Seth Stohs

Leach is listed on the DL in the spring training work groups. I saw a couple of his bullpens and he looked good, threw hard, looked strong. As for Balazovic, he only pitched in 12 games (60ish innings) for Cedar Rapids last year, didn't get up there until June and ended the year early. Nothing wrong with giving him 6-12 more starts at the level. He's young and has plenty to work on yet. Also, very important to remember that teams simply do not want to lose too many near-MLB caliber guys early in the season so it is normal that a few guys start a level lower than many think that they should. But it's mostly about getting the work in. That all plays itself out with injuries and performance and there is the trickle down. But, with a guy with Balazovic's talent level, they're simply going to put him where they believe it is best for development.

I'll be surprised if he isn't there by then.

I think the key for Cabbage is making contact, and I believe that has been a focus of his offseason this year, and something that was improved through spring training. If he can do that, man, he has so much potential. Dude is big, strong and has elite power potential. Personally, I would just have a hard time giving up on that kind of talent Arias spent about 3 months in CR last year but ended the season in E-Town. I think he's talented... and of course, his first year as a pro was in the DSL, so it's not apples to apples. And, he spent two seasons in the GCL, which is also not unusual. Built similarly to Celestino, and a good outfielder, good speed. He should have some rope too.

Severino will be one to watch. As you pointed out, he got two seven-figure signing bonuses before he turned 19. He's very much talented, and he plays with a lot of flair and confidence. It will be interesting to see how he pans out. Already pretty much moved to second base, but he'll probably hit. Balazovic really took a big step forward in 2018 on and off the field. He's very smart, and he listens well. I'm sure he's a little disappointed to start in CR, but it makes sense. It'll be his first Opening Day with an affiliate. But he certainly is a guy who could move up fairly quickly.

I assumed he would be in Ft. Myers to start since he only had like 6 weeks with the Miracle last year. Then with the oblique injury, that cost him some time in spring training, it became almost a given. The only thing that had me wondering was if they would be willing to push him up to Pensacola to appease the new affiliate. And because he's really good.

Maybe... but Rortvedt isn't ready for AA, and Jeffers is too good for the MWL probably. My assumption is they'll have pretty close to a 50/50 split in terms of catching, but Jeffers should get time as a DH too (which is why my roster guess had a third catcher there). Guys are going to get days off. I think you can work it such that most of them are in the lineup 5 times a week. That's good as most of these guys are young and very early in their minor league careers. I was surprised with how aggressive they were with Helman throughout spring training. I don't know if the term "destroy pitches" really works with him. He is a line drive hitter, not much power yet.

In 2018, Cedar Rapids went a combined 77-62 and went to the playoffs. What does the 2019 season have in store. First-year manager Brian Dinkelman takes over the helm and has a solid mix of high-end, young prospects and guys in their first full season, coming out of the college ranks.Today we look at the Cedar Rapids Kernels players and coaching staff. We’ll try to project (or guess) a solid everyday lineup, and discuss the top prospects. Feel free to share any thoughts you may have on the team or roster, and ask as many questions as you would like. COACHING STAFF After several years as hitting coach of the Kernels, former Twins infielder Brian Dinkelman embarks upon his first season as the team’s manager. He will be replaced as hitting coach by two guys. Another former Twins infielder, Luis Rodriguez, moves up from the GCL this year. And Ryan Smith comes to the organization this year from the College of Central Florida (Ocala). Former big-leaguer Virgil Vasquez will be the pitching coach for the Kernels for the first time. He has been in the organization since retiring after the 2014 season. ROSTER Here is a look at the Kernels Opening Day roster. Note that this is a tentative roster and can be updated before their season starts on Thursday. HITTERS Catchers: David Banuelos, Ben Rodriguez Infielders: Chris Williams, Yunior Severino, Joe Cronin, Michael Davis, Andrew Bechtold, Trey Cabbage Outfielders: Jacob Pearson, Gilberto Celestino, DaShawn Keirsey, Jean Carlos Arias, Gabriel Maciel (IL) PITCHERS Starting Pitchers: Jordan Balazovic, Blayne Enlow, Luis Rijo, Josh Winder, Cole Sands, Austin Schulfer Relief Pitchers: Zach Neff, Carlos Suniaga, Joe Record, Brian Rapp, Jose Martinez, Andrew Cabezas, Tyler Palm, Alex Schick (IL) POTENTIAL LINEUP LF - Jacob Pearson CF - Gilberto Celestino 2B - Yunior Severino 1B - Chris Williams SS - Michael Davis RF - DaShawn Keirsey, Jr. DH - Trey Cabbage 3B - Andrew Bechtold C - David Banuelos TOP PROSPECTS Blayne Enlow (Twins Daily #9 Prospect) - Enlow was the team’s third-round pick in 2017. He spent 2018 in Cedar Rapids where he pitched well (3.26 ERA) and was limited to 94 innings. His fastball was in the 91-93 range last year and he flashed the curveball that intrigued teams out of high school.Yunior Severino (Twins Daily #15 Prospect) - Acquired after MLB ruled him a free agent after Atlanta got in trouble for their international practices. He joined the Twins and played well in Elizabethton last year. He’s got good pop from both sides of the plate.Gilberto Celestino (Twins Daily #16 Prospect) - Came to the Twins from Houston in the Ryan Pressly trade, Celestino is a plus defensive centerfielder. He’s also got a strong right-handed swing that should develop some power.Jordan Balazovic - Long and lanky right-hander got stronger in 2018 as things really came together for him. Drafted out of Canada as a raw talent with pitchability, Balazovic has added strength and