As the trade deadline approaches, the Minnesota Twins appear poised to be buyers. They are trailing the Cleveland Guardians by eight games in the AL Central and holding onto a Wild Card spot. To increase their playoff chances, the Twins need to make smart, cost-effective moves to strengthen their roster.
### Key Areas for Improvement
The Twins have struggled against right-handed pitchers, batting just .236 compared to .278 against left-handers. While Carlos Correa and Royce Lewis are strong offensive players, they need more support to prevent opponents from pitching around them. Additionally, the Twins’ pitching staff, outside of Joe Ryan and Pablo López, lacks consistency and playoff experience. Acquiring a veteran starter could provide much-needed stability in crucial games.
### Target Players
**Brent Rooker, OF, Oakland A’s**
Rooker, a former Twin, has found success with the Oakland A’s, hitting 30 home runs last season. In 2024, he is slashing .256/.333/.496 with 13 home runs and 44 RBIs. Importantly, he bats .262 against right-handers, a significant upgrade for the Twins. Rooker’s power could provide essential protection behind Lewis, discouraging teams from walking him. Rooker is on a cheap one-year deal, making him a cost-effective option who wouldn’t require the hefty trade price of a player like Pete Alonso.
**Brendan Rodgers, 2B, Colorado Rockies**
Rodgers, a second baseman for the struggling Rockies, is on a one-year deal and could add valuable depth to the Twins’ infield. He is slashing .279/.311/.403 this season with four home runs and 14 doubles. Against right-handers, he is batting .259, which is better than the Twins’ team average. Rodgers, a former third overall pick, might benefit from a change of scenery, potentially realizing his untapped potential. Given his contract status and the Rockies’ poor performance, Rodgers could be an affordable rental.
**Yusei Kikuchi, SP, Toronto Blue Jays**
The Twins could benefit from reacquiring Kikuchi, a left-handed starter with a solid track record. Kikuchi, who has a 4-7 record, a 1.33 WHIP, and a 4.00 ERA, has made seven quality starts this season. His experience and left-handed pitching would offer manager Rocco Baldelli a valuable option in the rotation. Kikuchi is also on a one-year deal, making him a practical target for a team seeking to bolster its playoff chances without overcommitting resources.
### Strategic Moves
These potential acquisitions, while not as high-profile as stars like Alonso or Jack Flaherty, could provide the Twins with the necessary boost to contend for the AL Central title. They are attainable and offer improvements without requiring the Twins to deplete their farm system. By focusing on these underrated players, the Twins can enhance their roster for a strong finish to the season.
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