FORT MYERS, Fla. – The Minnesota Twins have finalized a deal to acquire veteran outfielder Manuel Margot from the Dodgers, along with low-minors infield prospect Rayne Doncon. This move comes after pursuing various free-agent outfielders for months, ultimately deciding to turn to the trade market to secure the right-handed bat they have been in search of.
Margot, acquired by the Dodgers from the Rays in December, is set to enhance the Twins’ outfield mix. The Twins will receive $6 million to cover Margot’s 2024 salary, making the deal essentially a one-year, $4 million agreement. The trade involved the Twins sending shortstop prospect Noah Miller to the Dodgers, bringing Margot into a roster filled with left-handed corner outfield bats.
President of baseball operations Derek Falvey expressed his confidence in Margot’s versatility, highlighting his ability to play all three outfield spots. Margot’s defensive skills, combined with his offensive production, make him a valuable addition to the Twins’ lineup. Additionally, Margot’s experience in platooning against left-handed pitchers adds depth to the team.
While Margot’s defensive metrics have slightly declined in recent years, he remains a quality center fielder and corner outfielder. The acquisition of Margot fills a crucial gap in the Twins’ roster, providing insurance for center fielder Byron Buxton and adding a veteran right-handed bat. The team’s payroll is now at $127 million, but Falvey suggested that major league additions are unlikely before Opening Day.
The trade also involved the Dodgers receiving shortstop prospect Noah Miller, known for his defensive prowess. Miller’s offensive performance has shown room for improvement, but his defensive skills have garnered attention. Similarly, the Dodgers acquired Rayne Doncon, a 20-year-old infield prospect closer to a lottery ticket than a toss-in.
With the addition of Margot, the Twins have addressed a key need in their roster, positioning themselves for the upcoming season. Falvey emphasized the importance of the team’s roster construction, indicating that further adjustments are not a top priority at this time. The Margot trade marks a significant move for the Twins as they prepare for the upcoming MLB season.
Overall, the acquisition of Margot reflects the Twins’ strategic approach to bolstering their lineup through trade deals. The team’s focus on securing a right-handed outfield bat showcases their commitment to assembling a well-rounded roster for the season ahead. As Opening Day approaches, the Twins are optimistic about the impact Margot will have on the team’s performance in the upcoming season.