Twins trade rumors: Ervin Santana likely available at trade deadline

Twins starter Ervin Santana is emerging as a viable trade candidate, according to a report from the Boston Globe’s Nick Cafardo. The Twins, who currently sit at the bottom of the American League with a 24-51 record, are expected to be sellers in July.

Santana, 33, has posted a 2-7 record and 4.64 ERA so far this season, though scouts tell Cafardo that he will still draw strong interest on the trade market. Santana is under team control through the 2018 season, and is owed at least $28 million in guaranteed money in that time.

The starting pitching market is expected to be a weak one this summer, especially if the Braves decide to hold onto Julio Teheran and the Athletics keep Sonny Gray. Santana, who has been a consistent major-league contributor since 2005, is expected to draw strong interest from multiple clubs looking for rotation help.

Minnesota will likely draw inquiries on all of its veteran starters, mostly in an attempt to shed payroll and get younger. Ricky Nolasco may be another name mentioned in trade rumors before August 1.