The Minnesota Twins are currently holding a 52-39 record and are set to play a double-header against the Chicago White Sox today. They trail the Cleveland Guardians by five and a half games and occupy the first Wild Card spot as we approach the midpoint of the season. With the July trade deadline approaching, here are some potential targets the Twins could consider to bolster their rotation for the playoff run.
LHP – Garrett Crochet, Chicago White Sox
Crochet is a standout candidate, though acquiring him may be expensive. The converted bullpen arm has been stellar this season, leading the majors with 146 strikeouts in 105.1 innings, along with a 3.08 ERA and a 0.97 WHIP. His impressive performance includes six wins and six losses in 19 starts. Despite the White Sox not needing to trade him, they could receive a substantial return if they do.
LHP – Tyler Anderson, Los Angeles Angels
Anderson, likely to be on the trading block as the Angels become sellers, has made 18 starts this year, recording eight wins and eight losses. Over 112 innings, he has a 2.81 ERA, a 1.18 WHIP, 77 strikeouts, and 47 walks, allowing 35 earned runs. He could complement the Twins’ rotation, which is currently dominated by right-handed pitchers.
LHP – Yusei Kikuchi, Toronto Blue Jays
Kikuchi’s availability depends on whether the Blue Jays choose to rebuild or aim for contention in 2025. In 19 starts, he has four wins, a 4.00 ERA, a 1.27 WHIP, 111 strikeouts, 23 walks, and has allowed 45 earned runs in 101.1 innings. He could be a suitable addition to the lower part of the Twins’ rotation.
RHP – Chris Bassitt, Toronto Blue Jays
Bassitt is another potential trade candidate from the Blue Jays. The veteran right-hander, under contract through 2025, has seven wins and seven losses in 18 starts, with a 3.43 ERA in 102.1 innings, 94 strikeouts, and 41 walks. He could be a valuable addition if other options prove too costly.
RHP – Zach Eflin, Tampa Bay Rays
Eflin’s availability depends on whether the Rays decide to compete or sell, given their 45-46 record and position five and a half games out of the wild card. He has five wins, five losses, and a 4.19 ERA in 16 starts, with 72 strikeouts and eight walks in 92.1 innings. He is an intriguing option if the Rays decide to move him.
Overview
The Twins’ rotation currently lacks a left-handed arm and ranks 19th in the majors with a 4.16 ERA. Joe Ryan, Pablo Lopez, Bailey Ober, Simeon Woods Richardson, and Chris Paddack are all right-handers. Therefore, the priority should be acquiring a left-hander, with Tyler Anderson being the top target, followed by Yusei Kikuchi. If these options fall through, Zach Eflin and Chris Bassitt could be considered, although adding another right-hander may not be ideal. Regardless of the target, any addition would strengthen the Twins’ rotation as they push towards the playoffs.
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