The Dodgers have traded outfielder Manuel Margot to the Twins, reports Juan Toribio of MLB.com. The Dodgers had scratched Margot from their Cactus League lineup, with no reason provided, just minutes prior to the report.
Minnesota has been on the lookout for a right-handed-hitting outfielder who could cover all three spots for much of the offseason. They’d previously been tied to free agents like Adam Duvall and Enrique Hernandez, and they’d also maintained an interest in re-signing Michael A. Taylor, who belted 21 home runs as a Twin in 2023. However, it seems they’ve found a deal to their liking on the trade front, presumably ending those free agent pursuits.
Margot is earning $10MM in 2024 and is also owed a $2MM buyout on a $12MM option for the 2025 season. The Rays are picking up the $2MM of that buyout, if Margot’s option is declined, under the terms of their prior trade sending Margot from Tampa Bay to Los Angeles. Presumably, given that the Twins have been working to reduce payroll throughout the offseason, the Dodgers are either including cash or taking another contract back from Minnesota in return.
More to come.