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Twins Sign Nelson Cruz

By Steve Adams | January 2, 2019 at 11:30am CDT

TODAY: The Twins have officially announced Cruz’s signing.

DEC.27: The Twins are in agreement on a contract with free-agent slugger Nelson Cruz, reports Jeff Passan of Yahoo Sports (via Twitter). It’s a one-year deal with an option for a second season, according to Fancred’s Jon Heyman (on Twitter). Enrique Rojas of ESPN Deportes further reports that Cruz will earn $14MM in 2019, and the contract contains a $12MM club option with a $300K buyout (Twitter link). Cruz is represented by the Primo Sports Group.

Nelson Cruz | Thomas B. Shea-USA TODAY Sports

Cruz, 38, was frequently linked to the Twins throughout the offseason. Minnesota stood out as a logical landing spot for the ultra-consistent slugger, as one of the few teams with a clear vacancy at designated hitter following the retirement of Joe Mauer and the decision to decline a club option over Logan Morrison. That pairing of Mauer and Morrison, then, will be swapped out for a more powerful combo of Cruz and C.J. Cron, whom Minnesota picked up from the Rays earlier this offseason.

Although he’s well into his late 30s, Cruz has shown little to no semblance of decline. His four-year, $57MM contract with the Mariners raised some eyebrows initially, but he not only lived up to every bit of that deal but actually provided Seattle with a fair bit of excess value. Over the life of that four-year pact, Cruz raked at a .284/.362/.546 pace despite playing half his games at Seattle’s pitcher-friendly Safeco Field. Cruz’s .256/.342/.509 batting line from 2018 was the weakest output of his four seasons in Seattle, but that was largely attributable to an uncharacteristic dip in his average on balls in play (.264 in 2018; .305 career). That BABIP drop came despite the fact that Cruz actually increased his hard-hit rate over his 2017 levels.

Adding Cruz will presumably push fellow righty slugger Tyler Austin into a bench role; the 27-year-old Austin showed huge power with the Twins following a midseason acquisition but remained strikeout-prone and OBP challenged. He can spell either of Cron or Cruz from time to time and has some corner outfield experience in the minors as well.

With Cruz in the fold, the Twins’ lineup will have the potential for quite a bit of power — particularly from the right side of the dish. Cruz has averaged 41 homers per season over the past half-decade, and he’ll slot into the heart of the order alongside Cron (30 homers in 2018) and Miguel Sano, who hit 28 home runs in just 114 games for the Twins in 2017

Of course, Sano’s status is one of the true mysteries for Minnesota heading into 2019; a fractured shin suffered by Sano late in 2017 ultimately led to offseason surgery that saw a titanium rod inserted into his leg, which prevented him from a full offseason of conditioning. If the lingering effects of that surgery are behind him and Sano can return to something approximating his 2017 levels of production, the Twins will possess a trio of right-handed sluggers to pair with lefty-swinging Eddie Rosario. Given the uncertainty surrounding Sano, Byron Buxton and fellow free-agent signing Jonathan Schoop, adding a player with Cruz’s perennial stability is all the more important for the Twins.

Financially speaking, the Twins can easily afford to add Cruz at $14MM for the upcoming season and still make additional moves. Cruz’s contract will boost the Twins’ 2019 payroll to just north of $100MM — a mark that is well shy of both the $112.6MM they’ve averaged over the past four seasons and the $128.7MM payroll they carried into the 2018 season a year ago. Beyond that, the fact that Cruz was added on a one-year guarantee means that the Twins still don’t have a single guaranteed contract on the books for the 2020 season, leaving them with more flexibility than any team in the Majors from a long-term vantage point.

Further additions would appear prudent for Minnesota. Though the Twins had a disappointing 2018 season, the American League Central still looks quite weak. The Tigers are still in the midst of a full-scale rebuilding effort, and though the Royals have indicated that they’ll aim to be more competitive in 2019, they’re in a largely similar situation. The White Sox have been rebuilding for a longer period of time and are showing signs of pushing closer to contention, but the 2020 season likely presents a more realistic timetable for the South Siders. Even the Indians, who have won three consecutive division titles, have weakened their roster to an extent this offseason, which at least creates an opportunity for the Twins to make another relatively surprising run. They’ll need bouncebacks from Sano and Buxton and could stand to further augment the pitching staff, though as noted above, they certainly have the financial resources available to make those moves.

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Minnesota Twins Newsstand Transactions Nelson Cruz

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View Comments (248)
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248 Comments

  1. brewfan27

    6 years ago

    2nd correct free agent destination

    7
    Reply
    • Blue Baron

      6 years ago

      Nobody cares!

      21
      Reply
      • PhilliesFan012

        6 years ago

        You care enough to comment back! Take your bitter bs somewhere else !

        15
        Reply
        • path501@yahoo.com 2

          6 years ago

          Amen

          3
          Reply
        • Cardinals17

          6 years ago

          Amen to the Amen

          1
          Reply
      • brewfan27

        6 years ago

        lol

        2
        Reply
      • MWeller77

        6 years ago

        I care, brewfan27. I am a little envious though because I picked Cruz to the Rays 😉

        7
        Reply
      • EndinStealth

        6 years ago

        I found the douche.

        4
        Reply
        • stug14

          6 years ago

          That’s an awkward version of Where’s Waldo

          1
          Reply
        • EndinStealth

          6 years ago

          Very true.

          Reply
      • johnrealtime

        6 years ago

        To be fair this is a contest that is hosted on this website, so it isn’t exactly like discussing your fantasy baseball team on here. I don’t participate but feel it’s reasonable to mention how you’re doing if that’s what you want to do

        5
        Reply
        • Blue Baron

          6 years ago

          To be fair, it’s just like discussing your fantasy baseball team on here. It’s a meaningless game that has no consequences in real life, and thus nobody cares!

          3
          Reply
        • BrewCrew1302

          6 years ago

          Stu Baron is just bitter that his hair betrayed him and ran away

          19
          Reply
        • pinkerton

          6 years ago

          I don’t care for Stu Baron

          17
          Reply
        • BrewCrew1302

          6 years ago

          looks like a dude who would try and sell you some pyramid scheme

          17
          Reply
        • Blue Baron

          6 years ago

          Says the guy who doesn’t show his face.

          1
          Reply
        • pinkerton

          6 years ago

          you don’t want to see this face. I have a face made for radio.

          9
          Reply
        • MWeller77

          6 years ago

          Um except it’s not just like discussing fantasy baseball for the reasons JRT just cited

          3
          Reply
        • BrewCrew1302

          6 years ago

          because this is a MLB blog about rumors, not a dating app. Is that your pic for farmersonly.com as well??

          8
          Reply
        • Fuck Me Bitch

          6 years ago

          Farmerist!

          Reply
        • jkurk_22

          6 years ago

          Nothing you say on here has any consequences to real life. Everything you type on here is literally a waste of time. You’re only doing it cause you enjoy it, so I’d say it’s fair game to say whatever

          Reply
      • D. O'CONNOR

        6 years ago

        Stu…how rude! Speak only for yourself!

        Reply
      • iverbure

        6 years ago

        Stu is mad he still has zero. Obviously he took part in the contest every year and has never got a single destination right ever and realizes how irrelevant and wrong his opinion is so he’s mad online.

