Manager Paul Molitor has not yet named his opening day starter. I have an out-of-the-box suggestion: Fernando Romero.

Romero has not yet allowed a run - or a hit - in spring training. He's been nearly perfect.

Yes, I know, he's not expected to make the opening day roster. Here's my thinking:

• Clearly Ervin Santana cannot be the opening day starter – he's recovering from finger surgery.

• Jose Berrios would be the next logical choice, but Molitor wants him to pitch in Puerto Rico, his native land, later in April. That does not line up easily with an opening day start.

• Lance Lynn may not be ready by opening day. With the late signing, Lynn may need a few more days to get up to 60-90 pitches.

• Jake Odorizzi and Kyle Gibson have not proven enough in spring training or last year to warrant being the opening day starter.

• Romero has electric stuff, had a great year last year in the minor leagues, and he's been nearly perfect this spring. Let's see if he's ready for the big show.

I realize there are rules about sending a player down who is on the opening day roster. He might have to start two games. But that would give ample time for Lynn to get up to speed. The Twins could carry both Lynn and Romero on the roster at the beginning, and have one less batter. If the Twins were to go with Zack Granite over Robbie Grossman, Granite could start out in Rochester, and be called up when either Romero goes down, or if there's an injury.

What do you think?