Report: Twins have had trade discussions on Max Kepler

Minnesota Twins outfielder Max Kepler Matt Marton-USA TODAY Sports

Report: Twins have had preliminary trade discussions on right fielder Max Kepler

By Erin Walsh | Last updated 7/26/21

According to FanGraphs , the Minnesota Twins, which are 42-58 on the season and last in the American League Central, don't really have a chance to make the playoffs this year.

With Minnesota's season slipping away, the team appears to be a seller at this year's trade deadline. The Twins already traded slugger Nelson Cruz, and several other players could be on the move this week.

According to MLB Network's Jon Morosi, the Twins have had preliminary trade discussions on right fielder Max Kepler. Morosi mentions the New York Yankees as a possible suitor.

Sources: #Twins have had preliminary trade conversations on Max Kepler. The #Yankees are one possible fit, given their shortage of left-handed hitting, as @john_jastremski mentioned to me last night. @MLBNetwork
— Jon Morosi (@jonmorosi) July 26, 2021

Kepler has two years remaining on his five-year, $35 million contract with a club option for 2024. He's owed $6.75 million in 2022 and $8.5 million in 2023. His club option in 2024 is for $10 million.

The 28-year-old has spent his entire career in Minnesota. This season, he's hitting .220/.309/.458 with 13 home runs and 38 RBI in 66 games.

The Yankees are an intriguing destination for Kepler. With several injuries in the outfield, New York is reportedly "checking in on outfielders everywhere" ahead of the July 30 trade deadline.

In addition, the Pinstripes could use some pitching help after blowing another late lead to the Boston Red Sox on Sunday. They could seek a package including Kepler and right-hander Jose Berrios, who is very much available this week.

Yankees chairman Hal Steinbrenner said earlier this month he's not opposed to exceeding Major League Baseball's luxury-tax threshold to help his club. Even if the Yankees don't land Kepler and/or Berrios, expect the club to add to its roster this week.

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