        Reply
      • retsubllab

        6 years ago

        Stu nod.

        Reply
    • Kraz Nadler

      6 years ago

      Cruz is a beast, pure hitter. DH is harder to play the ?RF for sure.

      Reply
  2. Mattimeo09

    6 years ago

    Good signing as long as it’s not an obscene amount of money

    3
    Reply
    • dirtydan

      6 years ago

      Isn’t every signing?

      Reply
      • Mattimeo09

        6 years ago

        Nope. Machado and Harper will sign for an obscene amount of money and it might end up being a good signing.

        2
        Reply
        • nymetsking

          6 years ago

          “Might” being the key word.

          Reply
        • Fuck Me Bitch

          6 years ago

          A more real definition of “obscene.”
          Forbes reports that Kylie Jenner “earned” $166.5 million in 2017.
          She can’t even hit OR field.

          6
          Reply
        • Dan_Oz

          6 years ago

          Good ball handling skills

          9
          Reply
        • lasershow45

          6 years ago

          I mean….even if they don’t produce up to the value of the contract, there’s still new season ticket sales, regular ticket sales, bigger plug on all the sports channels….it’ll be worth it for the owner in the long run. Maybe not the team, but definitely the owner’s wallet

          Reply
        • refereemn77

          6 years ago

          @Dan_Oz That was funny!!

          1
          Reply
    • Samuel

      6 years ago

      The Twins will very probably not win much of anything this year, but they lead MLB in numbers of DH’S and DH-types playing @ 1B and 3B; WITH more in AAA.

      They got that goin’ for them……..

      4
      Reply
      • migoli

        6 years ago

        in a weak division with offense and starting pitching that isn’t great but ok with some guys ready to make the jump, I , and I’m sure plenty other, find your comment pretty terrible

        5
        Reply
      • Paul Griggs

        6 years ago

        They play in a weak division and have a great deal of young talent that was either injured or underperformed last year. I see them as at least a .500 team and maybe contending for the division.

        8
        Reply
        • kleppy12

          6 years ago

          The Twins literally have like almost the same roster minus Santana that they did at the end of 2017 and people said they were a team to watch but now they are a team that “wont win much”, I just dont get a it.

          4
          Reply
        • 22cbarthel

          6 years ago

          That is 100% incorrect, Morrison is gone and Mauer retired. Dozier, forsythe, grossman, drake… you get my point. Theee are many people gone or going

          3
          Reply
        • kleppy12

          6 years ago

          I did forgot Dozier and Mauer, all of those other ones were not on the Twins roster at the end of the 2017 season except Grossman who doesn’t change the team. Mauer and Cron are pretty much a wash, Cron might even be an improvement. Same goes for Dozier and Schoop, Dozier has been better in the past but recently they have been pretty equal. So again except for Santana how is the team any different than the team they had at the end of the 2017 season?

          1
          Reply
        • someoldguy

          6 years ago

          and ESCOBAR.

          Reply
        • D. O'CONNOR

          6 years ago

          How do you forget Mauer & Dozier and call yourself a baseball fan?

          1
          Reply
  3. southern lion

    6 years ago

    Twins are Cruzing!

    9
    Reply
    • murphydog

      6 years ago

      Whoa Nellie!

      7
      Reply
  4. shortytallz

    6 years ago

    The steroids have probably worn off by now.

    5
    Reply
    • HalosHeavenJJ

      6 years ago

      He’d have to stop taking them for that to happen.

      3
      Reply
      • shortytallz

        6 years ago

        True, but maybe the new ones are less effective?

        1
        Reply
    • Slevin

      6 years ago

      There’s definitely ways around everything.

      2
      Reply
  5. kc38

    6 years ago

    Not sure why this wasn’t the Rays… pretty much the money everyone predicted and what they candidly said they’d be comfortable spending.

    1
    Reply
    • seamaholic 2

      6 years ago

      They have other options. Encarnacion and Castellanos are available for all but nothing.

      Reply
      • kleppy12

        6 years ago

        EE maybe but Castellanos wont be had for “next to nothing”.

        6
        Reply
      • kc38

        6 years ago

        Yeah I can see that but I take Cruz over either of those. I’m sure the rays and mariners have kinda had a plan all along since the “false reports” of him going straight to Tampa came out.

        Reply
    • pinstripes17

      6 years ago

      Because they’re incredibly cheap and won’t pay for real talent, I’m shocked they signed Morton.

      1
      Reply
  6. SanDiegoTom

    6 years ago

    Nice job, twins. Even if they end up stinking up the house, he’s a nice trade candidate.

    5
    Reply
  7. Syndergaarden Cop

    6 years ago

    One year? That’s unexpected.

    2
    Reply
  8. Yankeepatriot

    6 years ago

    No lose move for the non contending twins. He won’t be with the team the whole year anyway

    4
    Reply
    • mpwr2

      6 years ago

      They should contend, especially if Kluber is traded from Cleveland.. Now have Cruz and Cron to take pressure off the other players. If they can sign somebody like Jed Lowrie on a s-t deal to play 2B, they should be pretty good this year.

      5
      Reply
      • CoryM

        6 years ago

        They signed Jonathan Schoop

        2
        Reply
        • mpwr2

          6 years ago

          Forgot about that. Well, if he has a bounce back year…

          Reply
      • Yankeepatriot

        6 years ago

        Even without kluber they still win the central imo. It’s not like the twins have gotten better besides for this move

        2
        Reply
        • Paul Griggs

          6 years ago

          The Twins have gotten better if you consider who is coming back from injury and who they replaced. I think Sano and Buxton will be better. Buxton’s defense alone is worth a few games. Cron and Austin have more power and offensive punch than two seasons of Joe Mauer at 1B. Grossman et. al. at DH was awful last year. Dozier had an awful year at the plate so a decent year from Schoop could be an improvement. A full year of Polanco who was suspended the first half of the season. Reed was injured last year and hopefully will be better. Pineda has much better stuff than Lynn and Santana (good pitcher but wasn’t the same after the surgery). Plug a few holes in the bullpen, try May as the closer and this team might take the Indians.

          10
          Reply
      • hockeyjohn

        6 years ago

        The Twins need pitching. Other than Berrios, the Twins are weak at SP.

        3
        Reply
        • cowdisciple

          6 years ago

          Gibson and Odorizzi are fine mid rotation starters. Pineda will be back. It does get a little ugly after that.

          Reply
      • debubba

        6 years ago

        It’s funny that people think that if Kluber gets traded that the “we can compete in the central” comes up. Losing one of our four potential aces may hurt, but keep in mind the return he will get back. Just silliness.

        1
        Reply
        • stymeedone

          6 years ago

          Based on the bad bullpen, and the history of injuries among the starters. trading Kluber will hurt more than you expect. Teams will be trading for ONE year of Kluber. Might bring back less than you think.

          3
          Reply
        • Chewbacca

          6 years ago

          what? Kluber has three years of control…

          1
          Reply
        • debubba

          6 years ago

          Injuries? They just had four starters pitch over 200IP with 200k’s. Again, trading Kluber frees up more money, brings back reasonably priced MLB production and sets them up for a long window of winning. I’m not saying that they will solve all the issues with his trade (to the dodgers) but they are getting something back to make them more competitive and to fill in their outfield (verdugo) and their bullpen. To simply state that trading Kluber levels the playing field on the AL Central is absolutely ridiculous.

