shs_59

hmmm... no idea, but if i had to guess he may have gotten placed on the 7 day DL. (hopefully its a similar stint or very short absence). Go Tony Davis - probably one of the better LH relief prospects in the system.

for those still looking for a Good prospect to "adopt".... LHP Austin Malinowski a high schooler from Minnesota just last years, draft. he'll probably pitch in Gulf Coast or Elizabethon this year.

GREAT ARTICLE SETH!!! I'm all about the Twins taking Pitchers (mainly college arms) in picks 32-72 Right now. With pick #2 overall in my mind, there should be no doubt on Byron Buxton, and if he's gone, then Either Zunino or Maybe Albert Almora, Devin Marrero, Lucas Gioloto, Carlos Correa.

First things first, I want to say that I firmly believe these players, while mostly currently in the Minor Lgs. are A) Big League Ready and More than likely available for Trade within their respective organizations. & C) Should fit well within the Twins budget as many of these players have no to little Service Time. & D) Are young/ Prospects, green or raw because that Clearly is the best way to invest you're time energy and Money and NOT Free Agency as proven time and time again. Also should be the Twins primary focus at this point. Also I believe in these players as breakout regulars or even stars, and are undervalued a bit presently. I've seen a few of them play live before. And I am as close to 100% positive as I can be that they would make the Twins better TODAY.

