In an effort to shore up their outfield depth, the Minnesota Twins signed free-agent outfielder Harrison Bader to a one-year contract with a mutual option for 2026. The Twins have agreed to pay Bader a contract worth a guaranteed $6.25 million plus up to $2 million in bonuses,
Thus, the search for a backup for the oft-injured Bryon Buxton in centerfield ends. Bader has the flexibility to play every outfield position, but with Buxton expected to play maybe 100-125 games in center, his first responsibility will be to provide quality insurance here.
Profiling Harrison Bader
Bader, an eight-year veteran, has played with four other Major League franchises, first arriving in the bigs with the St. Louis Cardinals in 2017. His calling card is his speed and excellent outfield defense. He has stolen 10 or more bases in a season five times and was a Gold Glove winner with the Cardinals in 2021. That was also his best offensive campaign in the majors, as he hit 16 home runs and 50 RBI and ended the season with a 3.8 WAR.
Unfortunately, Bader does not possess a potent bat. His slash line last season was 236/.284/.373, and he does not walk much. He also has missed a great deal of playing time due to injuries. Before 2024, he only averaged 91 games a year, dealing with lower body issues like two hamstring strains, plantar fasciitis, and a groin strain.
Trade Fills Some Needs
The Twins also like that Bader bats right-handed and has a history of hitting left-handed pitchers well. This also makes him the perfect platoon partner for corner outfielders Trevor Larnach and Matt Wallner, both lefties. And for a team that finished dead last in the majors with 65 stolen bases last season, adding speed to the lineup is paramount.
The Twins player most affected by this trade is probably utility man Michael Helman. Where he falls short of Bader is that he is not a strong defender despite being versatile. This move has either cost him a roster position or severely reduced his playing time.
Beneficial Acquisition
The signing of Bader was a small but positive step forward for the Minnesota Twins. When Buxton is out of the lineup, they now have a reliable backup, unlike last year when Manuel Margot failed miserably trying to fill that role. It will also allow super-sub Willi Castro to spend the majority of his time backing up the infield positions. Any offensive firepower that Bader can generate will be considered a bonus.