          1
          Reply
        • Yankeepride88

          6 years ago

          Indians in current state can’t compete with any of the top teams in the AL. Their bullpen is absolutely gone besides Hand and they still don’t have any outfielders. All it will take is one injury to Lindor or Ramirez and you’re suddenly the Angels

          3
          Reply
        • hockeyjohn

          6 years ago

          If the Indians don’t get what they want they keep him. It is very simple.

          1
          Reply
        • hockeyjohn

          6 years ago

          Yankeepride88 #1 it is late December. Let’s see what the Indians final roster is before we judge. #2 – The Yankees pitching is an injury waiting to happen. #3 – Astros lost 3 starting pitchers and Marwin Gonzalez who really helped them. #4 – Boston lost their only 2 good bullpen pieces in Kimbrel and Kelly. Yes, injuries can affect a team, Yankees are one injury to a pitcher to have a middle pitching staff.

          1
          Reply
        • bg816

          6 years ago

          But Kluber is one of the best pitchers in baseball. To say that losing him won’t weaken the Indians is silly, even considering the potential return. But this Twins fan doesn’t think they trade him. Cleveland is doing the smart thing and simply listening to offers, needing to be blown away to make a move. That front office isn’t stupid.

          1
          Reply
  9. Eat'EmUpTigers

    6 years ago

    Can’t wait to see Cruz hit a bunch of homer runs off of Tigers pitching

    4
    Reply
    • davidkaner

      6 years ago

      At least Comerica will steak a few of them but yeah, he will rake!

      Reply
      • Eat'EmUpTigers

        6 years ago

        Nelson Cruz literally has naming right privileges at Comerica after the beating he gave them in the post season several years ago as a Ranger.

        1
        Reply
        • stymeedone

          6 years ago

          He doesnt wait for the post season. He lives on Tigers pitching.

          1
          Reply
    • ScottRC

      6 years ago

      We’re rebuilding right now, so duh of course he’ll hit some home runs off of us. Let’s see how Cruz does against competing teams.

      Reply
      • Eat'EmUpTigers

        6 years ago

        Yes Scott, I am well aware THEY are in a rebuild. I was more making fun of the fact that even when THEY were good, Cruz owned the Tigers.

        Been a fan since I was Darnell Coles hit a walk off homer in 1986 as a 7 year old…..never referred to them as “we” when talking about the Tigers.

        1
        Reply
  10. gotothevideotape

    6 years ago

    Great signing, great hitter

    5
    Reply
  11. Yankeepatriot

    6 years ago

    It’s interesting too how the older Cruz has gotten the healthier he has been. He used to be so injury prone

    5
    Reply
    • BuddyBoy

      6 years ago

      Not last year.

      Reply
    • Comrade Tipsy McStagger

      6 years ago

      Yankeepatriot — Not gunning for a fight here, but I was wondering if that was an insinuation of some kind? If it is, why don’t you put on the big boy shoes, take off the rubber pants, and just come out and say whatever is on that troubled mind of yours. I’m listening. I can help you with that shadow work. If it isn’t an insinuation, what is the point of the comment? I’m not posting about how I ate three pieces of bacon instead of two while reading the article on Cruz. Get my drift?

      2
      Reply
      • RicoD

        6 years ago

        lol what?!?

        7
        Reply
      • MWeller77

        6 years ago

        “Not gunning for a fight here, but now I’m just going to insult you bizarrely for an hour and a half…”

        6
        Reply
      • Ichiro51

        6 years ago

        Yeah that response is hilarious. Hilarytrump, what is the point of your reply. it seems as if you just had something “witty” to say that you had store on a post-it for some time just in case someone said something about Nelson Cruz. You’re a crazy person

        2
        Reply
      • Yankeepatriot

        6 years ago

        I wasn’t making an accusation, it’s just an observation. He’s doing something kind of out of the norm (which isn’t possible. If anything it shows that a injury prone player can manage to stay healthy

        I’m here to talk baseball, leave your insecurities about your Nelson Cruz and lame insults out the door

        3
        Reply
        • debubba

          6 years ago

          Living in the northwest I am force-fed Mariners (I know, purgatory) and in one of the articles that was written, a writer just a few years ago, described his off season and in-season routines. They were incredible. He would take fly balls for two hours and do all kinds of agility drills among other things. He would run circles around the younger players. Like Tom Brady, I think he out works everyone else.

          5
          Reply
        • Gordon Lightfoot

          6 years ago

          Ideally it would be David Freese hitting those daily fungos to Nelson Cruz – gotta’ make that catch!

          2
          Reply
        • jonesadoug

          6 years ago

          tom shady out works everyonr??? Hes one of the biggest cheaters in sports!

          Reply
        • Comrade Tipsy McStagger

          6 years ago

          Yankee — I just want people to act like adults and say what they are thinking rather than saying vague cryptic things that seem to insinuate PEDs. If you have proof he uses, out with it. If not, keep it internal. Anyone can throw mud, and I think behind rape and murder, character assassination if the worst thing a person can do to another.

          3
          Reply
      • Comrade Tipsy McStagger

        6 years ago

        I think people misunderstood. The comment made by the other poster was insinuating PEDs. I think we can all agree with that. I just wish people would commit to their thoughts rather than being passive-aggressive about it. I was being honest about how I wasn’t looking for a fight and how I wish people would quit being so PC about their comments and just come out and say what they wanted to say. I honestly apologize for the “big boy comments” as that was out of character for me. I simply find it frustrating when people dance around things rather than speak their mind.

        3
        Reply
        • Ichiro51

          6 years ago

          You’re passive aggressive response of not looking for fight was amazing. because you were. Saying you were not looking for a fight and then using words afterwards that insinuate a argument is passive aggressive.

          1
          Reply
        • Comrade Tipsy McStagger

          6 years ago

          Ichiro — I apologized for my actions. You can take them at face value or not, but I am exposing my vulnerability and ego by doing this. I am opening up and saying I made a mistake. Is that just so rare on this site that it confuses people? Is the concept of an apology so foreign to people they are unsure of what to do when confronted with one?

          2
          Reply
    • tharrie0820

      6 years ago

      The older he’s gotten. the less he’s played the field, so the less he’s gotten hurt?

      2
      Reply
    • shortytallz

      6 years ago

      Steroids are great for that.

      1
      Reply
  12. Rich Hill’s Elbow

    6 years ago

    Yeahhhhh boiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiii!!!!!!!!!!

    Reply
  13. pinkerton

    6 years ago

    The man indeed can hit a ball.

    Reply
  14. aarons-6

    6 years ago

    I don’t see why trading for JMart from the CRdinals wouldn’t have been a better move.

    3
    Reply
    • Gambit1193

      6 years ago

      Cause this cost nothing but money and you get to keep the players you would’ve traded

      8
      Reply
      • daved

        6 years ago

        Players? It would take ONE player(prospect) to get Jose Martinez. Then again, Gepetto and Pinocchio in STL think he’s probably worth 3 because they over value their players to the point of insanity. Now, come July, they will trade Martinez for a gross of double bubble and an equipment manager.

