If I were GM, I would risk my job with this approach to my ownership…
Increase payroll to $130-140 million and add one top 5 MLB starting pitcher through free agency this winter. Yes big risk, but an actual ace instead of a bunch of #3-5 starters. I think you can cobble together a good bullpen through the typical gyrations the Twins go through every year.
That along with the developing core of position players and you have a shot.
If it’s a hit and miss, then Ryan is near retirement and can take the sword. Mauer’s contract runs out in a couple years and start over with the next 20 year development cycle —
If you don’t take a big risk, then we need to be content with a team that treads water at the .450-500 level each year.
Pitching wins…