I wrote a similar article to this one back in mid-April. Unfortunately, two of the moves that looked great about five weeks ago are now in the "awful" category. Since the narrative of two of these offseason decisions has already changed drastically, it's important to keep in mind that there's plenty of time for that to happen again. Regardless, we're going to react to how several Twins offseason moves have looked thus far in 2026.
2 Twins offseason decisions that look genius
Tendering OF Trevor Larnach a contract
Many Twins fans, including me, were confused as to why Minnesota tendered Larnach a contract in the offseason. For most of his career, Larnach has been an average hitter and a poor defender. This year, he's been one of the team's best players.
Larnach is tied with outfielder Austin Martin for the fifth-best fWAR on the team with 1.1. In 146 plate appearances this season, Larnach has slashed .279/.397/.402 (131 wRC+) with two home runs and 14 RBI. After recording -3 Defensive Runs Saved (DRS) last season, Larnach has posted 3 in 2026.
Trading for RHP Eric Orze
The Twins acquired Orze from the Tampa Bay Rays for minor-league right-hander Jacob Kisting in November. Orze has been the Twins' best reliever per fWAR (0.5) and bWAR (0.6) this season. In 24 innings this year, Orze has posted a 3.38 ERA, 2.96 FIP and 20.4% strikeout rate.
2 Twins offseason decisions that look awful
Signing 1B/DH Josh Bell
The Twins signed Bell to a one-year, $7 million deal in December. Through April 19, Bell had slashed .263/.352/.447 (126 wRC+) with three homers, five doubles and 15 RBI over 88 plate appearances. He's cooled down significantly since then, lowering his season slash line to .228/.294/.353 (83 wRC+). The veteran first baseman has hit just two homers since April 19. Defensively, Bell has recorded -1 DRS and -1 Outs Above Average (OAA) in 2026.
Signing C/1B Victor Caratini
The Twins signed Caratini to a two-year, $14 million deal in January. Caratini, who spent the last two years with the Houston Astros, had a decent start to the season before entering a cold streak. Overall, the former Astro has posted an awful .186/.292/.246 (58 wRC+) slash line with two homers and 17 RBI in 38 games with Minnesota. With Ryan Jeffers expected to miss six to eight weeks after undergoing hamate surgery, the Twins need more offensive production from Caratini. On the bright side, Caratini has been a strong framer and great at utilizing the ABS challenge system.
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