Pittsburgh Pirates: Three trade destinations for Chris Archer
By David Hill
Minnesota Twins
The Minnesota Twins were determined to land a top of the rotation arm this offseason. After striking out in every attempt, a trade with the Pittsburgh Pirates could be the answer.
Minnesota does have a pair of top of the rotation arms in Jose Berrios and Jake Odorizzi, so Archer would not need to be an ace. In fact, he may well be better suited to being a second starter on a strong team, similar to how he was behind David Price during the beginning of his tenure with the Rays.
Archer would also provide Minnesota with the type of depth they need in the rotation. At this point, their fourth and fifth starters would be Rich Hill and Homer Bailey. When healthy, Hill has been excellent, but his ability to take the ball every fifth day has been an issue. He also had offseason elbow surgery that keep him out for the start of the season. Michael Pineda will also miss time at the start of the season due to a suspension for a banned supplement.
The Twins also have the type of prospects that could entice the Pirates. While they would not be likely to part ways with Brusdar Graterol, their top pitching prospect, Minnesota does have several intriguing pitching prospects. Given the suddenly more competitive AL Central, the Twins may need to make such a move.
It may not be the same return, but the Pittsburgh Pirates could receive enough to send Chris Archer to Minnesota. The pieces are certainly there for such a deal.