MLB Rumors: Twins Looking For More Arms, Consider Taijuan Walker

The Minnesota Twins are aware that they need to beef up their rotation for the 2020 MLB wars. They are working on that right now and recently added Jhoulys Chacin on a minor league deal. It appears there is a new one coming in Taijuan Walker.

According to Phil Miller of the Minneapolis Star, the Twins could be adding the 27-year-old right-hander soon to address its rotation needs. However, taking in Walker comes with a bit of intrigue. He is coming off Tommy John surgery in 2018 and also a sprained shoulder capsule in May of last year. This accounted for some time off, making it only to one inning in 2019. He served as an opener to the Arizona Diamondbacks in their final game of the year.

The former 43rd overall pick by the Mariners in 2010 has played just 14 innings the past two MLB seasons. Despite his date with injuries, it will be interesting if he can really provide needed help for Minnesota this MLB season.

The fact that he dealt with a torn elbow ligament and a sprained shoulder capsule raises some questions on his earning power. According to the Star Tribune, the Twins were hoping to get Walker on a non-roster deal. But from the looks of it, the right-handed pitcher could be holding out, preferring to get a guaranteed deal.

While that remains to be settled, the Twins will continue to rely on what they have. Returning are Jose Berrios and Jake Odorizzi.

Homer Bailey has been added while Michael Pineda is set to return as well. However, the 31-year-old needs to serve his reduced 60-game suspension after testing positive for hydrochlorothiazide, a diuretic commonly prescribed for blood pressure last MLB season. He is not expected to see action until mid-May.

Another signee is Rich Hill. He signed at about the same time as Bailey but will be out until June due after undergoing surgery on his left elbow.

In all, it will be interesting how Walker will fit into the Twins' rotation. He is considered an intriguing wild card although a deal needs to be made first. Rated as one of the game's 15 best overall prospects, Walker had his best years with the Mariners before injuries started to set in. He did prove that he has the ability to bounce back, apparently something the Twins are hoping to get if they come to terms with the Louisiana native.