shs' Realistic Trade Candidates to better the Twins #1 SP RHP Neil Ramirez AAA Texas Rangers. Turns 23 in 1 Month. http://projectprospect.com/files/Neil-Ramirez300x450%20(Mitchell).jpg?1304477395 The Rangers are sooo loaded with both Pitching and Offense both at the Major Lg. Level and the Minor Lg. Level that they may not be open to making deals with any team unless injuries occur. Well, even with that said, I think Ramirez is more than expandable. He is a FB pitcher who the Rangers NEVER like in the ballpark in Arglinton, see: Wieland, Joe and Erlin, Robbie from a year ago. *Also Even If Ramirez continues to impress and pitches even more dominant He'll likely not even be called up as a SP if he stays a Ranger: Feliz, Darvish, Lewis, Harrison, Holland, Feldman, Martin Perez. I don't really see room there ? ! Ramirez's tendencies are getting fly balls, striking people out, and not walking anyone. His K's per 9 are about, well 9!! While a late bloomer really breaking out not untill last year in the minors, even today he's seen as more of a mid-rotation starter (upside) and the Rangers may even view him as more of a #4. But for the Twins he'd have #2 Upside or potential , with our staff/ strategies, tendencies, ballpark and situation. WHAT would it take to Acquire him? Anyone not named Sano, Hicks or Rosario. How about Oswaldo Arcia & Tyler Robertson straight up. Has to sound Great for both teams as Texas will need LH reliever help this season. You know somthing else.. come this July Francisco Liriano may be the perfect Left-handed Reliever for the Rangers out of the bullpen setting- up Ogando, Adams and Nathan ..before Uehara, Feldman, Scheppers and Kirkman. Liriano for Ramirez might be very appealing to them in a few months. & if I was the Twins i would't even so much as HESITATE to pull the trigger. #2 SP LHP Erik Surkamp AAA San Francisco Giants Turns 25 in 3 months. http://ts4.mm.bing.net/images/thumbnail.aspx?q=4652412195113987&id=ddaa24617dcbe56b4fdca75a0e6c1282&url=http%3a%2f%2fupload.wikimedia.org%2fwikipedia%2fcommons%2fthumb%2f0%2f0f%2fEric_Surkamp_on_September_6%2C_2011.jpg%2f300px-Eric_Surkamp_on_September_6%2C_2011.jpg While he may be seen as the eventual replacement to LHP Barry Zito in the Starting Rotation (thats why the Twins better Hurry HERE while he's struggling a bit in AAA) , Surkkkamp as I like to call him, doesn't exactly fit the Giants persona as a power pitching, deep into ball games, lots of innings pitched guy. Surkamp is a southpaw throws high 80's, doesn't K a lot of guys but more than he's given credit for. And Doesn't walk many. Would be the Perfect Fit for Twins style of pitching and Rick Anderson would love Him! To give you some idea, 2 years ago in the mid level minors he struck out 108 batters in 101 Innings pitched. Last year he stuck out 170 batters in 148 IP at AA. Was a Cup of coffee call-up for the Giants last September. He basically is Scott Diamond w/ potential and upside! He can strike guys out at much better rates gets swings and misses with less than 90-91 MPH stuff. And would fitt perfectly as a #3 or #4 starter in both the short and long term. *Giants have Cain, Bumgarner, Lincecum, Vogelsong, and Zito in their rotation right now. Cain and Bumgarner just inked LONG-Term deals. WHAT Would it take? Any half-way decent bat. Luke Hughes? Joking. Ryan Doumit. I'd throw Alexi Casilla and Carlos Gutierrez at them if their middle infield woes continue.. And Casilla gets hott. or Maybe Brian Dozier? I wouldn't be in favor of the ladder, but they'd strongly be behind that I'd like to think. Gutierrez, Doumit and Casilla this trade deadline might suffice. #3 SS Adieny Hechavarria AAA Toronto Blue Jays. Turned 23 last week. http://ts2.mm.bing.net/images/thumbnail.aspx?q=4831185909777873&id=47ee682e63f170e2a5808e7ed3340b1a&url=http%3a%2f%2fcdn.bleacherreport.net%2fimages_root%2fslides%2fphotos%2f000%2f257%2f365%2fADEYNISHECHEVARRIA_display_image.jpg%3f1276460714 Bats R, Throws R. There is no doubt, the Blue Jays are one of the up and coming teams, possibly ranking in as the BEST farm system in all of baseball this year and LOADS of young pitching talent in the minors. But When it comes to many of their position players they are pretty well set at the AAA/ Major Lg. Level. Yunel Escobar is their everyday SS, and Hechavarria could be on the trading block for them. Often compared to the Royals' Alcides