherein he's been healthy, impactful, and downright electric. Buxton entered the season with a point to prove. After years of injury-plagued campaigns, he’s stayed on the field and reminded everyone why the Twins have been so steadfast in their belief in his talent. His defensive wizardry in center field has returned to Gold Glove form, where highlight-reel catches are back to being a near-nightly occurrence. He has tried to carry the Twins with his offensive performance in recent weeks. Entering play on Sunday, he was slashing .268/.333/.536, with 19 home runs, 11 doubles, and 15 stolen bases. Combine that with elite defense in center, and there’s a legitimate case that Buxton has been the best all-around center fielder in the American League. As if to burnish that case at the last moment, he hit a leadoff home run and stole a base after a third-inning single, pushing the totals for round-trippers and thefts to 20 and 16, respectively. The Georgia connection only adds to the significance of the moment. Buxton, born in Baxley, Ga., emerged on the amateur stage as a high-school star and one of the top draft prospects in 2012. He will play in front of family and friends during the All-Star festivities, a fitting backdrop to his most complete season as a professional. His 3.1 rWAR is already his fifth-highest total in any season, and his 136 OPS+ is his third-best mark. It’s been a long, winding road to this point, with setbacks that might have derailed a lesser player. Instead, Buxton has shown resilience and leadership during a season when the Twins desperately needed both. Minnesota has hovered near the fringes of contention this year, struggling with inconsistency and injuries across the roster. Amid the turbulence, Buxton has stood out as the club’s anchor. His .536 slugging average, 138 wRC+, 5 Outs Above Average and 5.0 Baserunning Runs are the best among AL center fielders. He ranks in the AL's top 10 in offensive WAR (5th), slugging (3rd), OPS (7th), runs (3rd), homers (5th), steals (7th), and Win Probability Added (5th). The Twins’ offense has seen its ups and downs, but Buxton has delivered key hits in big spots, pushed the tempo with his legs, and provided highlight-reel defense that saves runs and lifts morale. It’s also worth noting that Buxton’s All-Star nod could have financial implications. His contract includes incentives tied to MVP voting. While the field is crowded, the visibility and narrative surrounding his strong season could put him in the conversation for votes, especially if he continues to carry the Twins through the second half. If he makes it into the top 10 in MVP voting, he'll receive a bonus of at least $3 million. Even as the team sends only one player to the All-Star Game, there were a few close calls. Jhoan Duran’s bullpen dominance made him a plausible addition, and Joe Ryan has arguably been one of the AL’s best starting pitchers. There is a chance that both pitchers could be added to the rosters as they expand later this week due to injuries and the unavailability of other pitchers. But with Ryan staying on schedule to pitch Saturday and Duran just missing the cut, the spotlight shines squarely on Buxton. It’s simply a well-deserved honor for a player whose value to the Twins goes far beyond the stat sheet. He’s the face of the franchise, a leader in the clubhouse, and the guy who gives Minnesota fans hope every time he steps on the field. Buxton is getting his All-Star flowers again, and it’s coming in his home state, amid a season in which he is a fuller version of himself. Maybe—just maybe—the rest of the baseball world will realize how special he is. If not, he'll certainly make Twins Territory proud, anyway. View full article

