DocBauer

Why not? St Paul isn't exactly flush with starters at the moment either. If someone went down tomorrow, I think it would probably be Rojas who came up first. Gallagher has been on a hot streak, but I doubt he's ready to make his debut yet. I had thought they might be on the lookout for someone to bring in. I had thought about Littel, but he would have to have been an immediate 40 man add, so that was pretty doubtful. So yeah, this signing makes sense. I just hope we don't need him.

OK, it's really ridiculous to try and quantify these trades so soon. But I'm willing to bite regardless. 1] I didn't like moving Jax, but the younger Bradley, and a SP, and how he's looked? Big win. Awesome that Jax has become a decent SP for Tampa. But I don't need to make a grade here. The Twins win. 2] Bader was traded for a LH HITTING MACHINE who can also get OB and has power potential? The only question is where does he fit? The BAT plays. But is he a DH only? Or can he learn to become a competent corner OF or 1B? Considering the future construction of the Twins roster, is he more valuable as a trade chip? Do we really need a grade here? The Twins won. 3] Paddack got moved for a young, low A catcher who has the potential to be a decent bat, with some pop/power and a strong arm with a good sense of how to call a game. He's looked good since he was aquired, but it's a major bummer he's hurt now. He probably projects as a really solid #2 at the ML level. But for an impending, mediocre FA pitcher, again a win for the Twins. **small note: If Paddack would get out of his own way and just accept a shot at being a full time RP, he might be able to continue his career.** 4] I became a fan of Correa for MANY reasons. And I find it almost absurd that removing him suddenly from the team was a positive? And I don't mean TD opinions. But I've read enough articles offering innuendo, that I start to wonder. REGARDLESS, the ONLY real problem here was NOT taking advantage of the $20M saved to re-invest in the 2026 Twins. Deciding to move on, let younger players play, and save $20M is fine. But the Twins might be leading the ALC today if that $20M was used on the bullpen. Oops, I forgot the ownership didn't know their payroll before TP took over. Sorry, I just couldn't resist a DIG! But the truth is, the $20M savings on the Correa deal MIGHT add to TP's promise for a greater payroll in 2027. So MAYBE there's a positive outcome here? Moving Lee to 3B, promoting K-Pepper and actually using that $20M next season? Maybe that turns out to be a win. No grade here because of YTB. 5] Castro for Gallagher and Armstrong is a positive IMO. I'm not sure how many readers and followers realize that Gallagher was a 6th round pick by the Cubs in 2024. He didn't debut until 2025, where he started at A+ and was moved very soon to AA. That's when the Twins got him. And while his numbers at AAA with St Paul are kinda nasty, he's really been very good his last few starts. And he's only in his 2nd professional season. He's probably a #4-5 SP option. But even that is a great outcome for a trade for a rental player. I honestly have no opinion on Armstrong at this point. But does it matter? The Twins got a potential back end SP for a couple months rental. Again, do we need a grade here? 6] Coulombe for Horn. OK, we traded a LHRP who's always been best for the Twins, more or less, for a flyer on a LH arm that might be his replacement with more upside. We haven't really seen much of horn so far due to injury. He's got a live arm if he's healthy again in 2027. He might surprise. But we didn't lose anything here. The Twins signed Rogers foe 1 more season. He's pretty much taken over the Coulombe role. And he's been better than his ERA overall. But this is kind of a "nothing to see here" unless Horn is healthy in '27 and starts to shine. This was a dart shot for a LH arm that MIGHT turn out in a couple of years. There's no winner here unless Horn is healthy and gets his act together. 7] Stewart for Outman was a joke from day 1. The Dodgers were HOPING to get a few quality IP before his arm fell off. Which it did. It doesn't matter that Stewart's arm fell off. The Twins LOSE this trade BIG TIME because the FO was so stubborn, so limited in thinking, dare I say stupid, that they didn't trust their OWN prospects vs a failed 28yo plus player who had no future You want a grade? This one is an F- if there is such a thing. It's debating who was in charge of this deal, but it doesn't matter. Its a throwaway deal anyway. Because Zole was in charge when ST happened. And he SHOULD have been smart enough in his new role to shove Outman aside and run with Rodriguez. He might have even kept Roden as a 4th OF. But should have KNOWN Rodriguez was ready, and out of options. And he SHOULD of followed the path of the Brewers, the Rays, and the Guardians to allow a top prospect to learn on the job. Instead he followed the Falvey BS idea of veteran depth and set the potential roster back months. So this is a clear F grade on how things were handled. And I lost immediate trust in Zole. 8] I'd rather have Duran and pay him, but I kinda understand this deal. IF the Twins actually signed a couple solid FA BP arms, this deal would make even more sense. The truth is Abel has looked like a potential stud top of the rotation arm before his injury. It's silly to give up on Tait with his bat, power, and strong arm so early as a 20yr old at A+. A healthy Abel looks like a potential rotation stud. By himself, he might make the Duran trade good. Tait, a couple years from now could be a powerful catcher or 1B. That's an outstanding return of a quality SP and a powerful catcher/1B option. I'm not going to put lipstick on a pig and say this was a great trade. But even if Tait doesn't turn out, but a healthy Abel comes back next season and builds on what he showed this season, it MIGHT make this trade at least neutral. A WIN if Abel reaches his potential. An even bigger WIN IF Tait reaches his BAT potential as a catcher or future 1B. I still think Abel is the key factor In this trade. 9] The Varland trade should have never happened. That's my F grade. Roden has a chance to be a solid 4th OF. And I can't deny the potential of Rojas. But is he the next Santana/Soriano, or is he just a very good, potentially dominate RP? BUT, Rojas has a chance to make an F turn out to be an A if the Twins figure out what to do with him.