Escobar, Hech can pick it with the best of them, he plays an above average defense something certainly good in the Twins clubhouse. Also similarly to the Royals' Escobar -Hechavarria's offensive game has many similarties, (which may lead to his downfall.) Although, Hechavarria for about the past year now, SEEMINGLY after all the prospect gurus in the Industry... Baseball America, Baseball Prospectus and even John Sickles have GIVEN up on him. Has Been Tearing The COVER off the baseball over almost the last year dating back towards the end of the 2011 Minor Lg. Season. Remember When Trevor Plouffe got sooo many of us excited based on what he did in 2 months in AAA last year? Thats nothing compared to this guy! - AND He's a REAL SS. Idealy he'd probably bat 8th or 9th right away but could become or mold into a decent #2 type hitter, or 7 hole guy even. This would allow us to move J. Carroll over to 2nd base and DFA / Demote Alexi Casilla or keep his much appreciated versitlity as the 5th infielder. His Strikeouts this year in the PCL are a little worriesome right now he's at 16 K's to only 4 BB's but based on what he's done for years before that i'm not too worried about it. He should be a high 270's-280's hitter or better in him prime with marginal power and some stolen bases mixed in. WHAT WOULD It Take? Not much, in my honest opinion, unless the Jays really don't see Yunel Escobar as part of their 2013 roster in which case most of this is just jibberish at that point. I think he could be had for a few marginal players or a solid pitcher. Maybe Carl Pavano or Matt Capps at the trade deadline if we're faar out of the race. Would be MORE than enough to net him. #4 SS Didi Gregorius AA Reds Turned 22 Two Months ago From Amsterdam, Netherlands http://cdn.bleacherreport.net/images_root/images/photos/001/591/104/140081468_crop_650x440.jpg?1330501695 Bats L, Throws R. Now listen here folks, out of all of these players this one is Easy as Pie to make a Twin. No? I'm scoffing, you heard me (*or Yourself cough) *cough again* Or go, "yeah right i'm on pills". ? Well think again. The Cincinnati Reds...Ahhh Yes those Wayne Krivisky lovin, waiver claimin pitchin Cinncinatti Reds. Please Let me do a little informing very quickly. They have this Kid named Zack Cozart (National League rookie of the Yr. in 2012 Candidate) as their brand spanken new Starting SS. And he can play. He can hitt, he is the complete package, however he may not stick as SS because of his size. Therefore the Reds surely wouldn't want to give up Gregorious right? WEll GUESS AGAIN! There is a little someone in AA as well named Billy Hamilton, yeah you know the guy who stole 100 Bases last year in High A. That Billy Hamitlon who happens to play SS. SO even if Cozart fails, faulters, gets moved to different postion they have their sights Squarely on Hamilton as their SS of the future. Because Hamilton is soooo fast he Makes Carlos Gomez look like Delmon Young and Hamilton, apparently can hitt. Okay, maybe Gregorius isn't exactly Major League Ready as I'm typing this, but he will be IMO by Mid-season surely by the end of 2012. Gregorious is similar to Hech in that he'll only have marginal power, but decent to slighlty above average speed, maybe Alexi Casilla like base stealing abilites. But I like him because unlike Casilla, he should be able to Hitt VERY WELL in the not so distant future, probably even better than Hechavarria. The Reds subconciously may very likely vastly underrate Didi, just do to the simple fact their blinded by the fascinating and over achieving young offensive outburts within their own system. Guys like Hamilton, Cozart, Todd Frazier and Devin Mesoraco. No The Twins wouldnt' be able to steal him, but if they like a pitcher in our org, thats a match i'd strongly consider it if I was the Twins and Krivisky. Unfortunately for the Twins, Baseball America's Jim Callis recently stated in a Public Chat that Gregorius, " May be the best unherladed SS in all of the Minors." Or Best SS currently on nobody's radar. But now may be on everbody's map. WHAT Would it Take? Pitching most likely. Maybe Scott Diamond. Or David Bromberg + Gutierrez if David bounces back strong? How about Anthony Swarzak? I don't want to speculate too much here, but i'm sure theres a great match somewhere for Krivisky's EX club- and Gregorious is DUTCH how could he not want to be a Twin?

