YourHouseIsMyHouse

I thought he was too old. He's 24, but he did start at 22 so I probably should have cut him a little more slack. I mean I did include Pugh.

The 2012 minor league season is over and much will remain quiet in the prospect world for some time. A few players have "graduated" from September call-ups, but from a new standpoint here we go. Unlike last list, a lot of insight was taken from a few other Twins farm followers. This year's performance has is a critical component as is talent. Tools and the other insight as mentioned were the big factors that caused guys like Morales to rise. I know I may do these a little frequently, but just mind my obsession! 1. Miguel Sano, 3B 19 A +1 2. Byron Buxton, OF 18 Rk (E) -1 3. Aaron Hicks, OF 22 AA E 4. Oswaldo Arcia, OF 21 AA E 5. Eddie Rosario, 2B 20 A E 6. Max Kepler-Rozycki, OF 19 Rk (E) E 7. Jose Berrios, SP/RP 18 Rk (E) E 8. Travis Harrison, 3B 19 Rk (E) E 9. Joe Benson, OF 24 AA E 10. Kyle Gibson, SP 24 AAA E 11. Adam Walker, OF 20 Rk (E) +3 12. B.J. Hermsen, SP 22 AA +8 13. Jason Wheeler, SP 21 A +2 14. Daniel Santana, 21 2B/SS A+ +3 15. Levi Michael, 21 SS/2B A+ +7 16. Adrian Salcedo, SP 21 A+ +3 17. Chris Herrmann, C 24 AA -4 18. Angel Mata, SP 19 Rk (E) -2 19. Jorge Polanco, SS 19 Rk (E) N/A 20. Mason Melotakis, RP 21 A +5 21. Hudson Boyd, SP 19 Rk(E) -3 22. Niko Goodrum, SS/3B 20 Rk (E) -1 23. Corey Williams, RP 22 A +15 24. Lester Oliveros, RP 24 AAA E 25. Tyler Duffey, RP 20 Rk (E) +18 26. Zach Jones, RP 21 A +1 27. David Bromberg, SP 24 AA +1 28. Josmil Pinto, C 23 A+ +6 29. Kennys Vargas, 1B 22 A -6 30. J.T Chargois, RP 20 Rk (E) +6 31. Amaurys Minier, SS 16 INT -5 32. Angel Morales, OF 21 A+ +13 33. Nate Roberts, OF 23 A +15 34. Madison Boer, SP 22 A+ -3 35. Alex Wimmers, SP 23 INJ -5 36. Kuo Hua Lo, SP 18 Rk (GCL) N/A 37. Michael Tonkin, RP 22 A+ N/A 38. Bruce Pugh, RP 24 AA +4 39. J.D Williams, OF 21 A +7 40. Randy Rosario, SP 18 Rk (GCL) -3 41. D.J Baxendale, RP 21 A -1 42. Manuel Solimon, SP 23 A -7 43. Hein Robb, SP 20 Rk (E) -10 44. Luke Bard, SP/RP 21 Rk (E) -3 45. Daniel Ortiz, OF 22 A+ -16 46. Chris Collabello, 1B 28 AA -2 47. Romy Jimenez, OF 21 Rk (E) N/A 48. Felix Jorge, SP 18 Rk (GCL) -7 49. Matthew Summers, SP 23 A+ -17 50. Stephen Wickens, SS 23 A N/A Dropped: Matt Hauser, Lewis Thorpe, Pat Dean, Chris Parmelee, Liam Hendriks

The 2012 minor league season is over and much will remain quiet in the prospect world for some time. A few players have "graduated" from September call-ups, but from a new standpoint here we go. Unlike last list, a lot of insight was taken from a few other Twins farm followers. This year's performance has is a critical component as is talent. Tools and the other insight as mentioned were the big factors that caused guys like Morales to rise. I know I may do these a little frequently, but just mind my obsession! 1. Miguel Sano, 3B 19 A +1 2. Byron Buxton, OF 18 Rk (E) -1 3. Aaron Hicks, OF 22 AA E 4. Oswaldo Arcia, OF 21 AA E 5. Eddie Rosario, 2B 20 A E 6. Max Kepler-Rozycki, OF 19 Rk (E) E 7. Jose Berrios, SP/RP 18 Rk (E) E 8. Travis Harrison, 3B 19 Rk (E) E 9. Joe Benson, OF 24 AA E 10. Kyle Gibson, SP 24 AAA E 11. Adam Walker, OF 20 Rk (E) +3 12. B.J. Hermsen, SP 22 AA +8 13. Jason Wheeler, SP 21 A +2 14. Daniel Santana, 21 2B/SS A+ +3 15. Levi Michael, 21 SS/2B A+ +7 16. Adrian Salcedo, SP 21 A+ +3 17. Chris Herrmann, C 24 AA -4 18. Angel Mata, SP 19 Rk (E) -2 19. Jorge Polanco, SS 19 Rk (E) N/A 20. Mason Melotakis, RP 21 A +5 21. Hudson Boyd, SP 19 Rk(E) -3 22. Niko Goodrum, SS/3B 20 Rk (E) -1 23. Corey Williams, RP 22 A +15 24. Lester Oliveros, RP 24 AAA E 25. Tyler Duffey, RP 20 Rk (E) +18 26. Zach Jones, RP 21 A +1 27. David Bromberg, SP 24 AA +1 28. Josmil Pinto, C 23 A+ +6 29. Kennys Vargas, 1B 22 A -6 30. J.T Chargois, RP 20 Rk (E) +6 31. Amaurys Minier, SS 16 INT -5 32. Angel Morales, OF 21 A+ +13 33. Nate Roberts, OF 23 A +15 34. Madison Boer, SP 22 A+ -3 35. Alex Wimmers, SP 23 INJ -5 36. Kuo Hua Lo, SP 18 Rk (GCL) N/A 37. Michael Tonkin, RP 22 A+ N/A 38. Bruce Pugh, RP 24 AA +4 39. J.D Williams, OF 21 A +7 40. Randy Rosario, SP 18 Rk (GCL) -3 41. D.J Baxendale, RP 21 A -1 42. Manuel Solimon, SP 23 A -7 43. Hein Robb, SP 20 Rk (E) -10 44. Luke Bard, SP/RP 21 Rk (E) -3 45. Daniel Ortiz, OF 22 A+ -16 46. Chris Collabello, 1B 28 AA -2 47. Romy Jimenez, OF 21 Rk (E) N/A 48. Felix Jorge, SP 18 Rk (GCL) -7 49. Matthew Summers, SP 23 A+ -17 50. Stephen Wickens, SS 23 A N/A Dropped: Matt Hauser, Lewis Thorpe, Pat Dean, Chris Parmelee, Liam Hendriks

I think it's about a 75% chance Miguel Cabrera wins it. Mauer is the likely runner-up and the best competition to the odds. I don't believe Jeter is capable and Trout is on the downspin. Only a few games remaining so we'll have to wait and see.

Red Sox by far.

You're pretty optimistic in terms of ETAs. Diamond isn't really a rotation anchor and that rotation looks suspect. My biggest gripe is Dozier at SS. In his brief stint, I feel he's presented a ceiling as a below average shortstop. I think Daniel Santana is a better future option. He's got tools, but just needs to walk more. Jorge Polanco is also a reasonable, better choice.

Liked the post.

Good catch. I should have had him.

Most of those pitchers the Twins should give a look will be sent elsewhere in the system or cut.

As the second top 50 I've done this year (cheating?), a LOT has changed. From now on until the end of the year, I don't expect much to change. I've gone through all the stat-sheets on every affiliate and included a few international signings as well. Age, performance, and relative level were all the most important factors. Tools also played a very important part. A player with a .300 BA and no HRs or SBs is not going to get anywhere here. From now on, I'll probably use this as a reference in regards to future rankings. 1. Byron Buxton, OF 18 Rk (E) 2. Miguel Sano, 3B 19 A 3. Aaron Hicks, OF 22 AA 4. Oswaldo Arcia, OF 21 AA 5. Eddie Rosario, 2B 20 A 6. Max Kepler-Rozycki, OF 19 Rk (E) 7. Jose Berrios, SP/RP 18 Rk (E) 8. Travis Harrison, 3B 19 Rk (E) 9. Joe Benson, OF 24 AA 10. Chris Parmelee, 1B 24 AAA 11. Kyle Gibson, SP 24 AAA 12. Liam Hendriks, SP 23 AAA 13. Chris Herrmann, C 24 AA 14. Adam Walker, OF 20 Rk (E) 15. Jason Wheeler, SP 21 A 16. Angel Mata, SP 19 Rk (E) 17. Daniel Santana, 2B/SS 21 A+ 18. Hudson Boyd, SP 19 Rk(E) 19. Adrian Salcedo, SP 21 A+ 20. B.J. Hermsen, SP 22 AA 21. Niko Goodrum, SS/3B 20 Rk (E) 22. Levi Michael, SS/2B 21 A+ 23. Kennys Vargas, 1B 22 A 24. Lester Oliveros, RP 24 AAA 25. Mason Melotakis, RP 21 A 26. Amaurys Minier, SS 16 INT 27. Zach Jones, RP 21 A 28. David Bromberg, SP 24 AA 29. Daniel Ortiz, OF 22 A+ 30. Alex Wimmers, SP 23 INJ 31. Madison Boer, SP 22 A+ 32. Matt Summers, SP 23 A+ 33. Hein Robb, SP 20 Rk (E) 34. Josmil Pinto, C 23 A+ 35. Manuel Solimon, SP 23 A 36. J.T Chargois, RP 20 Rk (E) 37. Randy Rosario, SP 18 Rk (GCL) 38. Corey Williams, RP 22 A 39. Felix Jorge, SP 18 Rk (GCL) 40. D.J Baxendale, RP 21 A 41. Luke Bard, SP/RP 21 Rk (E) 42. Bruce Pugh, RP 24 AA 43. Tyler Duffey, RP 20 Rk (E) 44. Chris Collabello, 1B 28 AA 45. Angel Morales, OF 21 A+ 46. J.D Williams, OF 21 A 47. Matthew Hauser, RP 24 AA 48. Nate Roberts, OF 23 A 49. Lewis Thope, SP 16 INT 50. Pat Dean, SP 23 A+ Players I don't like that were not included: Carlos Guiterrez, Deolis Guerra, Tom Stuifbergen By Clubhouse: 4 Rochester/9 New Britain/9 Ft. Myers/11 Beloit/12 E-Town/2 GCL/2 INT/1 INJ By Position: 17 SP/11 RP/2C/3 1B/1 2B/ 2 3B/4 SS/10 OF There's a lot of talent overall and it would sure be nice to have some more pitchers 'break out'.Collabello is the only one over age 24 because this is his first year in the minors and because he's also mashing. There's a lot of Outfielders I really like that don't get as much attention as the ones in the top 5. There's not much talent in Rochester and it's risky to count on anyone in the GCL. As for the whole system, it's pretty weak outside the top 15 or so. I can't wait for offseason promotions and I hope you enjoy this!

As the second top 50 I've done this year (cheating?), a LOT has changed. From now on until the end of the year, I don't expect much to change. I've gone through all the stat-sheets on every affiliate and included a few international signings as well. Age, performance, and relative level were all the most important factors. Tools also played a very important part. A player with a .300 BA and no HRs or SBs is not going to get anywhere here. From now on, I'll probably use this as a reference in regards to future rankings. 1. Byron Buxton, OF 18 Rk (E) 2. Miguel Sano, 3B 19 A 3. Aaron Hicks, OF 22 AA 4. Oswaldo Arcia, OF 21 AA 5. Eddie Rosario, 2B 20 A 6. Max Kepler-Rozycki, OF 19 Rk (E) 7. Jose Berrios, SP/RP 18 Rk (E) 8. Travis Harrison, 3B 19 Rk (E) 9. Joe Benson, OF 24 AA 10. Chris Parmelee, 1B 24 AAA 11. Kyle Gibson, SP 24 AAA 12. Liam Hendriks, SP 23 AAA 13. Chris Herrmann, C 24 AA 14. Adam Walker, OF 20 Rk (E) 15. Jason Wheeler, SP 21 A 16. Angel Mata, SP 19 Rk (E) 17. Daniel Santana, 2B/SS 21 A+ 18. Hudson Boyd, SP 19 Rk(E) 19. Adrian Salcedo, SP 21 A+ 20. B.J. Hermsen, SP 22 AA 21. Niko Goodrum, SS/3B 20 Rk (E) 22. Levi Michael, SS/2B 21 A+ 23. Kennys Vargas, 1B 22 A 24. Lester Oliveros, RP 24 AAA 25. Mason Melotakis, RP 21 A 26. Amaurys Minier, SS 16 INT 27. Zach Jones, RP 21 A 28. David Bromberg, SP 24 AA 29. Daniel Ortiz, OF 22 A+ 30. Alex Wimmers, SP 23 INJ 31. Madison Boer, SP 22 A+ 32. Matt Summers, SP 23 A+ 33. Hein Robb, SP 20 Rk (E) 34. Josmil Pinto, C 23 A+ 35. Manuel Solimon, SP 23 A 36. J.T Chargois, RP 20 Rk (E) 37. Randy Rosario, SP 18 Rk (GCL) 38. Corey Williams, RP 22 A 39. Felix Jorge, SP 18 Rk (GCL) 40. D.J Baxendale, RP 21 A 41. Luke Bard, SP/RP 21 Rk (E) 42. Bruce Pugh, RP 24 AA 43. Tyler Duffey, RP 20 Rk (E) 44. Chris Collabello, 1B 28 AA 45. Angel Morales, OF 21 A+ 46. J.D Williams, OF 21 A 47. Matthew Hauser, RP 24 AA 48. Nate Roberts, OF 23 A 49. Lewis Thope, SP 16 INT 50. Pat Dean, SP 23 A+ Players I don't like that were not included: Carlos Guiterrez, Deolis Guerra, Tom Stuifbergen By Clubhouse: 4 Rochester/9 New Britain/9 Ft. Myers/11 Beloit/12 E-Town/2 GCL/2 INT/1 INJ By Position: 17 SP/11 RP/2C/3 1B/1 2B/ 2 3B/4 SS/10 OF There's a lot of talent overall and it would sure be nice to have some more pitchers 'break out'.Collabello is the only one over age 24 because this is his first year in the minors and because he's also mashing. There's a lot of Outfielders I really like that don't get as much attention as the ones in the top 5. There's not much talent in Rochester and it's risky to count on anyone in the GCL. As for the whole system, it's pretty weak outside the top 15 or so. I can't wait for offseason promotions and I hope you enjoy this!

