Cody Christie

Every team faces injuries at one of the season’s most critical junctures. When can fans expect some key players to return for the Twins? Image courtesy of John Hefti-USA TODAY Sports The Twins added one middle relief pitcher (Trevor Richards) at the trade deadline, forcing the team to rely on intern options for the stretch run. Are any key players nearing a return? What players will be expected to step in if extended injury timelines exist? Let’s examine the team’s roster and the organizational depth chart. Carlos Correa, SS Injury: Plantar fasciitis The Twins placed Correa on the 10-day IL on July 20 as he is dealing with plantar fasciitis in his right heel. Last season, his left heel had the same injury, significantly impacting his performance. He had a platelet-rich plasma (PRP) injection to help with the injury. Correa has started to ramp up his baseball activities by working in the batting cages, running on the field, and taking ground balls. His next steps are to attempt to sprint without pain. The Twins plan to send Correa on a short rehab assignment to ensure his timing is back before returning to the big-league level. Brooks Lee and Willi Castro have filled in for Correa at shortstop in his absence. Return Timeline: Mid-to-Late August Brock Stewart, RHP Injury: Right shoulder strain In his most recent return from the IL, Stewart was limited to two appearances. He struggled in those outings and was placed back on the IL with a recurrence of the right shoulder issue that caused him to miss nearly three months. Stewart has been one of the AL’s most dominant relief pitchers when healthy. However, he has been limited to fewer than 16 innings this season. There is a chance that his season is done, but the Twins will likely try to ramp him up in a few weeks to see what his shoulder can endure. Minnesota has made it through most of the season without Stewart, as Griffin Jax and Jorge Alcalá have filled his late-inning role. Return Timeline: Potentially Mid-to-Late September Kody Funderburk, LHP Injury: Left oblique strain Funderburk has been on the IL since July 21 after he felt his oblique bother him while playing catch. He told reporters the expected timeline for his injury was six to eight weeks. Caleb Thielbar and Steve Okert have been the team’s main left-handed bullpen options. Minnesota was rumored to be in the market for a lefty at the trade deadline but added Richards, a righty with reverse splits. Minnesota needs more bullpen depth, and Funderburk will get an opportunity before the season ends. Return Timeline: Late September Chris Paddack, RHP Injury: Right forearm strain Paddack was expected to be the veteran at the back of the rotation, but injuries have impacted his return from his second Tommy John surgery. He was placed on the IL after feeling tightness in his elbow while throwing during the All-Star break. In early July, he missed time with a dead arm and shoulder fatigue. Young pitchers like Simeon Woods Richardson and David Festa have stepped into the rotation in Paddack’s absence. There are no guarantees that Paddack will pitch again this season, and it might need to be in a bullpen role. Return Timeline: Potentially Mid-to-Late September Kyle Farmer, IF Injury: Right shoulder strain Farmer dealt with a shoulder issue throughout much of the first half before being placed on the IL on July 11. His offensive performance was greatly impacted in the first half, so getting him fully healthy might help the team for the stretch run. The Twins have used other players around the infield, like Lee, Castro, and Jose Miranda. Initially, the Twins expected Farmer to return by late July, so his return could be imminent. Return Timeline: Mid-August Justin Topa, RHP Injury: Left patellar tendinitis Topa is on the brink of returning to the Twins. He’s made multiple successful rehab appearances with the Saints. He is pitching through a partial tear of a muscle in his knee that could require surgery in the future. Last season, he was a critical late-inning bullpen option for the Mariners, so he could be one of the key reasons the Twins didn’t overpay for a reliever at the trade deadline. Return Timeline: Early August Which player will return from injury first? Which injury return will significantly impact the roster for the stretch run? Leave a COMMENT and start the discussion. View full article

Randy Dobnak’s baseball journey is a story of perseverance and a bit of serendipity, marked by unconventional turns and a remarkable rise from obscurity. Image courtesy of Nathan Ray Seebeck-USA TODAY Sports Randy Dobnak was born in Pennsylvania and attended South Park High School. His high school career didn’t necessarily scream “future MLB player”—he wasn’t heavily recruited and went undrafted after graduating. Instead of taking a direct path to professional baseball, Dobnak took the road less traveled. Dobnak attended Alderson Broaddus University, a small school in West Virginia. In four seasons, he posted a 2.61 ERA with a 1.17 WHIP and a 284-to-79 strikeout-to-walk ratio in 272 1/3 innings. His college career was solid but being at a small school made it even less likely that he’d be on the radar of major league scouts. He wasn’t selected in the MLB Draft, and some players would likely hang up their cleats and find a job outside the sports world. In 2017, Dobnak signed with the Frontier League’s Schaumburg Boomers, a low-level independent league team. He was working part-time jobs to support himself including his famous days as an Uber driver. His dedication and strong performances on the mound did not go unnoticed, though. The Minnesota Twins signed him to a minor league contract after he allowed nine earned runs in 35 innings (2.31 ERA). Dobnak’s performance in the minors was impressive. He quickly ascended through the Twins’ minor league system, showcasing an effective blend of control, grit, and a unique demeanor on the mound. He pitched the entire 2018 season in Cedar Rapids where he posted a 3.14 ERA with a 1.26 WHIP. Dobnak’s 2019 season seemed like a fictional story. He began the year at High-A and finished the season starting a playoff game for the Twins at Yankee Stadium. It was a meteoric rise for the former independent league signee. It was the first of his unlikely trips to the big leagues. He pitched admirably in his first two seasons in the big leagues with a 3.12 ERA in 19 career appearances, including 15 starts. Entering the 2021 season, the Twins signed Dobnak to a unique contract extension to buyout his arbitration eligible years and give Minnesota more years of team control. In March 2021, Dobnak agreed to a five-year, $9.25 million contract extension with three club options. The deal had a chance to max out at $29.75 million with the options having escalators associated with them. This contract was seen as an investment in Dobnak's potential, reflecting