TRADE TARGET: Why the Minnesota Twins Should TARGET Anthony Bender—Upgrade Bullpen, Salvage 2026!
Minnesota Twins scramble to fortify their bullpen, but is trading for Miami Marlins’ Anthony Bender the missing piece? C.J. Baumgartner breaks down the urgent search for high-leverage relief arms, exploring why recent low-profile additions like Matt Bowman, Jackson Kowar, and Eduardo Salazar may not be enough for the Twins to contend. With the bullpen lacking proven firepower, C.J. Baumgartner assesses Bender’s fit, his pitch mix, and what it might cost to bring him to Target Field.
Key discussions include the bullpen’s glaring vulnerabilities, the fanbase’s frustration over minor-league signings, and the strategic significance of Victor Caratini’s arrival as backup catcher. Will the Twins move Ryan Jeffers at the deadline? Can Minnesota’s front office address the roster’s most pressing needs before Opening Day? Get expert analysis on roster construction, relief pitching strategy, and the moves that could define the Twins’ 2026 campaign.
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00:00 Twins Bullpen Needs & Trade Target
C.J. Baumgartner analyzes the Minnesota Twins’ lack of high-leverage relievers, discusses why simply stockpiling low-level bullpen arms isn’t enough, and makes a case for the Twins to trade for Anthony Bender of the Miami Marlins.
13:42 Bullpen Depth Moves Breakdown
C.J. Baumgartner breaks down the Twins’ recent additions of Matt Bowman, Jackson Kowar, and Eduardo Salazar, evaluating their chances to stick with the team and explaining the pros and cons of each option.
27:40 Catcher Situation & Offseason Ranking
The focus shifts to the catching situation after the signing of Victor Caratini. C.J. Baumgartner explains why this is the 3rd most important move of the Twins’ offseason and what it means for Ryan Jeffers and the future of the position.
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