As a self-proclaimed visionary, I had a captivating thought about moving Ben Revere to second base. Maybe all the outfield transitions to infield rumors, as in Darin Mastroianni, or the promising results of one in our minor league system, Eddie Rosario, had gotten a grip on me. The more and more I thought about moving Revere, the better it seemed. This is certainly a radical, risky, and perhaps crazy thing to actually attempt, but the results could be extremely pleasing. More over, I'm really suggesting it as something the Twins consider this winter. PROS: Adjusted Depth. Clearly the biggest way the Twins would benefit is by chewing up the black hole at 2B. That is if Revere provides competent play of course. It frees up a starting position in the outfield for Doumit, Mastroianni, Arcia, Hicks, Benson, or Parmelee. There's a lot of fierce competition to be in Minnesota's outfield right now and an opened spot gets one of those guys playing time instead of Jamey Carroll or Pedro Florimon. Style of Play. It's been long known that Gardy loves speedy middle infielders. Enough so that the Front Office once made the mistake of choosing Tsuyoshi Nishioka over J.J. Hardy. Revere hits for a high BA too which is excellent as a 4 or 6. By playing second base, his infamous weak arm would be masked by having the shortest throws in the field. Athletic Build. #11 is one of the best overall athletes on the Twins roster. If there's anyone that could handle that great a change, it's probably him. His effort, athleticism, and perceived dedication all are indications of that. Revere is the same size as Alexi Casilla only 10 pounds lighter and his figure is acceptable. Somewhere to Improve. Ben has had a great season so far and it looks as though he's reached his ceiling. He's a 3 tool player and we have seen him do what's expected: High BA, Plenty of SBs, and elite defense. There's no where to go with him. He'll never top a .750 OPS and he'll get kicked out of the outfield when superior prospects arrive. My current mantra says to trade him this offseason. That would all change of course if he can handle 2B. CONS: Is it Worth it? The biggest and most valuable facet of Revere is his defense in the outfield. How long before people start saying "Shades of Ben Revere!"? I can't fathom seeing him field ground balls. No experience. Ben hasn't had any time in his professional career spent in the infield. That was why I suggested it for something in the offseason. It can take a very long time to have a position 'down pat' and practice is mandatory. This type of dramatic a change to a player is very dangerous. It could end up being successful or silly. Revere seems like a better fit at 2B than Mastroianni despite Darin's limited experience there. It would be strange at first, but you never know what could happen.

As a self-proclaimed visionary, I had a captivating thought about moving Ben Revere to second base. Maybe all the outfield transitions to infield rumors, as in Darin Mastroianni, or the promising results of one in our minor league system, Eddie Rosario, had gotten a grip on me. The more and more I thought about moving Revere, the better it seemed. This is certainly a radical, risky, and perhaps crazy thing to actually attempt, but the results could be extremely pleasing. More over, I'm really suggesting it as something the Twins consider this winter. PROS: Adjusted Depth. Clearly the biggest way the Twins would benefit is by chewing up the black hole at 2B. That is if Revere provides competent play of course. It frees up a starting position in the outfield for Doumit, Mastroianni, Arcia, Hicks, Benson, or Parmelee. There's a lot of fierce competition to be in Minnesota's outfield right now and an opened spot gets one of those guys playing time instead of Jamey Carroll or Pedro Florimon. Style of Play. It's been long known that Gardy loves speedy middle infielders. Enough so that the Front Office once made the mistake of choosing Tsuyoshi Nishioka over J.J. Hardy. Revere hits for a high BA too which is excellent as a 4 or 6. By playing second base, his infamous weak arm would be masked by having the shortest throws in the field. Athletic Build. #11 is one of the best overall athletes on the Twins roster. If there's anyone that could handle that great a change, it's probably him. His effort, athleticism, and perceived dedication all are indications of that. Revere is the same size as Alexi Casilla only 10 pounds lighter and his figure is acceptable. Somewhere to Improve. Ben has had a great season so far and it looks as though he's reached his ceiling. He's a 3 tool player and we have seen him do what's expected: High BA, Plenty of SBs, and elite defense. There's no where to go with him. He'll never top a .750 OPS and he'll get kicked out of the outfield when superior prospects arrive. My current mantra says to trade him this offseason. That would all change of course if he can handle 2B. CONS: Is it Worth it? The biggest and most valuable facet of Revere is his defense in the outfield. How long before people start saying "Shades of Ben Revere!"? I can't fathom seeing him field ground balls. No experience. Ben hasn't had any time in his professional career spent in the infield. That was why I suggested it for something in the offseason. It can take a very long time to have a position 'down pat' and practice is mandatory. This type of dramatic a change to a player is very dangerous. It could end up being successful or silly. Revere seems like a better fit at 2B than Mastroianni despite Darin's limited experience there. It would be strange at first, but you never know what could happen.

After more thought: Blackburn, Devries, Walters, Florimon, Butera, and Casilla should all be new open spots too. I was really thinking about Butera with Herrmann incoming, yet I couldn't see him go. Maybe they finally move on. This is more wishful thinking than what I had been expecting in the original blog post. Overall I'd be content with this. I'll take the original word on Bromberg. Pitchers: Baker, Burnett, Burton, Deduno, Diamond, Duensing, Fien, Gibson, Hendriks, Hermsen, Hernandez, Oliveros, Perdomo, Perkins, Pugh, Robertson, and Swarzak 17 Pitchers Position: Doumit, Herrmann, Mauer, Carroll, Dozier, Escobar, Morneau, Parmelee, Plouffe, Arcia, Benson, Hicks, Mastroianni, Revere, Span, Willingham 16 Players That's a total of 33 spots. 7 Free Spots for 2 SP Free Agents, two bullpen arms (One LHP and one RHP), and 1 middle infield FA would put the Twins at a comfortable 38. 15 players were dumped in this process and 9 were added. I think this makes it look a lot better and it really goes to show it is a mess! Fien and Perdomo are big question marks, but I feel like they have earned their spots for now. I'm feeling maybe Slama, Bromberg, and Thielbar could all vie for spot later in the 2013 season, but not the offseason. Great discussion and I definitely learned quite a bit from conversing and have a better idea of the 40 man for next year as well. NOW what would be really interesting would be to track down the approximate payroll for this situation and see how much money can be dispensed on free agents.

Not at all. I honestly didn't realize it would pop out like that and was surprised and a little embarrassed when I saw it. My excuse is that it was a late night post.