You are correct about the Royals vs Culpepper. My bad! Since CJ Culpepper is a solid pitching prospect, I usually refer to Kaelen Culpepper as K-Pepper. It's also a really fun nickname, IMO.

Because when midnight struck, she was suddenly in "horror mode". And in horror movies, BBT. Forgive me gang, I didn't make this up. It's darkly funny. And if you've watched a collection of horror movies in your day, you will understand and laugh. But please don't kill the messenger here. BBT= Bitches Be Tripping. Again, darkly funny and I didn't make it up

I didn't watch the game today, so I can only speculate. While he wasn't exactly good, my guess is he was "gutting it out" for the sake of the team. 4 runs in 5 IP and 90 pitches isn't exactly good, but he did manage to keep the Twins in the game. I have little doubt that Matthews could be a fine RP. But pre foot injury, he had delivered something like 6 quality starts with a pair of clunkers. Or it might have been 7 of 9. Regardless, he's shown some real improvement this season. So I'm not ready to place him in the bullpen just yet. My impression is that currently he's out there for the team, hurting, not as effective as he wants to be, but doing the best he can. With Ryan back, I could see a temporary move to the pen to finish the season. That move won't fix his foot, but only throwing 1-2 innings might mitigate the pain somewhat, and allow him to still contribute. Rojas is the next man up. And the Twins are stretching him out. The kid has massive talent, and I'm still not sure where his future lies; exciting SP if he can get better control/command, or elite reliever. But currently, he's the next man up. After that, it's probably Gallagher. He's been throwing really well his last few starts, but he's really not ready for MLB yet. Anyone crazy surprised that we miss Parades being on the IL? Stuff happens. They really don't have a choice but to rely on Matthews for now. But maybe it's only 1 or 2 more starts for him to "gut it out" and do the best he can before Ryan comes back. THEN a decision could be made as to whether Matthews moves to the pen to help as best he can, or go back to St Paul. Remember, the AAA season goes longer than the rest of the system to mirror the ML season. And MILB also has a 7 game "reserve" list. So it's also possible Matthews could be sent down, placed on said reserve list for a healing rest, and still come back.

I stand by most of my previous comments. But to be fair, I realized I had forgotten Buxton should be back sometime in the near future. So indeed, someone other than Jackson has to go. Barring an injury, i suppose that's Roden, even though I don't think he deserves to be sent down yet. But it makes the most sense. My apologies for memory failure. I'll blame working in the heat today for a memory lapse. 😀

I was working and couldn't watch the game, so take some of my comments with a grain of salt. Matthews was, I believe, something like 6 of 8 starts as quality with 2 bad outings. And then he developed his cut/blister on his foot and hasn't been as good since. But the cupboard is basically bare now so he HAS to pitch. I'm guessing he was really gutting today's game out. Would anyone else agree to that? Really, really needed to take this series. The Twins are probably in the toughest part of their schedule right now. You don't get a W in your record for giving the Brewers all they could handle and probably giving that series away. The Phillies and Braves are no picnic. But something around .500 wouldn't be bad. CLOSE doesn't get you very far. But maybe they understand they have the ability to win some of those games if they just play clean ball? IIRC, the Twins actually have a winning record against AL teams. And once the Padres series is done, the rest of their schedule is all AL teams with the exception of a 3 game series against the Giants. And the vast majority of those games are against ALC teams. That means if they don't choke away the next couple of series, they really control their destiny for a WC, or even the ALC banner. Now, if they could just find a voodoo priest to remove whatever hold KC has over them this season....

