Starting pitching is one of the most coveted assets in baseball, and the Minnesota Twins could hold a high-value trade chip in right-hander. With proven performance and durability, He could command a substantial return on the trade market, especially if teams seeking rotation upgrades miss out on Japanese sensation Roki Sasaki.
Sasaki, just 23 years old, has drawn significant interest from MLB teams due to his impressive track record, including a 2.10 ERA in Japan and his key role in winning the 2023 World Baseball Classic. As a player available through international bonus pool money, Sasaki is an appealing and cost-effective option. However, only one team will emerge victorious in the Sasaki sweepstakes, expected to conclude between January 15 and 23.
For the teams that miss out on Sasaki, the trade market may become the next best option, and that’s where the Twins could capitalize by offering López. A reliable starter, López has the ability to log 180–200 innings with an ERA in the mid-threes and more than 200 strikeouts. This combination of durability and effectiveness makes him a desirable target for teams in need of bolstering their rotations.
Should the Twins decide to shop López, they could demand a significant return, whether that means top-tier prospects, controllable young talent, or a combination of both. In a pitching-hungry market, López could emerge as one of the most attractive trade options available.
For the Minnesota Twins, deciding to trade Pablo López is no easy choice. The team came close to reaching the postseason last year, only to falter in a disappointing September. With a strong roster in place, López could remain a key piece of their rotation. However, the scarcity of high-quality starting pitchers still available on the market might make López one of the most attractive trade options.
MLB Network Radio recently weighed in on the situation, noting López’s appeal across the league. “Who wouldn’t want Pablo López?” they asked, drawing comparisons to Dylan Cease of the San Diego Padres. While Cease may have a higher ceiling, the Padres’ status as a playoff contender makes it less likely they would move him. By contrast, the Twins may be more open to trading López to take advantage of his value and address other areas of need.
López, under contract for three more years at $21.7 million annually, offers both affordability and upside. His career 3.91 ERA and 25% strikeout rate make him an attractive option for teams looking to solidify their rotations. Despite a slightly elevated 4.08 ERA in 2024, López remains a dependable starter who could slot in as a strong No. 2 for a postseason-caliber team.
Whether the Twins choose to trade López will depend on their assessment of their playoff chances and the offers they receive. If the return is substantial enough to improve their roster in the long term, flipping López could be a smart move. However, holding onto him would solidify their rotation and signal a commitment to competing in 2025.
