Aug 2, 2016; Cleveland, OH, USA; Minnesota Twins right fielder Max Kepler (26) and first baseman Joe Mauer (7) celebrate after scoring during the fourth inning against the Cleveland Indians at Progressive Field. Mandatory Credit: Ken Blaze-USA TODAY Sports

The Minnesota Twins got into the action before the end of the MLB trade deadline. Dealing Ricky Nolasco to the Los Angeles Angels for Hector Santiago.

In a surprising move the Minnesota Twins traded a pitcher, but it wasn’t the name everyone expected.

The Toronto Blue Jays were reportedly keeping a close eye on Ervin Santana during his July 31st start. Even sending Toronto scout Russ Bove out to watch Santana’s performance. To everybody’s surprise it wasn’t Ervin that was sent packing however.

Scout says RHP Drew Hutchison would make lot of sense fronting #BlueJays package for Ervin Santana. Has 30 MLB wins, 3.26 ERA at AAA . — Mike Berardino (@MikeBerardino) August 1, 2016

To the delight of most Minnesota Twins fans another starter was traded instead. The under-performing Ricky Nolasco was dealt to the Los Angeles Angels in exchange for Hector Santiago. Nolasco had a 15-22 win-loss record and an ERA over five since joining the Minnesota Twins in 2014.

The cash neutral deal sent Nolasco, Alex Meyer and $4 million in cash to the Angels. In addition to Santiago, the Twins also received the rights to AA player Alan Busenitz.

Whomever is handling the GM duties in Minny should be given an immediate bonus and employee of the month status. Although Santana is nowhere near superstar status, his effort for Minnesota has far surpassed that of the under performing Nolasco.

On paper this deal looks like a step in the right direction for the Minnesota Twins organization. Santiago’s 2016 statistics are as follows.

No starting pitcher for Minnesota is even close to double digit wins. Santiago has received decent run support and does have a tendency to give up the long ball, but it’s a definite improvement over Nolasco.

Hector Santiago’s 2016 statistics-

Team

LG

W

L

ERA

LAA

AL

10

4

4.25

It also shows Minnesota’s willingness to admit past mistakes and show fans their intention of trying to put a quality team on the field next season.

Minnesota has made some critical moves thus far. Relieving Terry Ryan of his GM duties and making some needed roster moves in his absence. Whether these maneuvers will pay off for the club is yet to be determined.

Adding Hector was a major step in the right direction for the Twins. If our young stars like Byron Buxton and Max Kepler can show some promise, the Minnesota Twins might be headed in the right direction.