All things being equal, I agree with Rodriguez coming up first for all of the stated reasons in the OP. Not only is he "ready" with his AAA production and a pretty solid spring, but the lack of options means he's got to get hus feet wet as much as possible THIS SEASON to get ready for next year. Unfortunately, he's just got back to St Paul for what, 2 games now? Surely he needs a couple weeks to get in a groove. Meanwhile, Jenkins could conceivably be up tomorrow. So while I say it SHOULD be Emma up first, it will probably be Jenkins. I have a soft spot where Roden is concerned even though he hasn't been very productive until today's win over the Orioles. But I like his general approach at the plate, and I think he's got a chance to be a solid platoon/4th OF. So I don't like seeing him go down. But does he even have to? It's time for Jackson to go down. Hopefully, post deadline, most teams are set and he goes unclaimed and we can keep him. But I am far more concerned with Rodriguez and Jenkins getting some time in '26 to get ready for '27 than I am potentially losing a decent, solid, but journeyman to be our #2 catcher next season. So bring Jenkins up. And we're only about 2 weeks from being able to add another player for September. By that time, Emma will have a couple weeks to get in a groove and bring him up then. So to me, it's probably a moot point as to who SHOULD be first. Jenkins is ready, and Rodriguez comes up September 1st. Issue solved, IMO.

I agree with the principle, if not the practice. I became a fan of Kreidler when I watched him play defense. And he surprised the hell out of me when he hit better at AAA than he had done before. And THEN he hit for the Twins WAY above what he had done before. He's popped some XB hits and stolen some bases. The guy is a BALLPLAYER, but he's also shown natural regression to the hitter he is. IF Kreidler can hit .200 ish, with some pop/power and his defense with a little speed he's what should be the 13th man. K-Pepper sets SS, with an obvious learning curve to give the kid a chance to settle in. Kreidler becomes a pretty valuable Utility Player. But he's NOT a daily player. The idea of versatility for position players is nothing new. All Newman was a super utility player and so was as was Punto. Defensive versatility is a good thing. As long as it makes sense. Lewis playing a little 2B as a former SS and 3B makes some sense for now. That could change in 2027 when Houston debuts. But for now, Lewis playing some 2B isn't a mistake. Keaschall learning and growing and even making some mistakes isn't overly eggriouas. It's part of his development. The Twins are adapting overall in the 2026 season. And I'm actually IN with most of the changes being made. BUT, Defensive flexibility only matters if the players can be competent. I like the idea of Kreidler's glove and decent speed and occasionally power as the 13th man. I Don't like him as a Castro replacement as his bat remains week. K-Pepper turns Kreidler in to a Super Utility player which is good. Personally, as much as I respect Kreidler, I'd love to see a competition next ST between him and Ross, who might not be as good with the glove, but better with the bat. Kreidler's glove helps everywhere, and I'm good with that overall. And he only helps with roster flexibility if he plays here and there. He DOESN'T need to play DAILY and that's on our manager and our FO. I'd love to keep Jackson around, but isn't he potentially replaceable next offseason vs holding down a roster spot right now? Forget roster flexibility when we have a 3rd catcher who isn't playing. YES, K-Pepper up changes things. Kreidler becomes a SU, which is what he should be. But we're still missing someone who might make a difference. I understand the Twins wanting to give a good look at Roden. I actually like him. But at some point, the FO HAS to look at Jenkins at this point. And Rodriguez is very close behind. And 2027 SHOULD HAVE BOTH Jenkins and Rodriguez in the OF. Not sure there's much of a choice. K-Pepper was only the first debut for what's coming! And even he might be moving to 2B soon, despite being a solid SS, with Houston in the wings. IF the Twins are smart enough, and brave enough, the FO will be challenged to do the right thing and follow blueprints other teams have already done.

