DocBauer

Sands should have opened in St Paul and Coulombe should have been a 3rd LH in the pen. Further, Fulmer should have been re-signed with Alcala probably also with the Saints instead of being depended on coming off injury. Think how different the pen...which hasn't been bad...looks with Coulombe and Fulmer kept?

Opinions I don't agree with, some I sort of, and some I very much agree with. No way, coming in this late in the day to directly comment on any of them, so I'm just going to state my opinions/thoughts, though I'm probably going to repeat some other comments previously made. YES, the FO is secure. Ownership, IMO, likes the successes this FO has made on the field, and the almost complete rebuild of the organization. I think they trust what they've seen so far and are willing to continue the status quo for now. I DO think there are going to be changes made in certain philosophies and approaches...changes that NEED to be made...and I think part of that is going to be changes on the coaching staff. I don't think that's going to include Baldelli at this time. My goodness, he was even extended. But still, never say never. But the staff is a different topic for a different day. To be very clear, I've largely liked most everything that has been done by this FO since they took over late in 2017. But I haven't liked everything they've done, or failed to do, and I like to think I've been pretty clear and consistent in my thoughts and opinions. WHAT DO I LIKE? I like the revamp from the analytical approach that was practically non-existant to changes throughout the milb system. While Johnson is in charge of the draft, it's still THEIR watch that has lead to some really good drafts. They've whiffed on some trades, and won some. But even the trades they've made that didn't turn out...and those that did...having the prospect/player ammunition to do so...has been possible under their watch. They've been very smart with a few fliers that have paid dividends. They've been far more aggressive, and inventive, in the FA market than we've ever seen in the history of the franchise. They seem to have an eye for non-player talent in the office and coaching. Such a good eye, they've been pilfered more than a few times by other organizations. The team basically collapsed in 2011 due to injury and regression and only had 1 winning season...2015...from then until 2017. They've reached the playoffs THREE YEARS out six so far. And while we can complain/debat about the ALC, that success trumps the previous 6yrs BIG TIME. And they lead most of the entire 2022 season before injuries destroyed that year. But they did massive moves never seen before to augment their "shot". And we could be looking at a 4th playoff season this year. Don't we want winning seasons and a "shot" by reaching the playoffs? Isn't that what every team shoots for every single season? WHAT I DON'T LIKE? They fall in love with veterans at times as if they are somehow afraid that a struggling vet will suddenly turn it around elsewhere, OR, are so ridiculously and needlessly afraid of losing "depth". Well, losing someone who can't perform doesn't mean you let GOOD depth go! While they've been pretty aggressive with milb promotions throughout the system, they often seem timid in promoting and trusting in prospects. (See my first point). When you are a mid-market team, your system is your bloodline for any sort of success. I never would have taken the chance on Gallo. You could have spent the $ elsewhere. BUT, if you were going to do so, Kepler should have been moved to use his $ elsewhere and trust in Wallner, Larnach, Kirilloff, Gordon, and whatver RH OF you brought in. Bad allocation of $ and available talent. It's great to be patient in your approach to FA and trades. Many teams have jumped the gun early and been burned. And the FO has had some great gets by being patient. But a smart, successful FO, IMO, should be bold enough to identify that 1 or 2 spots/guys they really like and need and make a move...THEN sit back and be patient looking for value. And whether they like Rocco and believe in him or not...and they seem to...real pressure should have been applied about simple things regarding basic fundamentals. Now, some of those fundamentals have improved this year in regard to baserunning, stolen bases, some bunts and squeeze plays and the such. Some of that is a credit to Rocco and his staff, though they also haven't addressed some very obvious holes in performance. Again, a different discussion for a different day. The scales over 6 1/2 seasons tell me I still like this FO and what they've done, even if I don't agree with everything they've done, or not done. I feel like the crazy, weird, playoff loss streak clouds a lot of perspective of winning seasons vs ineptitude for many years before. It's as if the great fun of 2019 and 2020 just never happened after the disappointments of 2021-22. I enjoyed every moment of those years, and just about all of 2022 until early August. I've read comments about the Twins being boring to watch the last couple of seasons. I get it. Not so sure I don't feel the same way. But they sure weren't boring in 2019-20 with the Bomba squad. And if you pay attention to recent drafts and the milb system, you would see the Twins still drafting power...because you need it and want it...but you would also see more prospects with speed and contact ability drafted and signed. Part of the reason Martin was a key in the Berrios trade. But that shift to approach doesn't happen overnight. Part of the reason for the weird and wrong Gallo signing. "Keep pounding for NOW" and things will start to change. Witness Castro and Taylor on the basepaths, Buxton here and there. Where I AM concerned about the FO, and their future is NOT about ANYTHING previous to this year. It's about this previous offseason and the trading deadline. I'm willing to admit the patience the FO had in Kepler might have been warranted, even if I'm not a full believer at this point. But if they truly believed in him that much, then why spend $11M on Gallo? Again, as a mid-market team, they should trusted in what they had available. The $11M spent on Gallo could have been spent on Fulmer and a solid RH bat, maybe with a slight $ bump. But if they were smart enough to sign Fulmer and the RIGHT RH bat...always conjecture I admit...the trading deadline might have been something as simple as ONE BP arm to add. Instead, we have excuses and reports they were looking here and there and talking to different teams and it didn't turn out because so many teams decided to stand pat or buy instead. Well, first of all, if you went 100% in the offseason instead of 90% you might have had very little to add. Secondly, if you're as smart as you're supposed to be, you should have been looking at ALL possibilities instead of the few you were keyed on. When you have a chance to WIN, you just DON'T leave your team hanging when the prospect capital shouldn't be expensive to add an arm, or a semi-decent bat who might help. And again, this is where I'm starting to lose some faith in the FO. Maybe the RH bat they signed stunk. But at least they tried. And they should have gone 100% this offseason instead of 90%. NOT doing that, NOT trusting Larnach and/or Wallner instead of admitting a mistake in Gallo makes me lose confidence in the FO. I really like most of the FO trades they have made. I can excuse a bad trade or two. Crap happens. Mahle's tired shoulder was not related to his elbow. He looked good before his elbow blowing out this year. So that is on the FO? Lopez was a healthy, talented arm. There was NO WAY to predict Mahle needing TJ surgery. There was no way to predict that Lopez, IMO, was just going to lose everything because of "life stuff". Or should they have known he was going through something that just messed him up? If so, then they really messed up thinking they could FIX,things. As a fan, and projecting ownership, this FO is not going anywhere. They get another year to prove they can fill holes, make some changes in offense approach, make a couple smart coaching changes, and see what the roster for 2024 looks like.

