Locked On Twins - Daily Podcast On The Minnesota Twins

TRADE TARGET: Why the Minnesota Twins Should TARGET Anthony Bender—Upgrade Bullpen, Salvage 2026!

·36 min·3 clips

C.J. Baumgartner reveals why the Twins should target a high-leverage reliever despite recent bullpen additions.

This episode focuses on the Minnesota Twins' bullpen needs and a specific high-leverage trade target. Host C.J. Baumgartner analyzes recent low-level bullpen additions and argues they are insufficient. He identifies a more impactful reliever the front office should pursue via trade. Baumgartner notes the Twins added several low-level relief pitchers to stockpile arms. He describes these acquisitions as not being "needle movers" for the bullpen. The host ranks this as the number three priority of the Twins' offseason. He states the bullpen has been the team's most glaring need throughout the winter. Other offseason moves included acquiring lineup help like first baseman Josh Bell. The team also added one or two backup catchers. Baumgartner argues the front office has neglected to acquire high-leverage relievers. He characterizes the bullpen additions so far as minor moves made "around the margins." The episode implies these bullpen decisions have implications for the 2026 season and beyond. A central claim is that the current strategy fails to address a critical weakness. The analysis suggests that stockpiling low-wattage arms is a flawed approach. Baumgartner positions a trade for a specific reliever as a necessary corrective action. The tone is analytical and opinionated, blending roster analysis with clear advocacy. The style is conversational, directed at informed Twins fans following offseason transactions. This episode is ideal for Minnesota Twins fans seeking detailed discussion on bullpen construction and trade possibilities. Listeners wanting broad MLB news or entertainment-focused content might find it too narrowly focused.

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