It's not part of the OP, but since it was brought up in the comments, I do think there is a portion of fans that do ride certain players very hard. When HOPE of GREATNESS doesn't transform in to such, for whatever reasons, that projected HOPE turns to disappointment, and then disappointment turns to a frustrated anger. Think Gibson, Sano, Buxton, and Lewis. Is that fair? I think not. But I can understand it, even if I think it's misguided. I would refer back to @bean5302 post earlier where Lewis has clearly been a different hitter since he came back up. NOT to be condescending, but Lewis had been on a low road for about a year and a half before his demotion. Did that provide a new perspective and maturity as a person, or player, or both? Did he have fun with St Paul and remember that he actually loves the game? So mentally AND emotionally, did that reset give him a new approach and bring back his confidence? Is it a combination of all of those things? One thing Lewis has never been lacking is work ethic and confidence. But when you have to work SO HARD due to injuries, and your game doesn't come so easily any longer, and your confidence wavers, you end up with the Lewis for about a year and a half. Regardless of exactly WHAT transpired in his head and heart during his demotion, he's been a solid, competent hitter since he came back. And he seems to have a "determined" attitude to be the best 1B he can be...which I think he can be excellent with time and repetition...as well as being an occasional 2B, which is OK usage IMO for now at least. Almost ALL players go through hot streaks. They also go through cold streaks as well. It's part of a 6 month plus season. And it's awesome that Lewis is hot right now, especially with Buxton out and a couple other players struggling a bit. But Lewis absolutely WILL NOT carry the team. That's just a falacy or fantasy that ONE GUY can carry a team. What the Twins need from Lewis is CONSISTENCY for the rest of 2026 and the future. It's ENTIRETY possible that Lewis, at 27yo has FINALLY "figured it out" as a hitter. Maybe he's even recognized that he doesn't HAVE to be Superman! To say a player has finally matured isn't an insult. It's acceptance of ability, but recognition that not only he doesn't have to be perfect, but just recognizing he can still be good, or great, without having a greatness burden. I'd like to think Lewis has FINALLY figured that out. I'd also like to believe that he's matured enough to realize a couple bad days also don't define him. I love Lewis at 1B and think he can be outstanding there with a little more time. But he's more than athletic enough to play a little 2B here and there until the INF really settles down in 2027. Look again at his numbers since he came back from his demotion. He's a legitimate 20 plus HR bat with good DBLS and a few SB. He's on an upturn currently. But if he SETTLES as a .270 AVG hitter with a .325 OBP and 25 HR and 30plus DBLS, would you be disappointed? A hot streak is awesome. But I want a CONSISTENT Lewis, even if his numbers are only borderline All Star.

Just to be clear, Matthews only had 3 earned runs against him before he left the game due to a blister on his foot. The bullpen was amazing . The bats seemed to wake up. What a wonderful debut for K-Pepper and his family! I honestly don't care whether he ends up at 2B or 3B eventually being replaced by Houston. He is a LEGIT 20/20 with 30+ Dbls potential. But TONIGHT was his debut. And you couldn't ask for a better one.

I've thought about this all day. I like Lee at 3B. His arm is average, but his reactions are good, his hands are good, his glove to hand is good, and his throws are accurate. He's also very good at off balance throws. The only thing he lacks at 3B is a better than average arm. I think his defense at 3B only gets better the more he sticks at 3B. Frankly, I'm really tired about discussions about his offense. This is ONLY his SECOND full season at the ML level. And while he STILL isn't the HITTER we hoped for, he's slowly started to provide a better quad slash line year to year. Currently, even with an opening hot streak, followed by a cold steak, he's still on schedule for 22DBls and 21HR and 78 RBI. He SHOULD have a better AVG and OB % based on his projections and profile. But he's also on a bit of an upswing. I'd rather run with Lee at 3B for 2027 and see if he could take the next step offensively. And while I think KC can play a very solid SS, I would just give Houston the SS job to open 2027. At some point, the FO has to realize defense and potential means more than an immediate ceiling. Is there a better example than the team the Twins are playing currently in the Brewers? You do realize that Chourio, while an OF and NOT an INF remains an example for the Twins to follow. It's OK to promote TOP prospects when they seem ready, or barely ready. Whether Opening Day or not, this SHOULD be the OD roster. INF: Lee, Houston, Culpepper, Lewis. RUN WITH IT! Offensively and Defensively, this IS the best option. C: Caratini and Jackson, unless we lose Jackson and look elsewhere. OF: Jenkins. Buxton, Rodriguez, and Keaschall. It's time for Jenkins. Buxton is Buxton, but he might spend little more tine at DH. And good or bad, Rodriguez FINALLY DEBUTS because he HAS TO Is that such a bad thing? UTILITY: Kreidler is the SU because he plays SS very well. Clemens becomes more of what he SHOULD BE, though I HOPE it doesn't mess with his bat. He plays almost every day between 5 position and DH. But once again, the FO should have the guts and future prospective to examine not only potential but reality. Rodriguez is ready, whether you like it or not. And honestly, you might be blind if you don't see that you have a tremendous double play keystone combo for the next several years

So Rojas got sent down? How he's going to be used is my question. Keep him stretched out? Maybe, even though Matthews is there also. Or do they begin his transition to a back end RP?