Image courtesy of © Tommy Gilligan-Imagn Images This isn’t a rumor, report, or insider leak—just a thought experiment. But if the Twins decided to pivot toward 2026, here’s a trade idea that could make sense for two "bubble" teams. It’s rare for two teams sitting near the Wild Card bubble to make waves on the trade market with a rare contender-to-contender deal. However, this potential trade offers help for two teams moving in opposite directions. The Minnesota Twins, currently treading water in the middle of the American League standings, send starting pitcher Joe Ryan and veteran catcher Christian Vázquez to the Boston Red Sox in a move that signals Minnesota’s focus has shifted beyond 2025. In return, the Twins acquired speedy outfielder Jarren Duran and three intriguing prospects. Let’s break down the deal and what it could mean for both clubs. Red Sox Bolster 2025 Push Boston entered play this weekend just two games back of the final AL Wild Card spot, and this trade is clearly meant to be a boost for the short term. Joe Ryan Adds Rotation Stability Ryan has been a playoff-caliber starter since arriving in the Nelson Cruz trade and gives Boston another weapon in the rotation. He’s posted a 2.75 ERA and 0.88 WHIP in 17 starts this season, and while a few rough outings inflate his ERA, his underlying metrics and strikeout rate (28.2 K%) remain strong. He’s allowed four earned runs or more in only three starts this season, and he’s yet to be removed before completing five frames. He’ll slot into a rotation with Garrett Crochet , Walker Buehler, and Brayan Bello in a suddenly formidable top four. Christian Vázquez Returns to Familiar Territory The veteran catcher heads back to Boston, where he spent the first eight seasons of his career and won a World Series in 2018. He is a pending free agent, and the Twins are unlikely to attempt to re-sign him. While Vázquez struggled with the bat in Minnesota (58 OPS+), he remains a strong defensive presence and knows how to manage a pitching staff. The Red Sox are betting that a return to Fenway will spark a late-season bounceback. Twins Signal a Shift Toward 2026 Minnesota’s front office has seen the team fall out of contention in 2025, especially with injuries, inconsistency, and a crowded Wild Card race. This trade is about adding long-term talent while offloading a time-share catcher and selling high on a cost-controlled starter. So, who are the four players who could shape Minnesota's future? OF Jarren Duran – Part of the New Core Duran, 28, could bring elite speed, athleticism, and a versatile bat to the Twins’ outfield. Last season, he led the AL in doubles and triples while posting a 131 OPS+. His 2025 campaign has hit a few more speed bumps. In 87 games, he has posted a 100 OPS+. However, he’s still leading the AL in triples while adding 15 stolen bases. His defensive versatility allows him to play all three outfield spots, and he instantly becomes a regular outfield starter for the Twins. He is under team control through the 2028 season, which gives the Twins control of him through the prime of his career. If Minnesota is looking to shake up its core, Duran can be a piece to make that happen. OF/1B James Tibbs III – Advanced Bat, Big-League Trajectory Ranked as Boston’s No. 6 prospect by MLB Pipeline, Tibbs is a polished college bat from Florida State who’s playing well at High- and Double-A this season. He’s hitting .256/.378/.454 (.832) with 26 extra-base hits in 71 games this season and shows strong plate discipline (15.3 BB%) and power (129 wRC+) from the left side. The 22-year-old profiles as a corner outfielder or first baseman, and he could move quickly through Minnesota’s system. RHP David Sandlin – High-Octane Arm with Upside Sandlin, Boston’s No. 9 prospect, has shown promise since being drafted out of Oklahoma in 2022. The 24-year-old right-hander has a mid-90s fastball, a swing-and-miss slider, and solid strikeout numbers (26.4 K%) and walk rate (8.0 BB%) at Double-A this season. He’s likely a future mid-rotation starter or high-leverage bullpen piece, depending on how his command develops. 1B Blaze Jordan – Power Bat Looking for Consistency Jordan was a social media sensation in high school for his light-tower power, and while the hype has cooled, the pop remains. Ranked No. 29 in the Red Sox system, the 22-year-old is hitting .303/.378/.492 (.870) with nine home runs and 19 doubles at Double- and Triple-A. The Twins would be betting on the developmental step forward that Jordan has shown this year. If he puts it together, he could become a right-handed DH/1B with 25-homer potential. A Bold but Calculated Move for Both Teams On the surface, this may look like a strange trade between two playoff hopefuls. But Minnesota's willingness to step back now could lead to a stronger window starting in 2026. Boston, meanwhile, gets two proven veterans to help make a legitimate Wild Card push in a wide-open AL. Twins fans may not love seeing a fan favorite like Ryan dealt, but the return, especially Tibbs and Duran, offers real upside. And if this deal helps usher in a new wave of young Twins stars, it might be the gamble that pays off down the road. If you were the Twins' GM, would you pull the trigger on this trade? Which club is paying too much in the trade outlined above? Leave a comment and start the discussion. View full article

