Twins reportedly pick up Cruz's 2020 option
This browser does not support the video element.
The Twins have informed Nelson Cruz that they are picking up his $12 million club option for 2020 as previously reported, according to MLB Network insider Jon Heyman. The club hasn't confirmed the report.
Though Cruz turned 39 in July, the veteran designated hitter still clubbed 41 homers in just 120 games while producing a .311/.392/.639 batting line this past season. His 1.031 OPS ranked second in the American League behind only Mike Trout.
Cruz, who signed a one-year, $14 million deal last offseason with the club option for 2020, is the only player in the Majors to hit at least 35 homers in each of the past six seasons. He also led all players with 346 home runs over the last decade. Cruz's 401 career homers are fourth most among active players, trailing only Albert Pujols (656), Miguel Cabrera (477) and Edwin Encarnación (414).
"The Nelson Cruz experience could not have been more perfect for us," Twins manager Rocco Baldelli said following the club's AL Division Series loss against the Yankees. "He is a guy that changes an atmosphere single-handedly, both on the field during the game and every single day that he shows up to the clubhouse. He's been a joy to be around."