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It’s mid-January- pitchers and catchers don’t report for nearly a month (and Falvey and Levine have routinely made acquisitions deep into the spring). The Twins are rumored to be looking into adding pitching and a right-handed outfielder. However, the hot stove has cooled considerably and most of the big chips have fallen. How are we feeling about this offseason at this time?
Additions
-Christian Vazquez brings stability behind the plate and potentially a boost to the pitching staff. He’ll be here for a few years (3-year deal)
-Joey Gallo, who has struggled of late, will at least bring the same averages as Kepler while hitting more bombs on a cheap one-year contract.
-Kyle Farmer will likely fill a utility role, as the experienced shortstop may also play some outfield.
-Minor League deals for experienced major leaguer Willi Castro.
-Potential pitching options A.J. Alexy and Alejandro Hidalgo.
Retained
-Carlos Correa, for the remainder of his effective career most likely on a risk-averse deal.
-Extended Chris Paddack for more control after he comes back from Tommy John.
Lost
-Gio Urshela in a trade with the Angels (sad, but smart)
-Gary Sanchez
-Miguel Sano
-Dylan Bundy
-Chris Archer
-Michael Fulmer
-Billy Hamilton
-Sandy Leon
-Aaron Sanchez
Which is to say, very little of consequence. A majority of those players are actually still unsigned at this time.
My Grade: B
Tempting to put them at an A, but I’m saving room for improvement in case Falvey and Levine make some more moves of consequence. Obviously the Correa deal was a watershed moment in Twins history, which brings the floor way up for the grade. I’m also very high on the Christian Vazquez acquisition- catcher was a black hole as Jeffers struggled even when healthy last year. Joey Gallo may or may not pay dividends, but on a one-year deal, it doesn’t matter too much. If the front office goes out and gets a pitcher of consequence without sending Arraez away, they’ll be firmly in the A column in my book.
What do you think? Am I naive or overly optimistic, or are you with me? What’s your grade so far for this offseason?
Poll
Twins Offseason Grade so far?
This poll is closed
-
19%
A
-
59%
B
-
19%
C
-
1%
D
-
0%
F
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