The outfield situation for the Minnesota Twins is becoming increasingly crowded as the team prepares for the 2026 season.
Byron Buxton is expected to hold down center field, while Matt Wallner is projected to play regularly in right field.
The left-field position remains uncertain, with Trevor Larnach likely splitting time there while also serving as a designated hitter.
Other players are also competing for playing time, including Austin Martin, who could see more action in left field, along with left fielder Alan Roden and highly regarded prospect Emmanuel Rodríguez, both of whom are pushing for spots on the Opening Day roster after strong spring performances.
Meanwhile, former Rookie of the Year candidate James Outman is also expected to make the roster since he lacks minor-league options, and top prospect Walker Jenkins could debut in 2026 once he recovers from a hamstring injury.
Given the team’s depth, trading Larnach could be a logical move. Minnesota surprisingly signed the 29-year-old to a $4.475 million contract for the 2026 season despite his average offensive production and below-par defense last year.
Moving his salary could open opportunities for younger, higher-upside outfielders while allowing the team to gain assets in return.
Recent suspensions affecting outfielders on NL East contenders may also create trade opportunities.
Following PED suspensions handed to Jurickson Profar of the Atlanta Braves and Johan Rojas of the Philadelphia Phillies, both teams could seek external outfield help.
Since the Braves and Phillies are expected to remain playoff contenders, adding depth through a trade could be appealing.
While Larnach may not be a marquee acquisition, he could provide at least league-average hitting and potentially improve with a new opportunity elsewhere.
If the Twins can move his contract while acquiring promising prospects from either Philadelphia or Atlanta, pursuing a trade would be a sensible strategy. ⚾