Silver lining? While I don't like Luplow signing...at all...Buxton gets some R&R time to hopefully help finish the season strong and get his "batting head" together? And now DH is open, at least temporarily, for a little more flexibility. Wish it was someone else benefiting from the Buck IL stint. Like Williams, Larnach, Prato, maybe even Stevenson as possibilities?

My initial thought was, "just 5??" Agree with chpettit19 that Buxton and Correa are huge keys. Can Kepler actually continue to perform solidly that last couple of months? Please, let us have Lewis and Kirilloff back soon, and healthy for the rest of the year. I still like Moran and do believe he's been a little "unlucky" when you look at his numbers. But better luck only gets you so far. Finally...I absolutely, positively would NOT have Gallo on this list. Why? Because he shouldn't be on the roster. Nothing against him personally, but being a veteran and a LH bat means nothing when you can't hit....I mean at ALL...K like you are trying to set a personal record, and produce nothing except an occasional dinger every few weeks. 2022 and all but 1 month of 2023 have shown us what they've shown us. Time for someone, almost anyone, to be brought up that is deserving an opportunity. Williams at 1B and giving us a powerful RH option?

Garlick is no worse, probably better, and already in the organization at St Paul where he's been much better the last month or so. And Williams is sitting there at 1B as well. And I don't buy in to any "but Gallo is a LH for 1B" nonsense that might be spun. He's a good 1B. But he's hitting something like .160 since May and K-ing around 40% I believe. Maybe I'm nuts, but I don't think it would be hard for Williams, or anyone, to do better than that.

Bye bye Gallo and hello to Williams coming up and getting a shot at 1B. Solano can still play there as well, along with occasionally 2B and 3B as he has done throughout the year. What's that? But Gallo provides a LH bat at 1B that Williams and Salono don't have? No problem. How much worse than a .160 BA and 40% K rate could they possibly be playing daily as RH bats?

Great news! Now, let's see a few more deserving/interesting promotions. Lee has absolutely fast tracked and not only looks like the real deal, but might be adding additional power. I'm excited to see him with the Twins, but I'm not going to predict he begins 2024 with them. I'm confident it will all play out in a very successful way. It is a little confusing to see where everyone fits. In a ideal situation, Lee and Lewis would man 3B/2B in some combination, and be backups to Correa at SS with Kirilloff at 1B. Julien could play 1B/2B/DH. Then toss in Miranda at 3B/1B/DH, or, another utility player, and you have a tremendous INF! But with CF a question mark, and Buxton also being one, and obviously part of the CF situation, DH becomes affected. Thus, I can also see a scenario where Julien sticks at 2B and Lewis moves to the OF on a regular basis, still able to play anywhere in the INF. It's never fun to have worries about a player or position, CF/DH/Buxton in this case. But it is a fun problem to have a lot of really good young ballplayers to have to "fit in" the best combination because there are so many solid variations to do so. And Lee is definitely part of that. And while he could play 2B quite well I'm sure, and be solid at SS, and should still be able to cover it in relief of Correa, something about him just speaks of 3B to me. Can't wait to see him!

One of the most painful injury losses in the system, over several others, the past couple of years, pun partially intended. I really hope he can come back 100%. There's no guarantee, of course, but I'm hopeful and we've seen it before. I've struggled with the idea that even at 26yo he should remain a starter. He would be arriving at the ML level far later than normal, but he might still have a potential 7-8yr career as a solid rotation option. But while I can see him in the rotation in the minors to work on stuff and build up innings, I think his future is probably in the pen. And if he does come back 100%, he could be outstanding in that role. Agree with gman that I hope he reaches AAA by mid 2024. I figure a few weeks at A ball to begin with, and then a promotion to AA. A half season at St Paul and a late season call up? Ready to go for 2025! Hoping for the best for him. Thanks for the interview!