The Twins are sitting with a nearly filled quota on the 40 man roster and it's somewhat ugly. Only one vacant spot is available while starting pitchers P.J. Walters, Carl Pavano, and Scott Baker are on the 60 day DL. Soon enough, positions on this assembly will need to be cleared in order to make way for these incoming players. For now, it's not a problem, but there are a lot of gentlemen here that could and should be removed sooner rather than later. Priority will of course be assessed for who leaves first, but there are a lot of other changes I'd like to see made in the offseason too. Not only are there a few subtractions, but a couple of additions as well. #1. Tsuyoshi Nishioka- Status: Not on Active Roster What to do?! DFA I think it's safe to say he won't be playing with the Twins again for some time. In all likeliness (and hopefulness), the 28 year old international bust never re-joins the big league team for the remainder of his contract. It's really safe to say that no other team would save us from...I mean claim him. I would be fine with out-right waivers, but that gives him the opportunity to make more money back in Japan. An expensive AAA filler would be the best option and it benefits us somewhat. STATS: [TABLE=class: sortable stats_table] [TH=class: tooltip sort_default_asc show_partial_when_sorting, bgcolor: #DADCDE, align: center]Year[/TH] [TH=class: tooltip sort_default_asc show_partial_when_sorting, bgcolor: #DADCDE, align: center]Tm[/TH] [TH=class: tooltip, bgcolor: #DADCDE, align: center]G[/TH] [TH=class: tooltip, bgcolor: #DADCDE, align: center]PA[/TH] [TH=class: tooltip, bgcolor: #DADCDE, align: center]AB[/TH] [TH=class: tooltip, bgcolor: #DADCDE, align: center]R[/TH] [TH=class: tooltip, bgcolor: #DADCDE, align: center]H[/TH] [TH=class: tooltip, bgcolor: #DADCDE, align: center]2B[/TH] [TH=class: tooltip, bgcolor: #DADCDE, align: center]3B[/TH] [TH=class: tooltip, bgcolor: #DADCDE, align: center]HR[/TH] [TH=class: tooltip, bgcolor: #DADCDE, align: center]RBI[/TH] [TH=class: tooltip, bgcolor: #DADCDE, align: center]SB[/TH] [TH=class: tooltip, bgcolor: #DADCDE, align: center]CS[/TH] [TH=class: tooltip, bgcolor: #DADCDE, align: center]BB[/TH] [TH=class: tooltip, bgcolor: #DADCDE, align: center]SO[/TH] [TH=class: tooltip hide_non_quals, bgcolor: #DADCDE, align: center]BA[/TH] [TH=class: tooltip hide_non_quals, bgcolor: #DADCDE, align: center]OBP[/TH] [TH=class: tooltip hide_non_quals, bgcolor: #DADCDE, align: center]SLG[/TH] [TH=class: tooltip hide_non_quals, bgcolor: #DADCDE, align: center]OPS[/TH] [TH=class: tooltip hide_non_quals, bgcolor: #DADCDE, align: center]OPS+[/TH] [TH=class: tooltip, bgcolor: #DADCDE, align: center]TB[/TH] [TH=class: tooltip, bgcolor: #DADCDE, align: center]GDP[/TH] [TH=class: tooltip, bgcolor: #DADCDE, align: center]HBP[/TH] [TH=class: tooltip, bgcolor: #DADCDE, align: center]SH[/TH] [TH=class: tooltip, bgcolor: #DADCDE, align: center]SF[/TH] [TH=class: tooltip, bgcolor: #DADCDE, align: center]IBB[/TH] [TR=class: hl] [TD=align: left]2011-2012[/TD] [TD=align: left]MIN[/TD] [TD=align: right]71[/TD] [TD=align: right]254[/TD] [TD=align: right]233[/TD] [TD=align: right]14[/TD] [TD=align: right]50[/TD] [TD=align: right]5[/TD] [TD=align: right]0[/TD] [TD=align: right]0[/TD] [TD=align: right]20[/TD] [TD=align: right]2[/TD] [TD=align: right]4[/TD] [TD=align: right]16[/TD] [TD=align: right]44[/TD] [TD=align: right].215[/TD] [TD=align: right].267[/TD] [TD=align: right].236[/TD] [TD=align: right].503[/TD] [TD=align: right]41[/TD] [TD=align: right]55[/TD] [TD=align: right]1[/TD] [TD=align: right]1[/TD] [TD=align: right]3[/TD] [TD=align: right]1[/TD] [TD=align: right]1[/TD] [/TR] [/TABLE] Note: I found it rather amusing to see he had once been intentionally walked. #2. Rene Tosoni- Status: Not on Active Roster What to do? DFA The once promising outfielder failed in a 2011 campaign with the Twins and has been lost ever since. Tosoni has been struggling to break a .650 OPS in AA where he has been re-acquainted with for the first time since 2010. Is there still hope for him? Possibly, but probably not as a struggling 25 year old in an outfield deep system. He doesn't have much in the tools department either, and while he could get claimed, it would be best for the Twins to have that spot and for Tosoni to get a chance someplace else. I really enjoyed having him with the team though. His spunky personality and hilarious walk-up song were entertaining while they lasted. STATS: [TABLE=class: sortable stats_table row_summable] [TR=class: full hl, bgcolor: #DDEEFF] [/TR] [TH=class: tooltip sort_default_asc show_partial_when_sorting, bgcolor: #DADCDE, align: center]Year[/TH] [TH=class: tooltip sort_default_asc show_partial_when_sorting, bgcolor: #DADCDE, align: center]Age[/TH] [TH=class: tooltip sort_default_asc show_partial_when_sorting, bgcolor: #DADCDE, align: center]Tm[/TH] [TH=class: tooltip sort_default_asc, bgcolor: #DADCDE, align: center]Lg[/TH] [TH=class: tooltip, bgcolor: #DADCDE, align: center]G[/TH] [TH=class: tooltip, bgcolor: #DADCDE, align: center]PA[/TH] [TH=class: tooltip, bgcolor: #DADCDE, align: center]AB[/TH] [TH=class: tooltip, bgcolor: #DADCDE, align: center]R[/TH] [TH=class: tooltip, bgcolor: #DADCDE, align: center]H[/TH] [TH=class: tooltip, bgcolor: #DADCDE, align: center]2B[/TH] [TH=class: tooltip, bgcolor: #DADCDE, align: center]3B[/TH] [TH=class: tooltip, bgcolor: #DADCDE, align: center]HR[/TH] [TH=class: tooltip, bgcolor: #DADCDE, align: center]RBI[/TH] [TH=class: tooltip, bgcolor: #DADCDE, align: center]SB[/TH] [TH=class: tooltip, bgcolor: #DADCDE, align: center]CS[/TH] [TH=class: tooltip, bgcolor: #DADCDE, align: center]BB[/TH] [TH=class: tooltip, bgcolor: #DADCDE, align: center]SO[/TH] [TH=class: tooltip hide_non_quals, bgcolor: #DADCDE, align: center]BA[/TH] [TH=class: tooltip hide_non_quals, bgcolor: #DADCDE, align: center]OBP[/TH] [TH=class: tooltip hide_non_quals, bgcolor: #DADCDE, align: center]SLG[/TH] [TH=class: tooltip hide_non_quals, bgcolor: #DADCDE, align: center]OPS[/TH] [TH=class: tooltip hide_non_quals, bgcolor: #DADCDE, align: center]OPS+[/TH] [TH=class: tooltip, bgcolor: #DADCDE, align: center]TB[/TH] [TH=class: tooltip, bgcolor: #DADCDE, align: center]GDP[/TH] [TH=class: tooltip, bgcolor: #DADCDE, align: center]HBP[/TH] [TH=class: tooltip, bgcolor: #DADCDE, align: center]SH[/TH] [TH=class: tooltip, bgcolor: #DADCDE, align: center]SF[/TH] [TH=class: tooltip, bgcolor: #DADCDE, align: center]IBB[/TH] [TH=class: tooltip sort_default_asc, bgcolor: #DADCDE, align: center]Pos[/TH] [TH=class: tooltip sort_default_asc show_partial_when_sorting, bgcolor: #DADCDE, align: center]Awards[/TH] [TR=class: full hl, bgcolor: #DDEEFF] [TD=align: left]2011[/TD] [TD=align: right]24[/TD] [TD=align: left]MIN[/TD] [TD=align: left]AL[/TD] [TD=align: right]60[/TD] [TD=align: right]189[/TD] [TD=align: right]172[/TD] [TD=align: right]20[/TD] [TD=align: right]35[/TD] [TD=align: right]7[/TD] [TD=align: right]1[/TD] [TD=align: right]5[/TD] [TD=align: right]22[/TD] [TD=align: right]0[/TD] [TD=align: right]2[/TD] [TD=align: right]14[/TD] [TD=align: right]42[/TD] [TD=align: right].203[/TD] [TD=align: right].275[/TD] [TD=align: right].343[/TD] [TD=align: right].618[/TD] [TD=align: right]70[/TD] [TD=align: right]59[/TD] [TD=align: right]2[/TD] [TD=align: right]3[/TD] [TD=align: right]0[/TD] [TD=align: right]0[/TD] [TD=align: right]0[/TD] [TD=align: left]7/D9 [/TD] [/TR] [/TABLE] Note: It's surprisingly difficult to get a Minor League format for these tables. #3. Kyle Waldrop- Status: Not on Active Roster What to do? Waive The first two seem like the least difficult choices on deciding who gets to come back. It wouldn't surprise me if they used the remaining open position once all three of Walters, Baker, and Pavano return. That's not to say Waldrop really needs a spot on here regardless. He's a soft tosser who infrequently can throw 90mph and suffice to say, strikeouts are also a rarity. Waldrop has been unsuccessful over the past two years in the MLB, but to his credit, he has only pitched 15 MLB innings combined. I don't think there's much of an incentive to keep him here past this offseason. More serviceable back up arms like Deduno and Devries exist when they inevitably lose their 25 man spots to new free agents. A #5 starter or long reliever is about as high a ceiling you'll get with the 26 year old high draftee from 2004. STATS (Don't mean really mean anything): [TABLE=class: sortable stats_table] [TH=class: tooltip sort_default_asc show_partial_when_sorting, bgcolor: #DADCDE, align: center]Year[/TH] [TH=class: tooltip sort_default_asc show_partial_when_sorting, bgcolor: #DADCDE, align: center]Tm[/TH] [TH=class: tooltip, bgcolor: #DADCDE, align: center]W[/TH] [TH=class: tooltip, bgcolor: #DADCDE, align: center]L[/TH] [TH=class: tooltip hide_non_quals, bgcolor: #DADCDE, align: center]W-L%[/TH] [TH=class: tooltip sort_default_asc hide_non_quals, bgcolor: #DADCDE, align: center]ERA[/TH] [TH=class: tooltip, bgcolor: #DADCDE, align: center]G[/TH] [TH=class: tooltip, bgcolor: #DADCDE, align: center]GS[/TH] [TH=class: tooltip, bgcolor: #DADCDE, align: center]GF[/TH] [TH=class: tooltip, bgcolor: #DADCDE, align: center]CG[/TH] [TH=class: tooltip, bgcolor: #DADCDE, align: center]SHO[/TH] [TH=class: tooltip, bgcolor: #DADCDE, align: center]SV[/TH] [TH=class: tooltip, bgcolor: #DADCDE, align: center]IP[/TH] [TH=class: tooltip, bgcolor: #DADCDE, align: center]H[/TH] [TH=class: tooltip, bgcolor: #DADCDE, align: center]R[/TH] [TH=class: tooltip, bgcolor: #DADCDE, align: center]ER[/TH] [TH=class: tooltip, bgcolor: #DADCDE, align: center]HR[/TH] [TH=class: tooltip, bgcolor: #DADCDE, align: center]BB[/TH] [TH=class: tooltip, bgcolor: #DADCDE, align: center]IBB[/TH] [TH=class: tooltip, bgcolor: #DADCDE, align: center]SO[/TH] [TH=class: tooltip, bgcolor: #DADCDE, align: center]HBP[/TH] [TH=class: tooltip, bgcolor: #DADCDE, align: center]BK[/TH] [TH=class: tooltip, bgcolor: #DADCDE, align: center]WP[/TH] [TH=class: tooltip, bgcolor: #DADCDE, align: center]BF[/TH] [TH=class: tooltip hide_non_quals, bgcolor: #DADCDE, align: center]ERA+[/TH] [TH=class: tooltip sort_default_asc hide_non_quals, bgcolor: #DADCDE, align: center]WHIP[/TH] [TH=class: tooltip sort_default_asc hide_non_quals, bgcolor: #DADCDE, align: center]H/9[/TH] [TH=class: tooltip sort_default_asc hide_non_quals, bgcolor: #DADCDE, align: center]HR/9[/TH] [TH=class: tooltip sort_default_asc hide_non_quals, bgcolor: #DADCDE, align: center]BB/9[/TH] [TH=class: tooltip hide_non_quals, bgcolor: #DADCDE, align: center]SO/9[/TH] [TH=class: tooltip hide_non_quals, bgcolor: #DADCDE, align: center]SO/BB[/TH] [TR=class: hl] [TD=align: left]2011-2012[/TD] [TD=align: left]MIN[/TD] [TD=align: right]1[/TD] [TD=align: right]1[/TD] [TD=align: right].500[/TD] [TD=align: right]5.40[/TD] [TD=align: right]11[/TD] [TD=align: right]0[/TD] [TD=align: right]2[/TD] [TD=align: right]0[/TD] [TD=align: right]0[/TD] [TD=align: right]0[/TD] [TD=align: right]15.0[/TD] [TD=align: right]17[/TD] [TD=align: right]9[/TD] [TD=align: right]9[/TD] [TD=align: right]2[/TD] [TD=align: right]9[/TD] [TD=align: right]2[/TD] [TD=align: right]6[/TD] [TD=align: right]1[/TD] [TD=align: right]0[/TD] [TD=align: right]1[/TD] [TD=align: right]71[/TD] [TD=align: right]79[/TD] [TD=align: right]1.733[/TD] [TD=align: right]10.2[/TD] [TD=align: right]1.2[/TD] [TD=align: right]5.4[/TD] [TD=align: right]3.6[/TD] [TD=align: right]0.67[/TD] [/TR] [/TABLE] Note: Nothing really. I just wanted to continue the trend this far. #4. Jeff Manship- Status: On 25 Man Roster What to do? DFA in offseason Four years of flirting with the majors with this player. He's not much more than a AAA starter and while there is a little potential, I don't see it. More or less, similar projection to Waldrop at best with better K numbers. As stated, somewhat of a strikeout pitcher, yet I refuse to picture him ever cracking the starting rotation. He's 27 now and it's about time to move on. He'll help Rochester win, but not Minnesota. Sort of like Clete Thomas.. the pitcher. Quite frankly I'd have him at a higher priority than Waldrop if he weren't in the majors right now. STATS: [TABLE=class: sortable stats_table] [TH=class: tooltip sort_default_asc show_partial_when_sorting, bgcolor: #DADCDE, align: center]Year[/TH] [TH=class: tooltip sort_default_asc show_partial_when_sorting, bgcolor: #DADCDE, align: center]Tm[/TH] [TH=class: tooltip, bgcolor: #DADCDE, align: center]W[/TH] [TH=class: tooltip, bgcolor: #DADCDE, align: center]L[/TH] [TH=class: tooltip hide_non_quals, bgcolor: #DADCDE, align: center]W-L%[/TH] [TH=class: tooltip sort_default_asc hide_non_quals, bgcolor: #DADCDE, align: center]ERA[/TH] [TH=class: tooltip, bgcolor: #DADCDE, align: center]G[/TH] [TH=class: tooltip, bgcolor: #DADCDE, align: center]GS[/TH] [TH=class: tooltip, bgcolor: #DADCDE, align: center]GF[/TH] [TH=class: tooltip, bgcolor: #DADCDE, align: center]CG[/TH] [TH=class: tooltip, bgcolor: #DADCDE, align: center]SHO[/TH] [TH=class: tooltip, bgcolor: #DADCDE, align: center]SV[/TH] [TH=class: tooltip, bgcolor: #DADCDE, align: center]IP[/TH] [TH=class: tooltip, bgcolor: #DADCDE, align: center]H[/TH] [TH=class: tooltip, bgcolor: #DADCDE, align: center]R[/TH] [TH=class: tooltip, bgcolor: #DADCDE, align: center]ER[/TH] [TH=class: tooltip, bgcolor: #DADCDE, align: center]HR[/TH] [TH=class: tooltip, bgcolor: #DADCDE, align: center]BB[/TH] [TH=class: tooltip, bgcolor: #DADCDE, align: center]IBB[/TH] [TH=class: tooltip, bgcolor: #DADCDE, align: center]SO[/TH] [TH=class: tooltip, bgcolor: #DADCDE, align: center]HBP[/TH] [TH=class: tooltip, bgcolor: #DADCDE, align: center]BK[/TH] [TH=class: tooltip, bgcolor: #DADCDE, align: center]WP[/TH] [TH=class: tooltip, bgcolor: #DADCDE, align: center]BF[/TH] [TH=class: tooltip hide_non_quals, bgcolor: #DADCDE, align: center]ERA+[/TH] [TH=class: tooltip sort_default_asc hide_non_quals, bgcolor: #DADCDE, align: center]WHIP[/TH] [TH=class: tooltip sort_default_asc hide_non_quals, bgcolor: #DADCDE, align: center]H/9[/TH] [TH=class: tooltip sort_default_asc hide_non_quals, bgcolor: #DADCDE, align: center]HR/9[/TH] [TH=class: tooltip sort_default_asc hide_non_quals, bgcolor: #DADCDE, align: center]BB/9[/TH] [TH=class: tooltip hide_non_quals, bgcolor: #DADCDE, align: center]SO/9[/TH] [TH=class: tooltip hide_non_quals, bgcolor: #DADCDE, align: center]SO/BB[/TH] [TR=class: hl] [TD=align: left]2009-2012[/TD] [TD=align: left]MIN[/TD] [TD=align: right]3[/TD] [TD=align: right]2[/TD] [TD=align: right].600[/TD] [TD=align: right]6.42[/TD] [TD=align: right]40[/TD] [TD=align: right]6[/TD] [TD=align: right]5[/TD] [TD=align: right]0[/TD] [TD=align: right]0[/TD] [TD=align: right]0[/TD] [TD=align: right]82.2[/TD] [TD=align: right]106[/TD] [TD=align: right]63[/TD] [TD=align: right]59[/TD] [TD=align: right]11[/TD] [TD=align: right]32[/TD] [TD=align: right]2[/TD] [TD=align: right]54[/TD] [TD=align: right]1[/TD] [TD=align: right]0[/TD] [TD=align: right]2[/TD] [TD=align: right]376[/TD] [TD=align: right]66[/TD] [TD=align: right]1.669[/TD] [TD=align: right]11.5[/TD] [TD=align: right]1.2[/TD] [TD=align: right]3.5[/TD] [TD=align: right]5.9[/TD] [TD=align: right]1.69[/TD] [/TR] [/TABLE] #5 Jeff Gray- Status: On 25 Man Roster What to do? Release in offseason In a strange way, I sort of feel for him. He's not good, but I want him to succeed since he tries hard. On the other hand, isn't it time this experiment ended?! As a reliever, the biggest thing I ask is to be reliable and consistent. That's not what Jeff Gray is and it's a crapshoot every time he steps on the mound. Gray doesn't have a good track record either and is a walk machine. Have a look at all of his per 9 ratios and you'll find that none of them are acceptable and some are unbelievably putrid. Take that SO/BB as the biggest offender in the stats below. STATS: [TABLE=class: sortable stats_table] [TH=class: tooltip sort_default_asc show_partial_when_sorting, bgcolor: #DADCDE, align: center]Year[/TH] [TH=class: tooltip sort_default_asc show_partial_when_sorting, bgcolor: #DADCDE, align: center]Tm[/TH] [TH=class: tooltip, bgcolor: #DADCDE, align: center]W[/TH] [TH=class: tooltip, bgcolor: #DADCDE, align: center]L[/TH] [TH=class: tooltip hide_non_quals, bgcolor: #DADCDE, align: center]W-L%[/TH] [TH=class: tooltip sort_default_asc hide_non_quals, bgcolor: #DADCDE, align: center]ERA[/TH] [TH=class: tooltip, bgcolor: #DADCDE, align: center]G[/TH] [TH=class: tooltip, bgcolor: #DADCDE, align: center]GS[/TH] [TH=class: tooltip, bgcolor: #DADCDE, align: center]GF[/TH] [TH=class: tooltip, bgcolor: #DADCDE, align: center]CG[/TH] [TH=class: tooltip, bgcolor: #DADCDE, align: center]SHO[/TH] [TH=class: tooltip, bgcolor: #DADCDE, align: center]SV[/TH] [TH=class: tooltip, bgcolor: #DADCDE, align: center]IP[/TH] [TH=class: tooltip, bgcolor: #DADCDE, align: center]H[/TH] [TH=class: tooltip, bgcolor: #DADCDE, align: center]R[/TH] [TH=class: tooltip, bgcolor: #DADCDE, align: center]ER[/TH] [TH=class: tooltip, bgcolor: #DADCDE, align: center]HR[/TH] [TH=class: tooltip, bgcolor: #DADCDE, align: center]BB[/TH] [TH=class: tooltip, bgcolor: #DADCDE, align: center]IBB[/TH] [TH=class: tooltip, bgcolor: #DADCDE, align: center]SO[/TH] [TH=class: tooltip, bgcolor: #DADCDE, align: center]HBP[/TH] [TH=class: tooltip, bgcolor: #DADCDE, align: center]BK[/TH] [TH=class: tooltip, bgcolor: #DADCDE, align: center]WP[/TH] [TH=class: tooltip, bgcolor: #DADCDE, align: center]BF[/TH] [TH=class: tooltip hide_non_quals, bgcolor: #DADCDE, align: center]ERA+[/TH] [TH=class: tooltip sort_default_asc hide_non_quals, bgcolor: #DADCDE, align: center]WHIP[/TH] [TH=class: tooltip sort_default_asc hide_non_quals, bgcolor: #DADCDE, align: center]H/9[/TH] [TH=class: tooltip sort_default_asc hide_non_quals, bgcolor: #DADCDE, align: center]HR/9[/TH] [TH=class: tooltip sort_default_asc hide_non_quals, bgcolor: #DADCDE, align: center]BB/9[/TH] [TH=class: tooltip hide_non_quals, bgcolor: #DADCDE, align: center]SO/9[/TH] [TH=class: tooltip hide_non_quals, bgcolor: #DADCDE, align: center]SO/BB[/TH] [TR=class: hl] [TD=align: left]2010-2012[/TD] [TD=align: left]CHC,CHW,SEA,MIN[/TD] [TD=align: right]7[/TD] [TD=align: right]2[/TD] [TD=align: right].778[/TD] [TD=align: right]4.85[/TD] [TD=align: right]81[/TD] [TD=align: right]0[/TD] [TD=align: right]22[/TD] [TD=align: right]0[/TD] [TD=align: right]0[/TD] [TD=align: right]1[/TD] [TD=align: right]104.0[/TD] [TD=align: right]112[/TD] [TD=align: right]59[/TD] [TD=align: right]56[/TD] [TD=align: right]11[/TD] [TD=align: right]47[/TD] [TD=align: right]2[/TD] [TD=align: right]50[/TD] [TD=align: right]6[/TD] [TD=align: right]1[/TD] [TD=align: right]8[/TD] [TD=align: right]470[/TD] [TD=align: right]84[/TD] [TD=align: right]1.529[/TD] [TD=align: right]9.7[/TD] [TD=align: right]1.0[/TD] [TD=align: right]4.1[/TD] [TD=align: right]4.3[/TD] [TD=align: right]1.06[/TD] [/TR] [/TABLE] #6 Carl Pavano- Status: 60 Day DL/Impending FA What to do? Let him walk Not much to be said here, but Pavano was a key part of the Twins short postseason visit back in 2010. He's far too old to be a future component and the ship has already sailed. The Twins are going to see if he can get healthy for a waiver trade, but I'll believe it when I see it. I suspect the dugout tirades will be missed by Twins fans everywhere. STATS: [TABLE=class: sortable stats_table] [TH=class: tooltip sort_default_asc show_partial_when_sorting, bgcolor: #DADCDE, align: center]Year[/TH] [TH=class: tooltip sort_default_asc show_partial_when_sorting, bgcolor: #DADCDE, align: center]Tm[/TH] [TH=class: tooltip, bgcolor: #DADCDE, align: center]W[/TH] [TH=class: tooltip, bgcolor: #DADCDE, align: center]L[/TH] [TH=class: tooltip hide_non_quals, bgcolor: #DADCDE, align: center]W-L%[/TH] [TH=class: tooltip sort_default_asc hide_non_quals, bgcolor: #DADCDE, align: center]ERA[/TH] [TH=class: tooltip, bgcolor: #DADCDE, align: center]G[/TH] [TH=class: tooltip, bgcolor: #DADCDE, align: center]GS[/TH] [TH=class: tooltip, bgcolor: #DADCDE, align: center]GF[/TH] [TH=class: tooltip, bgcolor: #DADCDE, align: center]CG[/TH] [TH=class: tooltip, bgcolor: #DADCDE, align: center]SHO[/TH] [TH=class: tooltip, bgcolor: #DADCDE, align: center]SV[/TH] [TH=class: tooltip, bgcolor: #DADCDE, align: center]IP[/TH] [TH=class: tooltip, bgcolor: #DADCDE, align: center]H[/TH] [TH=class: tooltip, bgcolor: #DADCDE, align: center]R[/TH] [TH=class: tooltip, bgcolor: #DADCDE, align: center]ER[/TH] [TH=class: tooltip, bgcolor: #DADCDE, align: center]HR[/TH] [TH=class: tooltip, bgcolor: #DADCDE, align: center]BB[/TH] [TH=class: tooltip, bgcolor: #DADCDE, align: center]IBB[/TH] [TH=class: tooltip, bgcolor: #DADCDE, align: center]SO[/TH] [TH=class: tooltip, bgcolor: #DADCDE, align: center]HBP[/TH] [TH=class: tooltip, bgcolor: #DADCDE, align: center]BK[/TH] [TH=class: tooltip, bgcolor: #DADCDE, align: center]WP[/TH] [TH=class: tooltip, bgcolor: #DADCDE, align: center]BF[/TH] [TH=class: tooltip hide_non_quals, bgcolor: #DADCDE, align: center]ERA+[/TH] [TH=class: tooltip sort_default_asc hide_non_quals, bgcolor: #DADCDE, align: center]WHIP[/TH] [TH=class: tooltip sort_default_asc hide_non_quals, bgcolor: #DADCDE, align: center]H/9[/TH] [TH=class: tooltip sort_default_asc hide_non_quals, bgcolor: #DADCDE, align: center]HR/9[/TH] [TH=class: tooltip sort_default_asc hide_non_quals, bgcolor: #DADCDE, align: center]BB/9[/TH] [TH=class: tooltip hide_non_quals, bgcolor: #DADCDE, align: center]SO/9[/TH] [TH=class: tooltip hide_non_quals, bgcolor: #DADCDE, align: center]SO/BB[/TH] [TR=class: hl] [TD=align: left]2010-2012[/TD] [TD=align: left]MIN[/TD] [TD=align: right]28[/TD] [TD=align: right]29[/TD] [TD=align: right].491[/TD] [TD=align: right]4.27[/TD] [TD=align: right]76[/TD] [TD=align: right]76[/TD] [TD=align: right]0[/TD] [TD=align: right]10[/TD] [TD=align: right]3[/TD] [TD=align: right]0[/TD] [TD=align: right]506.0[/TD] [TD=align: right]569[/TD] [TD=align: right]264[/TD] [TD=align: right]240[/TD] [TD=align: right]56[/TD] [TD=align: right]85[/TD] [TD=align: right]4[/TD] [TD=align: right]252[/TD] [TD=align: right]16[/TD] [TD=align: right]2[/TD] [TD=align: right]8[/TD] [TD=align: right]2129[/TD] [TD=align: right]96[/TD] [TD=align: right]1.292[/TD] [TD=align: right]10.1[/TD] [TD=align: right]1.0[/TD] [TD=align: right]1.5[/TD] [TD=align: right]4.5[/TD] [TD=align: right]2.96[/TD] [/TR] [/TABLE] #7 Matt Capps- Status: 15 Day DL/Impending FA What to do? Let him walk A blown draft pick and a young catching prospect later, we've all had our gripes with him. Another player here that hopefully can get us something through waivers. He didn't pitch bad for the Twins, but the front office's infatuation with him was strange. I'll happily see him go for another roster spot here. STATS: [TABLE=class: sortable stats_table] [TH=class: tooltip sort_default_asc show_partial_when_sorting, bgcolor: #DADCDE, align: center]Year[/TH] [TH=class: tooltip sort_default_asc show_partial_when_sorting, bgcolor: #DADCDE, align: center]Tm[/TH] [TH=class: tooltip, bgcolor: #DADCDE, align: center]W[/TH] [TH=class: tooltip, bgcolor: #DADCDE, align: center]L[/TH] [TH=class: tooltip hide_non_quals, bgcolor: #DADCDE, align: center]W-L%[/TH] [TH=class: tooltip sort_default_asc hide_non_quals, bgcolor: #DADCDE, align: center]ERA[/TH] [TH=class: tooltip, bgcolor: #DADCDE, align: center]G[/TH] [TH=class: tooltip, bgcolor: #DADCDE, align: center]GS[/TH] [TH=class: tooltip, bgcolor: #DADCDE, align: center]GF[/TH] [TH=class: tooltip, bgcolor: #DADCDE, align: center]CG[/TH] [TH=class: tooltip, bgcolor: #DADCDE, align: center]SHO[/TH] [TH=class: tooltip, bgcolor: #DADCDE, align: center]SV[/TH] [TH=class: tooltip, bgcolor: #DADCDE, align: center]IP[/TH] [TH=class: tooltip, bgcolor: #DADCDE, align: center]H[/TH] [TH=class: tooltip, bgcolor: #DADCDE, align: center]R[/TH] [TH=class: tooltip, bgcolor: #DADCDE, align: center]ER[/TH] [TH=class: tooltip, bgcolor: #DADCDE, align: center]HR[/TH] [TH=class: tooltip, bgcolor: #DADCDE, align: center]BB[/TH] [TH=class: tooltip, bgcolor: #DADCDE, align: center]IBB[/TH] [TH=class: tooltip, bgcolor: #DADCDE, align: center]SO[/TH] [TH=class: tooltip, bgcolor: #DADCDE, align: center]HBP[/TH] [TH=class: tooltip, bgcolor: #DADCDE, align: center]BK[/TH] [TH=class: tooltip, bgcolor: #DADCDE, align: center]WP[/TH] [TH=class: tooltip, bgcolor: #DADCDE, align: center]BF[/TH] [TH=class: tooltip hide_non_quals, bgcolor: #DADCDE, align: center]ERA+[/TH] [TH=class: tooltip sort_default_asc hide_non_quals, bgcolor: #DADCDE, align: center]WHIP[/TH] [TH=class: tooltip sort_default_asc hide_non_quals, bgcolor: #DADCDE, align: center]H/9[/TH] [TH=class: tooltip sort_default_asc hide_non_quals, bgcolor: #DADCDE, align: center]HR/9[/TH] [TH=class: tooltip sort_default_asc hide_non_quals, bgcolor: #DADCDE, align: center]BB/9[/TH] [TH=class: tooltip hide_non_quals, bgcolor: #DADCDE, align: center]SO/9[/TH] [TH=class: tooltip hide_non_quals, bgcolor: #DADCDE, align: center]SO/BB[/TH] [TR=class: hl] [TD=align: left]2010-2012[/TD] [TD=align: left]WSN,MIN[/TD] [TD=align: right]10[/TD] [TD=align: right]14[/TD] [TD=align: right].417[/TD] [TD=align: right]3.40[/TD] [TD=align: right]172[/TD] [TD=align: right]0[/TD] [TD=align: right]129[/TD] [TD=align: right]0[/TD] [TD=align: right]0[/TD] [TD=align: right]71[/TD] [TD=align: right]167.0[/TD] [TD=align: right]167[/TD] [TD=align: right]71[/TD] [TD=align: right]63[/TD] [TD=align: right]21[/TD] [TD=align: right]34[/TD] [TD=align: right]6[/TD] [TD=align: right]111[/TD] [TD=align: right]4[/TD] [TD=align: right]0[/TD] [TD=align: right]5[/TD] [TD=align: right]694[/TD] [TD=align: right]121[/TD] [TD=align: right]1.204[/TD] [TD=align: right]9.0[/TD] [TD=align: right]1.1[/TD] [TD=align: right]1.8[/TD] [TD=align: right]6.0[/TD] [TD=align: right]3.26[/TD] [/TR] [/TABLE] #8 Carlos Guiterrez- Status: Not on Active Roster What to do? Waive Out with a shoulder injury if I'm not mistaken, Guiterrez has been a bust for the Twins. He really hasn't had a 2012 and 2011 was mediocre. He's spent 5 years in the system and hasn't thrown for the Twins once. I doubt he'll be a servicable player, but he could end up being a great reliever. It's difficult to tell since he's only pitched 82 Innings in AAA through the past 3 years. Over his minor league career, he's allowed far too many baserunners, has a below average WHIP, and bad walk rate. The strikeout ability would be enough for me to keep him for another year. Although, he's treading on thin ice as an underachieving 25 year old. I'd wouldn't pull him back should he be claimed, but I doubt it would be necessary. STATS: 2011 AAA/ 4.62ERA 1.460 WHIP 8.2 K/9 4.5BB/9 #9 Deolis Guerra- Status: Not on Active Roster What to do? Waive Guerra is somewhat young at 23 and hasn't sniffed the big leagues yet, so it may surprise a few. I'm not a big believer in him and wouldn't mind if he left the organization. He's had three years of shuffling between Rochester and New Britain as a starter (and now reliever) with no success. Scouts love his changeup and improving K/9 rate, but I don't love his BB/9 or ERA. Another pitcher I wouldn't revoke if claimed. STATS: 2010-2012 (Cumulative AA+AAA)/ 5.69 ERA 1.454 WHIP 7.69K/9 2.99BB/9 #10 Aaron Hicks- Status: Not on 40 Man Roster What to do? Add Hicks is an obvious choice to be added before the Rule 5 draft. I think the Twins will save an option year by avoiding September call-ups and wait to add him at the end of the season. Hicks projects to be a very exciting player and the future heir to centerfield. #11 David Bromberg- Status: Not on 40 Man Roster What to do? Add It's great to see Bromberg bouncing back after a poor 2011. He's re-established himself this year and I think we could see him compete for the rotation next year. David Bromberg would probably get drafted in the Rule 5 too this season. 2011 was his first year of eligibility for selection, but his season was so awful that he wasn't chosen. #12 Kyle Gibson-Status: Not on 40 Man Roster What to do? Add Another obvious choice for addition. Gibson is progressing along nicely and will have to be added so he can pitch next year. If everything goes according to plan of course. #13 Scott Baker and Jared Burton- Statuses: Impending FAs What to do? Re-Sign Both I'd really like to see both players back next year. Standing pat. SOME MATH: I would expect the roster spot owners of #1-9 to be freed up easily. Bringing in 2 from the 60 Day DL (Not Pavano at season's end) and 3 from addition gives the Twins 35/40 spots freed in the offseason. As proof..... 39-9+2+3=35 This entire offense is under contract for next season, but depending on what the Twins sign for pitching in the offseason, it may affect some of the others players well-beings. I would have released Blackburn and took his spot, but I don't believe the Twins will cut him. I do think they'll bring back Baker and hopefully Burton. SPs: Baker, Gibson, Diamond, Blackburn, Walters, Devries, Deduno, Hendriks, Hernandez, Bromberg With that state, the Twins should probably sign 2 free agent pitchers in addition to Baker if they want to contend. The offense we have is above average and a few new pitching counterparts would really help and make this team competitive in a weak AL Central. There still looks like too many starters on the 40 man despite the deletions of Manship, Waldrop, and Pavano. RPs: Burnett, Burton, Duensing, Fien, Perdomo, Oliveros, Perkins, Robertson, Swarzak That's 9 relievers and not enough. This entire group looks awful and it's full of question marks besides Perkins and Burton. The Twins like to roll with 8 here and only 1 backup isn't good. I'd like to sign a couple of more established relievers, but it if they sign 2 FA pitchers it gets complicated. I think they may have to make a few tough decisions on Walters, Fien, Perdomo, Deduno, Devries, and Blackburn if they want to have a good bullpen to compliment the rotation. The Twins aren't far from contention and have played above .500 since May and a couple of new pieces would put them in a very good position. It all depends on how aggressive they chose to be in free agency. They'll likely do a little addition by subtraction in a Timberwolves-esque style of improvement too. The draft picks were nice, but it's not far-fetched to think a solid 2013 lies ahead!