the Twins' belief in his future contributions. It also provided Dobnak with financial security and an opportunity to prove himself over several seasons. The structure of the deal was relatively rare for a player with Dobnak's experience level at the time, making it a noteworthy example of how teams and players can negotiate creative contract terms. However, since signing that deal, health has greatly impacted Dobnak’s performance to the point where he likely didn’t know if he’d be back at the big-league level. Dobnak has had issues with a finger injury in recent seasons. Specifically, he’s dealt with a right middle finger injury that has significantly impacted his performance and availability. He’s had multiple surgeries and been forced to reinvent himself as a pitcher with a new pitch mix. This injury, which affected his grip and control on the mound, led to a series of struggles with both pitching effectiveness and staying healthy. The injury first became a notable issue during the 2021 season and has persisted, affecting his ability to contribute consistently. Finger injuries for pitchers are particularly challenging because they can influence grip, control, and overall pitching mechanics. For Dobnak, this has meant that he’s had to navigate a series of rehab stints and adjustments, which have unfortunately hampered his ability to return to his previous form. Dobnak likely thought he’d be relegated to a Triple-A role for the remainder of his professional career. He settled into the Saints rotation this season, but his performance made it tough for the Twins to ignore him. In his last 15 Triple-A appearances, he posted a 2.80 ERA while holding batters to a .371 SLG in 74 innings. These totals are even more impressive considering the high offensive environment in the International League. Minnesota needed pitching depth and Dobnak was the next man up on the organization’s depth chart. Dobnak hasn’t found success around every corner, embodying the narrative of hard work paying off against the odds. His story resonates as an inspiring example of how determination, combined with a bit of luck and opportunity, can lead to achieving dreams that seemed out of reach. Dobnak’s journey from the independent leagues to the big leagues exemplifies how unconventional routes can lead to success in the world of sports, proving that talent, resilience, and a bit of serendipity can pave the way to inspiring stories. Which big league trip has been more unexpected? Leave a COMMENT and start the discussion. View full article

The Twins are facing the season’s most important time. What questions are facing the team at this critical juncture? Image courtesy of Matt Blewett-USA TODAY Sports As the dust settles from the MLB trade deadline, the Minnesota Twins find themselves at a critical juncture. With a mix of veteran talent and young potential, the Twins are eyeing a postseason run. However, several questions loom as they navigate the season's final stretch. Here, we delve into three pressing concerns for the Twins: the durability of their rotation, the reliability of their bullpen, and the health of their lineup. Can the Rotation Hold Up? The success of the Twins’ season hinges significantly on the performance of their starting rotation. The rotation, a blend of seasoned veterans and promising newcomers, has shown flashes of brilliance and moments of vulnerability. At the forefront is Pablo López, the staff ace since being acquired from Miami. Joe Ryan and Bailey Ober are the two pitchers who would currently round out the top of the team’s expected playoff rotation. However, there are question marks behind that trio and many games remaining in the season. Simeon Woods Richardson has performed admirably during his rookie season, and David Festa has seen some positive results in limited action. At Triple-A, Louie Varland and Zebby Matthews are next on the depth chart if another injury occurs. Minnesota failed to make a significant splash in acquiring starting pitching at the deadline, instead relying on internal depth. This decision places added pressure on the current rotation to stay healthy and effective. However, banking on unproven talent in a playoff race is a risky proposition. The rotation’s ability to hold up under the strain of a pennant chase will be crucial to the Twins’ postseason aspirations. Does the Bullpen Have Enough High-Leverage Arms? The Twins' bullpen is another area of promise and concern. The bullpen has been a mix of dominant performances and frustrating inconsistency throughout the season. Jhoan Duran, with his triple-digit fastball and wicked offspeed offerings, has even shown some cracks in his armor. However, the bullpen must have more than one high-leverage arm. Griffin Jax and Jorge Alcalá have been reliable options, but beyond them, the bullpen depth becomes murky. Cole Sands has been the biggest surprise in a bullpen group searching for depth. Caleb Thielbar and Steven Okert have shown flashes but have struggled with control and consistency. The deadline acquisitions of middle relievers provided depth but did not address the need for additional high-leverage arms. In the pennant race, reliable bullpen arms are essential. The Twins will need their bullpen to step up, especially in close games where one mistake can be the difference between victory and defeat. Manager Rocco Baldelli’s ability to manage and deploy his bullpen effectively will be scrutinized. The question remains whether the current bullpen configuration has enough firepower to navigate the intense pressure of playoff-caliber games. Can the Lineup Stay Healthy? When fully healthy, the Twins’ lineup boasts a potent mix of power and speed. Byron Buxton, Carlos Correa, and Royce Lewis are the linchpins, providing dynamic offense and solid defense. However, this trio of players has struggled with injuries in the past, and their ability to stay on the field is paramount to the Twins’ success. Buxton, in particular, is a game-changer when healthy. His combination of speed, power, and defensive prowess makes him one of the most exciting players in the league. However, his injury history is in the back of every fan’s mind. Keeping Buxton healthy and productive will be a critical factor in the Twins’ playoff push. Similarly, Correa’s presence in the lineup provides stability and leadership. His bat and glove are critical to the Twins’ success, and any extended absence would be a significant blow. Lewis has missed multiple chunks of the 2024 season, but he can change a game with one swing of his bat. The supporting cast, including players like Max Kepler, Willi Castro, and Ryan Jeffers, must also avoid the injury bug. Depth is always a concern, and the Twins will rely on a mix of veterans and young players to fill in when needed. Players like Matt Wallner and Jose Miranda have shown they can contribute, but asking them to carry the load in the event of significant injuries is a tall order. The Twins’ ability to keep their lineup healthy will be a determining factor in their playoff fortunes. The Minnesota Twins face a challenging yet exciting road ahead as they chase a postseason berth. The rotation’s durability, the bullpen’s reliability, and the lineup’s health are three critical factors shaping their destiny. While the team has the talent to compete, the answers to these questions will ultimately determine whether they can make a deep playoff run or fall short of expectations. As the season progresses, Twins fans will be watching closely, hoping for a combination of skill, strategy, and a bit of luck to carry their team to October glory. Which question is most important to the team’s second-half success? Leave a COMMENT and start the discussion. View full article