Before I get too deep here, I want to make 2 things very clear: 1] There's a lot of things about this team I'm not happy about, and most of it revolves around more injuries, failed results by more than a handful of veterans, and some stubbornness by the FO. 2] I'm not happy about ZERO activity, which I will get to, but I am by no means knee jerk reacting to some "fire everyone" mantra that suddenly seems prevalent. First of all, that dismisses any and all good things that HAVE happened to the Twins the past several years, as well as improvements throughout the milb system. If any jobs are on the line...and I believe there are right now...it starts with coaches, then the manager, and then the FO. That's how these things work. And while I am generally "pro" the FO for many, many reasons, I'm also very happy to speak out against them as well, which again, I will get to. All that being said, I'm only mildly surprised they didn't make any moves today. And here's why...from my projection of the FO beliefs: A] Despite all the maddening inconsistencies of this silly team, there's still a lot of good ballplayers here. There's every reason they can still win the ALC, get a home played 3 game series, and maybe just win 2 of 3. B] A single, OK, solid, RH bat isn't going to change the ineptitude against LH pitching this year. No Miranda, an extremely disappointing and frustrating Buxton, and an OK Correa are seeing to that. Doesn't mean they shouldn't add one for 2024, but very doubtful one OK bat was going to make a difference now. C] Thielbar back helps the pen. A couple young arms are showing at least a little more flash and potential. Stewart maybe being gone is a blow. Floro is better than than the useless Lopez right now. And one of the starters will move to the pen come playoff time. D] They have FINALLY trusted in Julien, and Kirilloff...who will hopefully be back soon...as well as having Lewis back in August. They also are FINALLY realizing it's been a mistake to not run with Wallner and give him a real shot. You can also add the still young and improved Jeffers to this group. All very real and logical reasons to stick with what they have, trust in the vets to perform better, keep trusting in the kids doing better, keep all the young talent you can...along with not dumping Gray or Maeda...and take a shot at winning the ALC and maybe a playoff game or two. Not a completely unrealistic opinion for a team that probably won't make a serious run this year. And to be perfectly honest, I've been completely surprised, almost blown away, at how many teams decided NOT to sell. Teams that have 30% or less of a chance to reach the playoffs decided to buy and go for it. As a fan, I can understand the Twins FO staying pat. But I still disagree with it. Ashbury quoted Falvey from November of 2016 when he took over. But we all have to remember is the key quote there: "to build a sustainable, championship caliber team". Folks, you have ZERO shot at a championship...or anything close to it...UNLESS YOU MAKE THE PLAYOFFS. The Twins made the playoffs THREE of the previous 6yrs, and only massive injuries denied them a 4th opportunity in 2022 where they were in 1st place almost the entire season before things collapsed. What they did most of 2022 is why they were so aggressive at the deadline to push this team over the top. So we can't so BOO to going for it 1yr, and then say BOO for holding back the next. But here is where I disagree with the FO on TWO points: 1] Just getting to the playoffs means you have a chance. Witness the Royals a few years back, the Braves a couple years ago, the Phillies last year, and even our beloved '87 Twins WS team decades ago. Just making the playoffs is goal #1! And this team can still do so. But despite a number of teams not selling, which undoubtedly shrunk the pool, there were still enough guys at hand to at least add an inexpensive rental arm to freshen up the pen, wasn't there? Just 1, maybe a 2nd, rental arms for A and fringe AA prospects should have at least allowed better depth to keep the pitching going SHOULD have been available, even if there wasn't a RH bat you liked enough to acquire. 2] The nice thing about rentals is if they "fit" you can always re-sign them. The FO SHOULDN'T have sold low on veterans or prospects with a STILL realistic chance to have a winning season, and a potential ALC banner, and very possibly a PLAYOFF WIN. Dare to say at least a SHOT for a 1st round playoff series win! How much fun would that be after 18yrs of frustration? But what they SHOULD have done is buy a couple rental arms on the cheap and not settled for Floro and Thielbar "hopefully" back. So while I can "get" no moves at the deadline, I can sorta understand it, even if I don't agree with it. It either fills our team with some confidence and a challenge to get better and "do it"! OR, it states they don't believe in the 2023 team they constructed. Taking this further...and we'll have the entire offseason to discuss these issues...the FO constructed 90% of a very good team for 2023, and then stopped. And I've stated this many times. If you pay attention to the draft and milb system, you will see that they have continued to look for power bats, but have also been looking at HIT ability and speed. But change doesn't happen overnight at the ML level. IMO, they shouldn't have signed Gallo, even though I understood the rebound flier. But even once they did, they should have moved Kepler, on a downturn, for whatever they could get for him. EITHER WAY, they handcuffed themselves financially instead of "risking" a real look at Gordon, Larnach, Kirilloff, and Wallner. And they have paid the price. I'm not even going to go down the Pagan rabbit hole yet again! (Though it's tempting). Trusting in your young talent, even with some risk, is what you do as a mid market team with talent on hand. ONE of Gallo or Kepler gone was enough to sign a solid RH bat that we needed at the deadline. NOT including Taylor as a bad trade because hes actually been important in a lot of ways. And just a small stretch of payroll to re-sign Fulmer...who was recently considered a smart trade option until the Cubs pulled back...would have been a welcome addition to the Twins pen. But we could have just kept him as insurance for a good pen vs hoping Alcala was going to be back. So if the FO had signed a solid, dependable RH bat...instead of Gallo, or moved Kepler, and trusted in their prosoects....and had kept Fulmer...not an expensive signing...and maybe even kept Coulombe instead of some fringe reliever...the ENTIRE trade scenario we just saw might either be a better "moot" point...OR....a move for a difference maker. My biggest problem remains an offseason that wax very good, but only went 90%.

