The Minnesota Twins are in a position where they need to make moves to improve the active roster. In such situations, a team may decide to trade their biggest piece in order to make a quick upgrade.
On the surface, the Twins may not have that piece. However, that could change if they decide to make Joe Mauer available.
The 29-year old catcher has had difficulties staying on the field over the past two seasons and may be considered damaged goods by some teams. Still, he has a bat that teams covet at the catcher position and could provide an immediate upgrade for any lineup.
With a $23 million salary due through 2018, the Twins will need to pay a team a fair amount in order for a trade to work.
Minnesota will also need to get either an impact player or high quality prospects to restock their meager farm system.
With that, here are five trades the Twins could explore if they wish to put Joe Mauer on the trading block.