5 starting pitchers the Minnesota Twins should go get now

2. Jon Gray, Colorado Rockies

Trade rumors have surrounded Rockies’ third baseman Nolan Arenado, and in light of his recent comments citing “disrespect” in the organization he may even want out despite GM Jeff Bridich’s recent assertion they aren’t trading him. If Arenado is moved for a significant haul, or even if he’s not, Colorado’s best starting pitcher is an easily identifiable trade target for other teams.

Gray has been on a bit of a roller coaster, with ERAs of 3.67 (2017), 5.12 (2018) and 3.84 (2019) over the last three seasons. He also missed the final month of last season due to a stress fracture in his left foot that required surgery. But otherwise it was a very nice rebound season for the promising right-hander (139 ERA+, 9.0 K/9, 3.4 BB/9).

Bridich said multiple teams had called with interest in Gray early in the offseason, with subsequent indications the Rockies have no intent to trade him. But we’ve all heard the “no intent” lament before as a public declaration of leverage (real or imagined), only to watch said player be traded when the desired return could be attained.

Trading Arenado would be a sign of a looming rebuild for the Rockies, with other players sure to surface or resurface in trade speculation in kind. Gray stands atop that list of others who could be on their way out of Denver if the roster is torn down/re-shaped, and the Twins should be ready with an offer. Even if the Rockies aren’t open for business in a significant way, the Twins should be considering what they’d offer for Gray.