MLB insider Jim Bowden reported that the Twins are "actively involved" in the free-agent market for closers. Also, at least 10 teams have reached out to former Twins righty reliever and current free agent Emilio Pagán, according to the Cincinnati Enquirer's Gordon Wittenmyer.
The Twins acquired Pagán and right-handed starting pitcher Chris Paddack from the San Diego Padres in exchange for left-handed reliever Taylor Rogers and outfielder Brent Rooker in April 2022. Pagán struggled in his first year (2022) with Minnesota, posting a 4.43 ERA in 63 innings. He stepped up his game in his second and final season (2023) with the Twins, posting a 2.99 ERA in 69 1/3 innings before pitching two scoreless innings during the 2023 playoffs.
Pagán was unpopular at many times during his tenure with the Twins, but he ultimately had a very solid season with the club. Twins fans are likely overall disappointed with the trade that netted Pagán, as Paddack didn't live up to expectations, and Rooker and Rogers have been successful since moving on from Minnesota. But as for Pagán, it's hard to say he was much of a disappointment as a Twin.
Should the Twins reunite with Reds free agent closer Emilio Pagán?
Pagán became a free agent following the 2023 season and signed a two-year, $16 million contract with the Cincinnati Reds. He had a 4.50 ERA across 38 innings in 2024 before posting a 2.88 ERA with 81 strikeouts and 32 saves in 68 2/3 innings this past season.
MLB Trade Rumors projects Pagán will receive another two-year, $16 million contract this offseason. Minnesota may not want to shell out that much money on a reliever, but it should consider doing so. If Pagán can recreate the success he had last season, paying him $16 million for two years will be a bargain.
The Twins need a new closer after trading Jhoan Durán to the Philadelphia Phillies last summer, and Pagán could be a cheap replacement. Not to mention, Minnesota also dealt relievers Louis Varland, Brock Stewart and Griffin Jax last July, almost completely dismantling the Twins' successful bullpen. President of baseball operations Derek Falvey must rebuild the bullpen through free agency this winter, and signing Pagán would be a good way to start.