Trade Gallo, if you can, for a lower level prospect. But unless there is a GM out there that is just desperate for a veteran LH bat who thinks Gallo can get hot for a couple of months...he's a DFA. And he should have been a month ago to allow Wallner or Larnach to get AB. Sorry, not entirely proven yet, but NO WAY I'd trade Wallner unless blown away by the return! Circling back to Nick's OP, Larnach and Kepler should be on the block. I love that Kepler has been hot since the break, and love his defense. But I don't trust that he is suddenly "new and improved". And I just can't trust a massive 2+ year downturn in production. And maybe I'm wrong. But I'd rather give Larnach the shot and move Kepler. But I'm kinda 50/50 here. Kepler actuality maybe, turning a corner and back for $10M next year vs keeping Larnach and seeing what we might have? I remain on the trading Kepler bandwagon. Sorry, but we want to trade a couple top prospects for a rental of Hader? Including Raya? Sorry, but I'm OUT. He's a rental looking for a big payday. The pen is not bad at all with what we have, and a return of Stewart and Thielbar and our recent addition of Floro makes this pen pretty damn good. But I'm 100% on trading some lower level talent to add at least one, if not two arms. Just a couple of years ago we added Romo for next to nothing. And he was a difference maker. Why not go this way again and add rentals who might even be re-sign options? The rotation has been the strength of the team all year. Forget the playoffs, we still have 2 months of the season to actually capture the ALC banner. But we want to maybe trade away the largest strength of the team for what reason? Because we might not need 5 SP in the playoffs? Well gee, wouldn't it be great to have so many arms available we'd have to move someone to the pen for the playoffs? I get Gray isn't a STUD #1 who goes 7+. But he's still damn good for 5 usually. And for those who haven't paid attention, after additional rest and recovery, Maeda at 35yo, coming off TJ, is looking every bit like the solid SP he has been, and much like his 2020 Cy Young runner up year. What is the obsession with Keuchel? He's somehow a staff savior with a good ERA, but mediocre numbers against AAA batters? I love the idea that he might embrace a role in the pen at this point in his career. But promote him and trade away one of our current starting 5? PLEASE! I'd rather trust Varland...young and potential filled with solid early results...than Keuchel. Further, I want the QO offer draft pick if and when Gray says no. And I'm still not opposed to a re-sign, if it makes sense. But I just don't see it happening. But even at 35yo, coming off TJ, and needing some more time to "get right" this season, tell me right now you wouldn't re-sign Maeda for $14M next year? I would in a heartbeat. Unless he implodes suddenly, I'd trust his experience and amazing "pitching" IQ as much as I'd trust an extension of Gray. But nope, we should trade a SP from the best and deepest rotation we've had in years. No way.

On the surface, he's a cheap rental that should actually cost less than Farmer, IMO. And he is the type of rental that would fit. But not only do I think the Angels don't want to move him at this time, but I actually think the Twins have Farmer in their plans for 2024. Very soon, the Twins will have both Lewis and Lee as viable backup SS options. And yes, Castro can even be an emergency option there, as can Polanco. But that day isn't here yet. Farmer remains a solid, if not great hitter. And he's pretty solid defensively at 3 spots. And he's a good clubhouse guy as well. That's why I think he's in the 2024 plans. And Solano having a couple bad weeks doesn't nearly cover all the positives he's brought to the lineup this season. And while he's not exactly great in the field anywhere you put him, he can adequately play 3 spots. I don't think he has a long term future with the Twins by any means, but I don't think he's going anywhere this year barring a sudden roster crunch where he just HAS to be the guy out. I'm not sure the trade market is going to be all that deep this year. Only a few teams are selling at this point. But things could...and probably will...pivot over the next few days. I don't dislike Renfro as a player. Again, he actually fits for what this team is lacking. But I'm just not crazy about trading Farmer instead of a lower level prospect for his 2 months. HUNCH: The Twins will gladly give up a lower level prospect or two for a solid RH OF rental. And if he "fits" he might be a re-sign. But I just have a hunch they are looking...if able...to make a move of Kepler/Larnach/Wallner and a Winder/Enlow kind of move for a younger OF with control who can also play CF. Maybe a RH, maybe a switch if available. And they might not pull it off. But I think that's what they are trying to do. But I really, really don't want Wallner traded. I think that will come back to BITE US BIG TIME.

What do I want? I want Gallo and Kepler gone by 2024 and Larnach and Wallner as the corner OF producing far better than what we've gotten from the vets this year. And that's not a real high bar. Neither is expensive, neither is old, both have potential, and neither has been given an extended (healthy) look yet. That's what I want. But what's practical? Gallo should have already been gone as a failed experiment, letting either of Larnach or Wallner playing time. He should be gone by next week. Not only because he's been bad, not only for opportunity for a younger bat, but if the Twins want to add a RH OF, SOMEONE has to go to make room. After that, I just don't know. I'm glad Kepler has been much better since the break. He even looks like he's having fun out there. But do we really think this is the new and improved Kepler and he's going to maintain this going forward after a 2+ year consistent downturn? And does he fitnin for $10M in 2024? I'd rather move Kepler instead of Larnach, hoping someone bites on his hot streak, experience, and defense. But I also understand Larnach is behind Wallner now, and I understand all the reasons as to why it might be the beat time now to move him. But with Gallo gone, a trade of Larnach, and not even sure what version of Kepler we'd have next year, or if he'd even be back, the OF suddenly looks a little thin. Right package, something that helps the team in the long run, I can be on board with a Larnach trade. I may not like it, but I can see it. I just think moving Kepler makes better sense for the long term.