The Twins are sitting with a nearly filled quota on the 40 man roster and it's somewhat ugly. Only one vacant spot is available while starting pitchers P.J. Walters, Carl Pavano, and Scott Baker are on the 60 day DL. Soon enough, positions on this assembly will need to be cleared in order to make way for these incoming players. For now, it's not a problem, but there are a lot of gentlemen here that could and should be removed sooner rather than later. Priority will of course be assessed for who leaves first, but there are a lot of other changes I'd like to see made in the offseason too. Not only are there a few subtractions, but a couple of additions as well. #1. Tsuyoshi Nishioka- Status: Not on Active Roster What to do?! DFA I think it's safe to say he won't be playing with the Twins again for some time. In all likeliness (and hopefulness), the 28 year old international bust never re-joins the big league team for the remainder of his contract. It's really safe to say that no other team would save us from...I mean claim him. I would be fine with out-right waivers, but that gives him the opportunity to make more money back in Japan. An expensive AAA filler would be the best option and it benefits us somewhat. STATS: [TABLE=class: sortable stats_table] [TH=class: tooltip sort_default_asc show_partial_when_sorting, bgcolor: #DADCDE, align: center]Year[/TH] [TH=class: tooltip sort_default_asc show_partial_when_sorting, bgcolor: #DADCDE, align: center]Tm[/TH] [TH=class: tooltip, bgcolor: #DADCDE, align: center]G[/TH] [TH=class: tooltip, bgcolor: #DADCDE, align: center]PA[/TH] [TH=class: tooltip, bgcolor: #DADCDE, align: center]AB[/TH] [TH=class: tooltip, bgcolor: #DADCDE, align: center]R[/TH] [TH=class: tooltip, bgcolor: #DADCDE, align: center]H[/TH] [TH=class: tooltip, bgcolor: #DADCDE, align: center]2B[/TH] [TH=class: tooltip, bgcolor: #DADCDE, align: center]3B[/TH] [TH=class: tooltip, bgcolor: #DADCDE, align: center]HR[/TH] [TH=class: tooltip, bgcolor: #DADCDE, align: center]RBI[/TH] [TH=class: tooltip, bgcolor: #DADCDE, align: center]SB[/TH] [TH=class: tooltip, bgcolor: #DADCDE, align: center]CS[/TH] [TH=class: tooltip, bgcolor: #DADCDE, align: center]BB[/TH] [TH=class: tooltip, bgcolor: #DADCDE, align: center]SO[/TH] [TH=class: tooltip hide_non_quals, bgcolor: #DADCDE, align: center]BA[/TH] [TH=class: tooltip hide_non_quals, bgcolor: #DADCDE, align: center]OBP[/TH] [TH=class: tooltip hide_non_quals, bgcolor: #DADCDE, align: center]SLG[/TH] [TH=class: tooltip hide_non_quals, bgcolor: #DADCDE, align: center]OPS[/TH] [TH=class: tooltip hide_non_quals, bgcolor: #DADCDE, align: center]OPS+[/TH] [TH=class: tooltip, bgcolor: #DADCDE, align: center]TB[/TH] [TH=class: tooltip, bgcolor: #DADCDE, align: center]GDP[/TH] [TH=class: tooltip, bgcolor: #DADCDE, align: center]HBP[/TH] [TH=class: tooltip, bgcolor: #DADCDE, align: center]SH[/TH] [TH=class: tooltip, bgcolor: #DADCDE, align: center]SF[/TH] [TH=class: tooltip, bgcolor: #DADCDE, align: center]IBB[/TH] [TR=class: hl] [TD=align: left]2011-2012[/TD] [TD=align: left]MIN[/TD] [TD=align: right]71[/TD] [TD=align: right]254[/TD] [TD=align: right]233[/TD] [TD=align: right]14[/TD] [TD=align: right]50[/TD] [TD=align: right]5[/TD] [TD=align: right]0[/TD] [TD=align: right]0[/TD] [TD=align: right]20[/TD] [TD=align: right]2[/TD] [TD=align: right]4[/TD] [TD=align: right]16[/TD] [TD=align: right]44[/TD] [TD=align: right].215[/TD] [TD=align: right].267[/TD] [TD=align: right].236[/TD] [TD=align: right].503[/TD] [TD=align: right]41[/TD] [TD=align: right]55[/TD] [TD=align: right]1[/TD] [TD=align: right]1[/TD] [TD=align: right]3[/TD] [TD=align: right]1[/TD] [TD=align: right]1[/TD] [/TR] [/TABLE] Note: I found it rather amusing to see he had once been intentionally walked. #2. Rene Tosoni- Status: Not on Active Roster What to do? DFA The once promising outfielder failed in a 2011 campaign with the Twins and has been lost ever since. Tosoni has been struggling to break a .650 OPS in AA where he has been re-acquainted with for the first time since 2010. Is there still hope for him? Possibly, but probably not as a struggling 25 year old in an outfield deep system. He doesn't have much in the tools department either, and while he could get claimed, it would be best for the Twins to have that spot and for Tosoni to get a chance someplace else. I really enjoyed having him with the team though. His spunky personality and hilarious walk-up song were entertaining while they lasted. STATS: [TABLE=class: sortable stats_table row_summable] [TR=class: full hl, bgcolor: #DDEEFF] [/TR] [TH=class: tooltip sort_default_asc show_partial_when_sorting, bgcolor: #DADCDE, align: center]Year[/TH] [TH=class: tooltip sort_default_asc show_partial_when_sorting, bgcolor: #DADCDE, align: center]Age[/TH] [TH=class: tooltip sort_default_asc show_partial_when_sorting, bgcolor: #DADCDE, align: center]Tm[/TH] [TH=class: tooltip sort_default_asc, bgcolor: #DADCDE, align: center]Lg[/TH] [TH=class: tooltip, bgcolor: #DADCDE, align: center]G[/TH] [TH=class: tooltip, bgcolor: #DADCDE, align: center]PA[/TH] [TH=class: tooltip, bgcolor: #DADCDE, align: center]AB[/TH] [TH=class: tooltip, bgcolor: #DADCDE, align: center]R[/TH] [TH=class: tooltip, bgcolor: #DADCDE, align: center]H[/TH] [TH=class: tooltip, bgcolor: #DADCDE, align: center]2B[/TH] [TH=class: tooltip, bgcolor: #DADCDE, align: center]3B[/TH] [TH=class: tooltip, bgcolor: #DADCDE, align: center]HR[/TH] [TH=class: tooltip, bgcolor: #DADCDE, align: center]RBI[/TH] [TH=class: tooltip, bgcolor: #DADCDE, align: center]SB[/TH] [TH=class: tooltip, bgcolor: #DADCDE, align: center]CS[/TH] [TH=class: tooltip, bgcolor: #DADCDE, align: center]BB[/TH] [TH=class: tooltip, bgcolor: #DADCDE, align: center]SO[/TH] [TH=class: tooltip hide_non_quals, bgcolor: #DADCDE, align: center]BA[/TH] [TH=class: tooltip hide_non_quals, bgcolor: #DADCDE, align: center]OBP[/TH] [TH=class: tooltip hide_non_quals, bgcolor: #DADCDE, align: center]SLG[/TH] [TH=class: tooltip hide_non_quals, bgcolor: #DADCDE, align: center]OPS[/TH] [TH=class: tooltip hide_non_quals, bgcolor: #DADCDE, align: center]OPS+[/TH] [TH=class: tooltip, bgcolor: #DADCDE, align: center]TB[/TH] [TH=class: tooltip, bgcolor: #DADCDE, align: center]GDP[/TH] [TH=class: tooltip, bgcolor: #DADCDE, align: center]HBP[/TH] [TH=class: tooltip, bgcolor: #DADCDE, align: center]SH[/TH] [TH=class: tooltip, bgcolor: #DADCDE, align: center]SF[/TH] [TH=class: tooltip, bgcolor: #DADCDE, align: center]IBB[/TH] [TH=class: tooltip sort_default_asc, bgcolor: #DADCDE, align: center]Pos[/TH] [TH=class: tooltip sort_default_asc show_partial_when_sorting, bgcolor: #DADCDE, align: center]Awards[/TH] [TR=class: full hl, bgcolor: #DDEEFF] [TD=align: left]2011[/TD] [TD=align: right]24[/TD] [TD=align: left]MIN[/TD] [TD=align: left]AL[/TD] [TD=align: right]60[/TD] [TD=align: right]189[/TD] [TD=align: right]172[/TD] [TD=align: right]20[/TD] [TD=align: right]35[/TD] [TD=align: right]7[/TD] [TD=align: right]1[/TD] [TD=align: right]5[/TD] [TD=align: right]22[/TD] [TD=align: right]0[/TD] [TD=align: right]2[/TD] [TD=align: right]14[/TD] [TD=align: right]42[/TD] [TD=align: right].203[/TD] [TD=align: right].275[/TD] [TD=align: right].343[/TD] [TD=align: right].618[/TD] [TD=align: right]70[/TD] [TD=align: right]59[/TD] [TD=align: right]2[/TD] [TD=align: right]3[/TD] [TD=align: right]0[/TD] [TD=align: right]0[/TD] [TD=align: right]0[/TD] [TD=align: left]7/D9 [/TD] [/TR] [/TABLE] Note: It's surprisingly difficult to get a Minor League format for these tables. #3. Kyle Waldrop- Status: Not on Active Roster What to do? Waive The first two seem like the least difficult choices on deciding who gets to come back. It wouldn't surprise me if they used the remaining open position once all three of Walters, Baker, and Pavano return. That's not to say Waldrop really needs a spot on here regardless. He's a soft tosser who infrequently can throw 90mph and suffice to say, strikeouts are also a rarity. Waldrop has been unsuccessful over the past two years in the MLB, but to his credit, he has only pitched 15 MLB innings combined. I don't think there's much of an incentive to keep him here past this offseason. More serviceable back up arms like Deduno and Devries exist when they inevitably lose their 25 man spots to new free agents. A #5 starter or long reliever is about as high a ceiling you'll get with the 26 year old high draftee from 2004. STATS (Don't mean really mean anything): [TABLE=class: sortable stats_table] [TH=class: tooltip sort_default_asc show_partial_when_sorting, bgcolor: #DADCDE, align: center]Year[/TH] [TH=class: tooltip sort_default_asc show_partial_when_sorting, bgcolor: #DADCDE, align: center]Tm[/TH] [TH=class: tooltip, bgcolor: #DADCDE, align: center]W[/TH] [TH=class: tooltip, bgcolor: #DADCDE, align: center]L[/TH] [TH=class: tooltip hide_non_quals, bgcolor: #DADCDE, align: center]W-L%[/TH] [TH=class: tooltip sort_default_asc hide_non_quals, bgcolor: #DADCDE, align: center]ERA[/TH] [TH=class: tooltip, bgcolor: #DADCDE, align: center]G[/TH] [TH=class: tooltip, bgcolor: #DADCDE, align: center]GS[/TH] [TH=class: tooltip, bgcolor: #DADCDE, align: center]GF[/TH] [TH=class: tooltip, bgcolor: #DADCDE, align: center]CG[/TH] [TH=class: tooltip, bgcolor: #DADCDE, align: center]SHO[/TH] [TH=class: tooltip, bgcolor: #DADCDE, align: center]SV[/TH] [TH=class: tooltip, bgcolor: #DADCDE, align: center]IP[/TH] [TH=class: tooltip, bgcolor: #DADCDE, align: center]H[/TH] [TH=class: tooltip, bgcolor: #DADCDE, align: center]R[/TH] [TH=class: tooltip, bgcolor: #DADCDE, align: center]ER[/TH] [TH=class: tooltip, bgcolor: #DADCDE, align: center]HR[/TH] [TH=class: tooltip, bgcolor: #DADCDE, align: center]BB[/TH] [TH=class: tooltip, bgcolor: #DADCDE, align: center]IBB[/TH] [TH=class: tooltip, bgcolor: #DADCDE, align: center]SO[/TH] [TH=class: tooltip, bgcolor: #DADCDE, align: center]HBP[/TH] [TH=class: tooltip, bgcolor: #DADCDE, align: center]BK[/TH] [TH=class: tooltip, bgcolor: #DADCDE, align: center]WP[/TH] [TH=class: tooltip, bgcolor: #DADCDE, align: center]BF[/TH] [TH=class: tooltip hide_non_quals, bgcolor: #DADCDE, align: center]ERA+[/TH] [TH=class: tooltip sort_default_asc hide_non_quals, bgcolor: #DADCDE, align: center]WHIP[/TH] [TH=class: tooltip sort_default_asc hide_non_quals, bgcolor: #DADCDE, align: center]H/9[/TH] [TH=class: tooltip sort_default_asc hide_non_quals, bgcolor: #DADCDE, align: center]HR/9[/TH] [TH=class: tooltip sort_default_asc hide_non_quals, bgcolor: #DADCDE, align: center]BB/9[/TH] [TH=class: tooltip hide_non_quals, bgcolor: #DADCDE, align: center]SO/9[/TH] [TH=class: tooltip hide_non_quals, bgcolor: #DADCDE, align: center]SO/BB[/TH] [TR=class: hl] [TD=align: left]2011-2012[/TD] [TD=align: left]MIN[/TD] [TD=align: right]1[/TD] [TD=align: right]1[/TD] [TD=align: right].500[/TD] [TD=align: right]5.40[/TD] [TD=align: right]11[/TD] [TD=align: right]0[/TD] [TD=align: right]2[/TD] [TD=align: right]0[/TD] [TD=align: right]0[/TD] [TD=align: right]0[/TD] [TD=align: right]15.0[/TD] [TD=align: right]17[/TD] [TD=align: right]9[/TD] [TD=align: right]9[/TD] [TD=align: right]2[/TD] [TD=align: right]9[/TD] [TD=align: right]2[/TD] [TD=align: right]6[/TD] [TD=align: right]1[/TD] [TD=align: right]0[/TD] [TD=align: right]1[/TD] [TD=align: right]71[/TD] [TD=align: right]79[/TD] [TD=align: right]1.733[/TD] [TD=align: right]10.2[/TD] [TD=align: right]1.2[/TD] [TD=align: right]5.4[/TD] [TD=align: right]3.6[/TD] [TD=align: right]0.67[/TD] [/TR] [/TABLE] Note: Nothing really. I just wanted to continue the trend this far. #4. Jeff Manship- Status: On 25 Man Roster What to do? DFA in offseason Four years of flirting with the majors with this player. He's not much more than a AAA starter and while there is a little potential, I don't see it. More or less, similar projection to Waldrop at best with better K numbers. As stated, somewhat of a strikeout pitcher, yet I refuse to picture him ever cracking the starting rotation. He's 27 now and it's about time to move on. He'll help Rochester win, but not Minnesota. Sort of like Clete Thomas.. the pitcher. Quite frankly I'd have him at a higher priority than Waldrop if he weren't in the majors right now. STATS: [TABLE=class: sortable stats_table] [TH=class: tooltip sort_default_asc show_partial_when_sorting, bgcolor: #DADCDE, align: center]Year[/TH] [TH=class: tooltip sort_default_asc show_partial_when_sorting, bgcolor: #DADCDE, align: center]Tm[/TH] [TH=class: tooltip, bgcolor: #DADCDE, align: center]W[/TH] [TH=class: tooltip, bgcolor: #DADCDE, align: center]L[/TH] [TH=class: tooltip hide_non_quals, bgcolor: #DADCDE, align: center]W-L%[/TH] [TH=class: tooltip sort_default_asc hide_non_quals, bgcolor: #DADCDE, align: center]ERA[/TH] [TH=class: tooltip, bgcolor: #DADCDE, align: center]G[/TH] [TH=class: tooltip, bgcolor: #DADCDE, align: center]GS[/TH] [TH=class: tooltip, bgcolor: #DADCDE, align: center]GF[/TH] [TH=class: tooltip, bgcolor: #DADCDE, align: center]CG[/TH] [TH=class: tooltip, bgcolor: #DADCDE, align: center]SHO[/TH] [TH=class: tooltip, bgcolor: #DADCDE, align: center]SV[/TH] [TH=class: tooltip, bgcolor: #DADCDE, align: center]IP[/TH] [TH=class: tooltip, bgcolor: #DADCDE, align: center]H[/TH] [TH=class: tooltip, bgcolor: #DADCDE, align: center]R[/TH] [TH=class: tooltip, bgcolor: #DADCDE, align: center]ER[/TH] [TH=class: tooltip, bgcolor: #DADCDE, align: center]HR[/TH] [TH=class: tooltip, bgcolor: #DADCDE, align: center]BB[/TH] [TH=class: tooltip, bgcolor: #DADCDE, align: center]IBB[/TH] [TH=class: tooltip, bgcolor: #DADCDE, align: center]SO[/TH] [TH=class: tooltip, bgcolor: #DADCDE, align: center]HBP[/TH] [TH=class: tooltip, bgcolor: #DADCDE, align: center]BK[/TH] [TH=class: tooltip, bgcolor: #DADCDE, align: center]WP[/TH] [TH=class: tooltip, bgcolor: #DADCDE, align: center]BF[/TH] [TH=class: tooltip hide_non_quals, bgcolor: #DADCDE, align: center]ERA+[/TH] [TH=class: tooltip sort_default_asc hide_non_quals, bgcolor: #DADCDE, align: center]WHIP[/TH] [TH=class: tooltip sort_default_asc hide_non_quals, bgcolor: #DADCDE, align: center]H/9[/TH] [TH=class: tooltip sort_default_asc hide_non_quals, bgcolor: #DADCDE, align: center]HR/9[/TH] [TH=class: tooltip sort_default_asc hide_non_quals, bgcolor: #DADCDE, align: center]BB/9[/TH] [TH=class: tooltip hide_non_quals, bgcolor: #DADCDE, align: center]SO/9[/TH] [TH=class: tooltip hide_non_quals, bgcolor: #DADCDE, align: center]SO/BB[/TH] [TR=class: hl] [TD=align: left]2009-2012[/TD] [TD=align: left]MIN[/TD] [TD=align: right]3[/TD] [TD=align: right]2[/TD] [TD=align: right].600[/TD] [TD=align: right]6.42[/TD] [TD=align: right]40[/TD] [TD=align: right]6[/TD] [TD=align: right]5[/TD] [TD=align: right]0[/TD] [TD=align: right]0[/TD] [TD=align: right]0[/TD] [TD=align: right]82.2[/TD] [TD=align: right]106[/TD] [TD=align: right]63[/TD] [TD=align: right]59[/TD] [TD=align: right]11[/TD] [TD=align: right]32[/TD] [TD=align: right]2[/TD] [TD=align: right]54[/TD] [TD=align: right]1[/TD] [TD=align: right]0[/TD] [TD=align: right]2[/TD] [TD=align: right]376[/TD] [TD=align: right]66[/TD] [TD=align: right]1.669[/TD] [TD=align: right]11.5[/TD] [TD=align: right]1.2[/TD] [TD=align: right]3.5[/TD] [TD=align: right]5.9[/TD] [TD=align: right]1.69[/TD] [/TR] [/TABLE] #5 Jeff Gray- Status: On 25 Man Roster What to do? Release in offseason In a strange way, I sort of feel for him. He's not good, but I want him to succeed since he tries hard. On the other hand, isn't it time this experiment ended?! As a reliever, the biggest thing I ask is to be reliable and consistent. That's not what Jeff Gray is and it's a crapshoot every time he steps on the mound. Gray doesn't have a good track record either and is a walk machine. Have a look at all of his per 9 ratios and you'll find that none of them are acceptable and some are unbelievably putrid. Take that SO/BB as the biggest offender in the stats below. STATS: [TABLE=class: sortable stats_table] [TH=class: tooltip sort_default_asc show_partial_when_sorting, bgcolor: #DADCDE, align: center]Year[/TH] [TH=class: tooltip sort_default_asc show_partial_when_sorting, bgcolor: #DADCDE, align: center]Tm[/TH] [TH=class: tooltip, bgcolor: #DADCDE, align: center]W[/TH] [TH=class: tooltip, bgcolor: #DADCDE, align: center]L[/TH] [TH=class: tooltip hide_non_quals, bgcolor: #DADCDE, align: center]W-L%[/TH] [TH=class: tooltip sort_default_asc hide_non_quals, bgcolor: #DADCDE, align: center]ERA[/TH] [TH=class: tooltip, bgcolor: #DADCDE, align: center]G[/TH] [TH=class: tooltip, bgcolor: #DADCDE, align: center]GS[/TH] [TH=class: tooltip, bgcolor: #DADCDE, align: center]GF[/TH] [TH=class: tooltip, bgcolor: #DADCDE, align: center]CG[/TH] [TH=class: tooltip, bgcolor: #DADCDE, align: center]SHO[/TH] [TH=class: tooltip, bgcolor: #DADCDE, align: center]SV[/TH] [TH=class: tooltip, bgcolor: #DADCDE, align: center]IP[/TH] [TH=class: tooltip, bgcolor: #DADCDE, align: center]H[/TH] [TH=class: tooltip, bgcolor: #DADCDE, align: center]R[/TH] [TH=class: tooltip, bgcolor: #DADCDE, align: center]ER[/TH] [TH=class: tooltip, bgcolor: #DADCDE, align: center]HR[/TH] [TH=class: tooltip, bgcolor: #DADCDE, align: center]BB[/TH] [TH=class: tooltip, bgcolor: #DADCDE, align: center]IBB[/TH] [TH=class: tooltip, bgcolor: #DADCDE, align: center]SO[/TH] [TH=class: tooltip, bgcolor: #DADCDE, align: center]HBP[/TH] [TH=class: tooltip, bgcolor: #DADCDE, align: center]BK[/TH] [TH=class: tooltip, bgcolor: #DADCDE, align: center]WP[/TH] [TH=class: tooltip, bgcolor: #DADCDE, align: center]BF[/TH] [TH=class: tooltip hide_non_quals, bgcolor: #DADCDE, align: center]ERA+[/TH] [TH=class: tooltip sort_default_asc hide_non_quals, bgcolor: #DADCDE, align: center]WHIP[/TH] [TH=class: tooltip sort_default_asc hide_non_quals, bgcolor: #DADCDE, align: center]H/9[/TH] [TH=class: tooltip sort_default_asc hide_non_quals, bgcolor: #DADCDE, align: center]HR/9[/TH] [TH=class: tooltip sort_default_asc hide_non_quals, bgcolor: #DADCDE, align: center]BB/9[/TH] [TH=class: tooltip hide_non_quals, bgcolor: #DADCDE, align: center]SO/9[/TH] [TH=class: tooltip hide_non_quals, bgcolor: #DADCDE, align: center]SO/BB[/TH] [TR=class: hl] [TD=align: left]2010-2012[/TD] [TD=align: left]CHC,CHW,SEA,MIN[/TD] [TD=align: right]7[/TD] [TD=align: right]2[/TD] [TD=align: right].778[/TD] [TD=align: right]4.85[/TD] [TD=align: right]81[/TD] [TD=align: right]0[/TD] [TD=align: right]22[/TD] [TD=align: right]0[/TD] [TD=align: right]0[/TD] [TD=align: right]1[/TD] [TD=align: right]104.0[/TD] [TD=align: right]112[/TD] [TD=align: right]59[/TD] [TD=align: right]56[/TD] [TD=align: right]11[/TD] [TD=align: right]47[/TD] [TD=align: right]2[/TD] [TD=align: right]50[/TD] [TD=align: right]6[/TD] [TD=align: right]1[/TD] [TD=align: right]8[/TD] [TD=align: right]470[/TD] [TD=align: right]84[/TD] [TD=align: right]1.529[/TD] [TD=align: right]9.7[/TD] [TD=align: right]1.0[/TD] [TD=align: right]4.1[/TD] [TD=align: right]4.3[/TD] [TD=align: right]1.06[/TD] [/TR] [/TABLE] #6 Carl Pavano- Status: 60 Day DL/Impending FA What to do? Let him walk Not much to be said here, but Pavano was a key part of the Twins short postseason visit back in 2010. He's far too old to be a future component and the ship has already sailed. The Twins are going to see if he can get healthy for a waiver trade, but I'll believe it when I see it. I suspect the dugout tirades will be missed by Twins fans everywhere. STATS: [TABLE=class: sortable stats_table] [TH=class: tooltip sort_default_asc show_partial_when_sorting, bgcolor: #DADCDE, align: center]Year[/TH] [TH=class: tooltip sort_default_asc show_partial_when_sorting, bgcolor: #DADCDE, align: center]Tm[/TH] [TH=class: tooltip, bgcolor: #DADCDE, align: center]W[/TH] [TH=class: tooltip, bgcolor: #DADCDE, align: center]L[/TH] [TH=class: tooltip hide_non_quals, bgcolor: #DADCDE, align: center]W-L%[/TH] [TH=class: tooltip sort_default_asc hide_non_quals, bgcolor: #DADCDE, align: center]ERA[/TH] [TH=class: tooltip, bgcolor: #DADCDE, align: center]G[/TH] [TH=class: tooltip, bgcolor: #DADCDE, align: center]GS[/TH] [TH=class: tooltip, bgcolor: #DADCDE, align: center]GF[/TH] [TH=class: tooltip, bgcolor: #DADCDE, align: center]CG[/TH] [TH=class: tooltip, bgcolor: #DADCDE, align: center]SHO[/TH] [TH=class: tooltip, bgcolor: #DADCDE, align: center]SV[/TH] [TH=class: tooltip, bgcolor: #DADCDE, align: center]IP[/TH] [TH=class: tooltip, bgcolor: #DADCDE, align: center]H[/TH] [TH=class: tooltip, bgcolor: #DADCDE, align: center]R[/TH] [TH=class: tooltip, bgcolor: #DADCDE, align: center]ER[/TH] [TH=class: tooltip, bgcolor: #DADCDE, align: center]HR[/TH] [TH=class: tooltip, bgcolor: #DADCDE, align: center]BB[/TH] [TH=class: tooltip, bgcolor: #DADCDE, align: center]IBB[/TH] [TH=class: tooltip, bgcolor: #DADCDE, align: center]SO[/TH] [TH=class: tooltip, bgcolor: #DADCDE, align: center]HBP[/TH] [TH=class: tooltip, bgcolor: #DADCDE, align: center]BK[/TH] [TH=class: tooltip, bgcolor: #DADCDE, align: center]WP[/TH] [TH=class: tooltip, bgcolor: #DADCDE, align: center]BF[/TH] [TH=class: tooltip hide_non_quals, bgcolor: #DADCDE, align: center]ERA+[/TH] [TH=class: tooltip sort_default_asc hide_non_quals, bgcolor: #DADCDE, align: center]WHIP[/TH] [TH=class: tooltip sort_default_asc hide_non_quals, bgcolor: #DADCDE, align: center]H/9[/TH] [TH=class: tooltip sort_default_asc hide_non_quals, bgcolor: #DADCDE, align: center]HR/9[/TH] [TH=class: tooltip sort_default_asc hide_non_quals, bgcolor: #DADCDE, align: center]BB/9[/TH] [TH=class: tooltip hide_non_quals, bgcolor: #DADCDE, align: center]SO/9[/TH] [TH=class: tooltip hide_non_quals, bgcolor: #DADCDE, align: center]SO/BB[/TH] [TR=class: hl] [TD=align: left]2010-2012[/TD] [TD=align: left]MIN[/TD] [TD=align: right]28[/TD] [TD=align: right]29[/TD] [TD=align: right].491[/TD] [TD=align: right]4.27[/TD] [TD=align: right]76[/TD] [TD=align: right]76[/TD] [TD=align: right]0[/TD] [TD=align: right]10[/TD] [TD=align: right]3[/TD] [TD=align: right]0[/TD] [TD=align: right]506.0[/TD] [TD=align: right]569[/TD] [TD=align: right]264[/TD] [TD=align: right]240[/TD] [TD=align: right]56[/TD] [TD=align: right]85[/TD] [TD=align: right]4[/TD] [TD=align: right]252[/TD] [TD=align: right]16[/TD] [TD=align: right]2[/TD] [TD=align: right]8[/TD] [TD=align: right]2129[/TD] [TD=align: right]96[/TD] [TD=align: right]1.292[/TD] [TD=align: right]10.1[/TD] [TD=align: right]1.0[/TD] [TD=align: right]1.5[/TD] [TD=align: right]4.5[/TD] [TD=align: right]2.96[/TD] [/TR] [/TABLE] #7 Matt Capps- Status: 15 Day DL/Impending FA What to do? Let him walk A blown draft pick and a young catching prospect later, we've all had our gripes with him. Another player here that hopefully can get us something through waivers. He didn't pitch bad for the Twins, but the front office's infatuation with him was strange. I'll happily see him go for another roster spot here. STATS: [TABLE=class: sortable stats_table] [TH=class: tooltip sort_default_asc show_partial_when_sorting, bgcolor: #DADCDE, align: center]Year[/TH] [TH=class: tooltip sort_default_asc show_partial_when_sorting, bgcolor: #DADCDE, align: center]Tm[/TH] [TH=class: tooltip, bgcolor: #DADCDE, align: center]W[/TH] [TH=class: tooltip, bgcolor: #DADCDE, align: center]L[/TH] [TH=class: tooltip hide_non_quals, bgcolor: #DADCDE, align: center]W-L%[/TH] [TH=class: tooltip sort_default_asc hide_non_quals, bgcolor: #DADCDE, align: center]ERA[/TH] [TH=class: tooltip, bgcolor: #DADCDE, align: center]G[/TH] [TH=class: tooltip, bgcolor: #DADCDE, align: center]GS[/TH] [TH=class: tooltip, bgcolor: #DADCDE, align: center]GF[/TH] [TH=class: tooltip, bgcolor: #DADCDE, align: center]CG[/TH] [TH=class: tooltip, bgcolor: #DADCDE, align: center]SHO[/TH] [TH=class: tooltip, bgcolor: #DADCDE, align: center]SV[/TH] [TH=class: tooltip, bgcolor: #DADCDE, align: center]IP[/TH] [TH=class: tooltip, bgcolor: #DADCDE, align: center]H[/TH] [TH=class: tooltip, bgcolor: #DADCDE, align: center]R[/TH] [TH=class: tooltip, bgcolor: #DADCDE, align: center]ER[/TH] [TH=class: tooltip, bgcolor: #DADCDE, align: center]HR[/TH] [TH=class: tooltip, bgcolor: #DADCDE, align: center]BB[/TH] [TH=class: tooltip, bgcolor: #DADCDE, align: center]IBB[/TH] [TH=class: tooltip, bgcolor: #DADCDE, align: center]SO[/TH] [TH=class: tooltip, bgcolor: #DADCDE, align: center]HBP[/TH] [TH=class: tooltip, bgcolor: #DADCDE, align: center]BK[/TH] [TH=class: tooltip, bgcolor: #DADCDE, align: center]WP[/TH] [TH=class: tooltip, bgcolor: #DADCDE, align: center]BF[/TH] [TH=class: tooltip hide_non_quals, bgcolor: #DADCDE, align: center]ERA+[/TH] [TH=class: tooltip sort_default_asc hide_non_quals, bgcolor: #DADCDE, align: center]WHIP[/TH] [TH=class: tooltip sort_default_asc hide_non_quals, bgcolor: #DADCDE, align: center]H/9[/TH] [TH=class: tooltip sort_default_asc hide_non_quals, bgcolor: #DADCDE, align: center]HR/9[/TH] [TH=class: tooltip sort_default_asc hide_non_quals, bgcolor: #DADCDE, align: center]BB/9[/TH] [TH=class: tooltip hide_non_quals, bgcolor: #DADCDE, align: center]SO/9[/TH] [TH=class: tooltip hide_non_quals, bgcolor: #DADCDE, align: center]SO/BB[/TH] [TR=class: hl] [TD=align: left]2010-2012[/TD] [TD=align: left]WSN,MIN[/TD] [TD=align: right]10[/TD] [TD=align: right]14[/TD] [TD=align: right].417[/TD] [TD=align: right]3.40[/TD] [TD=align: right]172[/TD] [TD=align: right]0[/TD] [TD=align: right]129[/TD] [TD=align: right]0[/TD] [TD=align: right]0[/TD] [TD=align: right]71[/TD] [TD=align: right]167.0[/TD] [TD=align: right]167[/TD] [TD=align: right]71[/TD] [TD=align: right]63[/TD] [TD=align: right]21[/TD] [TD=align: right]34[/TD] [TD=align: right]6[/TD] [TD=align: right]111[/TD] [TD=align: right]4[/TD] [TD=align: right]0[/TD] [TD=align: right]5[/TD] [TD=align: right]694[/TD] [TD=align: right]121[/TD] [TD=align: right]1.204[/TD] [TD=align: right]9.0[/TD] [TD=align: right]1.1[/TD] [TD=align: right]1.8[/TD] [TD=align: right]6.0[/TD] [TD=align: right]3.26[/TD] [/TR] [/TABLE] #8 Carlos Guiterrez- Status: Not on Active Roster What to do? Waive Out with a shoulder injury if I'm not mistaken, Guiterrez has been a bust for the Twins. He really hasn't had a 2012 and 2011 was mediocre. He's spent 5 years in the system and hasn't thrown for the Twins once. I doubt he'll be a servicable player, but he could end up being a great reliever. It's difficult to tell since he's only pitched 82 Innings in AAA through the past 3 years. Over his minor league career, he's allowed far too many baserunners, has a below average WHIP, and bad walk rate. The strikeout ability would be enough for me to keep him for another year. Although, he's treading on thin ice as an underachieving 25 year old. I'd wouldn't pull him back should he be claimed, but I doubt it would be necessary. STATS: 2011 AAA/ 4.62ERA 1.460 WHIP 8.2 K/9 4.5BB/9 #9 Deolis Guerra- Status: Not on Active Roster What to do? Waive Guerra is somewhat young at 23 and hasn't sniffed the big leagues yet, so it may surprise a few. I'm not a big believer in him and wouldn't mind if he left the organization. He's had three years of shuffling between Rochester and New Britain as a starter (and now reliever) with no success. Scouts love his changeup and improving K/9 rate, but I don't love his BB/9 or ERA. Another pitcher I wouldn't revoke if claimed. STATS: 2010-2012 (Cumulative AA+AAA)/ 5.69 ERA 1.454 WHIP 7.69K/9 2.99BB/9 #10 Aaron Hicks- Status: Not on 40 Man Roster What to do? Add Hicks is an obvious choice to be added before the Rule 5 draft. I think the Twins will save an option year by avoiding September call-ups and wait to add him at the end of the season. Hicks projects to be a very exciting player and the future heir to centerfield. #11 David Bromberg- Status: Not on 40 Man Roster What to do? Add It's great to see Bromberg bouncing back after a poor 2011. He's re-established himself this year and I think we could see him compete for the rotation next year. David Bromberg would probably get drafted in the Rule 5 too this season. 2011 was his first year of eligibility for selection, but his season was so awful that he wasn't chosen. #12 Kyle Gibson-Status: Not on 40 Man Roster What to do? Add Another obvious choice for addition. Gibson is progressing along nicely and will have to be added so he can pitch next year. If everything goes according to plan of course. #13 Scott Baker and Jared Burton- Statuses: Impending FAs What to do? Re-Sign Both I'd really like to see both players back next year. Standing pat. SOME MATH: I would expect the roster spot owners of #1-9 to be freed up easily. Bringing in 2 from the 60 Day DL (Not Pavano at season's end) and 3 from addition gives the Twins 35/40 spots freed in the offseason. As proof..... 39-9+2+3=35 This entire offense is under contract for next season, but depending on what the Twins sign for pitching in the offseason, it may affect some of the others players well-beings. I would have released Blackburn and took his spot, but I don't believe the Twins will cut him. I do think they'll bring back Baker and hopefully Burton. SPs: Baker, Gibson, Diamond, Blackburn, Walters, Devries, Deduno, Hendriks, Hernandez, Bromberg With that state, the Twins should probably sign 2 free agent pitchers in addition to Baker if they want to contend. The offense we have is above average and a few new pitching counterparts would really help and make this team competitive in a weak AL Central. There still looks like too many starters on the 40 man despite the deletions of Manship, Waldrop, and Pavano. RPs: Burnett, Burton, Duensing, Fien, Perdomo, Oliveros, Perkins, Robertson, Swarzak That's 9 relievers and not enough. This entire group looks awful and it's full of question marks besides Perkins and Burton. The Twins like to roll with 8 here and only 1 backup isn't good. I'd like to sign a couple of more established relievers, but it if they sign 2 FA pitchers it gets complicated. I think they may have to make a few tough decisions on Walters, Fien, Perdomo, Deduno, Devries, and Blackburn if they want to have a good bullpen to compliment the rotation. The Twins aren't far from contention and have played above .500 since May and a couple of new pieces would put them in a very good position. It all depends on how aggressive they chose to be in free agency. They'll likely do a little addition by subtraction in a Timberwolves-esque style of improvement too. The draft picks were nice, but it's not far-fetched to think a solid 2013 lies ahead!

