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5 Teams That Would Benefit from a Trade for Ervin Santana

By Brendan Dlubala

Aug 21, 2016; Kansas City, MO, USA; Minnesota Twins pitcher Ervin Santana (54) gets set before the first pitch against the Kansas City Royals during the first inning at Kauffman Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Peter G. Aiken-USA TODAY Sports
Aug 21, 2016; Kansas City, MO, USA; Minnesota Twins pitcher Ervin Santana (54) gets set before the first pitch against the Kansas City Royals during the first inning at Kauffman Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Peter G. Aiken-USA TODAY Sports /
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Minnesota Twins’ veteran starting pitcher Ervin Santana recently cleared major league trade waivers and looks to be a valuable asset for a contender but the question is, who will trade for him?

For an overall underwhelming starting pitching staff, the Minnesota Twins have just put a gem up for sale. According to the Pioneer Press, Ervin Santana is eligible for trade with any club after clearing trade waivers in recent days. The 33-year-old has a 6-10 record with a 3.33 earned-run average.  In his past 7 starts, he has a 3-2 record with a 2.39 ERA.

Santana’s current contract breaks down like this:

  • $2.66 million – remainder of 2016
  • $13.5 million – 2017
  • $13.5 million – 2018
  • $14 million – 2019 club option with $1 million buyout

The Twins interim GM, Rob Antony, previously stated in an interview with MLB.com, that trading Santana is a possibility but it is not due to his salary. “I’ve told everyone it’s not a financial thing. Our owner told me we didn’t need to shed payroll or anything. With a guy like that, he can [be] part of the solution for us as we try to get back on the right track. I don’t think we’re that far away, but I also know we have opportunities to improve this club, and I’d like to seize those opportunities.”

If it isn’t about money, then the Twins should capitalize on Santana’s recent success and trade him. Although with no teams claiming Santana through waivers, the Twins will likely have to eat some of his remaining salary to move him.  With a weak upcoming free agent market for SPs, Santana should bring a solid return from a team in need.

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