MLB free agency: Twins reportedly sign Nelson Cruz to boost their lineup
Cruz joins C.J. Cron and Jonathan Schoop as notable additions for Minnesota
The Minnesota Twins have been aggressive this winter in adding power to their lineup. Entering Christmas, they had already claimed first baseman C.J. Cron off waivers and signed second baseman Jonathan Schoop to a one-year deal. On Thursday, the Twins struck again: inking free-agent DH Nelson Cruz to a one-year deal that comes with a club option.
Free agent slugger Nelson Cruz has agreed to a deal with the Minnesota Twins, league sources tell Yahoo Sports.
— Jeff Passan (@JeffPassan) December 27, 2018
Nelson Cruz’s deal with the Minnesota Twins is Worth $14 million guaranteed in the first year, source tells Yahoo Sports. There is a $12 million club option with a $300K buyout. My main man @Enrique_Rojas1 had the financials first.
— Jeff Passan (@JeffPassan) December 27, 2018
Cruz has been a highly productive hitter in recent seasons. Since 2016 he's batted .278/.359/.538 (144 OPS+) with 40 home runs on average. He's homered at least 35 times in each of the last five years, and hasn't finished with an OPS+ below 130 since 2013.
While there's no questioning Cruz's track record, his age does raise some concern. Next season will mark his age-38 campaign. It's fair to expect that, at some point, Cruz won't possess the physical ability to maintain his high level of production. When that'll happen is anyone's guess.
The Twins, for their part, sure hope it isn't in 2019.
