now throws into the mid-90s.DeShawn Keirsey, Jr. - Twins fourth-round pick in 2018 out of Utah. Good speed and defense, Keirsey should also be a top-of-the-order type of hitter. Very athletic and a good approach at the plate.Luis Rijo - Rijo came to the Twins from the Yankees (with Tyler Austin) in the Lance Lynn trade in July. He joined the E-Twins after the trade and went 2-0 with a 1.27 ERA over five starts.Josh Winder - The Twins seventh-round pick a year ago out of the Virginia Military Institute (VMI), he went 3-1 with a 3.96 ERA over nine starts and struck out more than a batter per inning.Cole Sands - The Twins fifth-round pick a year ago out of Florida State will make his professional debut when he makes his season debut.STORIES TO WATCHWander Javier, the Twins Daily #5 Prospect, is being kept back in Ft. Myers for a little while. I assume that they are deciding not to put him at risk in the cold early in the season. He should be up in Iowa very soon. No one questions the immense talent possessed by Javier. The only problem has been his ability to stay on the field. Power, speed and the ability to play shortstop well.There are a lot of good players, including some pitchers who did very well in Elizabethton a year ago, who are starting this season in extended spring training. Many of them will make their way to the Kernels due to injury or poor play or a few other possible reasons.Please feel free to discuss this roster. Ask lots of questions and check back often. What stories will you be following? Click here to view the article

In 2018 the Fort Myers Miracle posted an overall record of 68-69. However, on the final day of the second half of the season, the Miracle got a little help and snuck into the playoffs. They carried that opportunity to the Florida State League championship. Several players from that team arrived late in the season and will begin the 2019 campaign with the Miracle.Today we look at the Fort Myers Miracle players and coaching staff. We try to figure out a potential everyday lineup, and discuss the team’s top prospects. Feel free to share any thoughts you may have on the team or roster, and ask as many questions as you would like. COACHING STAFF After managing in Cedar Rapids in 2018, Toby Gardenhire will spend his first season managing in Ft. Myers in 2019. Luis Ramirez has been a pitching coach or coordinator in the Twins system since 2006 when he was in Venezuela. He has spent the last four years in Elizabethton. This is his first season with the Miracle. Matt Borgschulte joined the organization as a coach prior to the 2018 season when he worked in the GCL. He jumps to the Miracle as their hitting coach. ROSTER Here is a look at the Miracle Opening Day roster. Note that this is a tentative roster and can be updated before their season starts on Thursday. HITTERS Catchers: Ben Rortvedt, Ryan Jeffers Infielders: Lewin Diaz, Travis Blankenhorn, Michael Helman, Royce Lewis, Ryan Costello, Jose Miranda Outfielders: Trevor Larnach, Akil Baddoo, Aaron Whitefield, Mark Contreras PITCHERS Melvi Acosta, Charlie Barnes, Edwar Colina (IL), Randy Dobnak, Jhoan Duran, Calvin Faucher, Tom Hackimer, Hector Lujan, Bailey Ober, Alex Phillips, Johan Quezada, Alex Robinson (IL), Bryan Sammons, Anthony Vizcaya, Tyler Watson, Lachlan Wells (IL). POTENTIAL LINEUP CF - Akil Baddoo SS - Royce Lewis LF - Trevor Larnach 3B - Jose Miranda/Travis Blankenhorn 1B - Lewin Diaz/Ryan Costello 2B - Michael Helman/Travis Blankenhorn C - Ryan Jeffers/Ben Rortvedt RF - Aaron Whitefield DH - any of these guys TOP PROSPECTS Royce Lewis (Twins Daily #1 Prospect) - The #1 overall pick in the 2017 draft, Lewis had a strong first full season in pro ball in 2018. He was promoted to the Miracle for the final two months last year and returns to start this season. His prospect status nationally jumped and he is now a consensus top ten guy nationally.Trevor Larnach (Twins Daily #4 Prospect) - The Twins first-round pick in 2018 out of Oregon State where he helped lead the Beavers to a College World Series championship. He signed and played last year in Elizabethton and Cedar Rapids. He homered in his first MLB spring training at-bat this year.Jhoan Duran (Twins Daily #7 Prospect) - Duran joined the organization at the July trade deadline last year in Eduardo Escobar deal with the Diamondbacks. He made a strong impression with the Kernels, flashing a 94-97 mph fastball and secondary pitches with potential. (Prospect Spotlight)Akil Baddoo (Twins Daily #10 Prospect) - Speed, power potential and good plate discipline, Baddoo is an intriguing prospect. After filling out the stat line in 2018 in Cedar Rapids, Baddoo will likely spend the 2019 season with the Miracle.Ryan Jeffers (Twins Daily #13 Prospect) - The Twins surprised many when they used their second-round draft pick in 2018 on the catcher from UNC-Wilmington. He debuted in Elizabethton and put up crazy numbers before moving up to the Kernels for the end of the season.Ben Rortvedt (Twins Daily #14 Prospect) - Rortvedt was the Twins 2nd-round pick in 2016 out of high school in Wisconsin. The strong-armed backstop took major strides forward offensively in 2018 and spent the second-half of 2018 with the Miracle.Jose Miranda (Twins Daily #20 Prospect) - Drafted immediately after Baddoo as a comp pick after the second round in 2016, Miranda really came on strong in the second half of 2018. Ended the season with the Miracle. Will continue to play second base and third base. Huge power potential.Edwar Colina - The Appy League Pitcher of the Year in 2017, Colina markedly improved in 2018. He went 7-4 with a 2.48 ERA before ending the season with a start in Ft. Myers. He also started the Miracle championship game. Blessed with an upper-90s fastball, Colina has a quality three-pitch mix.STORIES TO WATCHThe Miracle won the Florida State League championship with the help of several players who came up to the team late in the season. Will that group be able to gain a playoff berth before they move up to Pensacola?As you can see, this team is loaded with top prospects. Most of these guys will spend at least the first half of the season