The Minnesota Twins surprised everyone this postseason by making a decent run, advancing to the ALDS against the Houston Astros. However, the Astros exposed Minnesota’s weaknesses and took advantage of them. Winning a World Series title takes years of building the right formula, and the Twins could look for inspiration from the Texas Rangers, who got it right. Let me explain.
The Rangers struggled in the previous two seasons, losing 196 games combined before their remarkable 2023 run to the Fall Classic. However, they didn’t rely on their existing roster. Instead, they went for a complete overhaul in the last couple of seasons. Last offseason, the Rangers’ intentions to win and be in contention year-over-year became evident, and the Twins seem to be on the same path. Minnesota can achieve a similar or better outcome before the start of the next season.
The Rangers organization underwent significant changes over the past few years. There are a few key points on how they built their AL title-winning roster and went from 101 losses to the World Series in two years.
First, they completely overhauled their front office. Then the new management acquired 12 players via trade, 11 through free agency, and three through the draft, totaling 26 players in the last four seasons. That’s a lot of moving pieces over a short time. And that doesn’t include signing two-time Cy Young award-winning pitcher Jacob deGrom, whose season was cut short due to a torn UCL and undergoing elbow surgery in June, or the restructuring of the front office and managerial staff.
It’s doubtful that the Twins will completely revamp their front office or make any managerial changes soon, given their recent success. However, the blame for the team’s underwhelming performance in the past isn’t Rocco Baldelli’s fault alone. There are a few areas that need to be addressed during the offseason to improve the team’s performance.
During the offseason, the Rangers made several acquisitions. However, none were more impactful than signing deGrom to a five-year, $185 million deal. Unfortunately, deGrom only started five games for Texas. However, his signing showed the fans that the Rangers meant business. Minnesota needs to do something similar this offseason.
The Twins signed Pablo López to a four-year, $73.5 million extension covering the 2024 to 2027 seasons, and that’s fantastic. Still, they need to make another significant pitcher signing or trade to demonstrate that we are serious about winning. That’s why the Rangers acquired three-time Cy Young award winner Max Scherzer from the New York Mets just days before the trade deadline.
There is a lot of pitching talent available this offseason, and the Twins need to commit to one more big name. Aaron Nola and Blake Snell are notable pitchers who could make a significant difference to the team. Both have been on contending teams and are experienced veterans who could contribute to the Twins clubhouse.
Texas had bullpen issues this season, just like Minnesota. However, the Rangers quickly identified the weak spots in their bullpen and traded pitcher Cole Ragans to the Kansas City Royals for flamethrowing left-hander Aroldis Chapman. Similarly, the Twins need to address their bullpen to some extent. While they have a great closer in Jhoan Duran, they need one or two more reliable arms in their bullpen. Last season, Minnesota’s bullpen often struggled to keep the lead or keep the game close for the offense to score more runs.
Finally, the Twins must find a reliable batter who can contribute when needed. Throughout the season, they had the most strikeouts by any team in the majors. Therefore, signing a big, impact bat, should be their top priority this season. Fortunately, there are several prominent free agents available, such as Rhys Hoskins, J.D. Martinez, and Cody Bellinger, among others. The Twins should be able to attract at least one of them to sign with the team.
It’s essential for Minnesota to consider trading for their desired player before the regular season begins. Last season, the Twins made a costly mistake by failing to trade anyone before the deadline. Despite rumors, they only took action once it was too late.
In contrast, the Rangers recognized a problem and took action with a timely trade. Like the Rangers, the Twins have a competitive team, but they need to make the necessary moves to get over the final hurdle. Despite the struggle, the Twins have shown their commitment to winning by signing big names to help. Such moves are indicative of a team seeking to build a championship roster.
