The Minnesota Twins find themselves at a critical juncture as the offseason unfolds. Most of their interest is driving towards trading ace pitcher Pablo Lopez. While their 2024 campaign has already been disappointing, they are exploring new options around a trade spree.
After failing to secure a playoff berth, the Twins’ front office must navigate a complicated task this winter. They are tackling payroll constraints and limited avenues for improvement. In this environment, trade discussions are a major part of their strategy agenda. Lopez has found himself at the center of these speculative conversations.
As reported by ESPN’s Jeff Passan, the slow-moving free-agent market this winter presents a unique challenge for teams like the Twins. While elite players, most notably Juan Soto, who recently signed a staggering $765 million contract with the New York Mets, have grabbed headlines, the rest of the market is mostly stagnant. With many teams opting to explore trades rather than commit to expensive free-agent signings, activity is beginning to stir, creating opportunities for the Twins.
The #MNTwins have listened to trade offers on SP Pablo Lopez, per @JeffPassan pic.twitter.com/rHGtDBEiJi
— MLB Deadline News (@MLBDeadlineNews) December 19, 2024
The team’s management is responding to a cooling free agent market where pitching prices remain exorbitantly high. This environment presents a great opportunity for clubs seeking to strengthen their rotations without breaking the bank. Teams that might typically target free agents like Corbin Burnes are now looking at Pablo as a more affordable alternative.
However, the decision to consider trades stems from a strategic look at Lopez’s contract, which remains remarkably affordable. With approximately $63 million owed over the next three years, Lopez is a valuable asset in the current pitching market that may become increasingly inflated.
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What Impact Could Twins Pitching Lineup Get if Pablo Lopez Is Traded?
If the Minnesota Twins decide to trade Pablo Lopez, the immediate impact on their pitching staff would be significant. Lopez, who played a pivotal role as the team’s ace, finished 2024 with a respectable 4.08 ERA over 185.1 innings pitched, striking out 198 batters. He obviously did not have a performance at a 2023 level where he finished seventh in Cy Young voting, but he still remains a reliable front-liner starter.
Without him, the Twins would turn to pitchers like Bailey Ober and Joe Ryan as their top two options. However, the depth behind them could lead to uncertainty in the starting rotation, as many of the other candidates are still trying to establish themselves at the Major League level.
The lack of a true ace could hinder the team’s composition as they aim for a division title in 2025. Despite this, the Twins boast a promising array of young talent in their farm system, which could provide a silver lining if Lopez is traded. Highly ranked prospects such as Marco Raya, Andrew Morris, Eiberson Castellano, and Cory Lewis are nearing MLB readiness.Best pitcher in baseball might end up a Minnesota Twin 👀pic.twitter.com/KhrolavGBO
— Ryan Linderholm (@LinderholmRyan) December 13, 2024
While trading Lopez could pose a risk in the short term, the Twins could compensate for it with packing prospects. However, balancing these factors will be crucial for the Twins front office as they weigh the long-term benefits against the immediate need.
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