with the Miracle, but at that point, any number of players could move up to Pensacola.Jhoan Duran and Edwar Colina are all upper-90s guys in the Miracle rotation.Many will wonder why the Twins aren’t being quite as aggressive with the likes of Trevor Larnach or Ryan Jeffers as they were with Brent Rooker. Rooker spent his first full season of pro ball in A last year. However, he had four years of college whereas Larnach and Jeffers each spent three years in college. That said, don’t be surprised if one or both of these guys end up in AA by the end of the season.Quietly, Michael Helman joins Larnach and Jeffers as 2018 draft picks starting in Ft. Myers.Lewin Diaz was a big dude when he signed as a 16-year-old. Last offseason, he came to camp down about 25 pounds. This offseason, he lost a similar amount and looks fantastic. He missed half of the season with an injury and will look to return to his higher prospect status.Royce Lewis won’t turn 20 until early June. He spent the final six weeks of the 2018 season with the Miracle, so getting him more time in the league is just fine. At the same time in his career (2nd full season), Joe Mauer spent the first half in Ft. Myers and the second half in New Britain (AA). He opened the next season with the big league club.Please feel free to discuss this roster. Ask lots of questions and check back often. What stories will you be following? Click here to view the article

The 2018 Red Wings went 64-76 and finished tied for fourth place in the International League’s North division. In 2019, Joel Skinner will be tasked with leading a young pitching staff along with a mix of veteran infielders and young outfielders. Of course, more important than the Red Wings record is helping those prospects prepare to be more ready for the big leagues when called upon.Today we look at the Rochester Red Wings players and coaching staff. We try to figure out a solid everyday lineup, and discuss the top prospects. Feel free to share any thoughts you may have on the team or roster, and ask as many questions as you would like. COACHING STAFF Joel Skinner returns to the Red Wings for his second season as their manager. Stu Cliburn returns for his 28th year in the organization and his seventh as the Red Wings pitching coach (fourth in a row). Michael McCarthy enters his second season as the team’s bullpen coach. Former Twins catcher Javier Valentin moves up from Double-A to be hitting coach for the Red Wings. ROSTER Here is a look at the Red Wings Opening Day roster. 17 of these 28 players have spent at least some time in the big leagues. 14 of the players spent at least some time with the Red Wings last year. Nine players are on the 40-man roster. Note that this is a tentative roster and will be updated before their season starts on Thursday. In particular, a couple of players will be placed on the Injured List. HITTERS (13) Catchers: Tomas Telis, Wynston Sawyer Infielders: Wilin Rosario, Adam Rosales, Nick Gordon (IL), Ronald Torreyes, Jordany Valdespin, Randy Cesar Outfielders: Brent Rooker, LaMonte Wade, Luke Raley, John Andreoli, Zander Wiel PITCHERS (15) Starting Pitchers: Lewis Thorpe, Justin Nicolino, Zack Littell, Chase De Jong, Kohl Stewart. Stephen Gonsalves (IL) Relief Pitchers: Andrew Vasquez, Austin Adams, Tyler Duffey, Ryan Eades, Preston Guilmet, Mike Morin, Jake Reed, Fernando Romero. DJ Baxendale (IL), Zack Weiss (IL) POTENTIAL LINEUP 3B - Ronald Torreyes LF - Brent Rooker CF - LaMonte Wade SS - Adam Rosales 1B - Zander Wiel RF - Luke Raley DH - Wilin Rosario C - Tomas Telis 2B - Jordany Valdespin TOP PROSPECTS Brent Rooker (Twins Daily #6 Prospect) - Powerful slugger hit 32 doubles and 22 homers in 2018 in Chattanooga. He received his first big league spring training invitation this year and could be in line to make his major league debut.Nick Gordon (Twins Daily #11 Prospect) - Gordon made his AAA debut in 2018s second half and struggled, but he still is one to watch and should make his major league debut in 2019.Stephen Gonsalves (Twins Daily #12 Prospect) - Gonsalves has long been one of the best Twins pitching prospects. He made his MLB debut in 2018 and struggled with his control. Control and command, along with a couple more ticks of velocity, and Gonsalves should help the Twins in 2019.Zack Littell (Twins Daily #17 Prospect) - Littell debuted in 2018 with the Twins as well and also struggled. But he has done well in the upper levels of the minors the last two years and will likely get several more opportunities in 2019.LaMonte Wade (Twins Daily #18 Prospect) - Like Gordon, Wade made his AAA debut in 2019 and things didn’t come easy. However, he maintained his strong plate discipline and approach and continued to increase his power output. Another player who should make his debut with the Twins in 2019.Kohl Stewart - The 2013 first-round pick make his big league debut in August last year after and showed well for himself, especially against the Tigers.Andrew Vasquez - Vasquez began 2018 in Ft. Myers where he pitched in the Florida State League All-Star Game in June. He was promoted to AA Chattanooga after that game and spent a little over a month there. He moved up to Rochester for one week and then received a promotion to the big league on September 1st. He posted 108 strikeouts in 69 1/3 innings in the minors and then seven strikeouts in five innings for the Twins.Luke Raley - Raley came to the Twins at the deadline last year from the Dodgers as part of the Brian Dozier trade. A big, strong guy, Raley has a lot of power potential. Combined at AA in 2018, Raley hit .275/.350/.471 (.821) with 19 doubles, eight triples and 20 home runs. He was a non-roster invitation to spring training.Zander Wiel - Quietly, the former Vanderbilt star had a terrific season in 2018. He spent the majority of the year at Chattanooga before ending the season with the Red Wings. In the second-to-last game of the year, Wiel hit a walk-off homer for the Red Wings.STORIES TO WATCHThe Twins are starting the season with just 11 pitchers. At some point in a couple of weeks, they are likely to add a pitcher, unless one of the Injured List relievers (Addison Reed, Gabriel Moya, Matt Magill) is ready.Nick Gordon, second base or shortstop? That story will likely continue in 2019, and in playing with Adam Rosales and Ronald Torreyes, he can pick their brain on the subject.The Twins have their five-man starting rotation to start the season. There is certainly depth at AAA. Stephen Gonsalves, Kohl Stewart, Zack Littell and Chase De Jong all made starts for the Twins last year (and hopefully made some adjustments). Justin Nicolino has made 33 big-league starts (and 17 relief appearances) as well. Lewis Thorpe is the one without the big-league service time, but he may have the most potential.Please feel free to discuss this roster. Ask lots of questions and check back often. What stories will you be following? Click here to view the article