        Reply
        • southbeachbully

          6 years ago

          I think you have an extremely low valuation of Martinez. Just because he’s limited defensively doesn’t mean he’s of no value. He had a top 40 OPS and is one of the few hitters that combine to give you power, batting average and OBP. and he has 4 years of control left. He has enough value to get a good prospect in return. Good prospect doesn’t simply mean a top 100 list prospect.

          6
          Reply
        • Payne Train

          6 years ago

          What’s your problem with STL – every post you get more and more ignorant about their team/organization. ?

          5
          Reply
        • stymeedone

          6 years ago

          Martinez is not a young prospect and does not have the history of Cruz. Could he put up similar numbers? who knows? Cruz has a track record that helps lessen the gamble. The Twins just let Morrison go after they pluck him following his one good season. Surprise, it wasnt a trend. .

          Reply
        • southbeachbully

          6 years ago

          @paynetrain are you referring to me?

          Reply
        • D. O'CONNOR

          6 years ago

          NO../.guy’s name is Stu

          Reply
    • mpwr2

      6 years ago

      Because Cruz hits more dingers, only costs money not a prospect and is on a s-t deal

      3
      Reply
    • 66TheNumberOfTheBest

      6 years ago

      Because Cruz is better and has no acquisition cost. Best guess.

      2
      Reply
    • shortytallz

      6 years ago

      Bc you keep prospects then flip Cruz at the TD for more prospects. Prospects.

      Reply
  15. Francys01

    6 years ago

    Good signing for the Twins. I was hoping to see Cruz with the Rays in the AL East but it did not occurred.

    Reply
  16. Gambit1193

    6 years ago

    Thank god he didn’t sign with the Rays. Would’ve hated having to deal with him 18 games

    1
    Reply
    • geejohnny

      6 years ago

      As a Rays fan I’m glad too. $14 mil for an aging DH wouldn’t be the best value for them. Lots of DH types will be available later.

      1
      Reply
      • shortytallz

        6 years ago

        But none can hit as good. And hitting is somewhat important for a DH

        2
        Reply
        • Slevin

          6 years ago

          Or dope as good!

          2
          Reply
  17. bigdaddyhacks

    6 years ago

    One of the best guys in baseball. Happy for him. Will miss him for sure in Seattle.

    8
    Reply
    • Modified_6

      6 years ago

      Really? The guy was caught cheating, if you’re still a fan cool, but no way can you make him out to be one of the best guys in baseball. There are too many guys doing it the right way, and being a great person off the field to include guys who cheat the game.

      2
      Reply
      • heater

        6 years ago

        I believe he is referring to his personality. And besides don’t you believe in forgiveness? That was a few years ago and I would imagine he’s being tested frequently now. Just because someone messes up and gets caught doesn’t mean they aren’t a good person. You’ve never done something regrettable?

        8
        Reply
        • Slevin

          6 years ago

          Would your place of employment forgive embezzlement?

          3
          Reply
        • RicoD

          6 years ago

          Did Nelson Cruz steal something that wasn’t his? How long did he go to jail for? Those are two questions you could have asked yourself before posting. Embezzlement is not a fair comparison for taking steroids.

          3
          Reply
        • Mattimeo09

          6 years ago

          Cruz didn’t embezzle anything.

          Work on your analogies.

          2
          Reply
        • Slevin

          6 years ago

          SALARY!!!

          3
          Reply
        • heater

          6 years ago

          Far from embezzlement when his team likely benefited from his roids and he also did not get paid while suspended. Not even close to a good analogy.

          4
          Reply
        • Slevin

          6 years ago

          He got paid while using until the suspension. Did they get that money back?

          3
          Reply
        • stymeedone

          6 years ago

          No, but they didnt offer refunds to the paying fans either.

          2
          Reply
        • thegreatcerealfamine

          6 years ago

          “Did Nelson Cruz steal something that wasn’t his?” Yes the money the organization paid him while he was on the stuff.

          2
          Reply
        • RicoD

          6 years ago

          Slevin, they didn’t ask for the money back…so why are you? He didn’t screw over the team, he simple did not adhere to the MLB policy. The team was actually quite happy with the way it all went down and how he handled it.

          2
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        • Modified_6

          6 years ago

          There are way too many guys that may have made it had others not have cheated for me to forgive the cheaters. Made a mistake, regrettable, it’s all b-s. These guys cheat their way into big stats, big contracts and get slapped on the wrist when they finally get caught. There are tons of guys who have never touched PEDs that missed a shot at the show ever so slightly. Those guys didn’t get rich, didn’t fulfill their dream, didn’t get what some should have accomplished.

          So in short, no I don’t have forgiveness for cheaters.

          1
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        • heater

          6 years ago

          Who would you rather watch? A guy that used PEDs in the past or a crappy fringe guy that probably isn’t worth a roster spot? Not condoning the actions of some but it’s not like those drugs are the golden ticket onto a big league roster. Guys like Cruz would have been on a 25 man regardless. So to say he took someone’s spot is inaccurate.

          1
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        • Modified_6

          6 years ago

          How many times did he go yard on a guy that was borderline? How many PED guys have cost someone a little more time in the bigs? How many could have put things together if they had just a little more time?

          Stop defending cheaters. They screwed others over one way or another.

          Reply
        • Modified_6

          6 years ago

          The team was quite happy with how he handled it?!

          The Rangers paid him millions of dollars, he gets caught and is out when it matters most, the end of the year and the playoffs. He didn’t attempt to appeal the suspension for his own sake, so he’d have less games under suspension with his new club, meaning he is worth more. You think the team was happy that it went down that way?

          Reply
        • stymeedone

          6 years ago

          You really believe that is the only choice? If not Cruz, some noboby? Who knows, maybe J Martinez got his shot in St.L @ 29 because they didnt want a PED user?

          1
          Reply
    • shortytallz

      6 years ago

      Cheaters always win, and winners always cheat.

      2
      Reply
      • Mattimeo09

        6 years ago

        You’re wrong twice.

        5
        Reply
      • mlb1225

        6 years ago

        Yep, the Astros totally cheated their way to a World Series victory in 2017.

        1
        Reply
  18. ScottRolen

    6 years ago

    “Although he’s well into his late 30s, Cruz has shown little to no semblance of decline”

    PEDS work. The questions left are 1) what exactly did Cruz take and 2) did those PEDS create a permanent and lasting improvement that he has been benefiting from or 3) has he simply evaded detection?

    2
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    • pinstripes17

      6 years ago

      Sure buddy, whatever you say.

      1
      Reply
      • macstruts

        6 years ago

        What wrote is absolutely true.

        He’s a PED user. He was only caught because of a paper trail, which means he knows how not to test positive.

        Now you have a shortstop and DH that you can be proud to root for.

        I hope my team doesn’t sign Grandal because I don’t want to root for a cheater. And that was only testosterone..

        2
        Reply
    • bucketbrew35

      6 years ago

      2) did those PEDS create a permanent and lasting improvement that he has been benefiting from.

      That would be scientifically impossible.

      8
      Reply
      • Mattimeo09

        6 years ago

        These posters won’t listen to science and logic.