Image courtesy of © Gregory Fisher-Imagn Images While free agency and trades dominate the headlines, the MLB Draft remains a crucial pillar for sustained success. The Minnesota Twins have built their best rosters by hitting on players in every round from first overall to deep Day 2 gems. Here's a look at the best Twins draft pick from each of the first twenty rounds and a few honorable mentions who left their own mark on the franchise. 1st Round: C Joe Mauer (1st Overall, 2001) When the Twins took Mauer first overall out of St. Paul’s Cretin-Derham Hall, they made a bold choice to pass on Mark Prior. That pick couldn’t have gone much better. Mauer became the face of the franchise for over a decade, winning the 2009 AL MVP and earning three batting titles, still the only catcher in AL history to accomplish that feat. The six-time All-Star and three-time Gold Glove winner spent his entire 15-year career in Minnesota, a rare feat in today’s game. He topped off his career by being a first-ballot Hall of Famer Honorable Mentions: Torii Hunter, Chuck Knoblauch Hunter’s highlight-reel defense and Knoblauch’s Rookie of the Year season make them first-round hits as well. 2nd Round: RHP Frank Viola (37th Overall, 1981) Viola went from a second-rounder out of St. John’s University to a World Series MVP just seven years later. “Sweet Music” was instrumental in the 1987 championship run, then captured the 1988 AL Cy Young Award after a 24-win season. His smooth delivery and big-game poise made him one of the most impactful pitchers in team history. Honorable Mentions: Butch Wynegar, Scott Baker Wynegar became an All-Star at age 20, while Baker quietly posted several solid seasons during the 2000s. 3rd Round: RHP Bert Blyleven (55th Overall, 1969) Drafted at just 18, Blyleven broke into the majors a year later and quickly showed off his signature curveball. Across two stints with the Twins, he tallied 149 of his 287 career wins and 2,035 of his 3,701 strikeouts. A two-time World Series champion and Hall of Famer, Blyleven’s impact spanned generations, both on the mound and later in the broadcast booth. Honorable Mentions: Justin Morneau, A.J. Pierzynski Morneau won an MVP and mashed 221 homers with Minnesota. Pierzynski brought consistency behind the plate and netted the Twins a franchise-altering trade return. 4th Round: 3B Graig Nettles (74th Overall, 1965) Though he made his biggest mark with the Yankees, Greg Nettles started his career in Minnesota. He debuted in 1967 and showed off the power and glove that would define a long, successful career. Ultimately, he finished with 390 home runs, six All-Star appearances, and two Gold Gloves. Honorable Mentions: Scott Erickson, Eddie Rosario Erickson led the AL in wins during the 1991 title season. Rosario brought firepower and flair during the Bomba Squad era. 5th Round: RHP Dave Goltz (97th Overall, 1967) Goltz was a workhorse during the 1970s, leading the AL in starts and wins once in 1977. He spent parts of eight seasons with the Twins and finished his career with over 113 victories, including six straight double-digit win seasons in Minnesota. Honorable Mention: Doug Mientkiewicz A defensive wizard at first base, Mientkiewicz helped anchor the early-2000s resurgence and won a Gold Glove in 2001. 6th Round: RHP Pat Neshek (182nd Overall, 2002) With a funky delivery and elite command, Neshek carved out a 13-year MLB career. He made his debut in 2006, striking out 53 batters in just 37 innings with the Twins. Though injuries shortened his time in Minnesota, he made two All-Star teams later in his career and became a fan favorite for multiple organizations. Honorable Mention: N/A This round belongs to Neshek. 