Happy Opening Day! Finally, the offseason is over. Finally, we have games that matter. It has been a really busy offseason for the Twins, starting with the day after the 2018 season when it was announced that Manager Paul Molitor had been fired. Weeks later, Rocco Baldelli emerged as the team’s choice to replace him and lead the charge forward. Soon after, Baldelli announced his new coaching staff which included some interesting choices such as college pitching coach Wes Johnson. They were also able to retain bench coach Derek Shelton who was the runner up multiple managerial hirings. With Joe Mauer’s contract off the books, along with several other players, the Twins had some money to spend just to get back to the level where they started the season a year ago. They never reached that 2018 Opening Day payroll of about $128 million and will start 2019 with a payroll of approximately $119 million.However, with those funds, they chose to focus on adding some right-handed power bats. CJ Cron was DFAd by the cost-conscious Rays despite hitting 30 homers in 2018 and only having about a $5 million price tag for 2019. The Twins claimed Cron and happily paid him. The Twins also quickly scooped up Jonathan Schoop who had been non-tendered by the Brewers after joining them in a late-season trade from the Orioles. Schoop began the 2018 season hurt and really just struggled the entire season. But in 2017, he received a lot of MVP votes and ws an All-Star. The powerful second baseman is still just 27 years old. Next, the Twins outbid several teams to sign slugger Nelson Cruz to a one-year deal with an option for 2020. Cruz has been one of the most prolific power hitters in the game over the past decade and at 38 years old, he should have a couple more strong years in him. Over the last five seasons, his 37 home runs in 2018 was the fewest he’s hit. And then as spring training started, the Twins added Marwin Gonzalez to the roster with a two-year contract. The versatile Gonzalez can play all around the diamond and provide average, or slightly above average, offense. The versatility immediately proved valuable when Miguel Sano’s leg injury required another procedure and will cost him the first four-to-six weeks of the season. The offense has a chance to be really good. Without really even stretching reality, one could picture a scenario where eight Twins hitters reach 20 home runs in 2018. 200 home runs could almost be an expectation and the team’s record of 225 homers (set in 1963) could be matched. And yes, the team is also very likely to set some strikeout records as well. The Twins added right-handed pitcher Blake Parker this offseason. He had been non-tendered by the Angels despite being pretty good the last couple of years. He had a terrific, breakout season in 2017 as a 32-year-old. He was reliable for the Angels again in 2018 without quite as strong peripheral numbers. If you’re looking for predictions, I think that Parker will lead the Twins in saves in 2019. Twins fans were less than enthusiastic when the Twins announced the signing of Martin Perez. The 27-year-old free agent was long a top prospect with the Rangers who never quite met the potential many assigned to him. Many, likely including Twins GM Thad Levine who was the assistant GM in Texas as Perez climbed the ranks and reached the big leagues. In 2018, he posted a 6.22 ERA in 2018, though he missed a lot of time early in the season with an injury. Twins fans are now at least intrigued by Perez as he flashed a fastball in the 95-97 range throughout spring training and pitched well. Well enough to earn the fifth starter job. Could Perez be 2019s Anibal Sanchez? Could the Twins have done more to help bolster their pitching staff? Certainly they could have, and as spring training played out, it looks like maybe they should have. Addison Reed, Matt Magill and Gabriel Moya are all beginning the season on the Injured List. Fernando Romero is beginning the season in AAA Rochester. While free agent relievers are a complete crap shoot, one can’t help but wonder how much more confident the fan base might be had they invested in one or two of the many available veteran relievers who got $6 to $10 million for a year or two. Of course, we need to look no further than Addison Reed for a reminder of the reality of signing relievers. Reed came into the 2018 season as one of the most reliable relievers in the game of baseball. Consistently good for years, and as important, healthy. In fact, he was still just 29-years-old. That was about as safe as it gets when it comes to signing free agent relievers. Yet, two months into the season, Reed started struggling from overuse (in 2018 but also in previous seasons) and was hurt. But to illustrate the you-never-know reality of relief pitcher free agency, Ryne Harper became the story of spring training. He put up Matt Maloney (circa 2013) numbers for the Twins this spring. Maybe more important, he showcased a couple of breaking balls that had hitters completely off balance, even if they knew it was coming. Harper signed with the Twins before the 2018 season. He pitched great in AA Chattanooga last year, earning a spot on the Southern League All Star team. He struggled to an ERA over 5 in 26 games with AAA Rochester. Who knows? He could be the next Matt Maloney, or he could become the next Blake Parker