For purposes of this exercise, I'm excluding an ownership that blew the offseason with an old analogy of a monkey having sex with a football. I am focusing only on what took place. ***A caveat that team owner Tom Polad has already commented he expects to raise payroll for 2027. Take that for what it's worth at this point. But it does represent a comment or two from me 1] MINTER: I really liked his addition. It's doubtful Amick ever combines power with contact to be a ML regular. Right or wrong, I've just never been sold on Agbayani. I just don't see a single skill that makes him a top prospect. I grade this a B+ for Minter still being good, just not as good as he was. But, his velocity was 94-95 last time I saw him throw for the Twins. I seriously doubt he gets another 2yr $22M type of deal next offseason. Banda is under team control next season and probably doesn't get a major raise. If Minter is resigned, he and Banda offer up a hell of a good looking 1-2 punch from the LH side. Maybe 2yrs and $12-14M? That makes this an A grade. 2] HOFFMAN: He was an ideal target for me until I saw his contract. I was thrilled when they got him. He's very good, despite a rough April. Crap happens. His peripherals are excellent. They absorbed the rest of his contract this season, like Minter...which is something the Twins have never done much of previously...and get $ back to buy down his 2027 salary. Klein is interesting because the Twins never gave him a chance to just throw 1 inning and see what you might have. But he's also NOT another Varland. The Pena kid is a low level flyer. I DIDN'T want to lose Hill for anything other than a controlable SP. His upside is too tantalizing to give up for anything more. So maybe we over paid POTENTIALLY. And this is NOT revelationally thinking, weren't we all, as Twins fans, more than a little concerned about his regression this season? He's averaging something like 8 BB per 9 IP. There's still a chance he rebounds, puts it all together, and we hate this trade 4 years from now. But a lot can change 3-4 years from now. We have Hoffman for NOW, to see how 2026 finishes, and for 2027 where I think the Twins will be a better team overall. So I'm giving this trade an A for immediacy, and not downgrading for what MIGHT happen 3-4yrs from now. 3] KREMER: IF Kremer, still only 30yo, and coming off an injury and still working his way back, is "fixable" in whatever way that matters, and suddenly looks like the pitcher he was from 2022 to 2025, the Twins got a potential steal here. For 5 seasons he was a solid, competent SP. Even his first few starts this season were solid. His last couple were horrible! Personally, I would have included Hill and Gonzalez/Wentz and another solid, lower prospect for a younger arm with control. Obviously, the Twins didn't see it that way. They were looking for a decent arm to make sure we could sustain the current level of TEAM performance, with a better bullpen, to continue winning series after series. This was also a baffle to allow Prielipp to monitor his IP, but maybe also to give Ryan a little time as well as off days play out. I don't hate Kremler's addition. I think those who look at his 2026 numbers and not not his career numbers will be the LOUD opponents to this trade. But if he settles down and pitches like most of his career, some might change their mindset. The fact that he's also controllable in 2027 also shouldn't be ignored. THIS season should prove you can never have enough depth. Personally, BEFORE the Hoffman signing, I would have included Hill and another top 7-10 prospect to get a SP with control. The Twins didn't see that. And I understand why. THEY are seeing what's on hand, and what's coming. THEY are sold Ryan will get his stuff together still. And THEY didn't want to sacrifice anything more for TOMORROW than they already did. Reyes for Kremler could come back to haunt. Maybe. But if Kremler is suddenly the pitcher he's been for the previous 5yrs, we get someone who can help "rest" the rotation for 2026, but also possibly help the #5 spot in 2027. I'm not a lover or hater of this trade. Objectively, he's a "C" addition. IF he suddenly throws like he did his previous 5 seasons, he's a B-. He helps this season only to eat IP, potentially. But he also allows for another depth piece for 2027, potentially.

Great catch by Rodriguez! He's probably a couple weeks away from a promotion, but he needs the opportunity to get hus feet wet at the ML level before the season is done. Word has it he probably doesn't get rewarded an extra option year. It's always a little fun this time of year to see a large number of promotions for prosoects to get a taste of the next level. But keep an eye on Merit Jones, who just advanced to CR. The Twins drafted him in the 20th round in 2024 and he went unsigned. He went back to Utah for this season, actually had a worse 2025 than 2024, but the Twins grabbed the tall RH in the 14th round this season. So they really like something about him. He had a really nice debut for Ft Myers this season and definitely flashed.

