Pitching has been at the center of the Minnesota Twins' success this season, and if the team was going to build off their 18-8 record from May, their pitching was going to need to be the reason why. That is why the injury to Pablo López dramatically alters the approach that the Twins have to take at the Major League Baseball Trade Deadline.
López is expected to miss the next 8-12 weeks with a shoulder strain, placing his return, on an optimistic scale, around August. The silver lining is that López's injury shouldn't require surgery, suggesting that his return will indeed be this season.
If the Twins continue their hot play this month, there is no question that they will be buyers at the deadline. With López sidelined, if the Twins remain in buying mode, the need becomes obvious. The Twins must acquire a starting pitcher who can be placed at the top of their starting rotation.
3 external Pablo Lopez replacements
- Sandy Alcantara
If the Twins are aiming at the top of the market, chances are they will give the Miami Marlins a call to inquire about the status of Sandy Alcantara. A former Cy Young Award winner, Alcantara has struggled this season. Through his first 12 starts this season, Alcantara sits with an ERA of 7.89. Alcantara is working his way back from Tommy John surgery last year, and his last start against the Colorado Rockies could be a sign that he is beginning to get back in form.
- Mitch Keller
The Pittsburgh Pirates likely won't be trading Paul Skenes at the deadline, but just about everyone else on their roster should be available. There are two pitchers, in particular, who could be of interest to the Twins. Mitch Keller is one of the Pirates' pitchers to keep an eye on. Keller has posted a 3.73 ERA through his first 12 starts this season and is under contract until 2029.
- Merrill Kelly
Of the three pitchers mentioned, Merrill Kelly would likely be the most affordable for the Twins. Between his age (36) and the fact that he is a free agent after the season, Kelly would be an ideal target for the Twins, as the cost wouldn't mirror the price of Alcantara or Keller. Through 13 starts with the Arizona Diamondbacks this season, Kelly has a 3.43 ERA. With López expected back, a move for a pitcher like Kelly could be more of what the Twins' front office may be thinking.