and simply be a late bloomer. The Twins will hope to see Taylor Rogers continue what he did in 2018 when he became one of the best, most reliable left-handed relievers in all of baseball. Trevor May ended 2018 really strong and despite some ups and downs in spring will be one of the keys to the Twins bullpen. And despite the move to the bullpen and some spring training struggles, Twins fans should feel really good about the potential Fernando Romero will bring to the Twins bullpen at some point in 2019. The Twins also were able to work out a couple of long-term contracts with players that they believe can be part of a core over the next half-decade, or longer. The Twins and Max Kepler agreed on a five-year, $35 million contractwith a couple of option years. The also reached terms with Jorge Polanco on a five year, $25 million contract with a couple of option years. Unfortunately, at least at this point, they have not been able to reach a long-term agreement with All-Star and Opening Day starter Jose Berrios or with outfielder Eddie Rosario. Rosario is entering his first season under an arbitration deal while Berrios will be arbitration-eligible for the first time next offseason. So there is certainly time, and there does seem to be mutual interest in a long-term relationship. Kyle Gibson figured things out late in the 2017 season and carried it into the 2018 season when he put together the best, most consistent season of his career. He will be a free agent following the season. There were reports that the Twins did talk to him about extending him, but again, sides were unable to reach an agreement. Last offseason, the Twins signed Michael Pineda to a two-year, $10 million contract. Last year, they paid him $2 million just to rehab from Tommy John surgery. He was set to make a return to the mound in September, but a knee injury required surgery. But he is healthy now and throwing hard and showing that strong sinker. Twins fans should feel really good about his potential. There is a theme to the 2019 season and that is hoping for guys to return to their 2017 form. Along with Pineda, Jake Odorizzi having a solid 2019 season after struggling through much of 2018 will be very important to the Twins hopes. He has to show he can get through six innings most times out. But the featured story of the Return To 2017 Form narrative that we have this year is Byron Buxton and Miguel Sano. Miguel Sano put in the work after his demotion last year. He carried that into the offseason. He lost some weight and remained very strong. His efforts allowed him the ability to get some at-bats in the Dominican Winter League where his team won a championship… where he was injured in a fluke accident during the team’s celebration. You know that story and we know that he will miss the first four to six weeks of the season. But Twins fans should remain hopeful that all the work he has put in will prove fruitful and that he can return to the All Star form he was playing at in 2017 before his leg injury. No one can question the work ethic or desire of Byron Buxton to be great. In the offseason, he worked really hard to become a better player. Whether it was motivation from not being called up in September, or just an internal fortitude that Buxton is known for, he put in the effort. He gained 21 pounds of muscle without losing any speed. He had a strong, solid spring training. And while we all know that spring training stats mean very little, he again put together much better at-bats. And if he can hit something like .250 and get on base 31-32% of the time and continue to show the power that he has, all while playing elite defense, that is a remarkably valuable player. That’s what he did from May 2017 through the end of that season. And that’s why he received MVP votes that year. Last year was a lost year due to injuries. The key for Buxton is to be healthy and play. And getting off to a good start would help too. The Twins have a talented team. They may have to out-slug opponents at times, but they have a lineup that is capable of that. They are likely going to need to make some transactions throughout the course of the season, but the team does have some quality depth that will start the season in Rochester. In 2018, prospects such as Kohl Stewart, Stephen Gonsalves and Zack Littell came up for their MLB debuts. Frankly, they each took some lumps. The hope is that each learned a little something from those experiences and their offseason work and preparation will make them more ready when they are summoned in 2019. Let’s not forget about the debut season of Jose Berrios in 2016 when he went 3-7 with an 8.02 ERA. I’m not saying to expect those three prospects to jump up to Berrios' All-Star form, but each of them has shown enough to think that he has potential be be a decent MLB pitcher, and we should see that in 2019. And Lewis Thorpe is waiting in the wings for his opportunity as well. On the hitting side, LaMonte Wade had a strong showing in spring training again. He struggled some in his AAA debut last year, but he is a guy that can help at all three outfield positions, if needed. In the infield, Ronald Torreyes, who has been really good for the Yankees in a utility role the last three years, will start the season in Rochester, ready when needed. And the Twins were able to bring back infielder Adam Rosales after releasing him at the end of spring training. So there is depth. There may not be a lot of MLB-ready depth behind the plate in Rochester, though Tomas Telis has spent parts of four seasons in the big leagues. However, the Twins have their catcher depth. Jason Castro had his best season in four years for the Twins in 2017, but he missed most of 2018 with a knee injury. He returns which is a positive for the Twins and their pitching staff. Mitch Garver was thrust into more playing time because of the injury and over time he earned even more time behind the plate and he improved. He spent the offseason really focused on his defense. He can certainly hit. And Willians Astudillo is just fine as the team’s third catcher, who can also play some third base. And he can stand at several