Report: Minnesota Twins Tried to Trade for Yusei Kikuchi

For the past handful of weeks Yusei Kikuchi is a name that has been tied to the Minnesota Twins. The Toronto Blue Jays pitcher was someone they liked during free agency. Ultimately he went to the Houston Astros for a massive haul.

The Minnesota Twins “Were in” on (Yusei) Kikuchi

Just about the most frustrating thing a fan can hear is about how close their team got. As of Monday night, the Minnesota Twins and Oakland Athletics were the only teams yet to make a trade. Yusei Kikuchi was a target of there’s and local insider Darren “Doogie” Wolfson suggests the club was in on the Blue Jays starter.

“The Twins we’re in on Kikuchi. In fact, here’s a text from a high-ranking Twins executive. Let’s just say someone in the belly of the beast. “Quite the haul for Toronto.” That was the only response I got on that trade. So yes, the Twins were not willing to match that offer the Astros made.”

There was reason to believe that Kikuchi’s acquisition cost had dipped due recent performance. However, the peripherals all remain strong and going to a contender could reinvigorate him. Clearly that’s what the Houston Astros are banking on. Houston is looking to make their eighth straight trip to the American League Championship Series.

Related: MLB Trade Rumors: Minnesota Twins Shopping Jhoan Duran

Monday night Astros general manager Dana Brown said, “There were names of pretty good arms coming off the board. Ultimately, you don’t want to get caught not doing anything to help the major-league team get back to the postseason.”

The Twins will need to pivot to other options. The trade deadline is bearing down on a team that is currently competitive. Derek Falvey doesn’t have many resources to make moves. At least though, Minnesota wants it out there that they “were in.”

Related: Pohlads Unlikely to Approve ANY Increase in Twins Payroll at MLB Trade Deadline