Tws Awarded Waiver Claim for Rich Harden

[catman]

The Twins claimed Rich Harden off the waiver-wire from the Cubs and have until Monday to work out a deal for this "ace". Here is a story: Twins serious about trading for Harden | twinsbaseball.com: News
The Twins have the pieces in their farm system to make this deal, and could sign Harden to an extension. Wouldn't that be a nice counter to the White Sox picking up PeavY?

[Providence A's]

they may work out a trade, but I'm pretty sure he wants to test FA for the first time.

[catman]

I'm sure. If the Twins work out the trade, they'll get a draft pick if (when) he walks.
A possibility is this, though. Harden comes in, likes the nucleus of the team and the atmosphere in the clubhouse and decides to take the Twins' "reasonable" offer. He might also like the looks of the new stadium and the chance to pitch there.

[Providence A's]

it seems a trade is unlikely and apparently they have interest in Penny, too.

http://blogs2.startribune.com/blogs/...rade-unlikely/

As of late Sunday night, the Twins had yet to request Cubs pitcher Rich Harden’s medical records, a person close to Harden told the Star Tribune, adding that a deal by today’s noon deadline appeared unlikely.

and

Twins officials have not dismissed the possibility that they would pick up the remainder of Penny’s contract — and likely pay about $1.2 million for six starts — instead of letting Penny hit the open market. From all indications, Penny would prefer to sign with a National League team if he goes unclaimed, so the Twins only chance to get him would be to take on the contract.

they should do something as they're only 4.5 games back. Harden could make a huge difference and he's been going well lately. I'm not sure how much, if at all, Penny would help.

[henks]

They really need to get a deal for Harden done.

[Providence A's]

sadly for Twins fans, they did nothing. The Cubs decided to hold on to Harden and it appears that Penny is going to sign with the Giants.

[henks]

Dumb.

[catman]

It appears the Cubs were asking for the moon and stars for Harden. The Twins weren't willing to part with the number of prospects the Cubs wanted.