Trying to address the OP as much as possible, but having to make a couple additional comments just because: 1] Just CRAZY to look at the Gray trade, in retrospect, as being bad UNLESS he or the Twins win SOMETHING in the playoffs is just silly, and not an honest perspective. The same with the trades for Lopez and Mahle last year as well. Gray was good last year, and has been good this year. I don't think anyone expected J Lopez to maintain what he did the first half of 2022, but even with regression, he was talented and controllable. He was a 2 1/2yr controllable end of the pen addition that could make a difference. Who saw him just falling apart? Mahle was a solid SP with better results outside of Cincinnati and was under 30. And he looked good again to begin this year. Who predicted TJ surgery? Did these moves blow up? Absolutely. But these moves were made by a team having a good season and looking playoff bound. And AFTER the trades, the season collapsed, mostly due to injury. If you actually KNEW this was going to happen, please share your next Power Ball numbers because I want to play. BACK TO OUR REGULARLY SCHEDULED OP: 2] The more I examine the move of J Lopez for Dylan Floro, the more I like it. I honestly hope the best for Lopez, his family, and his career. But the Twins moved an unusable arm...with potential still...for an experienced arm with a really solid, and experienced history of being a very solid 7-8th inning reliever. His ERA is higher than his career numbers, but so is his BABIP. Every other stat you look at says he's still the same solid, dependable arm he's been. And as I stated elsewhere, he might not be the reliever the Twins need the most, he's a reliever they need. Good, smart move that cost nothing off the roster, that didn't need to move on. 3] If I had a working crystal ball that said Thielbar and Stewart are going to be just fine, I think an arguement COULD be made that the pen is OK. Especially after adding the solid Floro. But I'm just going to play the "hope" game. Despite still "finding" himself, I really like the young Moran. He's just SO GOOD when the control is at least somewhat there. Long term, I think Funderburk has a chance to be good. And despite some inconsistency, I've seen enough of Headrick to think he's got a shot to be a really good pen arm. And forget St Paul, I'd have had him up the last month to see if he could to develop a vital role for this year and next. I think the FO blew an opportunity there, even though I like his future. Bullpen wise, I'd be looking for a LH arm right now to protect myself in case Thielbar has any further issues. And I remain surprised he is back this soon. I would have babied him another week or so for the long term. I'd look at a LH arm to compliment Thielbar and Moran. And then I'd look at another RH arm that I could feel comfortable with along with Jax, Floro, and hopefully Stewart. It's just too late in the season to trust in prospects at this point. I believe it is incorrect to state the Twins dislike rentals and prefer controllable arms. They have done that in the rotation, but Romo, Dyson, and Fulmer indicate that isn't a reality. They WILL do so if they think they get the right arm, but there is no definitive proof that is where they look. I'm OK if the snag someone on a deal that makes sense that has control. But the nice thing about a rental is they generally cost little to get, and can be re-signed if they are a good fit. Think about Romo a couple years ago. 4] I'm on record that I DON'T like trading one of our young LH OF because I DON'T feel they have had the opportunity to prove themselves. Gallo hasn't worked out. Period. Nice try FO, and I mean that sincerely! I love that Max has found some kind of magical difference since the AS break. And he's a perfectly solid ML player. But can he maintain? Is he actually part of 2024? Even as a fan, I have serious doubts. And the LAST THING I want the Twins to do is move Wallner. All he's done is rake at every single level and show, even in SSS, that he's got a potential ML bat. And let's not forget that Larnach's numbers aren't exactly BAD, and his development has been slowed by a couple of unfortunate injuries as well. But the Twins need a RH bat, OF, to help against LH pitching. I don't like moving an "asset" that is talented and stil projectible, but Larnach does seem to be the odd man out. Any RH OF bat...obviously in my mind...means Gallo is either traded to a contending team borderline desperate for a veteran LH bat hoping for a good 2 months, or is DFA. Good luck. But it's beyond time. There is still the 26 man and 40 man to consider. But is there a rental that comes cheap, that might be a re-sign for a solid RH OF bat? Or do the Twins dig deeper for a RH OF with control? Unfortunately, Larnach might be that guy. A LH for RH to a team might make sense. Maybe a Windef type of arm to make the deal work. I 5] I keep thinking about past bullpen arms the Twins traded for that cost next to nothing, albeit Lopez was different and just didn't turn out. And I keep thinking they can bring on another couple solid arms that they can potentially re-sign. But if they move a little more prospect wise, maybe ONE of their additions has control. And I'm OK with that too. Considering a lack of a solid, almost daily RH OF bat, I could see a sort of "swap" of LH vs RH OF bat for someone like Carlson or Thomas with an arm thrown in, OR, ....and I hate to say it...Miranda and his potential thrown in if said RH bat was young enough and still had upside. The last thing I want is for the Twins to decimate the system to add when their biggest problem is veteran players not producing and young players already showing they are ready to contribute and improve! But 2 more smart additions to the pen and a RH bat SHOULD be available to add without doing so. Up to the FO to show what they can do. NOT asking for magic, just some SMART moves that make sense.

