Now that spring training has concluded, the Minnesota Twins roster is set, and the season is about to begin, it’s time to wrap up exhibition play and focus on meaningful games. As the division favorites coming back, the Twins will have their hands full winning.
In spite of an absurdly frugal summer, the Twins have established the framework for a potential regional powerhouse. All they need to do now is win baseball games.
Record for 2023: 87-75 (Pythagorean: 93-69)
2024 PECOTA: 90–72
Notable Losses: Michael A. Taylor, Joey Gallo, Jorge Polanco, Tyler Mahle, Emilio Pagán, Sonny Gray, and Kenta Maeda
Important Newcomers: Josh Staumont, Jay Jackson, Carlos Santana, Manuel Margot, Steven Okert, Anthony DeSclafani, and Justin Topa
The Main Narrative
This squad will most likely have a fresh look after Rocco Baldelli led one of the greatest starting rotations in baseball last season. Will they have enough pitches, and will they be of a high enough caliber, is the question. There aren’t many unanswered concerns regarding Pablo Lopez’s contributions;
The Twins knew, at least partially, what they were receiving when they transferred Luis Arraez to Miami in exchange for López (and Jose Salas). López had demonstrated a certain amount of resilience, and the work had consistently been outstanding, if not exceptional. Minnesota had an internal chance as well, acquiring him from a team not recognized for maximizing player development.
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Ultimately, whether on purpose or by default, the Minnesota Twins were unable to acquire another starting pitcher capable of competing in the postseason during the winter. Only Anthony DeSclafani was added to the starting lineup, due to payroll restrictions. Rocco Baldelli has hope in Pablo López, even though he won’t be touching Sonny Gray’s or possibly even Kenta Maeda’s productions.
When it comes to potential 2024 American League Cy Young winners, López is at the forefront of the conversation after taking the field on Opening Day and then perhaps thirty more times for the remainder of the season. He is now ranked +950 by oddsmaker Bovada, behind only Gerrit Cole of the Yankees, Kevin Gausman of the Blue Jays, and Framber Valdez of the Astros. MLB.com reporter Sarah