7th Round: RHP LaTroy Hawkins (180th Overall, 1991) Hawkins pitched in the big leagues for 21 seasons, including his first nine with the Twins. After early struggles as a starter, Hawkins found success in the bullpen. He posted a 1.86 ERA in 2002 and later became a respected veteran presence across multiple teams, finishing with over 1,000 appearances. Honorable Mention: Mark Guthrie A key lefty in the early ‘90s bullpen and a contributor to the 1991 World Series team. 8th Round: RHP Brad Radke (206th Overall, 1991) Radke defined reliability. He spent his entire 12-year career with the Twins, winning 148 games and walking fewer than two batters per nine innings. His 1997 All-Star season (20 wins) highlighted his consistency, and he became the steadying force during the franchise’s transition from the dark 1990s to playoff contenders in the 2000s. Honorable Mention: Brian Dozier Dozier blossomed into a home run-hitting second baseman, peaking with 42 bombs in 2016. 9th Round: C Mitch Garver (260th Overall, 2013) Garver powered his way into a key role on the 2019 Bomba Squad, belting 31 home runs in just 93 games en route to winning a Silver Slugger. Injuries hampered his consistency, but his offensive upside at a premium position made him one of the best ninth-round finds in club history. Honorable Mentions: LaMonte Wade Jr., Steve Lombardozzi Wade found success in San Francisco, while Lombardozzi was a key part of the Twins’ 1987 title run. 10th Round: SS Steve Braun (200th Overall, 1966) Steve Braun was a versatile hitter with a career .271 average and a sharp eye at the plate. He spent five seasons in Minnesota and later won a World Series with the Cardinals in 1982. His bat and plate discipline kept him in the majors for 15 seasons, proving the value of a solid 10th-rounder. Honorable Mentions: Jeff Reboulet, Marty Cordova Cordova won AL Rookie of the Year in 1995, while Reboulet provided valuable depth during the mid-'90s. Here are the other standout draft picks from rounds 11-20. 11th Round: RHP Taylor Rogers 12th Round: RHP Bailey Ober 13th Round: OF Matt Lawton 14th Round: RHP Mike Trombley 15th Round: C Rick Dempsey 16th Round: OF Jim Eisenreich 17th Round: 1B Kent Hrbek 18th Round: 2B Edouard Julien 19th Round: 3B Danny Valencia 20th Round: C Damian Miller Drafting is as much art as it is science, and while not every pick pans out, the Twins have found elite talent in every corner of the draft board. These selections, with some stars and other steady contributors, represent the foundation of Twins history. As the organization looks to the future, their past draft success provides a reminder of just how impactful one good pick can be. Which round stands out the most? What was the best pick in the late rounds? Leave a comment and start the discussion. 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Image courtesy of © Dennis Lee-Imagn Images As the trade deadline inches closer, the Minnesota Twins find themselves at a crossroads. A disastrous June (wherein the team went 9-18 and owned the worst ERA in baseball) has cast serious doubt on their playoff aspirations. If the front office leans toward selling, Willi Castro could emerge as one of the most valuable and underrated players available and the team in the Bronx might come calling. The Swiss Army Knife Every Contender Needs Yankees executive Brian Cashman could be in the market for a plug-and-play contributor, and Castro checks nearly every box. He’s a switch-hitter, a versatile defender, and he’s earning a modest $6.4 million in his final year before free agency. New York was interested in Castro over the winter, so it makes sense that the Twins and Yankees could have already discussed a potential deal. His versatility makes him attractive to any contender, especially one as top-heavy as the Yankees. New York Post columnist Joel Sherman recently identified Castro as a fit, noting that “he is adaptable to nearly any team’s needs as a switch-hitter (who has particularly crushed lefty pitching) while playing every position this year except catcher and first base.” And that’s not hyperbole. Castro has started games all over the diamond, including third base, second, shortstop, both corner outfield spots, and even a brief appearance on the mound. He’s also got postseason experience, appearing in six playoff games over the last two years for Minnesota. While his glove isn’t elite at any one spot, his ability to give a team options makes him especially valuable in the grind of a 162-game season and into October. Quiet Production, Consistent Results Castro doesn’t bring the