Minnesota Twins reportedly showing continued interest in Bronson Arroyo

The hot stove is in full swing, and the starting pitching market has begun to set itself. We’ve had big-time contracts signed for guys like Tim Hudson, Dan Haren, and Jason Vargas already, but there are several quality options still available, and long-time Cincinnati Reds pitcher Bronson Arroyo is certainly among them.

We’ve already brought you reports that link Arroyo to several different teams, including the Minnesota Twins, but there is now a report of continuing interest from the Twins in the 36-year-old right-hander.

To be honest, this isn’t a surprise at all. Minnesota has been linked to Arroyo for more than two weeks, and they have a definite need in their starting rotation. However, I’m extremely skeptical that he could be had on a 2-year deal, at least at this point, simply because the market is still desperate for arms, and if nothing else, he’s been consistently healthy and able to pitch effectively in recent seasons.

Arroyo has a staggering nine straight seasons with 199 innings pitched or more, and that is a big-time commodity in today’s baseball. Opinions on his actual level of effectiveness vary greatly, but even if he were to throw 200 innings of his career ERA of 4.19, he would likely be worth in the neighborhood of 2 wins, and that commands serious money on the open market.

Hilariously, Arroyo would be the #1 starter on the Twins right now, but even if Minnesota elects to save their pennies, he is sure to sign on somewhere as a mid-rotation starter who will eat innings.