other positions as well. Most important, he can hit. There certainly are some questions. The Twins are starting the season with 11 pitchers, but they will certainly add another bullpen arm in a couple of weeks when they first need their fifth starter. They start the season with a five-man bench which includes Tyler Austinwho is out of options. As we know, these things tend to figure themselves out, but what happens with that roster spot at the time will prove very interesting. And I am very interested in how the changes in the coaching staff and with the manager will alter the Twins game. Wes Johnsonhas already seemingly had a positive effect on several pitchers. Known for helping guys add velocity, we have already seen that. But there is more going on behind the scenes that we may or may find out about. He’s very positive which certainly can’t be negative. Bullpen management was something that Twins fans complained about during the Ron Gardenhire years, and then again through the Paul Molitor years. It’s likely that it would have been something we complained about in the Tom Kelly years too had social media been a thing then. How will Rocco Baldelli and Wes Johnson run the bullpen? What will it look like if it is something that we don’t complain about? Molitor was often accused of over-using the guys that were reliable. I mean, thinking about that, it’s an understandable offense. Having a deeper bullpen with more reliable arms in it would certainly help so that pitchers don’t get over-used. Will Baldelli and Johnson be able and willing to put somewhat less reliable guys into more high-leverage situations? It may cost them in the short-term, but it may benefit them in the long-term (both with keeping top arms more fresh and developing other arms into high-leverage guys). What does a well-run bullpen look like? And do the Twins currently have the arms to make Baldelli’s potential decisions look right? Will Baldelli be a speed guy and ask for more stolen bases? Will he use hit-and-runs? From observing spring and even in minor league spring training, it sure appeared that the organization believes in running more. But will that happen in the big leagues? Baldelli has the analytical background, but he has chosen to focus his managerial style on communication and relationship building. And that’s great. It will be interesting to see how that plays out over 162 games. I think it’s a good thing, but we will see what happens when the Twins go through some struggles, which every team will over the course of the long season. I’m also very curious to see how Baldelli is with umpires. My assumption is that he may be even more laid back than Paul Molitor, which I know will both some Twins fans who believe that a “fire in the belly” is an important trait for a manager. Frankly, with replay, there just aren’t a lot of opportunities for a good, old-fashioned argument anymore. All right, this stream of consciousness is coming to an end. I think I’ve rambled long enough. But in summary, I am very excited to get the season started. I do think this is a very talented team. I do think they have the talent to compete with Cleveland or at least for a return to the Wild Card game. I am excited to see which players will take a big step forward in their 2019 season (Kepler!). I think that as important as Byron Buxton and Miguel Sano may be to the Twins 2019 season, that Jake Odorizzi and Michael Pineda could possibly have a bigger role in framing the Twins 2019 storyline. Again, Happy Opening Day, and let’s enjoy and hope for a great 2019 Twins Season! 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In this week's Get to Know 'Em podcast, learn more about former Minnesota Twins Right-handed Pitcher AJ Achter and one of baseball's top prospects, Royce Lewis.In this week's episode, you will see two guys with different pathways to the big leagues. AJ Achter was drafted in a round that doesn't even exist anymore. Royce Lewis was the first overall pick in the 2017 draft. AJ Achter worked his way up the ladder and pitched in parts of three major-league seasons. Royce Lewis is working his way up the Twins ladder. We talked to Achter about his time in a Twins unirform and his path to the big leagues. We talked about his relationship with teammates and some of the impressive teammates that he has had. We also talked about his transition from player to pitching coach at Eastern Michigan University. We talked to Royce Lewis about his spring training, what he worked on this offseason and many random questions about his life away from baseball. Be sure to subscribe to the Get To Know 'Em Podcast on iTunes. Click here to view the article

Last Friday in the lunch room of the Twins academy in Ft. Myers, players were eating after their morning workout and before their afternoon games against the Rays. Standing in the middle of the room were a couple of guys speaking to each other in German. Niklas Rimmel, a right-handed pitcher from Berlin that the Twins signed following the 2017 season, was meeting his role model, fellow Berlin native and Twins outfielder Max Kepler. It was the first time that the two had met and the conversation lasted just ten to 15 minutes, but they will talk again before the Twins leave Ft. Myers to start their 2019 season. Rimmel is the most recent player that the Twins have signed from Germany. When the Twins signed Kepler out of Berlin in 2009, he received a $700,000 bonus, at the time the largest ever signed by a German-born player. Raw at the time, Kepler grew and continued to develop. He was the Twins (and Twins Daily’s) Minor League Player of the Year in 2015. He helped the Chattanooga Lookouts to a Southern League championship and the next day made his Major League debut. He wasn’t on the Twins Opening Day roster in 2016, but he was called up soon after and has been up ever since. In 2018, he was the Twins choice for the Jim Kaat Award, handed out at the Diamond Awards to the top defensive player on the team. He also hit 20 home runs in 2018. Early in spring training, Kepler and his first baseball roommate, Jorge Polanco, were signed to long-term contracts. Kepler, who