MLB’s Trade Deadline has passed, and some contenders have made blockbuster moves while other clubs are focused more on internal options to improve their rosters. Let’s examine the AL’s ever-changing playoff picture to see how the Twins stack up. The Twins have two paths to the playoffs: the AL Central title is still in reach, or the club can qualify as one of the three Wild Card teams. Minnesota has been behind Cleveland in the AL Central for most of the season, but the Guardians showed some weaknesses in July. However, Cleveland isn’t the only team that Twins fans need to keep their eye on in the coming weeks. Let’s break down the AL Central and Wild Card race. AL Central Race (Record, Games Ahead/Behind the Twins) Cleveland Guardians (65-42, +6.5) Trade Deadline Additions: OF Lane Thomas, RHP Alex Cobb Cleveland continues to outshoot their expectations with the AL’s best record. The Twins have played well since their terrible 7-13 record to start the season but continue to be behind the Guardians. Cleveland has an even tighter payroll than the Twins, making adding impact players at the trade deadline difficult. Their farm system has dropped on national rankings, and Twins fans might have hoped that the Guardians would go all-in by the deadline. However, that didn’t happen, and now it looks like a three-team race for the division title. Kansas City Royals (59-49, 0.0) Trade Deadline Additions: RHP Michael Lorenzen, RHP Lucas Erceg, SS Paul DeJong Kansas City surprised many by spending big this winter on Michael Wacha, Seth Lugo, Will Smith, Hunter Renfroe, Chris Stratton, and Garrett Hampson. This was a team that lost 106 games last season, and these additions would only slightly move the needle. Instead, Kansas City started the season on a hot streak by winning over 60% of their games in April and May. Adding the players above helps with Kansas City’s depth and it could move the needle in the AL Central race. AL Wild Card Race (Record, Games Ahead/Behind the Twins) New York Yankees (64-45, +4.5) Trade Deadline Additions: OF Jazz Chisholm Jr., RHP Enyel De Los Santos, RHP Thomas Balboni Jr., RHP Mark Leiter Jr. New York missed the playoffs last season, which the front office wanted to avoid in 2024. The Yankees made the most significant trade of the winter by acquiring Juan Soto in his final year before free agency. Yankees GM Brian Cashman addressed some of the team’s weaknesses by acquiring the players listed above at the deadline. Can New York hunt down Baltimore and win the AL East? Otherwise, the Twins might be forced to go to Yankee Stadium for a Wild Card match-up. Boston Red Sox (56-50, -2.0) Trade Deadline Additions: RHP Quinn Priester, RHP Luis Garcia, RHP Lucas Sims Boston is in third place in the AL East but only one game behind Kansas City for the final playoff spot. Many projection models had the Red Sox pegged as the worst team in the division, especially since the team finished 23 games out of first place in 2023. Jarren Duran has played at an MVP level, and other players have compiled surprise performances to keep Boston in the race. There will be some key AL East games in the weeks ahead to decide who wins the division and who earns a Wild Card spot. Seattle Mariners (57-52, -2.5) Trade Deadline Additions: OF Randy Arozarena, RHP Yimi Garcia, DH Justin Turner, RHP JT Chargois Seattle made aggressive moves early in the trade deadline cycle to bolster the outfield and pitching staff. Last season, the Mariners missed the playoffs even with a better record than Minnesota. Clearly, the front office is trying to avoid last season’s shortcomings. Seattle has struggled since the All-Star Break but is clearly in the mix for the last Wild Card spot. Tampa Bay Rays (55-52, -3.5) Trade Deadline Additions: INF Christopher Morel, RHP Hunter Bigge, OF Dylan Carlson, Tampa Bay is close to a Wild Card spot and traded away multiple big-league pieces, including Isaac Paredes, Randy Arozarena, Zach Eflin, and Jason Adam. The Rays have been run like this for quite some time, with the front office trading away MLB pieces to rebuild the farm system. It will be interesting to see if Tampa Bay can stay in the race with new faces populating their roster. Which teams are the biggest threats to the Twins? What will it take for Minnesota to track down Cleveland for the AL Central title? Leave a comment to start the discussion. View full article

After a quiet deadline, the Twins face lingering questions about relief depth and matchup options. Can an internal option be the team’s left-handed bullpen upgrade? Image courtesy of William Parmeter Minnesota had multiple needs heading into the 2024 MLB trade deadline, but there were more buyers than sellers, making it difficult for teams to find a deal. Instead, the Twins must rely on internal options for the second consecutive season. This strategy was successful in 2023, when the team won its first playoff series in two decades. Now, the front office is hoping their luck continues in 2024, but the road to the playoffs may be tougher than in previous seasons. One need for the team was adding a left-handed reliever. Caleb Thielbar and Steven Okert have served as the team’s primary lefties out of the bullpen, but their performances have been below expectations. Thielbar has made 34 appearances with a 5.96 ERA with a 21.8 K%. Okert has only been slightly better than Thielbar, with a 4.60 ERA and a 21.1 K%. Kody Funderburk is another internal option, but he has also struggled with a 5.61 ERA in 26 appearances. It seems unlikely for the Twins to trust any of these arms to get important outs in October. With his reverse platoon splits, Trevor Richards partially fills the role, but sometimes what you want is the traditional platoon advantage. Some lefty batters are very uncomfortable with the physical looks of lefty pitchers, and are less affected by even very good right-handed changeups. The Twins have a left-handed pitcher on the 40-man roster who might be the team’s best option to provide