Thank you. I agree they are all very intriguing possibilities. Its time the Twins do something to provide a spark.... so far essentially Cletus Thomas for Luke Hughes..... That isn't going to cutt it. Neil Ramirez would be our 2nd or 3rd best pitcher tomorrow. There is little doubt in my mind about that. A big Ranger fan i follow told me Joe Benson straight up would be about right in his mind. It could take another player. But Just thinking about Texas' situation they may jump all over the chance to cash in their chip (Ramirez) for whatever they can get since he really doesn't have a future with that team IMO.

1st game NO BERT gotta love TK .

A.J. Achter - I'll happily claim.

First things first, I want to say that I firmly believe these players, while mostly currently in the Minor Lgs. are A) Big League Ready and More than likely available for Trade within their respective organizations. & C) Should fit well within the Twins budget as many of these players have no to little Service Time. & D) Are young/ Prospects, green or raw because that Clearly is the best way to invest you're time energy and Money and NOT Free Agency as proven time and time again also should be the Twins primary focus at this point. Also I believe in these players as breakout regulars or even stars, and are undervalued a bit presently. I've seen a few of them play live before. And I am as close to 100% positive as I can be that they would make the Twins better TODAY. #1 SP RHP Neil Ramirez AAA Texas Rangers. Turns 23 in 1 Month. http://projectprospect.com/files/Neil-Ramirez300x450%20(Mitchell).jpg?1304477395 The Rangers are sooo loaded with both Pitching and Offense both at the Major Lg. Level and the Minor Lg. Level that they may not be open to making deals with any team unless injuries occur. Well, even with that said, I think Ramirez is more than expandable. He is a FB pitcher who the Rangers NEVER like in the ballpark in Arglinton, see: Wieland, Joe and Erlin, Robbie from a year ago. *Also Even If Ramirez continues to impress and pitches even more dominant He'll likely not even be called up as a SP if he stays a Ranger: Feliz, Darvish, Lewis, Harrison, Holland, Feldman, Martin Perez. I don't really see room there... :-) ! Ramirez's tendencies are getting fly balls, striking people out, and not walking anyone. His K's per 9 are about well 9!! While a late bloomer really breaking out not untill last year in the minors, even today he's seen as more of a mid-rotation starter (upside) and the Rangers may even view him as more of a #4. But for the Twins he'd have #2 Upside or potential , with our staff/ strategies, tendencies, ballpark and situation. WHAT would it take to ACQUIRE him? Anyone not named Sano, Hicks or Rosario. How about Oswaldo Arcia and Tyler Robertson straight up. Has to sound Great for both teams as Texas will possilby need LH reliever help this season. You know somthing else... come this July Francisco Liriano may be the perfect Left-handed Reliever for the Rangers out of the bullpen setting- up Ogando, Adams and Nathan ..before Uehara, Feldman, Scheppers and Kirkman. Liriano for Ramirez might be very appealing to them in a few months. AND if I was the Twins i woudln't even so much as HESITATE to pull the trigger. #2 SP LHP Erik Surkamp AAA San Francisco Giants Turns 25 in 3 months. http://ts4.mm.bing.net/images/thumbnail.aspx?q=4652412195113987&id=ddaa24617dcbe56b4fdca75a0e6c1282&url=http%3A%2F%2Fupload.wikimedia.org%2Fwikipedia%2Fcommons%2Fthumb%2F0%2F0f%2FEric_Surkamp_on_September_6%252C_2011.jpg%2F300px-Eric_Surkamp_on_September_6%252C_2011.jpg While he may be seen as the eventuall replacement to LHP Barry Zito in the Starting Rotation (thats why the Twins better Hurry HERE while he's struggling a bit in AAA) , Surkkkamp as I like to call him doesn't exactly fit the Giants persona as a power pitching, deep into ball games, lots of innings pitched guy. Surkamp is a southpaw throws high 80's, doesn't K a lot of guys but more than he's given credit for. And Doesn't walk many. Would be the Perfect Fit for Twins style of pitching and Rick Anderson would love Him! To give you some idea, 2 years ago in the mid level minors he struck out 108 batters in 101 Innings pitched. Last year he stuck out 170 batters in 148 IP at AA. Was a Cup of coffee call-up for the Giants last September. He basically is Scott Diamond with potential and upside! He can strike guys out at much better rates gets swings and misses with less than 90-91 MPH stuff. And would fitt perfectly as a #3 or #4 starter in both the short and long term. *The Giants have Cain, Bumgarner, Lincecum, Vogelsong, and Zito in their rotation right now. Cain and Bumgarner just inked LONG-Term deals. WHAT Would it take to ACQUIRE him? Any half-way decent bat. Luke Hughes? Joking. Ryan Doumit. I'd throw Alexi Casilla and Carlos Gutierrez at them if their middle infield woes continue... And Casilla gets hott. or Maybe Brian Dozier? I woudlnt' be in favor of the ladder but they'd strongly be behind that I'd like to think. Gutierrez, Doumit and Casilla this trade deadline might suffice. #3 SS Adieny Hechavarria AAA Toronto Blue Jays. Turned 23 last week. http://ts2.mm.bing.net/images/thumbnail.aspx?q=4831185909777873&id=47ee682e63f170e2a5808e7ed3340b1a&url=http%3A%2F%2Fcdn.bleacherreport.net%2Fimages_root%2Fslides%2Fphotos%2F000%2F257%2F365%2FADEYNISHECHEVARRIA_display_image.jpg%3F1276460714 