While the Minnesota Twins aren’t expected to trade first
baseman/designated hitter Justin Morneau this offseason, they could look to
deal him over the summer if he’s able to return to form and the team falls out
of contention, according to Rhett Bollinger of MLB.com.
But the club could look to deal Morneau before the July 31 non-waiver Trade Deadline, especially if he returns to form and the Twins are out of contention.
The Twins are expecting big things out of Morneau in 2013,
and considering they already traded away starting outfielders Denard Span and Ben
Revere they are unlikely to also ship out the veteran slugger this winter.
But, since the team is clearly rebuilding and Morneau is
entering the final year of his contract, Minnesota could dangle him over the
summer if he’s producing enough to receive interest and the team is out of the
playoff chase.
Morneau has only hit .254/.317/.403 over the past two
seasons, but he posted a line of .286/.358/.511 in the eight seasons prior. If
he’s able to flash some of the old, MVP vote-garnering Morneau, the Twins
figure to receive a call or two on him during the season.
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