The Minnesota Twins have essentially alternated strong seasons with mediocrity since 2015. After struggling in 2021, the Twins have been right on script thus far as they currently lead the AL Central.
However, the division is not the cakewalk that it was last year. While the White Sox are struggling, the Guardians keep finding ways to win, having pulled to within two games of the Twins entering Friday. The Twins are going to need some help to remain atop the division.
Three trade targets for Minnesota Twins
That is especially the case considering that the Guardians do not appear to be going away any time soon. The White Sox could also be a factor again if Tony La Russa can put down the beer and focus on the game, or if he gets fired. Chances are, the Twins will have their work cut out for them if they are going to hang on.
The Minnesota Twins need some pieces if they are going to remain atop the AL Central. Let’s take a look at three possible trade targets.
Frankie Montas
Frankie Montas is going to be a popular name in trade rumors with plenty of teams being interested. Count the Minnesota Twins amongst them.
The Twins were already involved in Montas rumors before the season began. Minnesota was heavily rumored to be interested in both Montas and Sean Manaea, with Manaea eventually ending up in San Diego. The A’s, meanwhile, had put Montas on the back burner, seemingly waiting until the trade deadline before looking to make a deal.
He certainly has not hurt his trade stock. Montas had posted a 3.40 ERA and a 1.043 WHiP over his 76.2 innings entering Friday, striking out 80 batters with 17 walks. That production would be a great fit atop the Twins’ rotation, especially as they look to put some distance between themselves and the rest of the division.
There is another reason to be interested in Montas. He is averaging nearly six innings per start and ranks sixth in the AL. His 187 innings last year ranked third in the league. As Joe Ryan is the only one of their starters who is averaging over five innings per game, getting someone that can alleviate the pressure on the bullpen would make a major difference.
Plenty of teams are going to be after Frankie Montas at the trade deadline. Considering the state of the Minnesota Twins rotation, they desperately need to bring him north.