In a year where the American League playoff picture is wide open, several teams under .500 feel the need to become buyers at the MLB trade deadline.

That began Friday with the Minnesota Twins becoming the first to make a move despite currently being under .500 and out of a playoff spot.

Minnesota Twins acquiring Tommy Nance

According to ESPN reporter Alden Gonzalez, the Twins are making a move to upgrade their bullpen by acquiring reliever Tommy Nance from the Toronto Blue Jays.

Nance has been solid this season, posted a 3.82 ERA with 34 strikeouts across 32 appearances and 33 innings pitched.

Entering Friday, Minnesota's bullpen ranks 29th of 30 teams (-0.5) in Wins Above Average, ahead of only the last place Kansas City Royals.

This likely makes Joe Ryan, others off limits

Just a few short weeks ago, it seemed apparent that a struggling Minnesota team would be open to moving starting pitcher Joe Ryan and catcher Ryan Jeffers among others.

Now, with a bit of a hot streak that has seen the Twins creep within one game of an AL wild-card spot, the buy/sell scale has tipped to buyers with the acquisition of Nance.

That likely means that Ryan, Jeffers and any other players Minnesota had floated out will remain in town with the team believing it can compete for a playoff berth.