Twins rumors: Minnesota considering Francisco Liriano

The Minnesota Twins are considering re-signing left-hander Francisco Liriano this offseason, as the team has held conversations with the free agent’s representatives, reports La Velle E. Neal III of the Star Tribune:

The Twins have had conversations with Liriano's representatives, according to a source with knowledge of the talks, and the sides are expected to meet next week at the Opryland Hotel in Nashville during baseball's annual winter meetings.

Liriano’s representation is expected to meet with the Twins again next week during Major League Baseball’s winter meetings. General manager Terry Ryan didn’t confirm that he’s reached out to Liriano, but would only say that it’s been made clear the team is targeting starting pitching this offseason.

The Twins will certainly be looking to acquire pitchers via free agency and the trade market considering the only starter penciled into their 2013 rotation is left-hander Scott Diamond. Beyond Liriano, Minnesota has also been tied to right-hander Brett Myers recently.

Liriano has been extremely inconsistent since making his major league debut in 2005, as the 29-year-old has been great some seasons and awful others. He owns a career ERA of 4.40 with 9.1 strikeouts and 3.8 walks per nine innings.