        3
        Reply
        • macstruts

          6 years ago

          All we know is he’s willing to cheat for money and he knows how to not test positive.

          HRs as a 30+ year old, 283.
          HR sin his 20s- 77

          Hows that for science and logic.

          1
          Reply
        • jdgoat

          6 years ago

          He only played two seasons in his 20’s where he came anywhere close to a full season….

          2
          Reply
        • Col. Taylor

          6 years ago

          Hows that for science and logic.?
          No on both counts.

          Reply
    • Comrade Tipsy McStagger

      6 years ago

      Scott Rolen — Good luck on the ballot vote. I think you were an underrated player. I heard a rumor that you took PEDs, is that true? No please, can you answer the question? I mean you were teammates with Ray Lankford and Jim Edmonds and many others who were teammates with Mark McGwire. I am wondering if you could talk about that for a moment? Scott? Scott?

      No, don’t get defensive. We know that Cruz was busted. We just don’t know how you know how he avoided detection for the years afterwards. Since he was part of the Biogenesis scandal and never actually busted with drugs in his system, can you do a powerpoint presentation on the masking of drugs in today’s game?

      5
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      • macstruts

        6 years ago

        Players have no one to blame for suspicions but themselves.

        When talking about drug testing, Fehr was comical in his defense for not testing. It literally took an act of congress to get drug testing in baseball.

        Reply
        • Comrade Tipsy McStagger

          6 years ago

          Wow, you mean that macstruts? So is that true about people who are exonerated from prison and death row because DNA proves they weren’t the culprit? Did those people deserve their fate? This isn’t black and white. Sometimes people who cheat have it catch up with them. Sometimes people hang out with cheaters and that paints them unfairly. Sometimes people get blamed for things because of the biases or perceptions of others. Sometimes there are campaigns to intentionally malign individuals. So come on, this world isn’t black and white. What you say can be true and it can be false.

          4
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        • billysbballz

          6 years ago

          Campaigns to intentionally malign someone??? Please provide examples.

          Reply
        • Comrade Tipsy McStagger

          6 years ago

          Throughout history, really? How about Donald Trump and Hillary Clinton. Wow, what density are you living on? How about Assange, Snowden, every foreign leader the US wants to take out? You want me to stick to baseball? Alex Rodriguez. Barry Bonds Sammy Sosa. It doesn’t mean these players didn’t deserve some major criticism, perhaps a lot, but there were pretty obvious campaigns out there, although I bet the tunnel vision of culture provided much of the negativity.

          2
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    • yonkers22

      6 years ago

      “…permanent and lasting improvement…”
      Lol I’m pretty sure you don’t know how PED’s work. It’s not like a radioactive spider bit him and turned him into Spiderman.

      4
      Reply
  19. Michael Chaney

    6 years ago

    This is a really good signing by the Twins, especially with such a limited commitment

    2
    Reply
  20. Wahoo What a Finish!

    6 years ago

    calling it now: 2019 Central Division Champs. And I’m an Indians fan.

    1
    Reply
    • heater

      6 years ago

      Lol. Don’t throw in the towel yet Chief. Twins need help in the pitching department unless Pineda and one of the kids lights on fire. Bullpen is still a mess mostly so they have a couple moves to make before they take the division imo.
      That being said I think the Tribe is bound to regress from last year and the Twins should gain some so at the least it should be a fun year for Twins and Indians fans.

      2
      Reply
    • The Ghost of Bobby Bonilla

      6 years ago

      I don’t think it’s out of the realm of possibility since the Twins simply have to be better than last year’s disaster, but their starting rotation is still hot garbage outside of Berrios and maybe Gibson.

      But I hear ya – Twins are trying to improve while the Indians are, well, they saved $30m and can now give away all of those leftover Carlos Santana bobbleheads! Cleveland’s offseason has been an embarrassment so far, so that division will be closer than last year for sure.

      1
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      • hockeyjohn

        6 years ago

        It is late December, Ghost, Let’s see where the Indians are at the end of spring training.

        1
        Reply
    • sufferforsnakes

      6 years ago

      You call yourself an Indians fan? No true Indians fan would say something like that.

      Reply
  21. daved

    6 years ago

    The Jose Martinez trade market is drying up.

    1
    Reply
    • Slevin

      6 years ago

      The Jose Martinez trade market was never flowing.

      8
      Reply
      • MetsYankeesRedSox

        6 years ago

        Flowing?
        EEEEWWWWWWW!

        2
        Reply
    • themed

      6 years ago

      I hope it goes completely dry. Jose Martinez was one of the best hitters in the NL last year. Hope the Cards hand on to him!

      Reply
      • themed

        6 years ago

        Hang not hand. Dang spellcheck

        Reply
  22. Rich Hill’s Elbow

    6 years ago

    Only two more signings to go; Cody Allen and Jed Lowrie.

    Reply
    • kleppy12

      6 years ago

      Why would they sign Jed Lowrie?

      1
      Reply
  23. 2012orioles

    6 years ago

    Don’t sleep on schoop either. I’d be happy if I were a twins fan

    2
    Reply
  24. Lefty Grove’s right hand

    6 years ago

    Good signing for the Twins. One year contract at $14M. Only a $300K buyout. Twins will almost surely buyout unless Cruz continues to put up another monster year for only $12M. Usually, you see option year salaries increase.

    Reply
  25. KDDtwins

    6 years ago

    Excited as a Twins fan. Lineup is pretty stout. Especially if Buxton, Sano, and Schoop can rebound to form we’ve seen in the past. Time to concentrate on pitching Falvine!!

    5
    Reply
  26. astrosfan4life

    6 years ago

    Nooooooooooooooooo! I wanted him in Houston. Bad Luhnow, bad Luhnow.

    3
    Reply
  27. MetsYankeesRedSox

    6 years ago

    Unreal numbers for late 30s.
    I hope he continues slaying.

    4
    Reply
    • macstruts

      6 years ago

      Right Unreal. Unreal numbers for a known cheater who was only caught because of a paper trail.

      1
      Reply
    • Slevin

      6 years ago

      I think you mean experimenting.

      5
      Reply
  28. macstruts

    6 years ago

    Another team that doesn’t mind bringing in a cheater if he helps them win..

    1
    Reply
    • refereemn77

      6 years ago

      Teams will sign anyone who can help them win. PEDs, wife beaters, hell, probably killers. It is what it is.

      Reply
  29. ScottRC

    6 years ago

    Got it right! Unfortunately I’m still now 3-22 on predictions.

    1
    Reply
  30. steelerbravenation

    6 years ago

    Should be a good veteran presence for Sano, Buxton & Rosario. Little by little the Twins been making some good moves. They may be a nice little surprise team next year.

    2
    Reply
  31. mpwr2

    6 years ago

    Next on their list: 3B Mike Moustakas

    Reply
  32. Sid Bream

    6 years ago

    All they need now is Chuck Knoblauch, Kent Hrbek, Steve Bedrosian, Jack Morris and Rick Aguilera.

