Minnesota Twins Should Consider Trading Trevor Plouffe
By Brad Berreman
@bradberreman24
Brad Rempel-USA TODAY Sports
Coming off another 90-plus loss season, and nearing the end of a search for a new manager, the Minnesota Twins‘ front office will soon be able to focus on upgrading the talent level on the roster. A major move in free agency is unlikely, but they are some players currently in place that could appeal to other teams via trade.
Trevor Plouffe put together a solid 2014, hitting .258 with 14 home runs and team-highs in RBI (80) and doubles (40). He showed improvement defensively at third base, and advanced statistics back up his overall value with a WAR (Wins Above Replacement) above 3.0 for the season.
The Twins have a third baseman of the future in Miguel Sano, assuming his physical build allows him to stay there long-term and Tommy John surgery in March does not hamper his arm strength. Sano was on track to make his major league debut during this past season if not for the elbow surgery, and assuming a return to full health I think he’ll be given an opportunity to make the team during 2015 spring training. That stands to leave Plouffe without a full-time role, and he may be used as sort of a super-utility player that could see time in the corner outfield spots, both corner infield spots and as a designated hitter.
Plouffe suffered a fractured left forearm in late September, but after getting a second opinion and undergoing surgery immediately he is expected to be ready for spring training. The injury may add some risk for a team that is interested in trading for him, but Plouffe is also arbitration-eligible for the first time this offseason and with three years of team control coming multiple teams may show some level of interest.
Right now feels like the peak of Plouffe’s value, since he is 28 years old (29 next June) and may not be a viable part of a potential turnaround for the Twins. If a durable, proven starting pitcher of some note can be added, Plouffe stands out as the Twins’ most tradeable asset and general manger Terry Ryan needs to considering selling high while he can.
Brad Berreman is a Columnist at Rant Sports.com. Connect with him on Twitter and Google +.
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