Bats R, Throws R. There is no doubt, the Blue Jays are one of the up and coming teams, possibly ranking in as the BEST farm system in all of baseball this year and LOADS of young pitching talent in the minors. But When it comes to many of their position players they are pretty well set at the AAA/ Major Lg. Level. Yunel Escobar is their everyday SS, and Hechavarria could be on the trading block for them. Often compared to the Royals' Alcides Escobar, Hech can pick it with the best of them, he plays an above average defense something certainly good in the Twins clubhouse. Also similarly to the Royals' Escobar -Hechavarria's offensive game has many similarties, (which may lead to his downfall.) Although, Hechavarria for about the past year now, SEEMINGLY after all the prospect gurus in the Industry... Baseball America, Baseball Prospectus and even John Sickles have GIVEN up on him. Has BeeN Tearing The COVER off the baseball over almost the last year dating back towards the end of the 2011 Minor Lg. Season. Remember When Trevor Plouffe got soooo many of us excited based on what he did in 2 months in AAA last year? Thats nothing compared to this guy! - AND He's a REAL SS. Idealy he'd probably bat 8th or 9th right away but could become or mold into a decent #2 type hitter, or 7 hole guy even. This would allow us to Move J. Carroll over to 2nd base and DFA or Demote Alexi Casilla or keep his much appreciated versitlity as the 5th infielder. His Strikeouts this year in the PCL are a little worriesome right now he's at 16 K's to only 4 BB's but based on what he's done for years before that i'm not too worried about it. He should be a high 270's-280's hitter or better in him prime with marginal power and some stolen bases mixed in. WHAT WOULD IT TAKE TO AQCUIRE HIM? Not much, in my honest opinion, unless the Jays really don't see Yunel Escobar as part of their 2013 roster in which case most of this is just jibberish at that point. I think he could be had for a few marginal players or a solid pitcher. Maybe Carl Pavano or Matt Capps at the trade deadline if we're faar out of the race. Would be MORE than enough to net him. #4 SS Didi Gregorius AA Reds Turned 22 Two Months ago FromAmsterdam, Netherlands http://cdn.bleacherreport.net/images_root/images/photos/001/591/104/140081468_crop_650x440.jpg?1330501695 Bats L, Throws R. Now listen here folks, Out of all of these players this one is Easy as Pie to make a Twin. No? I'm scoffing, you heard me (*or Yourself cough) *cough again* Or go, "yeah right i'm on something".... ? Well think again. The Cincinnati Reds....Ahhh Yes those Wayne Krivisky lovin waiver claimin pitchin Cinncinatti Reds. Please Let me do a little informing very quickly. They have this Kid named Zack Cozart (National League rookie of the Yr. in 2012 Candidate) as their brand spanken new Starting SS. And he can play he can hitt, he is the complete package, however he may not stick as SS because of his size. Therefore the Reds surely wouldn't want to give up Gregorious right? WEll GUESS AGAIN! There is a little someone in AA as well named Billy Hamilton, yeah you now the guy who stole 100 Bases last year in High A. That Billy Hamitlon who happens to play SS. SO even if Cozart fails, faulters, gets moved to different postion they have their sights Squarely on Hamilton as their SS of the future. Because Hamilton is soooo fast he Makes Carlos Gomez look like Delmon Young and Hamilton apparently can hitt. and Hitt with Ben Revere like quality, at least. Okay, maybe Gregorius isn't exactly Major League Ready as I'm typing this, but he will be IMO by Mid-season surely by the end of 2012. Gregorious is similar to Hech in that he'll only have marginal power, but decent to slighlty above average speed, maybe Alexi Casilla like base stealing abilites. But I like him because unlike Casilla he should be able to Hitt VERY WELL in the not so distant future, probably even better than Hechavarria. The Reds subconciously may very likely vastly underrate Didi, just do to the simple fact their blinded by the fascinating and over achieving young offensive outburts within their own system. Guys like Hamilton, Cozart, Todd Frazier Chris Heisey and Devin Mesoraco. No The Twins wouldnt' be able to steal him, but if they like a pitcher in our org, thats a match i'd strongly consider if I was the Twins and Krivisky. Unfortunately for the Twins, Baseball America's Jim Callis recently stated in a Public Chat that Gregorius, " May be the best unherladed SS in all of the Minors." Or Best SS currently on nobody's radar. But now may be on everbody's map. WHAT Would it Take to ACQUIRE him? Pitching most likely. Maybe Scott Diamond. Or David Bromberg + Gutierrez if David bounces back strong? How about Anthony Swarzak? I don't want to speculate too much here, but i'm sure theres a great match somewhere for Krivisk'ys EX club- and Gregorious is DUTCH how could he not want to be a Twin? #5. Come May they'll be a new set of four i'll post. As you know, following the minor leagues, AND Major League fringe guys as closely as i do, a lot can change with each passing month. May and June (especially around draft time) This list could change completely Ramirez may already be gone, he may get hurt, he May be in Texas thriving, we just don't know.

