These 6 (Yes, SIX) Minnesota Twins Could Be On The Move By The Trade Deadline

 

The Minnesota Twins were expected to be a contender in the American League Central Division this season; things haven't quite gone as planned, with a 33-48 record, buried in last place. Now, they've apparently given up the ship for 2021, as MLB insider Jon Heyman reports they will be sellers in the leadup to this year's trade deadline on July 30th.

And with no less than SIX players on the block, it will indeed be a feeding frenzy in the Twin Cities. 

Twins should have a productive sale, especially if they seriously consider dealing ace José Berrios, under control thru 2022. Nelson Cruz, Taylor Rogers, Hansel Robles and Andrelton Simmons will all draw interest. Donaldson is producing but he’s 35 and has $60M to go thru ‘23.

— Jon Heyman (@JonHeyman) July 4, 2021

According to Heyman, these six players will drawing interest from contenders:

Jose Berrios:

This is a no-brainer; Berrios is the ace of the Twins' staff, with a 7-2 record and 3.52 ERA. He wouldn't be strictly a rental, as he is under control through 2022.

Nelson Cruz:

The ageless DH hasn't slowed a bit in 2021, with 18 bombs, and a .306/.381/.952 slash line. The 40-year-old is in his 17th major league season, and is a free agent after the season

Josh Donaldson:

Another power bat, the third baseman will be shopped, and there are a number of teams that could use one more big bat in their lineup. We told you about the New York Mets being one option, but the New York Yankees and Chicago White Sox could also be in the market for another bat. The thing is, as Heyman pointed out, any team taking on Donaldson would also be taking on the $60M he is owed through 2023, his age 37 season. 

Taylor Rogers/Hansel Robles:

The Twins' co-closers would make excellent additions to any number of teams looking to upgrade their bullpen, including the Toronto Blue Jays, St. Louis Cardinals, Houston Astros and Philadelphia Phillies.

Andrelton Simmons:

The slick-fielding shortstop is a 3-time Gold Glove winner, on a one-and-done contract with the Twins. He could help any team looking to shore up their infield defense. 

Even more names could be added to this list as well, including starters J.A. Happ and Michael Pineda. 

All in all, this should one wild trade deadline in Minnesota.

Photo Credit: Brad Rempel-USA TODAY Sports