Report: Twins met with Bautista's representatives

The Minnesota Twins lost 103 games last season and are firmly entrenched in a rebuild, but they might have eyes on at least one big free-agent target anyway.

Minnesota reportedly had a meeting with the representatives of free-agent outfielder Jose Bautista, according to Rhett Bollinger of MLB.com.

The level of interest from either side remains unclear, however, and it's not known if the meeting advanced any possible contract talks.

Bautista rejected a qualifying offer from the Toronto Blue Jays in November, meaning the team signing him would have to forfeit their first-round pick. However, the Twins wouldn't have to surrender their 2017 first-rounder - the first overall pick - should they sign Bautista, as it's protected.

Although they limped to the worst record in the majors last year, the Twins might see themselves as a possibility for Bautista if he was willing to join the club on a one-year contract. The 36-year-old has seen his market value dwindle over the winter, and it's possible that he may have to consider a one-year offer to rebuild his value and try free agency again next winter. In Minnesota, Bautista could possibly be used in a utility role and slide between first base, right field, and designated hitter.

One reason Bautista might at least consider joining the Twins would be his love of hitting at Target Field. Although he's only played there as a visitor, Bautista's career 1.324 OPS in 98 plate appearances at the eight-year-old ballpark is his highest at any stadium - including Rogers Centre - where he's made at least 80 plate appearances. He's hit 14 career homers and 19 extra-base hits at Target Field.

Bautista has most recently been linked with the Blue Jays, his team of the past nine seasons, though they reportedly have not made him an offer since he rejected the team's qualifying offer. He was also linked with another rebuilding team in the Philadelphia Phillies earlier this winter.