The Twins signed veteran Carlos Santana to a one-year deal right away, making quick use of the money they acquired in the Jorge Polanco trade. From that trade, Minnesota received four players and cash considerations. 

Additionally, the team acquired right-hander Zack Weiss off of waivers from the Red Sox and signed right-handed reliever Jay Jackson to a one-year contract.

In order to provide space for Santana, Jackson, and Weiss on the 40-man roster, the Twins placed right-hand pitcher Jordan Balazovic, outfielder Bubba Thompson, and right-hand pitcher Daniel Duarte for release or assignment. The Texas Rangers claimed Duarte off waivers, and the New York Yankees claimed Thompson off waivers.

Santana, who turns 38 soon, gave the Pirates and Brewers a batting average of .240/.318/.429 with 23 home runs in 146 games—just one homer short of the Twins' team record. His ability in switch-hitting and his well-established plate control will be especially valuable when manager Rocco Baldelli constructs the lineup following Polanco’s leave.

Santana, a veteran first baseman and designated hitter, has seen his performance, defense, and overall health hold up amazingly well over time. He seems like a very clean, cost-effective match for the Twins.

Another reason the switch-hitter has significance is the fact that the Twins had no obvious designated hitter against right-handed pitching until Santana joined the team. They will likely rotate that job to play matchups while keeping their players fresh, but Santana's left-handed hitting allows him to fill that crucial position.

The Twins sought more security and depth at first base, where they initially depended upon the combination of right-handed Jose Miranda and left-handed Alex Kirilloff. That is why the move makes perfect sense.

Minnesota will have no trouble using Santana in the field as well since he leads his position with 11 defensive runs saved and is a reigning finalist for the National League Gold Glove Award at first base. He has always been a productive defender; in terms of fielding run value last season, he was above average.

This appears to be a very significant move for the Minnesota Twins ball-club.