I can see this from different perspectives. Most HS kids drafted late don't sign, unless you can blow them away with an offer, or there are other personal concerns with not wanting to go to school. And if they are someone like 20th pick this year, Ashton Larson, does $700K, or less, keep you away from LSU...one of the tip programs in the country...probably some NIL $, and a shot of developing in to a top 10, or 5 round talent in a couple of years? Now, in 2022, the Twins got highly touted HS SS Jankel Ortiz in the 16th round for about $125K. Everyone was just certain he was a flier and going to college. But coming off surgery, maybe he didn't want school. Maybe he felt the Twins would help hum rehab and develop better than college. Regardless, he signed. 20th rounder HS OF Korbyn Dickerson did not sign. I believe the Twins should "lose" the combined $2M from spending, taxes, and loss of tax sharing. I believe they can afford it...though I understand very $ does count at some point. But if $500K could bring in another top HS kid, or a college kid that is unsure, I believe you always take that shot. But I also find it odd to be overly concerned about the team not sacrificing the $2M total in for a couple 19th and 20th round choices. It sure looks like they've done a good job the past few years with choices as spending every dollar allotted to them. So I really can't complain. ONE LAST POINT: The Twins can still follow 19th rounder Sam Parker as he will be attending a JC. They can still sign him next spring, before the 2024 draft. But what I DON'T know is, would any signing $ come from the 2023 pool? Or from 2024? It would make more sense to me that a potential signing would still reflect on the 2023 number as that was when he was selected, and should have nothing to do with any upcoming 2024 draft Anyone know how that might work???

Not exactly exciting stuff, but a good and smart move for all involved. Really hope this helps "right" Lopez's life and career. Floro is not the arm they necessarily need, but he's one they can use. He replaces a potential IL or DFA arm that is unusable at the moment with a solid, experienced arm. A hole in the pen is now filled with a solid arm. That's a win in the short term. I wish we KNEW that Thielbar and Stewart were going to be just fine. If that were the case, I think you could almost make the argument to stand pat at the deadline, bullpen wise. But I think they are going to grab one solid arm, possibly two, but they will be more along the line of another Romo from a couple years ago. They want help, they want solid help, but they don't want to overpay for 2 months of someone, or overpay for a big name, or any high cost arm for an extended time. And I'm OK with that. Floro helps stabilize the pen. Stewart and Thielbar move the entire pen up a notch. But it's a bit of a gamble to trust in them at 100% at this point. So I am 100% on inexpensive rentals that are solid, and can help. And the thing about those rentals is, you can always re-sign them if the fit looks good.

BRILLIANT!

So rumor has it Boras has been sort of "touring" different cities to be there for signings and press conferences. I doubt the Twins are squeezing Jenkins/Boras as that hasn't been their nature. And they have a good relationship with Boras. I think it's just timing and Boras trying to squeeze a couple hundred thousand more if he can. Not something that's going to prevent the deal from getting done. I hadn't realized the draft and follow policy had been put back in to place again, for JC kids, until I read about it after the draft. But I'm confused on how that works financially for 19th round pick Parker. It's my understanding he could only be signed for a max of $150,000, or any higher amount must be counted against the initial bonus pool total. Is it possible the Twins were trying to stash a little $ for a future signing? Anything spent over the pool allotment is taxed at 75% per dollar if I understand correctly. 20th pick Larson was a draft and prayer pick, IMO. Second year in a row they took a shot on a top HS recruit at the end of the draft. I guess you never know what might happen. But I'm sure Larson is going to LSU.

Lou Brown: "It's starting to come together, Pepper. Starting to come together. Yeah!" Did the Twins win another one? Did Maeda look great again? Did Balazovic do the job again? Did J Lopez just have another good appearance after his NIGHTMARE appearance? Don't know who Pepper is, but he better be nodding his head right now.

I agree on Gallo being shopped and probably getting nothing. But there are teams that love history, and there might be someone just dyeing to add a veteran LH bat, even to platoon, who can take a walk, play solid defense at 3 spots, and maybe make a power difference over the last couple of months. But I expect nothing or little from a trade, but if I'm the Twins, I take a shot just to see. I like Wallner more than you do. What I see is continued improvement each of the last 3yrs. I see high K numbers, but high BB numbers, a solid AVG EVERYWHERE he's played, and tons of power. I honestly think he's a better version of Gallo, with the bat. By that I mean a lot of K's, but also a better actual AVG with enough BB to be relevant in OB%. I couldn't care less if he hit bombs as majestic as Gallo, but he's got great power. I've never looked up Gallo's milb numbers and don't care to. They are irilivent to me. I just see Wallner improving year to year and want to see what he can do at the ML level. And it's time to see it NOW. I understand issues with Wallner's defense. He's got a cannon of an arm. And despite being a big man, he actually runs very well. (Similar, again, to a young Gallo). What he seems to lack is "tracking" ability. I've seen a few bad examples, but also seen some solid ones. Playing LF the other day against the Dirty Sox, he made a great running grab on a deep ball to left center. And maybe his arm is wasted a bit in LF. But maybe that's where he ends up. And maybe the bat offsets a few defensive liabilities, that CAN still get better with time and work and coaching and experience. But why in hell wouldn't the Twins just trust in the bat and potential and give it a shot! One way or another, Gallo should be gone and give Wallner a solid shot! Period! It's just ridiculous otherwise! I understand confusion with Larnach. I'm frustrated too. He's solid defensively with a very good arm. He makes pretty good contact, and has maintained a pretty good OB% at every level. And he has really good doubles power, and opposite field HR power, similar to Kirilloff. So where is the consistent HR power? I don't know if it's coaching, or him, but the HR power that he has remains locked away right now. SOMETHING is missing. He's not as good as Kepler defensively, but he's pretty good. He almost matches him, or is above, in AVG and OB%. His 2021 and 2022 and 2023 debuts all showed a legit bat. 2021 and 2022 were wrecked by injury. So even now, at 26yo, do we even know what he MIGHT become? If I'm a team trading with the Twins, I might want him as someone who is just experience and an adjustment away from being a good contributor to my team. But if I'm the Twins, I'm also wondering how I can unlock that potential. Especially knowing Gallo is going to be gone and we aren't sure about Kepler beyond this year. As both a Twins fan and a Kepler fan, I'd LOVE if the past 30 days of Kepler production means he's turned some kind of corner at 30yo, and will continue to be a quality producer in the lower third of the lineup. But does 30 days replace a 3yr downside at this point? I've posted a bunch of relevant numbers in my previous post. And I still don't have answers that I'm concrete on. Except that Gallo should be gone in favor of Wallner and/or Larnach. Kepler remains a mystery. But I'd put Wallner in the OF daily with Gallo gone. Borderline ridiculous to trot out a veteran who can't produce vs a young talent who might. And I'm guessing that will happen. The FO is just enamored with Kepler. And his last 30 days seems to justify their belief. Time will tell if they are right or wrong. But I'd hold on to Larnach, with Kepler, and his future still unknown, unless someone offers me a good deal with Larnach part of said deal. I don't want to be sitting here in 2024 with Kepler playing good defense but hitting .190 again with weak power and have Larnach finally figuring out his power with someone else.