thunder of a blockbuster bat, but his profile is built for winning baseball. After earning his first All-Star nod in 2024, he’s kept his OPS+ north of 100 for three straight seasons. His 121 OPS+ this season is a career-high, nearly 20 points higher than last year. For a Yankees team whose offense has been trending downward each month (.829 OPS in April, .792 in May, and .719 in June), a player like Castro could help stabilize the lineup. He wouldn’t necessarily replace a key cog, but he would give manager Aaron Boone more freedom to move pieces around. That’s especially relevant, as Jazz Chisholm Jr. has been forced into third base duties. Acquiring Castro could allow Chisholm to slide back to his more natural spot at second. A Match in the Making? The Yankees are likely to explore bigger names (like Eugenio Suárez), but Castro could be a more practical fit. He doesn’t come with a massive price tag, and he offers lineup insurance in case Trent Grisham or Paul Goldschmidt continues to slide. For a team that’s already aiming for another deep postseason run, adding someone who can play anywhere and bring speed, contact, and experience might be more valuable than another middle-of-the-order bat. For Minnesota, this is all about timing. They’ll need a strong July to convince leadership to hold the line, but if the slide continues, Castro becomes one of their most logical trade chips. He isn’t a long-term piece, and the Twins have younger, cost-controlled depth in the infield and outfield who need opportunities. What Could the Return Look Like? The Yankees won’t part with top-tier prospects for a utility player on an expiring deal, but a solid arm with upside could make sense. There will be multiple contending teams interested in Castro, so the Twins can take the highest offer. Minnesota’s farm system can always use depth, but the Yankees farm system is ranked in baseball’s bottom half. A deal involving a mid-tier prospect (possibly a 40-man fringe type) would reflect Castro’s short-term value while giving the Twins a lottery ticket or two in return. Some names to consider in the Yankees system are: Chase Hampton (RHP) – A former sixth-round pick out of Texas Tech, Hampton has impressed with a mid-90s fastball and sharp slider. He struck out over 12 batters per nine innings in his first full pro season and projects as a potential mid-rotation starter if his command continues to improve. Brock Selvidge (LHP) – Selvidge, a 6-foot-3 lefty, has quickly climbed the Yankees’ system thanks to a solid four-pitch mix and excellent mound presence. He doesn’t light up radar guns, but he’s polished, durable, and throws strikes—traits the Twins tend to value in pitching prospects. Cam Schlittler (RHP) – A deeper name, Schlittler brings projectability and strike-throwing ability. Drafted out of Northeastern, he’s shown flashes of a quality three-pitch mix and profiles as a backend starter or long reliever if he can take the next step in Double-A. If the Twins decide to sell, Castro might be their most versatile asset, and he may be exactly the kind of player the Yankees need. It wouldn’t be a headline-stealing blockbuster, but it would be a smart, winning move for a team looking to stay ahead in the AL East arms race. And for Minnesota, it could be the first of several subtle steps in reshaping the roster for 2026 and beyond. What do you think: Should the Twins entertain offers for Castro? Leave a comment and start the discussion. View full article

Image courtesy of © Neville E. Guard-Imagn Images Trade speculation season is in full swing, and the latest proposal making waves involves the Minnesota Twins shipping off one of their best players in recent history. A potential deal between the Twins and Phillies would send center fielder Byron Buxton to Philadelphia in exchange for right-handed pitcher Mick Abel and catching prospect Alirio Ferrebus. It’s a headline-worthy idea. Buxton has been a cornerstone of the Twins’ organization for over a decade, since he was taken with the No. 2 overall pick in the 2012 MLB Draft. When healthy, he’s a game-changing talent who can impact both sides of the runs ledger. This year, he’s shown flashes of his best form again. Through 67 games, he’s already posted 3.3 bWAR ,with 19 home runs and a 149 OPS+, plus elite defense in center field. But as intriguing as the hypothetical