    1
    Reply
    • Yankeepatriot

      6 years ago

      I loved pre yips Knoblauch, good leadoff hitter for us. His throwing problems are still a mystery to me

      2
      Reply
    • Eat'EmUpTigers

      6 years ago

      please don’t forget Gary Gaetti and Danny Gladden’s mullet

      1
      Reply
  33. throwinched10

    6 years ago

    Cave
    Polanco
    Rosario
    Cruz
    Cron
    Sano
    Schoop
    Astudillo
    Kepler

    That lineup has some pop but also a lot of swing and miss.

    2
    Reply
    • cowdisciple

      6 years ago

      Well, if you put Astudillo in there, I bet they’re average on swing-and-miss. Dude went 54 games without a K… strikeout rate was a hair over 2%!

      I doubt he’ll really be the starting catcher, tho. And I think it’ll be Buxton rather than Cave.

      Reply
  34. Paul Griggs

    6 years ago

    This was a very good signing for the Twins. Cruz will fit in well in the middle of the lineup and offer much needed protection for Sano. I expect Buxton to come back strong this year, using the September snub as motivation, and if Sano can get in shape, this should help everyone in the lineup. I still wish we had Escobar but I’m hoping Schoop can revert to glory year form. I’m curious to see if a new pitching coach will make any difference as it seemed in the past few years the other teams too often seemed to know what the Twins pitchers were going to throw, especially Berrios (who has wicked movement on his pitches).

    1
    Reply
  35. Wade Herbers

    6 years ago

    Now a closer. Allen would be a nice fit. Then in a fantasy world they get Marwin Gonzalez to fill in when either Sano or Buxton tanks again or is on the DL ( almost a given )

    1
    Reply
  36. LosAngelesAngelesAngelesAngelsOfLosAngeles

    6 years ago

    Here comes Boomdick

    Reply
  37. mlb1225

    6 years ago

    I’ve got a crazy idea. Maybe Cruz isn’t taking PED’s. He hasn’t been suspected of it since 2013, and even if he was, something would have came up by now.

    2
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    • macstruts

      6 years ago

      Yes, it’s a crazy idea. He was caught with paper work and his career arc screams PED. 77 HRs in his 20s, 283 in his 30s.. Since he has found a way to beat the system, and he has already proven to have low moral character, he might still be cheating.. Who Knows?

      He’s a thief. He stole wins and outs from pitchers and fans. He stole history and accomplishments from other players..

      People soft coat that, but that’s what he is. I wouldn’t want my team to sign him because I wouldn’t want to root for a thief.

      .

      2
      Reply
      • Emerson83

        6 years ago

        I don’t blame players for trying to be the best and making the most money possible. Can’t say I’d be able to resist it. Just part of the game in my opinion, I know it will get downvotes

        1
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      • mlb1225

        6 years ago

        I’m sure he’s been tested plenty of times. Like you said, 283 HRS in his 30’s is really good. And plus, you’re not taking into account that he only played 100+ games twice in his 20’s, and his career started in 2005 when he was 24. He’s only played less than 120 games once since he turned 30. That was when he got busted for roids. There’s more evidence supporting that he’s not taking roids anymore than still taking roids.

        1
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      • refereemn77

        6 years ago

        Jesus you just don’t ever shut the f— up do you. You’re valid point is now lost because you sound like a bitter old man who’s trope no one cares about.

        1
        Reply
  38. Yort

    6 years ago

    I’m honestly surprised nobody else was interested in him, he’s been a consistent offensive producer for a decade now

    3
    Reply
  39. ChiSoxCity

    6 years ago

    Good signing, twinkies. Too bad the White Sox gotta swoop in and drop a bomb on that hiney with a Harper AND Machado twin flame signing. LETS! GOOOOOOOO!!!!

    Reply
  40. kreevich

    6 years ago

    Not crazy about this signing. Sounds like another Logan Morrison to me. Would rather Twins went after Kyle Seager or Wil Myers.

    Reply
    • Comrade Tipsy McStagger

      6 years ago

      I think Wil Myers could become a superstar with the right team. And with the Twins I think he would have been a much better option than the Cron/Austin combo. He would have been a much more expensive option as well, but sometimes you have to take risks. I think Wil Myers is worth that risk. He has 30/30 ability (or at least consistent 30/20 capability), walks, and with a little more confidence, should be able to hit north of .270 every year. He just doesn’t respond to pressure very well (I don’t mean situational pressure, but more pressure about expectations of being the star player), and with Sano and Buxton, that pressure would clearly have been taken away.

      4
      Reply
    • twins33

      6 years ago

      I’m not getting the Logan Morrison connection. Morrison was an average player who had a career year and then went back down (due to injury and/or regression). Cruz has been a very good hitter for six years now. He may regress, but he’s nothing like Morrison.

      2
      Reply
      • kreevich

        6 years ago

        Cruz has been very good the past 4-5 years. But how do they say in finance, “past results are no guarantee of future success”. He’s 38. Is this $14M compensating him for what we’ll see in ‘19, or for what he gave Seattle in years gone by? We shall see. I think the cash could have been better spent.

        Reply
        • twins33

          6 years ago

          Any player could fall off a cliff, even those who are only 28 or 25. Pick any age. It can happen to anyone at any time. That doesn’t mean you never sign anyone. 14M for a guy who gets on base at a decent clip, has an average strikeout rate and provides great power is completely worth it.

          Just because he’s older doesn’t automatically mean he’s going to stop being good immediately. Shouldn’t he have regressed and been out of baseball years ago? Usually players don’t make it to his age. They are out of baseball by 34 or so. I’m sure the Mariners don’t regret paying him. He could have provided no production for them. People were probably saying the same thing about him back then.

          Players who have a decent eye tend to last a lot longer than those who don’t. Cruz is one of those players and he has a very good work ethic. There are never guarantees in baseball, but even if he only provides what he did last year or even a bit under it, he’s will be very much worth 14M.

          1
          Reply
    • martras

      6 years ago

      The Wil Myers fan club is pretty relentless. For a guy who can’t stay healthy, doesn’t hit much and who plays a position with little defensive value, he sure has his hard core fans.

      Reply
  41. Comrade Tipsy McStagger

    6 years ago

    Many religious, spiritual, and humanist practices consider rumors to be second behind rape and murder on the scale of “bad deed” as it is an assassination of a person’s character, or if you believe in such a thing, their soul. I see a lot of that going on within this post.
    (And yes I understand that the name of this site is MLB Trade Rumors but this site is meant to be about guessing and surmising where players will sign and be traded to — it doesn’t mean insinuation and character assassination). Can we just agree that although Nelson Cruz was busted in the Biogenesis scandal, he has never been guilty of testing for PEDs? We don’t know the truth and really anyone who thinks they do is making sh*t up. He could be completely innocent and he could have been the man behind the curtain. The point is we don’t know, so please quit acting like you do. Thank you.

    10
    Reply
    • macstruts

      6 years ago

      He didn’t deny it and didn’t appeal his suspension. He cheated and was able to pass all his test. As far as not knowing the truth, we don’t know if he’s still cheating or not.

      He’s a thief. He stole outs and wins from other pitchers. That means he took money out of other players pockets. Who knows he’s still doing it.

      77 HRs in his 20s. 283 in his 30s That makes no sense, unless of course he’s cheated a lot in his 30s.

      3
      Reply
      • therealryan

        6 years ago

        I’m very surprised death by stoning wasn’t his punishment. It seems that is the only acceptable punishment for many on this site.

