3 players for Minnesota Twins to target this offseason
By David Hill
The Minnesota Twins appeared to be on the verge of an unexpected postseason appearance.
Despite a plethora of injuries that would have doomed every other team, the Twins were tied with the Guardians for the AL Central lead on September 4. Then the Guardians went on a run, the Twins tanked as the injuries became too much to overcome, and Minnesota ended the season third in the division with a 78-84 record.
Three players for Minnesota Twins to target
The Twins also find themselves at a crossroads. Between free agency, opt outs, and players that just did not perform as hoped, the Twins have plenty of holes on their roster. At the same time, they project to have just $80 million committed to their 2023 roster with guaranteed deals and arbitration, making it possible that they could be players in the open market once again.
The 2022 season was the worst case scenario for the Minnesota Twins. Let’s look at three players they could target to get back to the postseason.
Carlos Correa
The Minnesota Twins already surprised everyone when they signed Carlos Correa ahead of the 2022 season on what was nominally a three year deal, although it had opt out clauses after each season.
It was not a surprise when Correa exercised that option to return to free agency. He had been considered the top shortstop available last season but no one was interested in meeting his contract demands. This time, with plenty of teams needing help at short and a less crowded market, he is looking to cash in.
At the same time, Correa has been vocal about how much his family enjoys living in Minnesota and his love for manager Rocco Baldelli. He clearly embraced the area and the culture of the team, potentially finding a home after spending his previous seven years in Houston. The Twins certainly have a chance.
But in the end, money is going to talk. If the Twins are going to keep Correa, it will involve a larger contract than they had ever given out before. Considering how much money they should have available, and how the Twins have already been in contact with Scott Boras to work on a new deal, it is entirely possible he stays in Minnesota.
The Minnesota Twins need consistent, productive bats in the lineup. Keeping Carlos Correa has to be their top priority.