Episode 387: The Byron Buxton Blues

Regarding service time: you have to reach arbitration OR free agency before you start cashing the big buck checks. Yes, this creates bad feelings on both sides, but the player needs to produce in the end, otherwise, looks like the Twins MAY have other options for the 2020 season and beyond at this point, It all works out in the end. A good season could mean a BIGGER longterm contract offer OR interest from another team. I worry more about how many millions the Twins have to dangle in front of Rosario who MAY BE unpredictable still at bat or in the field and what to do with Max Kepler, who produces just enough if the players around are stronger, but still.....

THE OPENER concept is great if you want to get a lot of work from your pitchers the last month, especially when starters aren't reaching five innings anyways. But still, more careful consideration of potential matchups and such...AND CAN your starters function as relief pitchers. Of course, you then drag out a catcher because your well stocked bullpen is still overworked (where is Curtiss, by the way, if you NEED more arms to call upon).

GOMENEZ, if he was available early, would've been a fine choice to have on the roster much earlier. But all those AAA catchers (Sawyer, Pocjardo, Graterol and the departed Rupp) have to wonder about what gives in the World of the Twins.

2019: Highest paid Twins right now are Addison Reed, Jason Castro, the Jake Odorizzi and Kyle Gibson, followed by Robby Grossman. What a group to build around!