Let’s assume for a minute that Twins GM Terry Ryan actually intends to trade Johan Santana this winter. Would there be takers? Most certainly. The thing to keep in mind, however, is there are only so many teams out there that would be able to afford a long-term contract for the best pitcher in the game. Shorter still are the list of teams that have both the means and the bargaining chips to pull it off. For instance, the Dodgers would be one of those teams, but I’m thinking about another team on another coast.
Now, before anyone flies off the handle, just hear me out on this, because I think the best move for the Twins would be to trade Santana to the New York Yankees.
Like I said, hear me out, because there is a lot involved with this. It’s not just dealing Santana to the Bronx for whatever they can get back. I think the Twins could position themselves to make a serious run at a championship beginning next season should they convince New York GM Brian Cashman to pull this particular trigger.
There is no doubt the Yankees could afford to sign Santana long-term. None. However, this is a team that has plundered their minor league system over the years for established major league players that haven’t always panned out. But things have changed a bit, the pinstripers actually have some top-notch talent up from the farm. Now, would they be willing to part with some of it to acquire the best hurler baseball has to offer? Particularly considering Santana is only 28 years old? I think the answer would be a resounding yes.