Minnesota Twins take reasonable gamble on Chris Paddack

The Minnesota Twins could have a bargain on their hands if Chris Paddack can stay healthy.

The Twins announced that they have signed Paddack to a three year extension, covering his final two seasons of arbitration and first year of free agency. He will make $2.5 million in each of the first two years and $7.5 million in the third, with bonuses based on innings pitched.

Minnesota Twins could have bargain with Chris Paddack

Paddack had been part of the Twins’ surprising trade just before Opening Day last season, acquired along with Emilio Pagan and minor leaguer Brayan Medina with Taylor Rogers and Brent Rooker being sent to San Diego. The Twins added an intriguing arm with three years of team control, someone that could help stabilize the back of their rotation.

He started out relatively well. His 4.03 ERA may not have been anything to get overly excited about, but Paddack had posted a 1.72 FIP along with a 1.209 WHiP over his 22.1 innings, striking out 20 batters with two walks. However, he landed on the Injured List with elbow problems, necessitating Tommy John surgery that is expected to keep him sidelined until August.

If healthy and able to live up to his potential, Paddack could be a key piece in the Twins’ rotation for the near future. Jon Gray, Kenta Maeda, and Tyler Mahle are all set to enter free agency after this season, leaving several holes for the Twins to attempt to fill. Paddack could be a part of the solution.

But he needs to be healthy first. That has not always been the case as he had battled injuries in 2021 as well. However, for just over $12.5 million over three years, Paddack is the type of gamble that the Twins have to take. He could end up being an impressive bargain.

The Minnesota Twins have extended Chris Paddack on a three year deal. He could end up being an impressive bargain in the coming years.