I'm not saying Keaschall can't work really hard on his 2B defense and end up there still. In fact, I hope he puts in a TON of work there in the offseason. If nothing else, it just makes him more "usable" there going forward. But my current belief is the Twins are done with him at 2B as his primary position. Despite obvious growing pains, I really like what I've seen from him in the OF, even if he's making some mistakes and learning on the fly, some MILB time in the OF not withstanding. I've sort of adopted the thinking of Gleeman that a Super Utility player is someone who plays SS, like Kreidler. While a Utility player is someone who can play multiple positions solidly, just not SS. With the improvement he's made with his bat and glove, I'm liking Lee more and more at SS and the more athletic Culpepper at 2B. And Lewis as the primary 1B. Clemens can provide solid play at 5 spots, and Keaschall potentially the same, as he's also played a little 1B in the minors. It wouldn't hurt if he was a 3rd option at 1B just for roster/lineup flexibility. That's a really good looking INF with a trio of SU and U players backing up, filling in, all capable of playing some OF as well.

I agree with all points in principle. Now that the deadline has passed, Jackson will hopefully slide through and go back to St Paul. I wouldn't mind having around in 2027. But if he's claimed, finding another #2 option behind the plate next year is just something we'll have to do in the offseason. I've become a fan of Kreidler and love his glove work and hustle. Though his bat has cooled down, he's still performing way better than his career numbers previously at both the ML and MILB levels. But having him as the SU makes the bench a lot more flexible and deeper. My only concern is are Culpepper and Jenkins actually ready? Or do a couple more weeks make them more ready? Looks like KC might be heating up after his cold return from the IL. And yes, it appears Jenkins is probably ready. But I want them up only if the FO and coaches believe they are ready, and not grasping for someone to kick start the offense. I'd like that to happen, but I'm more concerned about what's best for THEM. I struggle somewhat on Wallner replacing Roden. I'm still not certain if Roden has gotten a fair shake yet. I like his defense and he takes great AB. And only the Twins know if Wallner has tightened up holes and begun to catch up to high velocity or not. Or is he still just pounding AAA mistakes? Finding playing time for him, and Larnach, and Bell is going to be tough. And this coming from a fan of Wallner's. So if the Twins believe K-Pepper and Jenkins are ready for the next step, let's see it happen. I'm just not certain if it's time for Wallner again.

I wasn't concerned when he did poorly at CR to end last season. I've just never seen it be uncommon to sit for a few weeks or couple of months, get drafted, report, do well initially, and then slump. It's adapting to daily play as well as getting amped back up again. We basically saw K-Pepper do the same thing. I liked his approach and overall athleticism. And he's not a small guy, so I figured some pop/power would come naturally. But I wasn't expecting him to do THIS well so quickly. And performing even better at AA than A+! Originally I thought he might be ready mid 2027 if everything went well. But I'm starting to wonder if we aren't talking the first third of next season, if not possibly Opening Day. Unexpected, but I don't think it's crazy. I hear a lot of talk about K-Pepper becoming the next Twins 3B. And I have no doubt he could be good there. But I've been pleased by Lee's play at 3B and it should only get stronger. Wouldn't we prefer the more athletic KC at 2B to create a great DP combo with Houston?

A definite NO to Garver. I think he's about done, and there's no way to fit him on the roster. Soler's past bat and power would be a great addition. But he hasn't been good for 2 years. (Or healthy). So I just don't know if there's a lot of hope there. But Refsnyder was still good last year before he went to Seattle. So maybe it's just a bad fit? Martin has been on a downward trend for some time now. I'd love to see Gonzalez, but is he ready? We sure could use a spark against LHP. I'd at least be tempted to give Refsnyder a look.

The Twins were never going to trade Jeffers unless they got an offer too tremendous to so nay NO to. You get that, right? He means too much to THIS SEASON. You just DON'T do this all the time. If you do, you mess with the organization as a whole. But for THIS SEASON he's too important to let go. You can debate all you want to about prospects vs keeping him. But he was never going in a trade unless it was an overwhelming offer. Reports are he will reject a QO offer. That means the Twins can bid for him, or just accept another top 40 ish pick for him entering FA. But he's too important of a player for THIS SEASON for the Twins to have moved him.

