Super Utility

[baul0010]

All the super utility options remaining are disappointing and very unlikely to move the needle for the Twins.  I'm excited to see what Kirilloff can do this year and am wondering why the super utility role couldn't be filled by Royce Lewis.  He can theoretically play s.s. and 3rd.  He plays center field.  I'm sure he could slide into 2nd and corner outfield spots if needed.  He'd pick up 2/4 games per week while also learning from the major league staff.  He'd be more exciting than resigning Marwin... And he couldn't hit worse!  It would bring some excitement to an otherwise forgettable off-season.

 

I'm not saying to make our top prospect a utility player his whole career.  Just this year to get him some major league experience.  

[ashbury]

Bringing up a stud prospect with a broad skillset as a utility player for his rookie season has some appeal. Kind of similar to how certain teams (Cardinals come to mind) would let a good pitching prospect gain a year of experience in the major league bullpen, though the analogy isn't perfect.

 

I still have a feeling we're about a year early from considering this for Lewis.

 

The fact he's not yet on the 40-man roster will necessarily weigh into the decision as well. Few front offices will add a 21-year old who is knocking on the door, he has to break the door down. I could see a June or July call-up for this role, if he has a monster season going at AAA. Of course, this doesn't solve the problem today of whom to use for utility.

[baul0010]

I don't think it would be the right decision but if this year is as bad as last year's minor league season was, I'd rather have Lewis getting some on the job training!

[Shaitan]

I don't think you need a super utility player. If the right one is there, you sign them but it's a bonus.

 

Think about it: last year they had Adrianza to back-up 1B, 2B, SS, 3B and Gonzalez to back-up 2B, 3B, LF, RF.

 

They can get similar coverage with a standard IF utility and another outfielder while using the same # of roster spots. The extra flexibility of a super util guy is nice, but it's a luxury.

[ToddlerHarmon]

I like this take, and I've floated it myself. I could easily be convinced he is not ready yet. It would be harder to convince me that Marwin should be playing instead

[baul0010]

 

I like this take, and I've floated it myself. I could easily be convinced he is not ready yet. It would be harder to convince me that Marwin should be playing instead

I'm in favor of no more Marwin.  If we have a normalish minor league season I think he should play everyday.  But I don't think practicing in St. Paul for 2 seasons will be good for Royce's development.  I guess there is still too many questions about the season yet.

[baul0010]

We put up with Buxton not hitting because his defence is amazing.  I feel like Royce could provide above average defence at a few positions, as well as getting the attention of the major league staff.  Hopefully they could get him favorable at bats and get a marwinesque .235 batting average with better defence.

[tarheeltwinsfan]

 

Bringing up a stud prospect with a broad skillset as a utility player for his rookie season has some appeal. Kind of similar to how certain teams (Cardinals come to mind) would let a good pitching prospect gain a year of experience in the major league bullpen, though the analogy isn't perfect.

 

I still have a feeling we're about a year early from considering this for Lewis.

 

The fact he's not yet on the 40-man roster will necessarily weigh into the decision as well. Few front offices will add a 21-year old who is knocking on the door, he has to break the door down. I could see a June or July call-up for this role, if he has a monster season going at AAA. Of course, this doesn't solve the problem today of whom to use for utility.

If the Twins sign a free agent, that also uses up a 40 man roster spot. Let the kid  play and learn at the highest level. I think he is so special that he will excel immediately.

[South Dakota Tom]

Nick Gordon or wait for the waiver wire. There is usually an Adrianza out there who doesn't make a roster cut.  All I am say-ing, is give Nick a chance.