Twins Promote Eight for September

Delbinson Romero not included? Do we really need to see Chris Hermann yet again? They KNOW what the results will be. He is what he is. You don't need to see him again to evaluate. Several of these spots were awarded as favors. But it is what it is. Hopefully they rest Mauer, Dozier, Plouffie, and Suzukiie. And some of the relievers. But out of the 8 probably the only true look see needs to be Pinto BEHIND THE PLATE, not at DH. And Hicks in center so Santanna can get a look at short. Tonkin and Darnell in spot situations. I wonder how Suzuki's upcoming potential for bonuses will affect Gardies distribution of playing time?

Some of these promotions were definately rewards for performance in the minors rather than as a "look see" or "get your feet wet" or as a prelude to a future in the MLs.

Ryn has always fancied his own scouting to try to obtain under-appreciated talent for possible use.  By promoting these guys he ensures a steady stream of AAAA guys signing minor-league contracts with the Twins.  Ryan does love "options".

Pinto and Herrmann were hitting very well. Bernier is getting rewarded, though one would think that Romero should be rewarded as well/instead. The pitching additions make perfect sense.

No Kris Johnson. No Stephen Pryor.

We don't need four catchers.

60-day Yohan. Bring up Debinson Romero.

You cold also cut Burton and Florimon from the 40-man with no tears being shed.

Colabello, sad. But would've sat on the bench.

Chris Hermann has not played catcher at the major league level this year (zero plate appearances as a catcher). You have to consider him an outfielder at this point, catching in an emergency only. While he still has one option year remaining, his spot at AAA may be taken by younger players who are promoted from AA. It would be doubtful that he could win a 25 man roster spot out of spring next year. This may be his last chance.

Colabello's spot may have been taken by Vargas next season.

Florimon has used his last option year this year. He is currently behind Escobar and Santana at the ML level and Bernier at the AAA level. Bernier has 2 options left and could have been a minor league free agent after the season. He would also have been eligible for the rule 5 draft if he is resigned without adding him to the 40 man.

Hicks may be playing for the 4th outfielder position, not just for center field. He needs to out perform Schafer, Parmalee, Santana, Arcia, Nunez and Hermann. Plus he needs to beat out whatever outfielders the Twins sign in the off season (and they will need to sign at least one). And don't forget the unlikely situation that many (not I) have been pushing for, moving Plouffe to the outfield.

Hicks has through next season to impress the twins.  I think this September is more about Hicks showing he can hold his own or do better than he's done so far. 

Bernier deserves a callup.  I am ok with him as a possible bench call up for him next year if there is an injury.  He is a solid insurance policy for the bench.  There is a solid chance that this type of playing time will have him consider staying here in the offseason if the Twins ask him back. 

As far as the bullpen arms go,  I don't want to get into who stays or who goes too much as our bullpen is currently pretty solid and not too expensive.  Burton seems to be a given to be gone but with the rest who knows.

Hermann hasn't hit yet but could be  serviceable 5th OF/ 3rd C/ 3rd 1B if he could I for average or with some power or field better. 

I hope Colabello can still get that Korea contract for 1 million this offseason.   would have loved to see him make it for a few seasons as a back up OF/1B/DH/ Pinch hitter off the bench but  guess Parmelee will be that guy. 

Florimon/ Bernier only 1 should stick around to be bench insurance.  defense vs bat

Overall though I am excited to see that we are a few pieces away from being competitive.  Our offense is improving to league best and we still have 2 super prospects coming up.  We are currently set for the 5th pick in the draft if the season ended today.  And we have Pitchers who are almost here.  (Berrios and Meyer)

Herrmann could easily be safe for 2015.  The Twins currently have nothing notable at catcher at either AA or AAA, outside of Herrmann and Pinto (not to mention nothing of note as MLB backup).  Heck, not much for AAA outfielders either, at least not to open 2015.

 

Bernier, Rule 5?  You are aware of his age?

Another catcher will need to be added to the 40 man roster this offseason. Fryer is on his last option year and would need to be kept on the 25 man roster. His value this year (and last) was to provide a serviceable major league backup while playing the majority of the season at AAA. There are two catchers at AA that are rule 5 eligible and another catcher at AAA that could serve in this role. They don't have to be notable, just able to fill in if there is an injury at the major league level. Hermann has not been playing catcher at the major league level this year, and while he could be safe, there may be other players that can take his place on the roster.

Bernier had a decent year this year. He could realistically be rule 5 selected or signed as a free agent to be a utility infielder for a team looking for a major league ready player. Not all rule 5 picks need to be young prospects, they could be players that fill a need on a major league roster. He seems to be ready and could easily stick on a major league roster for an entire year. Also if Escobar sticks as the starting shortstop, there will be a need for a utility infielder (assuming Santana plays outfield or is sent back to AAA).

Would have liked to see Guerra.

Romero would have been a feel good after his loyalty to the organization - I expect he will move on next season.

I don't know the ins/outs of the 40 man and what not, but I would have liked to see more emphasis on the future and less on rewarding good performance at AAA.