Article: Kyle Waldrop, the grounded pitcher

[Parker Hageman]

You can view the page at http://twinsdaily.com/content.php?325-Kyle-Waldrop-the-grounded-pitcher

[Shane Wahl]

One has to wonder, as Fanatic Jack rightly does, how Waldrop (and Slama, outside of injury) has not been given Alex Burnettesque opportunity with the Twins.

 

I do think that Waldrop might be a better "near lock" than Anthony Swarzak, who I believe has gotten too much acclaim for his performance last year. I like Waldrop in either that role of a long reliever or, obviously, a situational pitcher to come in with guys on base.

[jimbo92107]

Another thing about that 76 percent ground out stat. If there's a runner on first base, a ground ball is a lot more likely either to get the lead runner or to start a double play. As long as the Twins have decent infielders, Gardenhire should make room for Kyle Waldrop.

[roger]

Gotta be pulling for Waldrop who was on the fast track before his injury derailed his career. Plus, the kid passed on a wonderful education at Vandy to join the Twins. I for one remain hopeful that he can be a big add to this year's bullpen!

[Parker Hageman]

I do think that Waldrop might be a better "near lock" than Anthony Swarzak, who I believe has gotten too much acclaim for his performance last year.

While I agree with you, I believe Swarzak's acclaim comes from his flexibility - jumping from long relief to short relief to starter when needed.

[Fanatic Jack]

I don't have too many high hopes for this year other than Kyle Waldrop making the roster out of spring training. He deserves a shot to prove he was worth the #1 draft pick in 2004. I don't advocate for many players but Waldrop is somebody who could become very valuable to the bullpen. I just hope Gardenhire does not decide to bring Burnett back or go with Doyle...

[Seth Stohs]

And the business side which says that Anthony Swarzak is out of options and based on a solid 2011 campaign, in which he showed that flexibility, he would be lost. Waldrop has three options years remaining at this point. Personally, i think both are locks at this point.

[Fanatic Jack]

Seth,

I sure hope your right. I believe Jared Burton and Matt Maloney at this point are locks too. I was really hoping for Gutierrez to make it as well but maybe some more time in Rochester would do him some good. Gutierrez has way more upside than Maloney that is for sure.