2011 MLB Trade Rumors: Twins Closer Search

It’s now guaranteed that Joe Nathan will not be returning to the Twins in 2012, as the veteran reliever signed a two-year deal with the Texas Rangers earlier in the week.  With Nathan no longer being an option, the Twins are looking to replace their all-time saves leader.  Minnesota’s general manager Terry Ryan made it clear Wednesday that Nathan’s replacement is not on the Twins current roster.

One in-house option for the Twins is starter-turned-reliever Glen Perkins.  In his first full season pitching out of the pen, Perkins posted a 2.48 ERA over his 65 appearances and 61 2/3 innings.  Perkins recorded 17 holds for the Twins in 2011 along with the first two saves of his major league career.

But Perkins’ strong performance last season didn’t convince the Twins that he’s ready to take over as the club’s full-time closer.  Ryan told Phil Mackey of 1500ESPN.com that he thinks “it’s a little bit early” to hand over the reins to Perkins.  Ryan told Mackey that “history says you might want to have somebody with experience” in the closer’s role.

If the Twins are unwilling to spend what it will take to sign one of the market’s top free agent closers, there are several players available through trade.  The A’s have indicated that they are willing to trade closer Andrew Bailey, while the Rockies are actively shopping Huston Street.

For more on the Twins, be sure to check out Puckett’s Pond.