Twins Minor League Report (4/2): Saints Take Series One

TRANSACTIONS
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SAINTS SENTINEL 
St. Paul 2, Toledo 1
Box Score

Randy Dobnak returned to the mound as a starter this season, and it was a breath of fresh air for a guy who dealt with a finger injury most of 2022. He didn’t debut until August last season, so a regular spring training and April start had to feel good. He did give up five walks, but Dobnak also punched out five over 4 2/3 innings allowing only a single run.

St. Paul got on the board first when Mark Contreras hit his first homer of the season, a 4th inning solo shot. After playing with the Twins last season, Contreras is certainly looking to have a year worthy of another call to the big leagues.

After Dobnak allowed the tying run prior to his 5th inning exit, the Saints immediately answered. Contreras stepped in during the top of the 6th inning and allowed Matt Wallner to score, following his triple, on an infield ground ball. Relieving Dobnak in the 5th inning, Austin Schulfer worked 1 1/3 innings in relief. He put up strong numbers at Double-A Wichita last season and earned the promotion to Triple-A. Looking to prove his ability as a leverage reliever, a strong start could carry him to an eventual Major League debut this year.

Following another pitching change, this time Oliver Ortega coming in, the Mud Hens Zack Short blasted a two-run homer to take the lead 3-2. Ortega was a waiver claim from the Los Angeles Angels this offseason, and his addition pushed Blayne Enlow off the 40-man roster. Neither player currently claims a spot, but Minnesota is hoping for strong development from both this season. LaTroy Hawkins mentioned Ortega as a head-turner during spring training.

The Saints were determined to not let this one get away from them, and again had an immediate answer. Matt Wallner ripped his first double of the season to score Edouard Julien. Former Twins prospect Akil Baddoo tossed the ball back in for Toledo and the score was knotted at 3. Then, continuing his nice game, Contreras singled to Baddoo in right field, allowing Wallner to score the go ahead run.

A one-run lead was enough as Connor Sadzeck came on and closed the door. Working two complete innings, he picks up the win and heads home with St. Paul taking their first series of the year.

WIND SURGE WISDOM
Although they don't open until later this week, Wichita unveiled their Opening Day roster on Sunday. The team is highlighted by top prospect Brooks Lee, but also brings pitching promise in Kody Funderburk and David Festa. Former first round pick Aaron Sabato is on the club as well. Seth broke down the entire roster here.

PROSPECT SUMMARY
We will again keep tabs on the Twins top prospects. You’ll probably read about them in the team sections, but if they aren’t there, you’ll see how they did here. 

Here’s a look at how the current Twins Daily Top 20 performed:

#5 - Edouard Julien (St. Paul) - 0-3, R, BB, K
#11 - Matt Wallner (St. Paul) - 2-4, 2B, 3B, 2 R, RBI, BB

TUESDAY’S PROBABLE STARTERS
Iowa @ St. Paul (6:37PM CST) - RHP Louie Varland

Please feel free to ask questions and discuss Sunday’s game!