On the Pond: Will the Minnesota Twins be Buyers at the Trade Deadline?

On the Pond is a weekly article in which I will answer questions I receive via Twitter. Send in your questions via Twitter using #OnThePond or mentioning @PuckettsPond or @Brennen_James

@PuckettsPond Do the Twins make any moves at the trade-deadline? #MNTwins
— Ben Engelken (@BenEngelken) July 8, 2015

I could see the Twins making minor moves at the trade deadline. They could stand to upgrade their bullpen and maybe make a move for a veteran shortstop. The Twins have a plethora of young prospects and could be big buyers at the deadline. I just don’t think the Twins are going to compromise their long term success for short term success.

@PuckettsPond How can we make room for Arcia at this point, since he seems to have figured out his swing down in AAA?
— Trisha Stulz (@TwinsFanTrisha) July 8, 2015

Oswaldo Arcia has been swinging a hot bat for Triple-A Rochester. Over the past 10 games Arcia is hitting .375 with five home runs and 11 RBIs. Word on the street he’s also looked better in the field as well. I just don’t see where there’s room for him in the Twins lineup. Eddie Rosario doesn’t possess Arcia’s power, but he’s been no slouch at the plate hitting .265 with four home runs and 20 RBIs. He’s also a leaps and bounds ahead of Arcia in terms of defense.

It’s highly likely Arcia’s current hot streak could lead to him being moved at the trade deadline. He’s only 24 years old and teams may be attracted to his raw power. There is just no room for him with the Twins right now.

@PuckettsPond so what do the Twins do when Buxton is healthy? Keep Rosario Buxton Hicks Hunter??
— Julie (@ThanksToTroops) July 8, 2015

I think you answered your own question. When Byron Buxton is ready to start playing again he will likely play in a few rehab games for Triple-A Rochester. Depending on how Aaron Hicks is playing at that time, the Twins may opt to keep Buxton in Triple-A. But, when Buxton is deemed ready to return, the Twins outfield will likely be Rosario in left field, Buxton in center field and Torii Hunter in right field, with Hicks serving as the fourth outfielder.

@PuckettsPond Rumors of #Twins trading for Gomez from Brewers. Any truth and does it make sense? #onthepond
— Dave Wheeler (@DaveWheeler11) July 8, 2015

I’ve heard no such rumors. But, to answer your question, no, it makes no sense. Why would the Twins trade for a center fielder when they have Buxton ready to make an impact?

A big thanks to all those that sent in questions. I look forward to answering your questions next week.

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