an upgrade in the second half. Brent Headrick was in the running for the team’s final bullpen spot in spring training. He made two starts for the Saints to begin the season but suffered a forearm injury and was placed on the 60-day IL. Headrick hasn’t pitched in a game since Apr. 6, but he has been ramping back up as part of the Florida Instructional League. Minnesota drafted Headrick from Illinois State University in the 9th round of the 2019 MLB Draft. The front office has shown a tendency to draft college pitchers from lesser-known schools in the draft’s later rounds, in hopes of working with the player on slight mechanical adjustments to improve velocity and pitch mix. Headrick only sits in the low 90s with his fastball, but he has a good slider that can get swings and misses from lefties and righties. “For me, fastball has always been a strength, slider has always been good," Headrick told Twins Daily's John Bonnes during spring training. "And now this year, we’re trying to promote the splitter a little bit more to give that third weapon.” Headrick hasn’t been able to use his splitter regularly this season because of his limited innings, so there is a chance it will help separate him from other lefties on the roster. Last season, he posted a 4.68 ERA with a 1.30 WHIP and 10.0 K/9 at Triple-A in a hitter-friendly league. With the Twins, he was asked to pitch multiple innings in half of his appearances, but he continued to strike out more than ten batters per inning. His biggest issue was keeping the ball in the park, with seven home runs allowed in 25 2/3 innings. Adding an improved splitter can help him to keep batters more off-balance and improve his big-league performance. Headrick has been on a slow path back to the mound this season, but he might be getting healthy at the season’s most critical juncture. He must prove himself in multiple rehab outings before the Twins give him a chance at the big-league level. However, the team is desperate for a left-handed upgrade, and he might be the team’s best option for October. Can Headrick provide the Twins with a left-handed upgrade? Will one of the other left-handed options show improved performance in the season’s stretch run? Leave a comment and start the discussion. View full article

Bailey Ober and Joe Ryan have continued to perform at a high level while helping the Twins contend in the AL Central. So, is the team comfortable with these two arms starting playoff games? Image courtesy of Kamil Krzaczynski - USA Today Sports Minnesota entered the 2023 playoffs with Pablo López and Sonny Gray leading the rotation. Both players finished the season among the AL’s best pitchers in multiple statistical categories, and the team had the one-two punch that fans had longed for at the top of the rotation. It was a dynamic duo that helped the Twins end their playoff drought, but it takes more than two starters to win in October. Behind López and Gray, there were some question marks for the Twins. Bailey Ober had pitched well during the regular season with a 3.43 ERA and a 1.07 WHIP. However, he pitched more innings than in any previous professional season, so there were some concerns about his workload. Joe Ryan pitched at an All-Star level in the season’s first half before trying to hide a groin injury and seeing his performance suffer. The Twins avoided using him in October, until it was no longer possible to do so. Ober got lit up for six earned runs against the Astros, and Ryan was allowed to pitch only two innings. The Twins are in a much different spot in 2024. Gray left the team in free agency, and López has struggled at some points. Minnesota was interested in adding starting pitching at the trade deadline, but no deals came to fruition. Now, they must turn to Ober and Ryan to qualify for the playoffs and make an extended run in October. So, what’s changed with these two pitchers since last season, and can they fit the mold of playoff-caliber starters? Bailey Ober’s 2024 Improvements Ober’s first start was disastrous, as he allowed eight earned runs on nine hits in 1 1/3 innings versus the Royals. Since that start, he has posted a 3.17 ERA with a 120-to-26 strikeout-to-walk rate in 113 2/3 innings. He’s pitched six innings or more in seven straight starts, establishing himself as one of the AL’s most consistent pitchers. Ober began his career with injury concerns and workload limits but now has a 114 ERA+ in over 400 big-league innings. Ober has seen some changes this season that have impacted his overall performance. He’s known for his control, but he’s seen a slight increase in his walk rate, from 5.0% in 2023 to 6.0% in 2024. While this might not be intentional, pitchers who are strike-throwers can get a reputation, making it easier for batters to make contact. He also introduced a cutter this season, throwing it nearly 22% of the time. Opponents have posted a .291 xwOBA against the pitch, with a 20.8 Put Away %, his second-highest total outside his changeup. Joe Ryan’s 2024 Improvements Ryan has been arguably Minnesota’s best starting pitcher this season, with his xwOBA, BB%, and xERA all ranking in the top 9% or higher among qualified MLB starters. He's cut his own walk rate in half over the last two seasons, from 7.8% in 2022 to 3.9% this season. Ryan has pitched five innings or more in every start this season, averaging over six innings per start. He’s also done a better job at keeping the ball in the park, with his home run rate dropping from a career-high 1.8 per nine innings last season to 1.2 this year. It’s these small changes that have made a big difference for Ryan. One of the biggest knocks against Ryan as a prospect was his reliance on his unique fastball. He was able to dominate in the high minors with a deceptive fastball up in the zone, but that pitch wasn’t going to be as successful at the MLB level. His fastball usage has dropped from over 60% in 2022 to 48.3% this season, while holding batters to a .195 BA. His splitter has also shown improved performance this season, with the pitch being worth -4 runs last season and providing positive value in 2024. Ryan has continued to improve at the big-league level in one of the most successful pitching developments for the current front-office regime. It would have been great for the Twins to add a frontline starting pitcher at the trade deadline, but that would have taken significant prospect capital that the front office wasn’t willing to surrender. Ober and Ryan have significantly improved, and are more than capable of being playoff-caliber starters. Health and continued strong performance from these two pitchers will be critical to the team’s playoff success this season. However, the Twins must feel confident in this duo being playoff-caliber starters. Do you trust Ober and Ryan to make starts in October? Leave a COMMENT and start the discussion. View full article