        4
        Reply
      • Comrade Tipsy McStagger

        6 years ago

        Macstrusts. Let it lie. There are many mysteries in life you and I will never be able to solve. Maybe the awakening of Nelson Cruz is one of them. You could very well be correct. So what if you are?

        I hope no one ever levels a complaint against you at your workplace, smearing you behind your back. Maybe you did that complaint or maybe you didn’t, the damage is done. And if your accusers don’t back it up with evidence, how would that make you feel? You are gossiping and you are assassinating another man’s character. If you did that to me, I’d let it slide, But if you kept it up, I’d come to your doorstep and make you say it to my face. This really is disgusting behavior on your part.

        2
        Reply
      • RicoD

        6 years ago

        therealryan, I agree…it seems that people are out for blood.

        macstruts – That is true…but who is to say that the people playing against him or competing for the same position weren’t taking PEDs as well. It is very easy to look at Barry Bonds and say how a terrible person he is because he took PEDs. His demise is that he was the best while on PEDs. There are many players that take it to go from a AA/AAA player to break into the big leagues. If that is what it takes to break through then some choose to take the risk. I think you can remember many pitchers who were linked as well.

        Look at Melky Cabrera, who has made $71m + in his 12 year career. He was the first player to serve a 50 game suspension. Was it worth it? Ask him, but he wouldn’t have gotten half that money if he was a below average hitter. In 2011, he hit .305 and in 2012 he would have won the batting title if he didn’t get caught and suspended while hitting .346. Many people are naive if you think only the players that get caught are the ones doing something against league policy.

        3
        Reply
    • Vizionaire

      6 years ago

      bonds had never tested positive for steroids when using them was against mlb rules. vote bonds in!

      Reply
    • Joseph12992

      6 years ago

      Listen I completely understand alot of people getting frustrated when people yell about steroids. But as an individual who tries to be logical and reasonable I get frustrated when everyone shuts down the argument and if I don’t have the very needle they injected themselves with i am not allowed to talk. We have to start looking at steroids more logically, I understand anything can happen but massive home run spikes, late career explosions, SLG % increases are pretty damning evidence, I have no clue if Nelson Cruz took roids or not. But he definitely exhibits some of the warning signs and has been linked. On an individual level I get anything can happen but when large groups of players are doing things outside the norm then clearly something is going on. They pulled the wool over our eyes once, I refuse to be made a fool of again, this is not a court of ;law I am allowed to draw conclusions based on what I see. Roids were rampant in the game during the 90’s was Thome on them? Griffey? Jeter? A-Rod? honestly I have NO idea, but I do know they were everywhere so it must be looked at.

      1
      Reply
      • jd396

        6 years ago

        Yes, you’re certainly allowed to take speculative pot shots at everyone who hits a home run in the majors.

        1
        Reply
  42. Corazon5

    6 years ago

    Good signing for the Twins. Wonder if they would now consider making a run at Kimbrel? With no guaranteed money on the books after this season they could certainly afford to make a competitive offer, and he would be a huge addition to their bullpen. I’m not suggesting they break the bank on him but if his asking price comes down to a 4 year deal I think it would be worth it. Pair that with a solid SP and all of a sudden the Twins look pretty good

    Reply
  43. Willy Mays

    6 years ago

    How anybody could be against this signing is beyond me. Cruz could hit 30 to 35 dingers.If he doesn’t you part ways in one year. This seems like a no-brainer. Very little risk for Twins with pretty large upside.

    4
    Reply
  44. twinsguy69

    6 years ago

    This is a great move if they get a top of the rotation starter and more bullpen help. Without further moves this is just a lame attempt to get the fanbase talking and a midseason trade chip to teams that actually try to win. I’ve been sticking up for the Twins and the “Twins Way” for decades. Since this new FO has taken over I have a hard time doing it. At some point make a big league move!

    2
    Reply
    • Moneyballer

      6 years ago

      Other than a trade, do you see a frontline starter that is available right now? I do not.

      Reply
      • twinsguy69

        6 years ago

        Well I meant mostly by trade, I’d consider Dallas a top of the rotation starter though.

        Reply
  45. macstruts

    6 years ago

    For Twins fans.

    What if it was found out that Adam Kennedy was using PEDs in 2002? Would you consider him a good guy?

    If he was using PEDs, he stole a World Series from you. He stole money from Twins players. And he stole history.

    Then again, David Ortiz and Manny Ramirez and A-Rod were tested for PEDs, they did everything possible to prevent the Angels from advancing in the playoffs.

    David Ortiz 177 HRs in his 20s. 364 after his 20s. And a failed test.

    3
    Reply
    • jd396

      6 years ago

      For all we know everyone playing for the Twins in 2002 was using too. The worst part of PEDs is that they give everyone open license to cast suspicion and doubt wherever they want.

      If you’re still hung up on who was and wasn’t a user in the height of the roid era it’s time to let go. It’s a tainted era. A lot of people used, plenty didn’t, the era happened and while the PED cloud of course still hangs over the game, we are no longer in the classical roid era where PED use dominated the game… time to move on.

      1
      Reply
    • refereemn77

      6 years ago

      Macstruts – Your valid points about the roid era is lost because you sound like an old man who just won’t shut the f— up about how it’s not the same as it used to be in my day. Make your point then let it go. Obviously, others, including many team front offices, don’t care about the prior PED use.

      It must be hell for you to even watch a game. God forbid anyone has to be present when you do.

      1
      Reply
    • linxuhe

      6 years ago

      Would hypothetical PED-Kennedy be the nail in the coffin that year? Or would it have been Bonds, or anyone else on those teams that could be under suspicion of using. It doesn’t matter.

      Also, it’s best to include # of plate appearances if you are going to arbitrarily list homerun totals. For those same periods Ortiz had 177 HR in 3584 PA and 364 HR in 5881 PA.

      1
      Reply
  46. Sweetleftyswing

    6 years ago

    He’ll hit less homers simply because he will not be facing Twins pitching

    2
    Reply
    • Moneyballer

      6 years ago

      Your comment is factually incorrect. Cruz had 14 at-bats against the Twins last season producing 3 hits, one of which was a long ball. He’ll be fine hater.

      1
      Reply
      • Sweetleftyswing

        6 years ago

        He hit a lot more of those home runs the previous years against the Twins. 4 each in 2015/2016.

        Reply
        • Moneyballer

          6 years ago

          Oh please!

          Reply
  47. someoldguy

    6 years ago

    Ryan got his thumpers and 200 home runs and 103 losses. This is no different, power sells tickets. Ryan always claimed the teams would be ” competitive” , this is no different. Nothing has changed. I would expect a slightly above .500 season. Me I thought winning was important, but now its about selling the idea of a future. all the teams do it.. it sells tickets, has made the MLB richer by far. Winning is just a side show.

    Reply
    • heater

      6 years ago

      I don’t think this was a “sell tickets” move at all. The proven bat was a big need and it rounds out the lineup nicely. On paper at least. I think they are a couple bullpen pieces away from being pretty decent. They do need a rotation arm but my guess is they wait til mid summer to find one of those. This could be a fun team to watch. Or they could be real disappointing. Either way it will be interesting to follow.

