Twins appear ready to cut ties with Eddie Rosario – Twin Cities

The Twins have placed Eddie Rosario on outright waivers, a source confirmed Tuesday. The left-fielder can be claimed before Wednesday afternoon by another team but if he goes unclaimed, it appears likely he will be non-tendered and become a free agent.

All clubs must make decisions on whether to tender contracts to pre-arbitration and arbitration-eligible players by 7 p.m. Wednesday. In addition to Rosario, the Twins’ other arbitration-eligible players are right-hander Jose Berrios, center fielder Byron Buxton, reliever Tyler Duffey, catcher Mitch Garver, closer Taylor Rogers and reliever Matt Wisler.

Rosario was slated to earn $7.75 million last season, although that number was pro-rated due to the COVID-shortened season. Per MLB Trade Rumors, Rosario is projected to receive between $8.6 to $12.9 million in arbitration this winter.

If unclaimed, the Twins could try to negotiate with Rosario at a lower price. Rosario, who debuted in 2015, has been a productive player for the Twins, hitting a combined .281 with 96 home runs and 306 RBIs in the past four seasons, but cutting ties with him could open up a starting spot for Alex Kirilloff, who debuted last postseason, or potentially even Trevor Larnach, who has yet to debut.

Both first-round draft picks are corner outfielders with big bats and would arrive to town notably cheaper than Rosario. Brent Rooker, whose 2020 season was cut short after suffering a forearm fracture, could also be an option, and Jake Cave or LaMonte Wade Jr. could see playing time there, too.