First things first, I want to say that I firmly believe these players, while mostly currently in the Minor Lgs. are A) Big League Ready and More than likely available for Trade within their respective organizations. & C) Should fit well within the Twins budget as many of these players have no to little Service Time. & D) Are young/ Prospects, green or raw because that Clearly is the best way to invest you're time energy and Money and NOT Free Agency as proven time and time again also should be the Twins primary focus at this point. Also I believe in these players as breakout regulars or even stars, and are undervalued a bit presently. I've seen a few of them play live before. And I am as close to 100% positive as I can be that they would make the Twins better TODAY. #1 SP RHP Neil Ramirez AAA Texas Rangers. Turns 23 in 1 Month. http://projectprospect.com/files/Neil-Ramirez300x450%20(Mitchell).jpg?1304477395 The Rangers are sooo loaded with both Pitching and Offense both at the Major Lg. Level and the Minor Lg. Level that they may not be open to making deals with any team unless injuries occur. Well, even with that said, I think Ramirez is more than expandable. He is a FB pitcher who the Rangers NEVER like in the ballpark in Arglinton, see: Wieland, Joe and Erlin, Robbie from a year ago. *Also Even If Ramirez continues to impress and pitches even more dominant He'll likely not even be called up as a SP if he stays a Ranger: Feliz, Darvish, Lewis, Harrison, Holland, Feldman, Martin Perez. I don't really see room there... :-) ! Ramirez's tendencies are getting fly balls, striking people out, and not walking anyone. His K's per 9 are about well 9!! While a late bloomer really breaking out not untill last year in the minors, even today he's seen as more of a mid-rotation starter (upside) and the Rangers may even view him as more of a #4. But for the Twins he'd have #2 Upside or potential , with our staff/ strategies, tendencies, ballpark and situation. WHAT would it take to ACQUIRE him? Anyone not named Sano, Hicks or Rosario. How about Oswaldo Arcia and Tyler Robertson straight up. Has to sound Great for both teams as Texas will possilby need LH reliever help this season. You know somthing else... come this July Francisco Liriano may be the perfect Left-handed Reliever for the Rangers out of the bullpen setting- up Ogando, Adams and Nathan ..before Uehara, Feldman, Scheppers and Kirkman. Liriano for Ramirez might be very appealing to them in a few months. AND if I was the Twins i woudln't even so much as HESITATE to pull the trigger. #2 SP LHP Erik Surkamp AAA San Francisco Giants Turns 25 in 3 months. http://ts4.mm.bing.net/images/thumbnail.aspx?q=4652412195113987&id=ddaa24617dcbe56b4fdca75a0e6c1282&url=http%3A%2F%2Fupload.wikimedia.org%2Fwikipedia%2Fcommons%2Fthumb%2F0%2F0f%2FEric_Surkamp_on_September_6%252C_2011.jpg%2F300px-Eric_Surkamp_on_September_6%252C_2011.jpg While he may be seen as the eventuall replacement to LHP Barry Zito in the Starting Rotation (thats why the Twins better Hurry HERE while he's struggling a bit in AAA) , Surkkkamp as I like to call him doesn't exactly fit the Giants persona as a power pitching, deep into ball games, lots of innings pitched guy. Surkamp is a southpaw throws high 80's, doesn't K a lot of guys but more than he's given credit for. And Doesn't walk many. Would be the Perfect Fit for Twins style of pitching and Rick Anderson would love Him! To give you some idea, 2 years ago in the mid level minors he struck out 108 batters in 101 Innings pitched. Last year he stuck out 170 batters in 148 IP at AA. Was a Cup of coffee call-up for the Giants last September. He basically is Scott Diamond with potential and upside! He can strike guys out at much better rates gets swings and misses with less than 90-91 MPH stuff. And would fitt perfectly as a #3 or #4 starter in both the short and long term. *The Giants have Cain, Bumgarner, Lincecum, Vogelsong, and Zito in their rotation right now. Cain and Bumgarner just inked LONG-Term deals. WHAT Would it take to ACQUIRE him? Any half-way decent bat. Luke Hughes? Joking. Ryan Doumit. I'd throw Alexi Casilla and Carlos Gutierrez at them if their middle infield woes continue... And Casilla gets hott. or Maybe Brian Dozier? I woudlnt' be in favor of the ladder but they'd strongly be behind that I'd like to think. Gutierrez, Doumit and Casilla this trade deadline might suffice. #3 SS Adieny Hechavarria AAA Toronto Blue Jays. Turned 23 last week. http://ts2.mm.bing.net/images/thumbnail.aspx?q=4831185909777873&id=47ee682e63f170e2a5808e7ed3340b1a&url=http%3A%2F%2Fcdn.bleacherreport.net%2Fimages_root%2Fslides%2Fphotos%2F000%2F257%2F365%2FADEYNISHECHEVARRIA_display_image.jpg%3F1276460714 Bats R, Throws R. There is no doubt, the Blue Jays are one of the up and coming teams, possibly ranking in as the BEST farm system in all of baseball this year and LOADS of young pitching talent in the minors. But When it comes to many of their position players they are pretty well