The Minnesota Twins had high hopes for the 2021 season. They had won the AL Central in each of the past two seasons, and while the White Sox had drastically improved, the division was still theirs for the taking. Maybe there were some questions about the pitching staff, but for the most part, the Twins appeared to have the type of team that could contend for a postseason berth.
But the games are not played on paper or in a computer simulation. The Twins’ attempt to rebuild their rotation was a disaster. Injuries decimated the roster, leading to a fire sale that saw the team get rid of several mainstays. Instead of contending for the division, the Twins finished dead last in the AL Central.
3 moves for the Minnesota Twins this offseason
That does not mean that the near future is bleak in Minnesota. The Twins have several young arms that appear to be ready to make a difference at the major league level. Their lineup is still solid, and with an addition or two, could be even better. The Twins could compete again in 2022.
Let’s take a look at three moves the Minnesota Twins should make this offseason.
Extend Byron Buxton
The Minnesota Twins are in a difficult spot when it comes to Byron Buxton.
There is no questioning his talent. His blend of power and speed makes him an asset in the middle of their lineup, someone who is truly a game changing talent. He is also an excellent defensive center fielder, a former Gold Glove winner who has saved 60 runs in just 485 games at the position.
But there is a reason why he has just 485 games in center in parts of seven seasons. Buxton cannot stay healthy, appearing in more than 92 games just once in his major league career. Any long term deal will have to factor in his injury history.
Yet the Twins are clearly a better team with him in the lineup. This is something that both sides are aware of. As such, the Twins have attempted to extend Buxton, but his representatives have asked for far more than the organization has offered. Given his injury history, and how another shortened season could be disastrous to his free agency hopes, one has to imagine that the two sides can find a middle ground.
The Minnesota Twins need Byron Buxton for the long term. Their top priority this offseason should be to find a way to make an extension happen.