In addition to center fielders, the Twins have outfield depth, too, with veterans Delmon Young, Jason Kubel and Michael Cuddyer, all starters at various times this year and in the past. Any of the three has trade value, too.
The Twins would like to add a quality middle inning reliever. It wouldn’t be a surprise if the organization came up with some kind of a deal before the July 31 non-waiver trade deadline. The organization’s present outfield depth could grow deeper some day if catcher Joe Mauer moves to right field.
The Twins, who were 16.5 games out of first place in the Central Division on June 1, could have their playoff sights in focus by July 31. The club is eight games out after defeating the White Sox last night in Chicago while first place Cleveland beat. If the Twins are about six games back or better on August 1, they will be serious contenders for their seventh division title since 2000.
The Twins finish the series against the White Sox on Sunday, and then look forward to more games against division rivals. Kansas City, Cleveland and Detroit all come to Target Field for games from July 14-24.
No wonder Twins general manager Billy Smith said on WCCO Radio’s Sports Huddle Sunday that this is a “huge” month for the Twins as they try to “make up some games.”