While the Twins have remained inactive during this winter, coveted free agents have been consistently committing to other teams. As Minnesota opts to stay on the sidelines without making substantial changes, the frustration among their supporters grows.
Despite some minor signings of players through low-profile minor league deals, uncertainty looms over their presence in the roster post-Spring Training. Fans had hoped for a proactive approach from the team, especially after their notable postseason performance in 2002. Instead, they received news of a reduced budget and the departure of impactful players from the previous season.
The departures of Sonny Gray, Kenta Maeda, and Emilio Pagan were followed by Tyler Mahle’s decision to sign a rehabilitation deal with the Texas Rangers, causing the potential trade involving him to collapse. Speculation persists about potential trades involving Jorge Polanco and/or Max Kepler.
While the Twins have been linked to free agents, they have yet to make any significant acquisitions. For instance, the delay has cost them the chance to pursue players like Kevin Kiermaier, such as the center fielder from the Blue Jays, who would have been a suitable addition but is now off the table due to Minnesota’s delayed action.
Twins miss out on another rumored free agent target
According to Bob Nightengale, and later confirmed by the Blue Jays, the Blue Jays granted Kiermaier a one-year, $10.5 million contract to keep him off the market.
The Blue Jays’ decision to acquire a productive player from last season adds depth to their outfield, making it a sensible move for their team. However, this move potentially influences the Twins in two ways: it might eliminate Toronto as a contender for a Max Kepler trade. Still, the significant impact is that a prospective free agent target is now unavailable to the Twins due to their lack of action.
It’s possible that the Twins weren’t overly keen on acquiring Kiermaier in the first place, which seems evident given their lack of pursuit. Admittedly, while Kiermaier appeared to be a suitable replacement for Michael A. Taylor, the asking price of $10.5 million might have been a deterrent.
Even though there were rumors linking Kiermaier to the Twins, their inactivity in pursuing him suggests otherwise. This situation may not sit well with the fan base, eager to witness the team take action during this offseason, especially as Kiermaier moves back to Toronto without any apparent interest or action from Minnesota.
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