At least, for the moment, the Minnesota Twins have silenced the idea that they will be sellers at the Major League Baseball Trade Deadline. The same week the Twins entered with a losing streak that had them spiraling toward being one of the worst teams in baseball, Derek Falvey pushed back on the idea of the team selling at the deadline. The Twins have since won two consecutive games and remain a part of the handful of teams in the middle of the American League Wild-Card race.
Still, for a team like the Twins, if their debate is between whether they should stand pat at the deadline or sell, the easy answer is that they should choose to sell. The harsh reality is that even if the Twins secure a Wild-Card spot, they would be an easy out once the postseason starts. With that in mind, for their future, the best thing may be that they sell at the deadline.
If the Twins do become sellers, several teams would be ideal trade partners.
3 smart trade partners for the Twins to match with
- Chicago Cubs
The Chicago Cubs have needs in their starting rotation and bullpen while also hoping to add a utility infielder. The Cubs have already been linked to Willi Castro, but chances are they would also have an interest in veteran starting pitcher Chris Paddack. Among the needs the Twins have is for a left-handed hitting corner outfielders. Cubs' prospect Owen Caissie would easily check that box.
- Los Angeles Dodgers
The Los Angeles Dodgers' pitching staff has been riddled with injuries this season. The expectation is that the Dodgers will be in the market for bullpen help ahead of the deadline. Danny Coulombe feels like an easy target for the Dodgers; however, they likely would aim higher and inquire about the availability of Jhoan Duran. The Dodgers have a plethora of pitching prospects who could be of interest for the Twins if they trade from their pitching crop ahead of the deadline.
- Philadelphia Phillies
The Philadelphia Phillies have a need in their outfield, and Twins outfielders Harrison Bader and Willi Castro would likely be of interest. The Phillies are also looking for bullpen help, and a call to the Twins will likely be one of the first moves they make. The Phillies have not been shy about their deadline aggressiveness in the past, and that could work in the Twins' favor if they choose to jump the market and become sellers.