**MLB Rumors: Twins Eyeing Pitching Boost at Trade Deadline, Favoring Yusei Kikuchi**
The Minnesota Twins, currently 12 games above .500 and 4.5 games behind the Cleveland Guardians in the AL Central, are looking to bolster their pitching rotation at the trade deadline. With a strong first half, the Twins are aiming for a deep playoff run and believe Toronto Blue Jays’ Yusei Kikuchi is the perfect fit, according to Dan Hayes of The Athletic.
The Twins have won 13 of their last 20 games, led by a hot-hitting infield and solid pitching. To ensure a successful second half and a strong postseason performance, they need a high-quality starter. Minnesota’s rotation, featuring Joe Ryan and rookie Simeon Woods Richardson, has been effective but lacks depth and consistency. With Woods Richardson already pitching 82 innings this season, the Twins are cautious about his workload and potential fatigue.
Minnesota’s starters have impressive stats, ranking top five in strikeouts, K/9, and WHIP, but they are 15th or worse in batting average against, WPA, and ERA. To address these concerns, the Twins seek a second-half rental pitcher, making Kikuchi an ideal candidate. Kikuchi, in the final year of his three-year, $36 million contract, would cost the Twins around $3 million for the remainder of the season.
Kikuchi, a former All-Star, could provide stability and experience to the Twins’ rotation, crucial for the postseason. While not as high-profile as Garrett Crochet or Jack Flaherty, Kikuchi is expected to attract significant interest in a competitive market for starting pitchers.
The Twins, with an 81.6 percent chance of making the playoffs according to Fangraphs, are prepared to offer prospects to secure Kikuchi. An upgrade at the trade deadline is vital for their chances of a deep playoff run, and acquiring Kikuchi could be the key move to elevate their postseason aspirations.
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