The Minnesota Twins are navigating uncertain waters as rumors of a potential franchise sale swirl and payroll restrictions loom for a second straight offseason. Speculation about cost-cutting measures has put players like Chris Paddack and Christian Vázquez in the trade spotlight, but whispers of a more seismic move—trading star shortstop Carlos Correa—have begun to surface. Despite the buzz, Twins President of Baseball Operations Derek Falvey has swiftly dismissed the idea.
In an interview with The Athletic, Falvey labeled Correa, along with pitcher Pablo López and outfielder Byron Buxton, as “key” to the team’s vision moving forward. “I feel really confident those guys are going to be part of the ability for us to do what we want on the field,” Falvey stated. Addressing the rumors specifically, he added, “Asking Correa—or any player—to waive a no-trade clause is not something we’re focused on.”
Correa’s Contract and Rumored Trade Scenarios
Correa, 30, signed a six-year, $200 million deal with the Twins before the 2023 season, which includes four additional vesting/club options. With four years and $128 million guaranteed remaining, his contract is seen as a hefty commitment for a team under financial constraints. Speculation about a possible trade has been fueled by national voices like Joel Sherman of the New York Post, who suggested teams like the Yankees, Mets, or even Correa’s former team, the Astros, should “test the waters” on his availability.
However, Correa’s full no-trade clause complicates any potential deal. Moreover, the star shortstop demonstrated his value in 2024, despite missing nearly half the season with plantar fasciitis. When healthy, Correa was sensational, slashing .310/.388/.517 with 14 home runs and a career-best 16.6% strikeout rate. His absence from July to mid-September coincided with the team’s late-season collapse, further underscoring his importance to the roster.
Buxton and López: Critical Components, Not Trade Chips
Falvey also emphasized the untouchable status of Buxton and López, both of whom have been central to the Twins’ plans despite challenges. Buxton, 31 next month, has long battled injuries but continues to shine when on the field. In 103 games during 2024, the dynamic outfielder hit .279/.335/.524 with 18 homers and elite defense. Like Correa, Buxton has a full no-trade clause, and his contract—$15 million annually through 2028 with significant performance incentives—remains manageable.
López, 29, started the season with struggles but rebounded spectacularly. From late June onward, the right-hander posted a 2.91 ERA with a stellar 25.7% strikeout rate and a 5.3% walk rate over 17 starts. Under contract for $21.75 million annually through 2027, López remains a cornerstone of the rotation.
Twins’ Payroll Restrictions: A Balancing Act
The Twins’ financial constraints come at a pivotal moment. Following a promising start to 2024, the team stumbled down the stretch due to injuries and underperformance, finishing outside playoff contention. Despite the setbacks, Falvey made it clear the front office isn’t entertaining a rebuild. Instead, the team aims to retool around its stars while adhering to a tighter budget.
The franchise’s potential sale adds another layer of uncertainty. A new owner could shift financial priorities, but until then, the front office must find creative ways to remain competitive while managing costs. That means exploring moves like trades for secondary players such as Paddack and Vázquez, rather than dismantling the core.
Looking Ahead: Contention, Not Rebuild
While rumors may swirl, the Twins appear committed to maintaining a competitive roster. Correa, Buxton, and López are integral to their vision, and Falvey’s statements suggest that even amid financial constraints, the team isn’t backing down from its goal of contending in 2025.
Fans can rest assured that for now, Minnesota’s biggest stars remain in the fold. Whether the team can navigate its financial hurdles while staying competitive in a tough AL Central remains the ultimate test.
