Minnesota Twins Could Reunite With Former Closer In Free Agency

The Minnesota Twins went all-in to address their bullpen depth at the trade deadline, acquiring relievers Jeff Hoffman and A.J. Minter. But the Twins' efforts weren't enough as they went on to miss the postseason for the third-straight year and finish the year with a disappointing 77-85 record.

With Minter now a free agent, there is a possibility he might take his talents elsewhere and Minnesota can't afford to be without a replacement next year. They will also be in for stiffer competition with the rival Cleveland Guardians coming off an ALCS exit. 

The Chicago White Sox and Detroit Tigers are other foes within the AL Central who could give the Twins a run for their money if they stand pat this offseason. 

Last Saturday, an intriguing option in Emilio Pagán made himself available for not just Minnesota, but other teams in the league after declining the 2027 player option on his contract with the Cincinnati Reds.

Given his familiarity with the organization, going after Pagán makes sense for both sides. The 35-year-old right-hander spent two seasons with Minnesota, wrapping up 2023 with a solid 2.99 ERA and 65 strikeouts before leaving for Cincinnati on a one-year, $8 million deal.

His ERA regressed to 4.50 the next year, but it wasn't enough to stop the Reds from inking him to a two-year extension. Pagán showed improvement, finishing 2025 with a 2.88 ERA and career-high 32 saves.

A left hamstring strain capped him to just 45 appearances this year. Nonetheless, he logged five saves and two wins in July following his return from a 47-game absence. He also helped the Reds play spoiler against Atlanta on Sept. 24, earning a save that resulted in a 7-6 victory which prevented the Braves from clinching a first-round bye.

Going into his age 36 season, Pagán is seeking a final payday and Minnesota could be the club to give him that after owner Tom Pohlad promised to raise the team's payroll. Furthermore, Pagán's veteran experience and resiliency amid hardships like his injury would be valuable for a Twins bullpen with plenty of younger pieces like Yoendrys Gómez and Andrew Morris.

Even if Minter were to end up staying, Pagán would still be another reliable arm that manager Derek Shelton could turn to during higher leverage situations where Pagán has shown he can thrive.

In the meantime, the Twins will await a decision from catcher Ryan Jeffers regarding the qualifying offer they made to him on Monday.