So after reading all 9 pages, I've decided to just say what I want to say and be done with it. IMO, the Twins had 3 targets to hit. A LHRP, a RHRP...both better than Nance with no insult intended...and they got both, and a solid, backend SP of SOME quality. I wouldn't have objected to a TOP rotation arm, but I ONLY wanted them to do that if they had additional control. This team/organization is not ready to sacrifice top prospects for a rental. Basically, they did all of the above. 1] MINTER is not the same guy who earned a rather crazy $11M per from the Mets. But that's the Mets being the Mets. He showed a solid 94 FB so far. And he's starting to change his repertoire with success. He may not be what he was, but he's still showing good results pre trade. Considering he's not ancient, and might still be rebounding a bit, I wouldn't be surprised if he starts hitting 94-95 before the season is done. I seriously doubt at 33yo he's going to get another crazy deal. MAN would I love him as a resign for a Twins team with a sub $100M scheduled 2027 payroll to complement Banda, under control, to give the Twins a really good LH duo for next season. I like acquiring him. 2] KREMER was NOT on my radar, but I'm not sure who else was without an over pay rental option. But I think he's a surprise to myself and everyone else. But let's pause for a moment to reflect. From 2022-2025 he was a very solid back end SP who had an ERA around 4 and was just a solid SP who won games and ate some IP. That's the kind of arm the team needs right now for depth. And it didn't cost much. And his first few starts this season...coming off injury if I understand correctly...he was throwing as well as he had previously. Then he had 2 really poor games. And that raised his ERA from sub 4 to over 6. So for those who don't like his addition, are you focused too much on 2 bad games? Or will you accept 4 really solid seasons and a handful of solid games before a couple of very poor performances? He's nothing special. But he's been solid in his career. I'm betting on a change of scenery, and the FO and coaching staff looking at his first 4.2 years and making a couple adjustments, and he reverts to his 2022-25 self. Again, nothing special. But a solid #4-5 SP has value. Especially considering our depth is basically gone at this point. BONUS points we have him for depth in 2027, even if he's not special. IF he was having his NORMAL pre 2026 season, I think a lot of posters would be at least a little excited about his addition. But FOCUS on BAD ERA after 2 POOR appearances are not the way to evaluate a pitcher. The Twins tweak a couple of things and we get the "normal" Kremler for the rest of the season, are you going to continue to complain about his acquisition? 3] I really wanted Hoffman. I've been pissed since 2023 when Coulombe and Hoffman were both in camp with the Twins and thought both should have been kept. (Shaking off anger)! I just didn't think the Twins would target him due to his 2027 salary. Does it matter that he allowed a big hit in 2025 that robbed the Jays? Is he to be defined by that? That's ridiculous! Nor should he be defined by a poor start to 2026. He's been his normal outstanding self the last couple of months. There's gas in the tank left. His numbers show that. I DON'T like loosing Hill. He's a tremendous prospect. While I don't want him to ever be good facing the Twins, the truth is he's a talented young arm with vast potential. And I wish him the best. But to all the naysayers, you do realize the future might make us hate trading away Reyes and Hill. But they also might never reach the ML level right? It's always a give and take guys. You have to give to acquire. I like what Zoll has done. He's overseen defensive changes in the lineup along with Shelton. And it's going to continue. But the only thing they didn't do was complete a smaller rumored trade to the Dodgers for OF Alex Call. He's a late development OF who can cover the entire OF with a good glove, and is tremendous against RHP. He's probably a better version of Martin. Other than that, I really like what the FO did.

Despite the injury risk, I would definitely have interest in Greene. He's too good, and too inexpensive, to not take a shot. And what if he's suddenly healthy for 80-90% of a season? I don't like the package proposed in the OP however. From the Twins perspective, I think K-Pepper is of great value to the future, even at 2B or 3B, with Houston as the starting SS. And from the Reds perspective, I'd be awfully excited about Rodriguez. Diaw is probably an OF, not a primary catcher, but maybe a #2? And his bat is really interesting. But maybe they'd rather have Mendez or Gonzalez? I can live with that. But if I'm the Reds, I'm probably asking for Rodriguez and Tait, and then a decent 2nd OF as part of the team. And perhaps that is Diaw. But you trade away Greene and the only arm you get back is Gallagher? I mean, no offense. I think he's got a chance to be a solid back end arm in the near future. But if I'm the Reds, I need an arm like Quick or Hill back as part of this deal. Or maybe one of those 2 AND Gallagher, along with Rodriguez and a 2nd bat? That's a steep price. But it might be worth it.