I've been on his bandwagon since he came up in 2021, with changes in his delivery, to avoid injuries. And I was 100% happy with the way they limited his IP. And in 2022 he was excellent at the start of year and at the end. Such a shame he got hurt through the mid third. Lower abdominal I jury I believe. Never heard for sure, but a possible hernia? Regardless, he's been excellent this year. The Twins #1? I don't know that I'm ready to say that at this point, no matter how good he's been. Ryan has been just as good, except for that Baltimore game before the break Ugh! And Lopez has been way better than some of the "obvious" numbers, as reported in the OP. I don't feel like Gray is the #1 right now, though he's also been good. I feel like you can count on 5 solid to really good IP every time out. And I'm OK with that. But does it matter who is #1? As IndianaTwin stated, having 4-5 guys who are quality is what I care about. But I do like Ober getting his deserved props! I do think Gray is signed by someone on a 3yr deal this offseason that the Twins won't match. But the 2yrs they got have been good, and the extra draft pick will be nice to have. Ober is part of 2024 and beyond, and I love having him. I think he's clearly NOT just a solid 4 or OK 5. He's a legitimate #3 unless you have 3 others that are just so good he has to be pushed down a notch. Barring a trade or FA, he's part of the top 3 for next year for sure. Paddack might, hopefully, also be part of the rotation, healthy and building on the improvements he made when he joined the Twins last year. But just figuring time to get full control back, he figures as the 4th or even 5th arm initially. Right now, Varland figures in to one of those last 2 spots. And I really like Varland. Even with a trio of poor starts this year before his demotion...imagine a rookie having some speed bumps, right?...he's shown really well both last year and this year. Not mentioned in the OP, and omitted for obvious reasons, Maeda has looked almost the same as he did in 2020, and ST in 2021 before his arm got hurt. Right now, with a couple months still to go, I see him as a very possible re-sign for 2yrs that won't cost much. Like this year, that gives us 6 SP options to begin the 2024 season with depth. Not a bad thing to have. But unlike the beginning of this year, Ober isn't a guy on the cusp. He's part of the top 3 for sure, unless something unexpected happens. He doesn't just deserve it, he's proven it.

I want to give credit where credit is do. Kepler has been better the past 30 days than we've probably seen him on years. His last 30 days: .266/ .327/ .521/ .848 How well can he maintain it? Kepler's career quad slash: .221/ .288/ .429/ .718 Now Larnach, much SSS, through 177 games and 572 ML AB: .222/ .315/ .376/ .690 This is not to say Larnach hasn't had some issues, particularly tapping in to his power. And when he has looked good, he's had some injuries the first couple of years that stalled progress/seasons. But career numbers are very similar to Kepler at this point. And it's also not another attempt to dismiss Kepler. I'm just pointing out 4yrs younger and almost $8M cheaper and with some potential, why trade him when you don't know yet what you've got? He looks a lot like the older more expensive guy. Wallner, very SSS, only 36 games: .260/ .383/ .406/ .789 A nice start though, right? So again, you don't even know what you've got, but he's been raking at AAA for 2yrs with nothing left to prove. Gallo for the season and his last 30 days: .179/ .298/ .459/ .757 .156/ .244/ .416/ .660 I'm just not going down the "trade and DFA Gallo and/or Kepler" rabbit hole we've been on for weeks now. But while I understand the idea behind the OP, make room, try to get something, I just don't see how you trade 2 younger guys and keep a pair of veterans, one if which is not performing at all and won't be back, and one who has looked pretty bad for 3 consecutive years except for a resurgence the last 30 days and is questionable to be back next year. I don't have an exact answer. There's a few questions nobody has an answer to until/unless we see more of Larnach and Wallner. But I can see Gallo hasn't worked out, and that's a spot where one of the younger bats could have immediate, steady playing time. The other? Do you trade now and hopefully not regret it later? Would the return be enough to take the risk? Again, I don't have the answer. I still say changes need to be made. I'm still having a hard time saying it's the prospects that should be gone.