The Minnesota Twins want to be buyers, and although that desire hasn't yet translated to action, a lot can change before Tuesday's trade deadline. Here’s how the perfect trade deadline plays out for the Twins. Image courtesy of © Sam Navarro-USA TODAY Sports The Minnesota Twins, navigating the 2024 season with a mix of promising talent and critical needs, are poised to make impactful moves before the MLB trade deadline, to solidify their roster for a deep postseason run. The perfect trade deadline scenario for the Twins would involve several key elements aligning to address their primary weaknesses and position them as a formidable contender in October. The most pressing need lies in bolstering their starting rotation. Despite a solid core, injuries and inconsistency have plagued the staff. Acquiring a high-caliber starting pitcher would be crucial. Ideally, the Twins could target a pitcher who provides immediate impact and has a track record of postseason success. Multiple front-line starting pitchers are presumed to be available at the deadline, including Detroit’s Tarik Skubal and Chicago’s Garrett Crochet. It seems unlikely for the Twins to part with the prospect capital needed to acquire those arms, especially from division foes. However, other options might come with a lower cost. Max Scherzer and Nathan Eovaldi stand out as potential trade targets, but the Rangers have not indicated that they are sellers—many of the rumors surrounding Texas point to them being buyers. Instead, the Twins should target Yusei Kikuchi from the Toronto Blue Jays. He’s on an expiring contract, the Blue Jays are willing to sell, and his peripheral numbers point to a potential performance improvement. It might be Kikuchi or bust if the Twins want to add to their starting rotation and not trade in the division. Backup options would include Jack Flaherty and Jesús Luzardo. Secondly, adding depth to the bullpen is essential. While the Twins have some reliable arms, their relief corps could benefit from an additional high-leverage option. A trade for a left-handed setup man would help stabilize the late innings, ensuring that games are secured more reliably. Currently, the Twins have utilized Caleb Thielbar and Steven Okert as the regular bullpen lefties, and Kody Funderburk is also seeing sporadic action. None of these southpaws has been able to lock down a late-inning role, with varying performances throughout the season. Bullpens take on an even more critical role in October, when starters are pulled earlier, so the Twins need a lefty upgrade by the deadline. Tanner Scott is the best left-handed reliever on the market, and multiple teams are interested in acquiring him before the deadline. He has served as Miami’s closer this season and is on an expiring contract. Scott pairs a high-90s fastball with an upper-80s slider, helping him to miss plenty of bats. Last season, he struck out more than 30% of the batters he faced, and he’s close to that total again in 2024. The Twins must outbid other teams looking to add Scott, but it would be a massive boost for the bullpen that sends a positive sign to the clubhouse. To execute these trades, the Twins must be strategic with their prospects and minor-league talent. The team’s farm system is rich with promising young players who could be used as trade chips. Players like Marco Raya, Austin Martin, or Luke Keaschall could be appealing to other teams looking to rebuild. Scott will take quite the package, even on an expiring contract, while Kikuchi might come at a more reasonable cost. By leveraging these prospects, the Twins can acquire established veterans without sacrificing the core of their future. Another aspect of the perfect trade deadline scenario involves maintaining internal harmony and chemistry. Any trades should be carefully considered to ensure they do not disrupt the team’s existing dynamics. Communication is critical, and the Twins' management should ensure that any new additions integrate smoothly into the clubhouse and the team’s overall strategy. Finally, the front office's ability to act decisively and avoid overpaying for temporary fixes will be crucial. The perfect trade deadline for the Twins would involve making calculated moves that address immediate needs while preserving long-term flexibility. Balancing the present and future will sustain their competitiveness beyond the 2024 season. How would your perfect trade deadline play out for the Twins? Leave a comment and start the discussion. View full article

MLB’s expanded playoffs means many teams are trying to decide whether or not to be buyers or sellers. Because of this parity, the Twins have three strategies they can follow before Tuesday’s trade deadline. Image courtesy of Jim Cowsert-USA TODAY Sports The Twins are clearly in the playoff hunt, making them an obvious buyer. However, the trade deadline has taken on a different vibe, with teams waiting until the last minute to decide whether to be buyers or sellers. Minnesota’s front office has been clear about wanting to add starting pitching, but that depends on which strategy the front office utilizes in the coming days. 1. Pay a Prospect Premium MLB’s traditional trade deadline involves teams in contention trading prospects to non-contending teams. Minnesota has one of baseball’s best farm systems with somewhere between five and seven top-100 global prospects. Many of these top prospects are in or approaching the upper minors, making them more intriguing to selling teams. This depth gives the Twins options and the current front office regime has been aggressive at previous trade deadlines. Minnesota also understands that there are more buyers than sellers, driving up the cost of players on teams who are clearly out of the playoff race. It might not be worth the prospect premium to outbid other contending teams. 2. Deal MLB players for MLB players Twins general manager Thad Levine recently joined Jayson Stark and Doug Glanville on an episode of The Windup. The focus of the interview was Levine’s connections to recent Hall of Famers Adrian Beltré, Joe Mauer, and Todd Helton. During the interview, Stark asked Levine about the upcoming trade deadline, and he discussed the difficulties of having so many teams close to the playoffs. Levine said the Twins have been actively looking for trades with other contending teams in MLB-for-MLB player swaps. On the Twins, this could mean trading away players like Max Kepler, Matt Wallner, Jose Miranda, Edouard Julien, Alex Kirilloff, Trevor Larnach, or other similar players. Minnesota would likely want to get pitching back in a trade involving those players. 3. Stand Pat and Rely on Internal Options Minnesota followed this strategy last season for multiple reasons. Players were returning from injury or could switch to different roles, and there was depth in the farm system. The Twins have a similar situation in 2024 with Royce Lewis and José Miranda rejoining the team over the weekend and Carlos Correa’s return on the horizon. On the pitching side, young pitchers like David Festa, Zebby Matthews, or Louie Varland can add rotational depth or switch to a bullpen role if needed for the playoffs. In the abovementioned interview, Levine seemed content with the team’s depth if the team stood pat at the deadline. Overall, the Twins are attempting to make a move to add pitching depth, but the front office values the team’s current prospect depth. To have a successful trade deadline, the front office may need to combine some of the abovementioned strategies to acquire players to help the team in 2024 and beyond. Which strategy will the Twins execute before Tuesday’s trade deadline? Can they effectively combine more than one of the above strategies? Leave a COMMENT and start the discussion. View full article

