Twins making Darvish 'a priority'

The Minnesota Twins are making it clear to the baseball world they're willing to open their wallet for a top free-agent starting pitcher, as general manager Thad Levine specifically called Yu Darvish as "a priority" during the winter meetings.

Even further, manager Paul Molitor told the media his club has "tremendous interest" in the 31-year-old right-hander, according to La Velle E. Neal III of the Minnesota Tribune.

Historically, the Twins have veered away from large signings. In recent memory, Minnesota's lone big contract was a four-year, $55-million deal given to Ervin Santana prior to the 2015 season.

One of the top free-agent starting pitchers, Darvish is likely to sign to a nine-figure contract, with fellow free agent Jake Arrieta considered the next-biggest prize.

Over 186 2/3 innings in his first full season back from Tommy John surgery, Darvish posted a 3.86 ERA and 3.83 FIP between the Texas Rangers and Los Angeles Dodgers.

Last season, the Twins made a surprising bounceback from a 103-loss season to make it into the American League wild-card game. Under new management, the club could look to contend with the help of some investment in the free-agent market.