was arbitration-eligible for the first time this offseason, signed a five year, $35 million contract with a couple of option years. While the Twins and their fans look for him to really take a step forward in his production on the diamond starting in 2019, Kepler has already risen up the charts in terms of the top players born in Germany to play in the big leagues. Today, we will show where Kepler ranks among German-born players, what his signing has meant for baseball in Germany, and how Kepler is viewed by young baseball players in his home country.Max Kepler is already in the conversation of best German-born baseball players of all time. A quick glance at the leader board shows that he is clearly in the Top 5 players born in Germany to play in the big leagues. His 419 games played ranks eighth. His 1,633 plate appearances rank sixth. More rankings: Hits (337) - 6th2B (82) - 5thHR (56) - 3rd (22 home runs behind the leader, Mike Blowers)Runs (199) - 5thRBI (190) - 5thOn these lists, Kepler ranks behind the likes of:12-year big leaguer Glenn Hubbard who was born at Hahn Air Force Base11-year big leaguer Mike Blowers who was born in Wurzburg. His step-father was in the army.11-year big leaguer Jeff Baker who was born in Bad Kissinger. His father was Lieutenant Colonel in the US Army.10-year big leaguer Bill Kuehne whose family immigrated to the United States when he was very young, played in the 1880s.Other MLB players born in Germany in military families include: Ron Gardenhire, Craig Lefferts, Edwin Jackson, Will Ohman, Bruce Maxwell, and Phillies outfielder Aaron Altherr. With his recently-signed five-year contract extension, it is likely that Kepler will distance himself from the pack and be the best player ever born in Germany. Of note, he wasn’t just born in Germany, but he lived there his full life and was signed in Germany. The others moved to the States, be it for military transfers or family immigration in the 1800s and early 1900s. ------------------------------------------------------------------------- Niklas Rimmel is a big, tall, right-hander pitcher from Berlin who the Twins signed after the 2017 season. He made his professional debut in 2018 with 14 innings pitched in the Gulf Coast League. He is likely to begin his 2019 season there as well. Rimmel began speaking with scouts when he was 15 and playing in international tournaments in Europe. “Basically the only way you can be scouted or seen is at a European, international tournament,” he said. He had several options for teams interested in signing him. “The whole minor league system of the Twins is really, really good. I like the way that they handle the players. It’s really good that they believe in me and gave me the chance. I really appreciate that.” He continued, “Kepler being with the Twins was kind of part of it. He was my role model.” While baseball remains a secondary sport in Germany, behind the likes of soccer, among baseball people in Europe, Max Kepler is very highly regarded. Rimmel noted last week, “In Germany, Kepler is the biggest role model everybody has. That’s why it’s such a great honor to play in the same organization as him. I like having the opportunity to step in his footprints. In ‘Baseball Germany’, he’s a really big name there.” ------------------------------------------------------------------------ With the help of the MLB's academies in Europe, players there do have some more opportunities to be signed than in the past. There are academies in Germany, Italy and The Netherlands. New ones pop up from time to time. As Rimmel noted, that is the main means of players being noticed by MLB scouts. While Kepler is a hero to kids who love and play baseball in Germany, soccer still easily remains the sport of choice. Twins Director of Player Personnel and former Director of Scouting Mike Radcliff noted, “Baseball has gained some footage in soccer-infatuated Europe. There are several academies where players are gaining important coaching and teaching in fundamentals.” Max Kepler came out of the academy in Regensburg, Germany. He told me that there is now one in Paderborn as well. Kepler sees things improving but notes that it still has a long ways to go. “It’s progressing, little by little, but I think they just lack the funds, and soccer and other sports are still the main focus. It hasn’t really progressed as much as I’d like to see. With time, maybe.” There was always value for the Twins, or potentially other organizations to sign the best players from countries where baseball was not as popular. The Twins have signed Vadim and Petr Balan from Moldova. Matej Hejma and Jakub Hatjmar signed from the Czech Republic. Hein Robb was from South Africa. Tom Stuifbergen signed from The Netherlands. Frederic Hanvi signed from France. Nik and Andrei Lobanov signed out of Russia. None of these players got to the big leagues. But the Twins name is known in each of those countries. The same can be said in Australia where the Twins have always been a top contender for the top talent. But even with the rise of Max Kepler to the big leagues, that alone can’t alter the thinking of a whole country. But again, in baseball circles, Kepler and the Twins are very popular. Radcliff remarked, “Not sure we expect exponential growth of baseball in Europe, but there are some initiatives and private resources that have spurred interest in recent history.” Kepler believes that baseball can continue to grow in Germany. It will take time, money and some work. “You need the interest in place when kids start playing at a young age. I can try to do some camps and clinics and such in the offseason and start gaining interest that way.” He has done it before in Berlin. He talked to some of his coaches and some of his former teammates. They sold out the camp with 100 kids. For those kids, and every kid who plays baseball in Germany, Max Kepler is the face of not only the Twins franchise, but of Major League Baseball right now. Click here to view the article

That breaking ball is legit. He won't make the opening day roster, but it wouldn't surprise me at all to see him get some time with the Twins this year.