Many Twins fans have been unable to watch the team in recent months. Now, a deal could be near to get the Twins back on television for the season’s most important games. Image courtesy of Jeff Curry-USA TODAY Sports Diamond Sports Group’s regional sports networks have been off the air since May 1 because of a dispute with Comcast Xfinity. Diamond is fighting through bankruptcy proceedings and trying to find a way to be profitable in an ever-changing television landscape. Now, a deal between Diamond and Comcast is coming to a head, which should put the Twins back in front of many fans who have been unable to watch for three months. Diamond Sports, the owner of Bally Sports North, could not come to a deal with Comcast before their contract expired at the end of April. Many fans have been forced to switch to other limited streaming options like DirecTV or FuboTV to watch the Twins. Both options have pros and cons, so fans must decide on the best option. There were likely many fans who canceled their cable subscriptions because Comcast was no longer carrying the Twins. All of that might be changing in the near future. Earlier this week, a lawyer representing Diamond Sports spoke in court and seemed like a deal was imminent. “We believe that we have made substantial progress on resolving our issues with Comcast, and we have the intention of fully documenting and executing an agreement with Comcast to broadcast our RSNs in the very near term.” The Twins are also optimistic that the situation will be changing soon. Twins president Dave St. Peter was on WCCO earlier this week and discussed the situation with Comcast. "Yeah, there's all kinds of urgency. Certainly, the baseball team, which we're not a part of that negotiation, are urging all sides to come together and to get a deal done," St. Peter said. "I do know there's some ongoing conversations and I think that's good. I'm hopeful that you're gonna see Twins baseball back on Comcast soon." Earlier this year, Amazon invested money in Diamond Sports to keep the company afloat amid its bankruptcy issues. Starting on Monday, there will be a confirmation hearing where the judge will evaluate Diamond Sports' plan to bring the company out of bankruptcy. There is still a possibility that the company may need to liquidate, but signing a new deal with Comcast might help avoid that negative outcome. The Twins also found out this week that they are among a handful of clubs eligible to receive revenue-sharing dollars due to their television situation. Eligible teams with lost TV revenue will be eligible for up to $15 million each, with the league expected to cap payouts at a total of $75 million. It is a one-year deal, meant to serve as a bridge to help teams for the 2024 season. MLB and MLBPA hope the influx will help impacted teams spend money on players in the short term, but a long-term solution remains unsolved. Hopefully, the resolution between Comcast and Diamond Sports will come swiftly before even more fans tune out for the season. Thankfully, the two sides seem close to a deal that should allow Twins fans to do what they’ve wanted all season… watch the Minnesota Twins play baseball. How are you watching the Twins this season? What’s your prediction for where the Twins will be available in 2025 and beyond? Leave a COMMENT and start the discussion. View full article

Going all-in at the MLB trade deadline can be a tricky proposition for a front office. Should Twins fans hope that Cleveland mortgages their farm system on the 2024 season? Image courtesy of David Richard-USA TODAY Sports As the 2024 MLB trade deadline approaches, the Cleveland Guardians find themselves at a crucial juncture. Historically known for their prudent, calculated approach, the Guardians are in a position where they could consider going all-in. This strategy could propel them from playoff contenders to serious World Series threats. Here’s why the Guardians should seize this moment and push their chips to the center of the table. If they do, it could alter the current and future landscape of the AL Central. Earlier this week, MLB.com created a list of teams that should go all-in before the trade deadline. Only one AL Central team, the Guardians, was featured. Cleveland has been near the top of the AL for most of the season, and other contenders have shown their weaknesses. It might be years before the Guardians are in this kind of position again, making it even more tempting for their front office to deal prospects to make some blockbuster moves. Cleveland has a solid roster with plenty of firepower to win in October. However, despite this strong foundation, there are evident gaps that, if addressed, could significantly enhance their postseason prospects. A potent bat to complement José Ramírez and a reliable arm to bolster the bullpen could make the difference between a deep playoff run and an early exit. The American League is competitive, but also wide open. Traditional powerhouses like the Yankees and Astros have shown vulnerability, and while teams like the Baltimore Orioles and Seattle Mariners remain formidable, there is no clear juggernaut. This parity provides an opportunity for the Guardians to make a well-timed, strategic push. Entering last season, the Guardians boasted one of the top farm systems in baseball. MLB Pipeline had Cleveland ranked as a top-5 system as recently as spring training in 2023, but things change quickly in the prospect landscape. In 2024, the Guardians rank in the league's bottom half, with only two prospects ranking in MLB Pipeline's top 80. Prospects like Chase DeLauter (OF), Kyle Manzardo (1B), Jaison Chourio (OF), and Ralphy Velazquez (1B) are particularly noteworthy. Compiling a prospect package for multiple blockbuster trades will be difficult without a top-100 pitching prospect. Baseball is a game of windows, and the Guardians’ window is open. With a mix of veteran leadership and youthful exuberance, they are poised