Minnesota Twins: Very Early Trade Deadline Discussion

A hot start to the season has the Minnesota Twins in a unique position having the flexibility to be buyers at the trade deadline.

There’s no doubt the 23-18 Minnesota Twins have played above expectations so far. The question lingers in fans minds: Can they keep it up? And if they do, will they be buyers at the trade deadline?

We’ll all welcome these types of problems after enduring losing baseball since 2010. It’s tough to shake a culture like that, but improved defense and front-end pitching helps the Twins break that label as bottom feeders.

Admittedly, despite Jose Berrios’ marvelous arrival, Minnesota needs more arms to have any shot at the postseason. Preferably a dependable veteran or two who resemble Hector Santiago’s contributions to the staff.

Phil Hughes has struggled thus far and will be dealing with lingering injuries. Depending on how he bounces back from triple-A, Kyle Gibson might not give enough to hold down a 4 or 5 spot in the rotation.

More from Puckett's Pond

• Minnesota Twins: Making the Case for the Current 2023 Rotation
• Minnesota Twins: Does the MLB or the Twins have a Spending Problem?
• Minnesota Twins: 2 Possible Free Agent Reunions for 2023
• Minnesota Twins: Holiday Wish List for the rest of the Offseason
• Minnesota Twins: After signing with the Mets, Correa spurns Twins again

Should the Twins be buyers at the deadline, their list of tradable prospects starts and ends with the promising Nick Gordon. Only Gordon and pitcher Stephen Gonsalves are rated in the MLB’s top 100 prospects representing Minnesota.

The Veteran Pitcher Option

They’ll have to be strategic in acquiring a veteran rentals to contend. One veteran pitcher who makes a bushel of sense for both sides is Chicago’s Jose Quintana.

The White Sox expedited their rebuilding process over the offseason by trading away big names like Chris Sale and Adam Eaton. In doing so, they skyrocketed the prospect rankings and are further looking to unload their other experienced players for younger value.

Chicago is doing a great job rebuilding so far. By no means are they out of contention in the shaky AL Central division. Jose Quintana is a highly regarded pitcher around the majors and would require a major piece in return.

Thad Levine left the Rangers organization that most notably swung for the fences in the Cole Hamels deal years back. He’s not afraid to take a chance, which should be a welcomed change here for the Minnesota Twins.

On the other hand, the Twins haven’t ruled out an Ervin Santana trade still. The 34-year old is having a career year and should hold significant value this summer. If the team is still in contention come July, it’s doubtful Santana gets moved but the right deal could change things. He’s been masterful so far. His 2.07 ERA ranks third in the majors and his 6 wins ties him for second in that category. If Ervin can land Minnesota a blue chip pitching prospect, they’ll likely pull the trigger.

Next: Twins drop 14 runs in victory over Orioles

The Twins hot start opens new opportunities that benefit the roster whether they are buyers or sellers at the deadline. Until then, let’s enjoy this unexpected ride.