Was wondering the same thing on Jenkins over the weekend. I did the math really quick, so might have made an error, but with what's been paid out, the Twibs are about $170,000 short of the slot value for Jenkins. I'm sure a deal will get done, but looks like they will have to go over budget a little and suffer the tax penalty. Also means no $ left over for the HS kids picked 19/20th.

OK, he's a quality defender and switch hitter and only 24yo. Sounds great, and what the Twins need. But he also can't crack the Cardinals lineup on a daily basis for a losing team looking to re-tool? And the Cards want ready pitching? Or so it's inferred. NO. Let's trade Wallner, or Larnach for a ready made ML arm, who can't quite get ever day duty to those in front of them. Isn't that about the equivalent? The Twins, unfortunately, are going to have examine CF really hard for 2024. But trading ready or near ready pitching talent for a questionable option should be off the board at this point. Something cheap? Fine. No interest at this time.

So many thoughts about tonight's game: 1] Gray is just snakebit. He pitched more than well enough, yet again, to earn the W but didn't get it. What's most important is the Twins winning, but he's deserved the W in so many games. 2] I put the double steal scoring play on Vazquez, not Julien. The experienced Vazquez should have known, IMO, the play that was on and should have held the ball. I think Julien did the right thing, keep the ball in front of him. 3] Speaking of Vazquez, I loved his signing for defense, game calling, being about league average as a hitter...better as a catcher...and a tutor to the still young, improving, and potential filled Jeffers, similar to Castro and Garver a few years ago. In case nobody has noticed, Jeffers is having a very good year in every way possible. He's earned a 50/50 split these days, and probably deserves more. But Vazquez has lifted his SLG % lately, and was definitely key to the win tonight. 4] I'm not ready to say Buxton is out of his amazingly poor slump after Friday's performance...one game...but he battled to earn a key walk in the game. He's still willing and able, at times, to use his speed. And that resulted in a key SB. For those that doubt his injuries and abilities to "just trot out to the OF" notice how long it took him to recover after taking a knee for a moment to recover from the effort. I just some people still don't understand how hard he's trying to adapt and contribute these days. 5] I know we are all disappointed by the troublesome knee that plagued Balazovic last year at St Paul. And some of us are still perplexed why he wasn't shut down for a time to "get right" despite his late season better performance. Goodness knows his early appearance for ST didn't turn out well after the "incident". And I can only speak for myself when I really questioned the Twins INSISTENCE on adapting him to a pen role. My goodness, why wouldn't you continue to ramp up a former top 100 SP prospect back in to his SP role? Who cares if he needs the whole season to ramp up for 2024? He wasn't always great in his BP days with the Saints, but there were flashes. And now he's part of the pen due to injuries. And I know it's a SSS so far, 10 games and 13IP, but the ERA and WHIP are there so far, even if the K % isn't. Are we witnessing a conversion that might pay big dividends in the future? 6] Jax is a stud. And he has been since last year. He had a lot of crazy crap happen to him early this season. The other night, he allowed his first HR since 2022. He gives up a slow rolling double tonight and gets out of the inning with great stuff and a handful of solid plays and a K. 7] Duran is only human. That's just a reminder for those who want perfection. He was awesome again tonight. 8] Beating the Dirty Sox is ALWAYS a good thing.

I've been rooting for Gordon and was generally impressed with his break in 2021 year, especially learning the OF on the fly. He was basically the same player to begin 2022 before really breaking out the second half. It's really a shame he started so poorly this year, and then got hurt just when he started to heat up. No updates I'm aware of, but when his leg does heal, he's going to need a long rehab. Personally, I don't expect to see him again this year. And that might be a good thing for him, to just re-set for 2024. But while I root for him, and like him, especially if he can recover his 2nd half 2022 self, I'm not sure if he fits for 2024. And not just because of Castro. I think it's debatable as to defense at 2B and SS between the two as I'm not sure we've seen enough to accurately compare them there. But I'd say they are similar in LF/CF and Castro better at 3B. Despite a few opposing comments, I think Gordon has just as much speed as Castro. But after going 10-1 in SB in 2021, he slipped to 6-4 in 2022, oversliding a base more than once, and didn't have a SB this year. So I've got to give Castro the edge as a baserunner and SB threat. It does appear Gordon may have a bit more power, if we can have faith in his 2022. I expect Farmer back next year. We still have to settle what's going to happen with Polanco next year. How do you fit all the options, not including Lee, who I'm still betting begins 2024 at AAA. So Lewis, Castro, Julien, Polanco, Farmer, various options at 1B including Kirilloff, maybe Julien, and what about Miranda? Gordon's best shot, IMO, is part of the OF mix, depending how things turn out there. Gallo is gone. Hard to believe at least one of Taylor and Kepler is gone, if not both. Buxton is the elephant in the room, but not going there. But CF has to be figured out, and with Celestino and Martin losing so much development time this year due to injury, I don't see them as factors until maybe later in the year. And we've still got the Larnach and Wallner situation to be figured out. Does Lewis move to CF? I like Gordon and have continued to root for him. But his best chance is either fitting in to the OF somewhere...with the ability to still play limited INF...or just outperform Castro next ST. But I'm not sure there's room for him.