Twins, Willingham reportedly moving toward deal

The Twins are close to signing free-agent outfielder Josh Willingham, according to a tweet on Tuesday evening from Ken Rosenthal of MLB Network and FOX Sports. The Twins’ pursuit of Willingham comes as the club attempts to re-sign free agents Michael Cuddyer and Jason Kubel. Should one or both sign elsewhere, Willingham would likely fill the void in left field.

The Twins, however, would not confirm an agreement with Willingham. A team official would only say that the Twins have continued to talk with the free agent, but it’s not a done deal.

If signed, Willingham will suit up for his fourth team in five seasons, after spending last season in Oakland, where he hit .246 with 29 home runs and 98 RBIs in 136 games — his first stint in the American League. Willingham, who is a career .262 hitter, spent the previous two seasons with the Nationals after playing his first five seasons with the Marlins.

According to Rosenthal, the Rockies are pushing to sign Cuddyer to a multiyear contract, possibly worth more than $10 million per season.

- Jon Star