to make a significant run. However, windows can close quickly, too, due to injuries, regression, or other unforeseen circumstances. Capitalizing on the present moment by making strategic acquisitions is essential. Going all-in is not without risks. Trading top prospects can deplete a farm system that has already dropped in recent rankings. Moreover, the Guardians have shown an ability to develop talent consistently. Their scouting and player development departments are among the best in the league. This competence provides a safety net, ensuring that the pipeline will continue to produce even if they part with some top prospects. However, the Guardians are in a position where the potential rewards far outweigh the risks. Winning a World Series is the ultimate goal, and opportunities to contend at this level do not come around often. Cleveland has one of baseball’s toughest second-half schedules, and the Twins have slowly been tracking them down in the standings. Similarly to the Twins, the Guardians face payroll limitations because of their market size. David Blitzer bought a minority stake in the Guardians in 2022, and the plan is for him to become the majority owner in six years or less. He may push Cleveland to be aggressive at this trade deadline, to help his asset have more long-term value. For Twins fans, Cleveland going all-in might be a blessing in disguise. Depleting their already low-ranking farm system helps Minnesota compete for the long term. There are also no guarantees that Cleveland will win when it comes to October, or even that they'll get there. The best regular season teams rarely win the World Series because there is more volatility in a short series than in a 162-game season. Last season, two Wild Card teams made the World Series. There is an element of luck and chance when it comes to October baseball. The 2024 Cleveland Guardians are at a pivotal moment. With a strong core and a competitive yet open American League, the stage is set for them to make a bold move. By going all-in before the trade deadline, the Guardians can transform from a likely playoff team to an even more legitimate World Series contender. This might hurt the Twins for the current season, but it can have long-term reverberations for the rest of the AL Central, and some of those might be positive from the perspective of Twins fans. Will the Guardians go all in? Can the Twins benefit from Cleveland trading off assets? Leave a comment and start the discussion. View full article

The team’s television issues have impacted Minnesota fans throughout the 2024 season. Will a revised plan for shared revenue from MLB help the Twins for this season and beyond? Image courtesy of Troy Taormina, USA Today Sports Multiple outlets are reporting that MLB and the MLBPA have agreed to alter the collective bargaining agreement. Under the amended rules, teams who saw media revenue decline are eligible for what’s being called a “media disruption distribution.” Money will be pulled from the league’s portion of the competitive-balance tax revenues, collected from teams with the largest payrolls. Eligible teams with lost TV revenue will be eligible for up to $15 million each, with the league expected to cap payouts at a total of $75 million. It is a one-year deal, meant to serve as a bridge to help teams for the 2024 season. The union wrote a memo to players that justified the move. “We believe this agreement should positively affect the player market by softening the impact of revenue declines, by increasing the number of clubs who have monies to spend, and by undermining the ability of clubs to weaponize recent developments in RSN markets,” it reads, in part. So, which teams are eligible? According to reports, eligible teams are those “whose local media revenue declined from the year prior (2023) or from the two years prior (2022).” Many of these teams are associated with the regional sports networks associated with Diamond Sports (Bally-branded networks), or those under the Warner Brothers-Discovery umbrella. The San Diego Padres and Arizona Diamondbacks were dropped by Diamond Sports last season, so they are two of the teams that will, apparently, benefit. The Twins were among a trio of teams (along with the Cleveland Guardians and Texas Rangers) that agreed to pay cuts on one-year deals with Diamond. The Colorado Rockies, Houston Astros, Seattle Mariners, and Pittsburgh Pirates were part of the Warner Brothers-Discovery group, making them eligible for this distribution, too. The MLBPA’s memo also said, “Under MLB’s proposal, the clubs that have been affected by declining local media revenues caused by regional sports network (RSN) developments would benefit from this expanded flexibility. All clubs with declining local media revenue are eligible to receive monies from the fund, regardless of revenue sharing status, market size or payroll level.” From the Twins’ perspective, there are no guarantees the increased revenue will be spent on the current roster. Minnesota’s ownership group slashed payroll by $30 million this winter while blaming the team’s expiring television deal. Eventually, the Twins took a one-year deal to return to Diamond Sports because it brought in an estimated $40-45 million. Instead of reinvesting a portion of that income on the roster, ownership seems to have pocketed that money. A similar path could be followed with this new “media disruption distribution,” because MLB can’t force teams to spend money in the middle of the season. Next week’s trade deadline got an added level of intrigue with the new television news. Rumors have swirled that the Twins might be interested in adding a starting pitcher on an expiring contract, something this front office has previously avoided. Minnesota might also be right up against their payroll threshold, and this revenue influx might allow the team to add a player with a higher salary, since the team would only be on the hook for a small portion of their overall deal. Regional sports networks are disappearing, so it's good to see that MLB and the MLBPA were able to find a solution for the 2024 season. There is a chance some of these issues will resurface next season, and then the two sides must decide on a long-term path to address the difficulties surrounding the television and streaming landscape. What are your thoughts on this change to the CBA? Do the Twins have room to add a player with a higher salary at the trade deadline? Leave a comment and start the discussion. View full article