Agree with most of your thinking. Signing two pitchers of that caliber seems very unlikely. One of those three would fare will enough. I think it's too early to make a decision on Blackburn. After the season ends, the Twins should have a pretty good idea of how to move forward. His 2013 salary is so daunting that if Minnesota can see any glimpse of hope, they should hold on to him.

You like Jeff Gray? I'd like to see Clete Thomas and Wilkin Ramirez cut loose too. I wouldn't mind another season of Capps and Butera isn't a big problem in my eyes.

The Blue Jays, Rangers, Braves, and Rays organizations would be good to scour over.

A lot of this got messed up as far as spacing goes too. I carefully edited this so it's a bit of a drag as well. Didn't catch the problem with the Note. I was hoping I could take on one last minute thing before posting without screwing up. Cookies will be rewarded to those who find it.

None of the pictures worked....really? I spent a lot of time on this with huge aspirations of making the front page someday!! How can I do that without visual aid? Now my photo credits are nothing more than advertisements to the big business....they don't deserve them at all Alright, no more ranting. lol no big deal

The Orioles squeezed out a split in what could be considered a disappointing finish to a four game series that held so much promise. Looking to rebound after a brutal sweep at the hands of the fast rising Athletics, Minnesota stumbled in the final two games. It may be fair to start pointing fingers at this point because of how low the team has fallen in the season. Game 3: Offense scored 1 run off of a pitcher with a 6.11 ERA (who is also right handed). Game 4: Bullpen bounds, slips, and crashes in a 3 inning span. I hate to bash my favorite team when there are quite a few bright spots and promise present, but it's because of those bright spots, that this team SHOULD be winning more games. The Twins need to play well at the "House Joe Mauer built" to keep fans happy. They play more games here than anyone else which should be an advantage, but 19-30 says otherwise. Here will be a little analysis on the three groups that comprise a team: Bullpen, Starting Rotation, and Batting Order. Defense will get a brief mention as well, but it will be more of a team deal. The studs and duds will all be active players only. [ATTACH=CONFIG]1600[/ATTACH] [ATTACH=CONFIG]1601[/ATTACH]Pictured: Denard Span (left) and Adam Jones (right) because apparently close friends don't take pictures together. (Credit to Wikipedia for Denard and ESPN for AJ) THE PEN Recently, the bullpen seems to have become a bigger problem than what we have once thought it was. This group simply lacks stability when Matt Capps isn't healthy. I don't expect perfection, but it is getting progressively worse. The "biggest victim" of these failures has definitely been Cole Devries. Last afternoon was the 2nd time in 3 starts that he received a no decision because of awful relief. Cole only conceded 1ER in 13IP with those starts combined. He also left with at least somewhat comfortable leads of 2 runs or more. Alex Burnett has lost his credibility and has stunk it up in his last 5 of 7 appearances. How much has changed since I was once having musings about him getting 'promoted' to closer in Capps' absence. This was well prior to those muffled missions when he was posting an ERA as low as 1.83, a BAA of .207, being right handed, and having quite a bit of youth. His K/9 rate was really the only reason I had second guesses about a plan like that. Admittedly, it was a little naive on my behalf. Overall, more positive than poor on the season despite recent mop-ups. Much of this write-up was negative, but the active group is decent. STUDS: Glen Perkins, Casey Fien, Alex Burnett Part One, Jared "Cy" Burton, Tyler Robertson, Anthony Swarzak DUDS: Alex Burnett The Sequel, Jeff Gray [ATTACH=CONFIG]1596[/ATTACH] Pictured: "Ice Cold" Casey Fien, who happens to be a Tigers defector that says "no" to scoring, "no" to base hits, and curiously enjoys slamming doors shut. (Credit Zimbio.com) THE ROTO I really think the starting pitching has improved vastly. Liriano, Diamond, and Devries (mind July 14th), have all been more than exceptional in contrast to the previous performances of the opening week crew (or should I say weak?). This 1/3 of the team deserves a little less spite than it's getting from fans. I know the average starter's ERA is still fairly high, but the outings the Twins are now getting aren't enough to warrant complaint. I'd really only throw Duensing and Deduno under the bus as far as the current rotation goes. Walters was pretty solid overall (take out last injured start for fairness please...he was throwing 82mph fastballs) when he pitched and hopefully he can provide a stable 4th starter soon. A fresh Carl Pavano, Hendriks, or a confident Deduno may be able to pitch reasonably in the last spot. These aren't sexy names we are dealing with, but a lot have had some success this year. I am actually pretty optimistic regarding the five possibilities here up until the conclusion of the season. If we're lucky, we may have all the question marks answered. It's unlikely, but this season is all about wishing thinking, right? The long-term is still in question; although, it's worth watching those questions answered as these players fight for a future with the club. STUDS: New Liriano, Scott Diamond, Cole Devries DUDS: Samuel Deduno, Brian Duensing [ATTACH=CONFIG]1597[/ATTACH] Pictured: Cole Devries, a true Minnesotan proving Nick Nelson wrong one disgruntled face at a time (Credit to StarTribune) BATS The offense is extremely inconsistent. Duh. They never provide run support when the Twins starters pitch well and they come out in full force when the other team is scoring runs too. A good example of this oddity is that Nick Blackburn is 4-5 and Liriano is 3-8. Base hits and walks also seem to be divvied up between innings and it's difficult to string them together on some nights. The series the Twins were swept by the A's featured 10 runs on 33 hits. The majority of hitters are at least raising their batting averages collectively, yet we need to see some RBI (not RBIs..think about it). Trevor Plouffe has quietly gone on a 17 game hitting streak, Mauer has emerged into the chase for a batting title, and Ryan Doumit has been flirting with the .290s. The fault can truly be pinned down to the long ball and extra base hits. Minnesota ranks 20th in slugging at .401 and 9th in BA with a .264 clip (WOW!). That's a .137 ISO Power, in which, The Twins are 25th. They are only ahead of Houston, Seattle, San Diego, San Francisco, and the Los Angeles Dodgers. After doing a little math, the team slugging % is .382 without Josh Willingham and the batting average is .262. That yields an ISO of .120 which would put Minnesota at 28th without it's best slugger. I guess it just goes to show why we can't afford to trade this guy!STUDS: Span, Revere, Mauer, Willingham, Doumit, Butera (on his own terms), Mastroianni, Plouffe DUDS: Carroll, NeauMor, Casilla, Dozier [ATTACH=CONFIG]1598[/ATTACH] Pictured: This guy ^^^ (Credit to mnginteractive.com) DEFENSE I love the way the Twins are playing defense and it's reminiscent of what they stood for before the 2011 season. There are a lot of players that can be moved around and it's nice to see things mixed up from time to time for Mauer's sake. Everyone fits in nicely, but I can't help but think the Twins would be better if Span and Revere swapped spots in the outfield. The extra range could do wonders in centerfield. That's nitpicking a little bit though. The Twins have a .984 Fielding % that is out-right #7 among MLB teams. The errors are becoming less frequent and it's all coming together. Twins nation has marveled at Ben Revere's spectacular shades of Willie Mays and Plouffe's day-to-day barehanded gun downs from the hot corner. Denard Span has been an issue since Minnesota dipped it's toes into the second half of the season, but it's clearly temporary. Brian Dozier looks comfortable now and it might have been the right call to let him work things out. This is generally the least of the Twins problems and fittingly it is. In conclusion, the offense, bullpen, and rotation are just never on the same page and it is FRUSTRATING. The bullpen is just below par for league average (fault Maloney's dirty work) and while the starting core is no longer vomit-inducing, it still remains a problem much less. All thirds of this team need to play together to get wins and we just aren't seeing it. I am hopeful for the future and have a feeling that it will all work out and the pieces will fit. Patience is absolutely necessary. Sources: http://www.teamrankings.com/mlb/stat/isolated-power http://espn.go.com/mlb/stats/team/_/stat/batting/year/2012/seasontype/2/league/al Baseball Reference.com <------- These guys do a HELL of a job Notes *fingers crossed* that all pictures stay. I'm no photographer obviously. I tried to find popular sites pictures and I'm hoping the don't bother with this tiny hunky dunky blog post.