IMO: 1] We have another RHRP still coming, whether a trade of prospects or Larnach or a small package doesn't matter. 2] I won't advocate a trade of Larnach. But if it takes moving him to get something good, he's one of the easier guys to replace. Between a platoon of Roden/Martin in LF, Jenkins brought up, and/or Rodriguez brought up the end of August. I think Larnach has had maybe his best defensive season ever, but he's still only average. Considering what he's been doing at the plate since about May 1st and his speed, maybe Keaschall takes over the leadoff spot if Larnach is moved? Is it time? Again, not advocating a move of Larnach. But between young OF on hand, better speed and defense, higher ceilings, and not paying $7-8M for a platoon OF in 2027...(there's really NO CLUE how the new CBA is going to go)...he's the easiest veteran player to move that has value not named Jeffers. 3] I think Jeffers is kept. He's too important to this team/season. And if the reports we are hearing are correct, the Twins can offer him the QO knowing he will reject it for a longer term deal elsewhere, and the Twins recoup the draft pick for his rejection. 4] Just my hunch, but I don't see a trade for a front line or middle SP at this time. I can see it in the offseason, but I just don't see it happening now. It would feel almost "rushed" to me at this point. I think Zoll...if they make such a move...would prefer to make such a move after the season.

Don't want to put the cart before the horse, but do we start talking about BOTH Houston and Culpepper in the Twins INF opening day 2027? I thought mid year or so next season where it might happen. But the way Houston is progressing, would it be silly to think he might be ready game one? Lee, Houston, Culpepper, Lewis, with Kreidler and Clemens as utility options sounds really good to me. Nice to see Barr have such a great start. He was one of my favorite picks in the 2025 draft, and a potential steal IMO. Just miserable that so many arms from last year's draft are either injured, or began the year that way.

I guess I'm going to be in the minority here, but I actually like this trade. Remember when we needed IP in 2023 and turned to Dallas Keuchal and his 5.97 ERA as a street FA at 35yo? He helped somewhat, but he was limping along and throwing on guts and guile. If the Twins did, or still do, make a move for a serious, mid rotation SP, I was worried they would send away too much for a rental. And IMO, that would be wrong to do at this point and potentially cost too much for said rental. Now again, if they have the means to grab someone with control still from a team that is in sell mode, I can get on board with that. But at what cost? It just seems to me those kinds of trades usually occur in the offseason. Witness Arraez for Lopez. I didn't want the Twins to over spend for a 4th or 5th SP just to finish out the season. All I'm saying is, cool your jets, forget for a moment your imagination was going to bring in a top 3 SP on a steal from someone, and just examine this deal with a step back. 2022 through 2025 Kremer has been a decent, solid, back end SP. And he hasn't been bad in 2026 until recently. Unless there is a physical issue, the Twins obviously believe they can get him back on track again to what he was the previous 4 years. And what they are looking for...and many of us have speculated about this...is someone to stand up if anyone else gets injured, or when Prielipp hits an IP wall. I mean, at this point, other than Rojas being used as a 3-4 IP opener...hoping for more...the next guy in line is probably Galagher. And no offense, but he isn't ready for ML duty. Kremer gives us protection from injury, protection from Prielipp hitting a wall, and a solid 4th-5th rotation option if they can right his ship back to the course he was previously on. I don't want to see bullpen games over the next 2 months. And the cupboard is bare now at St Paul. This also might allow Prielipp to move to the bullpen in September where he could be a real weapon while controlling his IP. Kremer lengthens the rotation if he's not broken. And he might end up enhancing the bullpen as well. I 100% understand disappointment they didn't add a Ray, or Glausman as a rental. But that's going to cost a top 10-15 prospect plus an additional top 20 probably. And the Twins didn't want to do that. And I get that. I wouldn't do that either, unless it was someone we have control over for a couple of years. And while it could still happen, again, I think those kinds of deals usually happen better in the offseason. If they go out and grab another solid RH pen arm better than Nance to go along with Minter, coupled with the idea that Matthews, or Prielipp can also help the bullpen come September, they achieved a necessary goal tonight. Losing Reyes hurts somewhat. So did losing Amick and Agbayani to a degree. But you have to give up something to get something. Trades don't come free. And Reyes might turn out to be a very good player in time. But so might Amick and Agbayani. You can't just pick and choose what lost prospect might come back to haunt you. Only time will determine that. So far, Zoll has brought in a RHRP in Nance for nothing that helps a little. And then he brought in a solid LHRP in Minter that cost a single top 20 prospect, depending on who's list you look at. And now he's brought in a solid #4-5 SP to eat innings and keep the rotation afloat if there are any more injuries, or simply protecting Prielipp, even if said SP is currently in a funk. And it cost us an almost 19yo in the rookie league who has potential. Wanna bet against the Twins pitching staff to not get Kremer "right" again? I'd still like another solid RHRP arm regardless. MLB.com just had an interesting article about 6 sneaky good trade options that included 32yo Michael Petersen from Miami as a late bloomer with control that might come cheap. There might be others. I'm still expecting another pen arm soon. But I think you might be over reacting if you under sell Kremer as a solid, veteran arm to augment the rotation and get us over the finish line at least.