set at the AAA/ Major Lg. Level. Yunel Escobar is their everyday SS, and Hechavarria could be on the trading block for them. Often compared to the Royals' Alcides Escobar, Hech can pick it with the best of them, he plays an above average defense something certainly good in the Twins clubhouse. Also similarly to the Royals' Escobar -Hechavarria's offensive game has many similarties, (which may lead to his downfall.) Although, Hechavarria for about the past year now, SEEMINGLY after all the prospect gurus in the Industry... Baseball America, Baseball Prospectus and even John Sickles have GIVEN up on him. Has BeeN Tearing The COVER off the baseball over almost the last year dating back towards the end of the 2011 Minor Lg. Season. Remember When Trevor Plouffe got soooo many of us excited based on what he did in 2 months in AAA last year? Thats nothing compared to this guy! - AND He's a REAL SS. Idealy he'd probably bat 8th or 9th right away but could become or mold into a decent #2 type hitter, or 7 hole guy even. This would allow us to Move J. Carroll over to 2nd base and DFA or Demote Alexi Casilla or keep his much appreciated versitlity as the 5th infielder. His Strikeouts this year in the PCL are a little worriesome right now he's at 16 K's to only 4 BB's but based on what he's done for years before that i'm not too worried about it. He should be a high 270's-280's hitter or better in him prime with marginal power and some stolen bases mixed in. WHAT WOULD IT TAKE TO AQCUIRE HIM? Not much, in my honest opinion, unless the Jays really don't see Yunel Escobar as part of their 2013 roster in which case most of this is just jibberish at that point. I think he could be had for a few marginal players or a solid pitcher. Maybe Carl Pavano or Matt Capps at the trade deadline if we're faar out of the race. Would be MORE than enough to net him. #4 SS Didi Gregorius AA Reds Turned 22 Two Months ago FromAmsterdam, Netherlands http://cdn.bleacherreport.net/images_root/images/photos/001/591/104/140081468_crop_650x440.jpg?1330501695 Bats L, Throws R. Now listen here folks, Out of all of these players this one is Easy as Pie to make a Twin. No? I'm scoffing, you heard me (*or Yourself cough) *cough again* Or go, "yeah right i'm on something".... ? Well think again. The Cincinnati Reds....Ahhh Yes those Wayne Krivisky lovin waiver claimin pitchin Cinncinatti Reds. Please Let me do a little informing very quickly. They have this Kid named Zack Cozart (National League rookie of the Yr. in 2012 Candidate) as their brand spanken new Starting SS. And he can play he can hitt, he is the complete package, however he may not stick as SS because of his size. Therefore the Reds surely wouldn't want to give up Gregorious right? WEll GUESS AGAIN! There is a little someone in AA as well named Billy Hamilton, yeah you now the guy who stole 100 Bases last year in High A. That Billy Hamitlon who happens to play SS. SO even if Cozart fails, faulters, gets moved to different postion they have their sights Squarely on Hamilton as their SS of the future. Because Hamilton is soooo fast he Makes Carlos Gomez look like Delmon Young and Hamilton apparently can hitt. and Hitt with Ben Revere like quality, at least. Okay, maybe Gregorius isn't exactly Major League Ready as I'm typing this, but he will be IMO by Mid-season surely by the end of 2012. Gregorious is similar to Hech in that he'll only have marginal power, but decent to slighlty above average speed, maybe Alexi Casilla like base stealing abilites. But I like him because unlike Casilla he should be able to Hitt VERY WELL in the not so distant future, probably even better than Hechavarria. The Reds subconciously may very likely vastly underrate Didi, just do to the simple fact their blinded by the fascinating and over achieving young offensive outburts within their own system. Guys like Hamilton, Cozart, Todd Frazier Chris Heisey and Devin Mesoraco. No The Twins wouldnt' be able to steal him, but if they like a pitcher in our org, thats a match i'd strongly consider if I was the Twins and Krivisky. Unfortunately for the Twins, Baseball America's Jim Callis recently stated in a Public Chat that Gregorius, " May be the best unherladed SS in all of the Minors." Or Best SS currently on nobody's radar. But now may be on everbody's map. WHAT Would it Take to ACQUIRE him? Pitching most likely. Maybe Scott Diamond. Or David Bromberg + Gutierrez if David bounces back strong? How about Anthony Swarzak? I don't want to speculate too much here, but i'm sure theres a great match somewhere for Krivisk'ys EX club- and Gregorious is DUTCH how could he not want to be a Twin? #5. Come May they'll be a new set of four i'll post. As you know, following the minor leagues, AND Major League fringe guys as closely as i do, a lot can change with each passing month. May and June (especially around draft time) This list could change completely Ramirez may already be gone, he may get hurt, he May be in Texas thriving, we just don't know.