      1
      Reply
  48. Joseph12992

    6 years ago

    I know alot of people get annoyed with anti steroid stuff, but I am mildy triggered the article didn’t even mention it.

    Reply
  49. Vizionaire

    6 years ago

    nobody talks about hall-of-famers using greenies. greenies were the best thing happen to baseball. steroids were the best thing happen to baseball. and hgh’s are the best thing happening for the baseball!

    1
    Reply
  50. Mill City Mavs

    6 years ago

    YESSSSSSSSSSSSS!!!! give me one good reliever and I’m pumped!

    Reply
  51. martras

    6 years ago

    I’m surprised the Twins made this move after Falvey’s less than warm and fuzzy comments on the possibility of this signing happening. I’m glad it has the option year. That’s a win-win for the Twins.

    For a team with seemingly unlimited question marks who could either turn into a 100 win to a 100 loss team, having at least one perpetually weak position covered is a nice feeling.

    Reply
    • Moneyballer

      6 years ago

      A lot would have to go wrong for this to be a 100 loss team. I just can’t see it happening. Last year was the everything went wrong year, this one looks quite promising. Twins are positioned well right now with impact guys in their system and a payroll that is entirely in check for the future. I bet the next few offseasons will be spent on top tier pitching It also might be a good idea to dabble in the trade market for young controllable high upside arms.

      Reply
      • martras

        6 years ago

        More things would have to go right to win 100 than lose 100.

        That said, to lose 90 all that has to happen is for most of the guys to have the same kind of year this year as they had last year and the other teams in the AL Central to be marginally better.

        Reply
  52. Phillies2017

    6 years ago

    I just want to say, the roast session of Stu Baron gave me so much hope that this comment section can overcome the trolls.

    Also- Hell of a signing Minnesota, putting together quite the offseason, but not in a flashy “win the offseason” way.

    3
    Reply
    • Moneyballer

      6 years ago

      Schoop, Cruz and Cron should give this offense a nice little jolt next season.

      Reply
  53. Moneyballer

    6 years ago

    The last time the Twins had this kind of raw power potential was 2010 with Jim Thome, Justin Morneau, Jason Kubel and even Delmon Young. That was a very successful season. This could be a fun offense to watch!

    1
    Reply
  54. Saint Chris

    6 years ago

    If I’m Nelson Cruz I take a few million less to sign with the Astros or TB, places with a legitimate shot at going to the World Series. Yeah, TB may be a stretch, but the Twins have what? A 100:1 chance of sneaking into the playoffs with a wildcard? Wu-Tang: Cash rules everything around me.

    Reply
    • Moneyballer

      6 years ago

      Astros really don’t have a lineup hole to add a guy like Cruz. They have too many great quality hitters who need everyday at-bats. I think he did just fine by joining the Twins.

      1
      Reply
    • jd396

      6 years ago

      If you’re Nelson Cruz you just signed with the Twins.

      3
      Reply
  55. HeyBroItsBrad

    6 years ago

    Great Fit

    Reply
  56. john9977

    6 years ago

    most of those home runs were in Al east ball parks and home field of Baltimore, his home runs will go down significantly

    Reply
    • bighead306

      6 years ago

      He’s averaged 40+ in Seattle. One of the most pitcher friendly parks in the league

      Reply
  57. joefriday1948

    6 years ago

    Gardenhire recommended Cruz and agreed to take him if he doesn’t workout for the Twins.

    Reply
  58. ron cey

    6 years ago

    Anyone here remember Jose? He had a serious batting stance and fearsome look when swinging. Oh yeah…awesome hair too.

    Reply
  59. martras

    6 years ago

    I’ve got to be honest. It’s not hard to spell Cron or Cruz. I’m not impressed Austin can do that “from time to time” at all. Their last names are only 4 letters long. Austin should be able to spell their names any time.

    Do you think maybe when the Twins DFA Austin, he’ll get better at spelling?

    1
    Reply
  60. HubcapDiamondStarHalo

    6 years ago

    Y’know… If we could wait until after a few of these guys sign to pick, I’d do a LOT better in the free agent contest…

    Reply
  61. megaj

    6 years ago

    Too much for a DH. If you only play half the game, you should make half the money.

    Reply
    • bighead306

      6 years ago

      He does…. if he played even average D he would be making well over 20 million a year. He’s a steal at this price. If he plays like he should we can get him for even cheaper next year with the club option.

      1
      Reply
  62. Rich Hill’s Elbow

    6 years ago

    Would be nice to see if the Twins can now flip Austin and Cave for some a LH arms

    Reply
    • martras

      6 years ago

      Austin was a waiver wire pick up by the Twins when he was DFA’d last year and he showed no new ability. He’s worthless in a trade and is probably 50/50 to even make the roster out of Spring Training this year. Cave is probably a 4th outfielder.

      Combine those two and you likely don’t even get a pitcher the caliber of Adalberto Meija, who is also on a roster spot bubble.

      Reply
      • twins33

        6 years ago

        Austin was not a waiver wire pickup. He was part of the Lynn trade. He was optioned by the Yankees before that, which is why he was in the minors at the time of the trade.

        Reply
      • twins33

        6 years ago

        You’re probably mixing up the acquisition type with Cave who was DFA’d before the season started and a trade was worked out.

        Reply
  63. someoldguy

    6 years ago

    This signing and the very strong possibility the the Twins will carry 13 pitchers out of camp makes Austin a candidate for the waiver wire as I believe he is out of options. Carrying Austin make the bench back to what it was when terry Ryan had his “Thumpers”. Defensively unfit for the positions. They should never carry 3 1st base dh types and 2 catchers with very limited flexibility.. It worked really well for Ryan, Sano in the outfield and 200 home runs, with 103 losses.

    Reply
    • martras

      6 years ago

      Yep. He was DFA’d by the Yankees last year, and that’s how the Twins got him in the first place. Austin has no potential growth. He’s been in the Yankees system since age 17. If he had any potential and upside, the Yankees would have already unlocked it.

      Reply
      • kleppy12

        6 years ago

        Not arguing with your comments on Austin’s skills and what not but the Twins acquired him in the Lance Lynn trade I believe not on waivers.

        Reply
  64. kreevich

    6 years ago

    I’d like to have Mauer back.

    Reply
    • basquiat

      6 years ago

      We’d all love to keep watching Joe play, but he did the right thing for his health and his family.

      Reply
  65. PhilliesFan012

    6 years ago

    So what’s everyone’s gues for his HR total?

    Over or under 40?

    Reply
    • twins33

      6 years ago

      Under

      Reply
    • heater

      6 years ago

      I’ll say under at 36

      Reply
  66. Rich Hill’s Elbow

    6 years ago

    The thing is Austin wasn’t DFA’d by the Yankees last year, he was a part of the Lance Lynn deal that sent him and Luis Rijo to the Twins. If the Twins are really set on trading Austin (and Cave) for some LH pitching, they’re likely gonna have to include 1-2 prospects to do so, which shouldn’t be a problem. Also, as a Twins fan I can tell you that Mejia is not on the roster bubble, he’ll either be our 5th starter or a multi-inning reliever.

    Reply

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