The Twins reportedly have intensified their pursuit of free-agent right-hander Yu Darvish.
Minnesota has offered Darvish a multiyear contract, Darren Wolfson of Minneapolis radio station KSTP reported Wednesday. Exact terms weren't disclosed, but Wolfson said his sources told him the Twins offered Darvish a four- or five-year contract.
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Such an offer would put the Twins on par with big-market teams such as the Dodgers, Yankees and Cubs, based on previous reports.
Wolfson also reported free-agent first baseman Mike Napoli is recruiting Darvish to come to Minnesota, even though Napoli isn't close to signing with the team. Napoli and Darvish were teammates with the Rangers.
Minnesota needs starting pitching help, especially after learning that ace right-hander Ervin Santana (finger surgery) could be out until May. In 2017, the Twins were 12th in the American League in innings by starters and 10th in starters' ERA.
Wolfson also reported the Twins have been in regular trade talks with the Rays, although he did not believe Tampa Bay is discussing ace Chris Archer with Minnesota. That would leave No. 2 starter Jake Odorizzi and closer Alex Colome as more likely trade targets.