The Twins’ current front office has avoided trading for rental players, a trend that might change in 2024. If so, it may be Yusei Kikuchi or bust for the Twins at the MLB Trade Deadline. Over the All-Star break, Dan Hayes of The Athletic reported that the Twins would like to add a pitcher to the starting rotation and are open to a rental arm. It’s worth noting that the team’s payroll dropped $30 million this winter, and attendance has been lower than expected at Target Field. These factors likely result in the team having less payroll space for next season, especially with other parts of the roster rising in price. The Minnesota Twins have been in search of pitching stability for several seasons, striving to build a rotation that can both compete in the AL Central and make a deep playoff run. With a lineup boasting potential and a young core ready to make the leap, the missing piece for the Twins might be a trade for Yusei Kikuchi from the Toronto Blue Jays. Here’s why the Twins should consider this move and how Kikuchi could be the key to unlocking their championship aspirations. Veteran Presence Kikuchi, a 33-year-old left-hander, has a significant track record from both Japan and Major League Baseball. Since joining the Blue Jays in 2021, Kikuchi has demonstrated that he has the talent to be a reliable starter in the big leagues. While his tenure in Toronto has been a mixed bag, the potential is evident. In 2023, Kikuchi made strides with a 3.86 ERA, 1.27 WHIP, and 9.7 K/9. His numbers haven’t been as strong this year (4.42 ERA with a 1.30 WHIP). However, his ability to strike out batters and eat innings might be exactly what the Twins need. A Southpaw for the Rotation One of the glaring needs for the Minnesota Twins is a consistent left-handed starter. The current rotation consists entirely of right-handed pitchers, which can be a disadvantage against left-heavy lineups. Kikuchi’s addition would provide a much-needed southpaw option, offering a different look to opposing batters and balancing the rotation. He’s held lefties to a .675 OPS this season compared to a .762 OPS against righties. His left-handed presence could add a strategic advantage for the Twins. Upside and Improvement Possibilities Kikuchi’s performance metrics indicate that his performance still has untapped potential. His xERA is nearly 40 points lower than his ERA, suggesting he has the tools to be more effective. Perhaps the Blue Jays coaching staff has missed something, and a change of scenery could prove beneficial. The Twins’ coaching staff has a history of working well with pitchers to refine their skills and maximize their output. With the proper adjustments and a new environment, Kikuchi could become a frontline starter for Minnesota for the second half. Pitching Depth and the Unknown Adding Kikuchi to the rotation would provide the Twins with additional depth. Injuries and underperformance are common in the long MLB season, and having a reliable option like Kikuchi would give the Twins a safety net. Chris Paddack is likely on an innings limit in his first season back from Tommy John surgery. The Twins are also unsure of how Simeon Woods Richardson will hold up in his rookie season. There’s no such thing as too much pitching depth during the season. Trading for Kikuchi presents a unique opportunity for the Minnesota Twins to address several pressing needs within their pitching staff. Kikuchi’s proven Major League experience, left-handed advantage, and potential for improvement make him an appealing target. There are other starters on expiring contracts, but Kikuchi might provide the best chance at a deal that fits the Twins’ short-term needs without giving up the farm. Should the Twins target Kikuchi? Is there a better option on an expiring deal? Leave a COMMENT and start the discussion. View full article

The Twins will need a tremendous second-half run to overcome the Guardians and win their second straight AL Central title. As they size up what lies ahead, there are a few series worth circling on the schedule. Image courtesy of Kyle Ross-USA TODAY Sports The Twins have plenty to play for in the season’s second half, with a chance to win the division or earn the top wild-card spot. Either of those finishes would result in Minnesota hosting a playoff series for the second straight year. The club has consistently found ways to win series in recent weeks, a trend that must continue in the weeks ahead. Here’s a look at the second-half schedule and some of the more important series. July 22-24 Home vs. the Philadelphia Phillies The Phillies have been arguably baseball’s best team throughout the season’s first half. Philly’s roster is loaded with All-Stars, including big names like Bryce Harper, Trea Turner, and Zack Wheeler. Minnesota has struggled against the AL’s best teams, combining to go 0-14 versus the Yankees, Orioles, and Guardians. Philadelphia will provide a challenging test early in the second half. August 9-11 Home vs. the Cleveland Guardians The Guardians will visit Minnesota only one more time in 2024. This series is crucial for the Twins, who play four games in three days, including a doubleheader on Friday to make up for a game earlier this season. Minnesota must find a way to solve its issues with Cleveland this season and win three of the four games. If the Twins lose this series, their chances at the AL Central title will significantly diminish. August 26-28 Home vs. the Atlanta Braves In late August, Atlanta makes an important trip to Target Field. Many believed the Braves would sit atop the NL East standings, but they, like the Twins, have been stuck in second place for most of the season. Chris Sale and Reynaldo López have dominated at the top of the Braves’ starting rotation. These will be two playoff-caliber teams attempting to win critical late-season games. September 16-19 Road vs. the Cleveland Guardians Minnesota’s last series against Cleveland comes on the road in the middle of September. It might shape up to be four games to decide the Central. Earlier in the season, the Twins played three games in Cleveland and lost a one-run game, a blowout, and a walk-off. Minnesota can hope for a split on the road, but winning the series or sweeping could be a game-changer in the division race. September 27-29 Home vs. the Baltimore Orioles Last season, the Twins ended the year with a series in Colorado that meant little to the team — this season, Minnesota faces the Orioles at home, with both teams likely headed to the playoffs. Will there be anything for the teams to play for? Each team has a chance to be fighting for the top spot in the division. If playoff positions are decided, both teams will get one final test before October. It's possible this could even turn out to be a first-round preview. The Twins will have other important games in the weeks ahead, but these five series can be circled on your pocket schedule that is fading in your car. The Twins must win both series against Cleveland and find a way to show they can play at the same level as the league’s best teams. Are there any other second-half series that stand out? What record do the Twins need in the 16 games listed above? Leave a COMMENT and start the discussion. View full article