As the Minnesota Twins gear up for another season, optimism surrounds the team following a successful 2023 campaign that saw them clinch the AL Central title.
However, while the roster boasts talent and depth in several areas, no team is without flaws. If the Twins hope to make a deeper postseason run, they must address some key weaknesses before Opening Day.
1. Starting Pitching Depth
The Twins’ starting rotation performed well last season, but injuries remain a major concern. While Pablo López and Joe Ryan provide a strong one-two punch, the back end of the rotation is far less certain.
Sonny Gray’s departure in free agency leaves a void that Bailey Ober, Louie Varland, or a returning Kenta Maeda (if re-signed) will need to fill. If any of their top arms go down, the Twins lack proven depth to step in and maintain consistency.
Adding another reliable starter—whether through free agency or a trade—could be crucial in ensuring the rotation doesn’t falter if injuries strike.
2. Bullpen Uncertainty
The bullpen, which was solid last year, has some glaring uncertainties heading into 2024. Jhoan Durán is an electric closer, but the bridge to him is less stable. Griffin Jax and Caleb Thielbar have been reliable, yet the Twins could use another high-leverage reliever to solidify the late innings.
Furthermore, Minnesota lacks left-handed relief depth beyond Thielbar, which could pose problems against teams with lefty-heavy lineups. If the bullpen struggles early in the season, expect the front office to make adjustments at the trade deadline.
3. Lack of Offensive Consistency
Minnesota’s offense showed flashes of dominance in 2023, but inconsistency plagued them throughout the season. The team was heavily reliant on home runs, often struggling to manufacture runs when the long ball wasn’t in play.
Carlos Correa and Byron Buxton are expected to lead the offense, but both dealt with injuries last season. The Twins need reliable production from emerging talents like Royce Lewis, Edouard Julien, and Alex Kirilloff to avoid extended slumps.
Developing a more balanced offensive approach—one that includes better situational hitting and fewer strikeouts—should be a priority.
4. Health Concerns with Key Players
Perhaps the biggest wildcard for the Twins remains the health of their star players. Buxton, when healthy, is one of the most dynamic players in the league, but his injury history is well-documented. Correa also battled plantar fasciitis last season, which hampered his production.
The Twins’ ability to contend hinges on keeping their core healthy. If Buxton and Correa can stay on the field, the team’s ceiling is significantly higher. Otherwise, Minnesota will once again be forced to rely on unproven depth options.
5. Lack of Veteran Leadership
With Sonny Gray, Kenta Maeda, and potentially other veterans departing, the Twins could find themselves lacking experienced leadership in the clubhouse.
While Correa has taken on a leadership role, a team with so many young players benefits from having seasoned veterans to help navigate the ups and downs of a long season.
Bringing in an experienced presence, even in a bench role, could help maintain stability, particularly if the Twins hit rough patches during the year.
Despite these weaknesses, the Twins remain a strong contender in the AL Central. Their young core has the potential to take a step forward, and the front office has shown a willingness to make in-season adjustments.
However, addressing these issues—particularly rotation depth and offensive consistency—will be key if they hope to challenge for more than just a division title.