Two more pitchers off the market November 27th, 2006 at 7:53 pm

By Kris Richardson

It’s no secret to Twins fans that the team needs another starting pitcher next season with Francisco Liriano undergoing rehab, Brad Radke retiring and Carlos Silva coming off a terrible year. Unfortunately, I’m starting to run out of hope that they’ll land the type of pitcher they need.

Today Randy Wolf and Adam Eaton were snagged off the free agent market. Both of these pitchers are the type of pitcher the Twins could really use. They’re not superstars, but they’ve proven they can give quality outings at the big-league level. Wolf, who is coming off an injury plagued 2006 campaign was given a 1-year “let’s see how it goes” contract by the Dodgers for $8 million. Adam Eaton was given a three year deal by Phillies worth $24 million.

Honestly, I thought Eaton would fetch about $6 million per year and Wolf even less than that. I’m glad the Twins didn’t offer that kind of money to Wolf, but I’m also left wondering: if Wolf got $8 million how much are the remaining quality starters going to be asking for? Are the Twins willing to fork over that kind of money for a pitcher? Might they have better luck working on a trade?

The Twins have a strong nucleus to build around. I hope they don’t let rotation problems and a lack of depth on the roster cost them a chance at a legit playoff run in 2007.