Well said, Exactly what I think, give him a chance to relieve, he's dominant in 1-2 inning frames at a time.

Well, to some degree you're right, but also its all about projectibility and upside. Maybe Zimmer has a bit more upside, and room for improvement compared to many other college pitchers, maybe he doesn't . The point is, it doesn't automatically mean they'll be much worse in the majors. Remember, college hitters use Metal bats, last i checked, and for some they actually IMPROVE once in proffesional ball (minor-lgs.) because they get to face wooden bats. I'd Be fine With Zimmer or Giolto @ #2 but thats it on the pitching front. (well Lucas Gioloto is a for-gone conclusion at this point that we won't go that high becuase of little scare) So for me (ALTHOUGH unlike several fans I'm looking forward to all the high picks in the top 100 selections , and not just #2 overall) it'd be between Buxton, Zimmer, Zunino. maybe Gioloto or Correa or Marrero sneaks in there last minute. But i can' t wait to see what they'll do in the sandwich round and 2nd and 3rd rounds also.

RE: rosterman--- I personally Think Gibson will be ready long before 2015.... he may be like Phill Humber in that he won't start figuring things out untill 2015, or 2016 unfortunately. but yeah, if you had to predict our 2013 rotation today...it'd be something like: 1. Blackburn, 2. Swarzak, 3. Hendriks, 4. Diamond, 5. FA . 2014 however, could be much stronger... 1. Gibson, Hendriks, Wimmers, Baker, Blackburn. , FA?

Those weren't even "boneheaded" throws IMO if the first 1 is a second quicker or Valencia DOES ANYTHING to block the base as he recieves the throw thats an out. And on Throw #2 you have to try for it at that point. I agree with the Topic Poster though, at this point trading Span (this year) seems silly. It most certainly won't happen. (maybe in the off-season or next year, but not now)

yep exactly, theres no way Benson is ready now, neither if Parmelee for that matter....you need guys like Thomas to be that platoon starter, 4th OF...type untill at least well, about mid-season. Then hopefully one of Revere or Benson EARNS their way back up with Minny.

LOL @ Teflon, not sure i get the joke? Its between Rene Rivera and J.R. Towles for catcher #4 with Chris Herrmann and Danny Lehmann not to far behind. If it was me, and we needed "another guy" later in the year i'd give Towles a shot and see what he may or may not do. Rather than watch Rene Rivera again, after we've seen More than our fair share of him last year. The fans here in Minny HATE Butera in the way they wanted Punto, and Rivas out of town. (if not more so) But to me, I think it shoud be Rene Rivera that should be LOoooong gone, and have an eerily strange feeling already that the organizaton even brought him back to be in Rochester for 2012. Thats the move that baffles me. NOT Butera seeing big lg. time in 2012. Something we ALL should have expected.

Its a shame that there isn't a single catcher here..... Josmil Pinto maybe? I think Chris Herrmann will get here in edition #2. How about Sodak St. 's Caleb Theilbar? yeahhhhhhhh. Soon time to go to AA and The Eastern Lg. to really see what he's got.

Caleb Thielbar, LHP Reliever in Ft. Myers (south dakota State) and from Northfield Minnesota, would LOVE to be my choice. lol Granted He's old for his league, but in 10+ IP so far he's ammased 15 K's, only 2 Walks and about 3 hits with no runs scoring, the Rock Cats are bound to see what he can do sooner rather than later. (just turned 25 i believe)

Awesome I'm in..... I think its a pretty neat idea.

just a suggestion. With the season under way, I think it would be cool in the VERY TOP colum to the far right of the Title Block, "Twins Dailey" we'd have a little box telling all of us last opponnent and outcome of game, next opponent and scheduled starting pitchers, with overall record Showing above that. There should be a way to link that onto the webpage, just kind of like Twins.com on the top right of the page. But all in all i really like the sight so far as well.

I'm with Mr. Bonnes, lets be real fans. WE ALL KNEW Butera was going to see Big Lg. time , at some point. Well, unless Mr. Mauer turned into IRON Man 2.0 before our eyes this April. Plus, Butera is hitting .290 (i know SSS) But still he's the Red Wings 3rd or 4th best hitter right now.... Seriously. He won't be worse then Burroughs.

I'd rank our relief prospects as follows: however i get the feeling like Casey Fein (AAA) will get the first chance at a promotion if Maloney or Gray gets released/ demoted. 1. Deolis Guerra 2. Carlos Gutierrez (struggling) 3. Matt Hauser 4. A.J. Achter 5. Anthony Slama (still think he'll get 1 more shot) 6. Steve Hirshfeld/ Cole DeVries - both start and relieve 7. Edgar Ibbarra 8. Tyler Robertson 9. Corey Williams -not sure he could be starter 10. Dakota Watts, Bruce Pugh

Ohh and Seth if you hear anything on Wimmers plz note here.... Thanks!

Great read. Sano's night was awesome, but also Reliever A.J. Achter from Michigan State had ANOTHER solid relief outing, i think he could be a good candidate to rise quickly in this system. ISN"T IT GREAT THAT ALL OUR MINOR LG. Orgs. are basically .500 or better? Can't remember the last time they got off to such great starts, GO ROCK CATS !

in a word, no.