may be, the reality is far more complicated. Why the Phillies Would Pick Up the Phone Philadelphia’s outfield production has been among the worst in the league. Their revolving door of Brandon Marsh, Max Kepler, and Johan Rojas has combined for -0.7 bWAR. Even more staggering: Phillies center fielders have just two home runs all season, the fewest in baseball. With postseason ambitions and a pressing need to upgrade their outfield, the Phillies could be in the market for an impact bat. Buxton, when healthy, checks every box. He brings elite speed, power, and defense. Philadelphia’s president of baseball operations, Dave Dombrowski, has made it clear that the Phillies will be buyers, with his primary focus being upgrading their bullpen. However, he has been known to take big swings when his team is in contention. The cost to acquire Buxton? Likely steep. A proposed deal includes 2020 first-rounder Abel, a 23-year-old pitcher with frontline potential, and Ferrebus, a 19-year-old catcher with tools and upside currently ranked in the organization’s top 30. But with Aaron Nola expected back from the IL and top prospect Andrew Painter nearing MLB readiness, the Phillies may feel they can afford to part with pitching depth in the name of a championship run. Why the Twins Might Listen… in Theory If the Twins decide to pivot toward the future, Buxton’s contract of roughly $50 million through the 2028 season could be viewed as a long-term hurdle. Trading him would open payroll space, add a top arm in Abel to a pitching pipeline that needs more depth, and potentially clear a path in center field for top prospects Walker Jenkins or Emmanuel Rodriguez down the line. Ferrebus would also help replenish the system’s depth behind the plate, a position with no clear long-term solutions. The Twins could look at this as an opportunity to retool on the fly, while maximizing Buxton’s current value. But even if that logic holds, there’s one critical detail that makes this deal highly unlikely. The No-Trade Clause Matters—A Lot Buxton has full no-trade protection through the 2026 season, and there’s little indication he’s eager to leave. In fact, one of the primary reasons Buxton signed a long-term extension with the Twins (well below his projected market value) was to keep his family rooted in Minnesota. He and his wife have spoken publicly about how much they enjoy raising their kids in the state and building a life in the community. Even after 2026, he'll have the right to reject a trade as he'll have surpassed 10 years of service time by then. Players with at least 10 total seasons of service and five continuous years with one team have de facto no-trade rights, regardless of contract terms. That loyalty helped the Twins land a potential franchise player at a discounted rate. It also gives Buxton complete control over where he plays, and there’s no indication he’s asked to move on even as the team has struggled to stay in postseason contention this summer. Buxton has endured multiple injuries, roster shakeups, and managerial changes during his tenure in Minnesota. He’s still here. That doesn’t sound like someone looking for a change of scenery. A Tempting Offer, But a Long Shot From the Phillies’ perspective, the deal makes a lot of sense. They need outfield help, they’re in a win-now window, and Buxton could be the kind of October weapon that pushes them over the top. For the Twins, it would be a tough emotional pill to swallow, but potentially a logical baseball decision if the franchise shifts its focus toward the future. But Buxton holds the final say. And based on everything we know, this is a player who isn’t looking to jump ship anytime soon. Nor is it clear that the team is willing to give him up, given everything he means to both the clubhouse and the fan base, in addition to his raw on-field value. Thus, while the idea of Buxton roaming center field at Citizens Bank Park might make for good content in trade season articles, don’t expect it to become a reality. If Buxton leaves Minnesota, it won’t be because the front office pushed him out. It’ll be because he decided it was time to go. And that time doesn’t appear to be now. Does the deal make sense for the Twins? Is there a scenario where Buxton would waive his no-trade clause? Leave a comment and start the discussion. View full article