Trevor Larnach entered the game as the left fielder for the Twins in the seventh inning. Earlier today, he was down on the back fields, taking batting practice off of Twins minor league coach Takashi Miyoshi. He was spraying balls around the diamond in a work group that included fellow top prospects Royce Lewis, Alex Kirilloff, Jose Miranda and others. He had an at-bat in the big-league spring training game in the afternoon that people will, and should, be talking about.Fast-forward to the bottom of the seventh inning. Larnach came to bat second in the inning. Nelson Cruz made out to lead off the inning. Larnach stepped to the plate against hard-throwing right-hander Tanner Rainey. The 26-year-old right-hander made his major-league debut last year for the Reds. Larnach worked the at-bat. He watched a 96-mph fastball. He fouled-off a 98 mph heater. With the count full, he got another fastball, and he didn’t miss it. Larnach barreled up the ball and hit an opposite field blast that landed in the netting in left centerfield. The ball bounced back into the field of play. Larnach rounded the bases with a home run in his first at-bat of major league spring training. And I called it. No, really, I did. Ask the guy sitting next to me! One year ago, Larnach was beginning his junior season at Oregon State. By season’s end, he had made himself into a clear first-round pick. He led the Beavers to the 2018 College World Series championship. I was fortunate to catch up with Larnach at Twins Fest and he talked about the culture of baseball at Oregon State. “What they instill over there is a lot of culture stuff with teammates and building bonds and caring about your team more than yourself. When you have that kind of culture set at a certain standard, regardless if you’re at a practice or in a game, you’re always working to get better, but you’re working to reach a goal with your teammate because you’ve built such an awesome bond. I was fortunate to learn that from them and to experience that, and now I can bring that in here and kind of maybe instill that kind of a culture with an organization.” Larnach had been drafted in the 40th round of the 2015 draft out of high school in California but decided college was the right route for him. It was a good choice. “It was tempting. I was hurt at the time. I had an arm problem. I think in high school for my bat, obviously. They were just wondering what was happening with my arm. I figured if I was hitting pretty well and had an arm injury and they were still interested in the 3rd or 4th round or so, I just thought that in my case college would be a lot better because you get to knock some school out, experience one of the best parts of your life over there, and experience the culture talk that I just mentioned. There was some interest, but I was college all the way.” In a second at-bat, Larnach grounded out to second base off of JJ Hoover. ------------------------------------------------ On Thursday morning, the Twins optioned RHP Zack Littell to AAA Rochester. As I noted on Twitter on Wednesday, he pitched one inning for the "Cedar Rapids" team on the back fields that day. It was a quick inning, and he told me Thursday morning that it was just 13 pitches. He had only pitched in one inning in spring training due to some shoulder inflammation, but said that he is now good to go and ready to get stretched out at minor league camp. ------------------------------------------------ Wander Javier played the entire game for the Twins. He batted ninth and played shortstop. He went 0-for-2 with two walks. He made most of the plays, with one throwing error late in the game. He has previously played in the late innings of four other games in spring training, but playing the full game today was more meaningfu. Rocco Baldelli came away impressed. "He’s a talented guy. To see a young player with the combination of skills that can get you excited. An athletic guy with some strength, that can swing the bat and also play in the middle of the field. That’s the type of combination that can result in a really impactful major-league player. And that’s what he is." --------------------------------------------- Baldelli was asked what he wants to see when these minor leaguers come over and get the experience in a big-league spring training game. Baldelli noted, "What I'm looking for is for them to come in and take advantage of the experience and to take as much as they can from it and to learn as much as they can from it. Watch as much as they can. That's more important than anything." He continued, "Yeah, it's good for me to personally lay eyes on them and for the staff to see them on the field, but it's what they're taking out of it that's most important thing. They're all taking advantage of these ABs and these innings and these opportunities and they're doing a really nice job. -------------------------------------- Another guy who took advantage of his opportunity on Thursday was Jacob Pearson. He came to the Twins last offseason in a trade with the Angels for international slot money that was used to sign Shohei Ohtani. He began 2018 in extended spring training, but he was called up on Memorial Day weekend to the Cedar Rapids Kernels and spent the rest of the season in the Midwest League. Pearson has played in a few spring games already. In the Twins "other" split-squad game today, the Twins beat the Orioles 7-6 in Sarasota, and it was Jacob Pearson who got the game-winning hit. Pearson said after the game, "I'm basically a kid when I get the text or call that I get to go over to the big league side, super excited." He continued, "I’m ready to go in wherever or whenever the need me. Today was a back and forth game, and I knew i would get an opportunity to hit so I was just going to try to put my best swing on a good pitch. It all happened so quick I didn’t even realize I had a smile on my face." Click here to view the article

Some quick trivia for you on a Thursday: A show of hands… Yes, raise your hands, even if you’re at the office. #1 - When the Twins and Red Wings announced that they had signed right-handed pitcher Preston Guilmet, had you heard of him? #2 - Ryne Harper is having an incredible spring training for the Twins. Had you heard of him when the Twins announced that he was a non-roster invitation to big league league spring training. Bonus Question: Did you know that he was in the Twins organization in 2018 too? Did you remember that he was a Southern League All Star last year for the Chattanooga Lookouts and spent some time in Rochester?Every spring, every major-league team announces that they have signed a whole bunch of minor league free agents. By definition, most of them have spent at least six or seven years in professional baseball. Many of them have some big-league service time. Sure, there are major-league veterans like 35-year-old infielder Adam Rosales who has played in parts of 11 big league seasons who get minor league deals with spring training invitations. He debuts in 2008 with Cincinnati. He has played for Oakland (two stints), Texas, San Diego, Arizona and Cleveland. He signed with the Twins this year hoping to make it seven teams in 12 big league seasons. He’s done everything he could so far in spring training, hitting .385 and tied for the team lead with four home runs. He has an opt-out before the season starts. Lucas Duda is a 33-year-old first baseman in Twins camp as a non-roster player. He spent a lot of good years with the Mets before spending time with the Rays, Royals and Braves. He’s got nine major-league seasons under his belt and has hit 152 home runs in his career. He has two 30-home runs seasons under his belt, including in 2017. This spring, he is hitting .333 with three doubles for the Twins yet likely finds himself behind CJ Cron and Tyler Austin on the depth chart. -------------------------------------------------------------- That brings us back to Preston Guilmet. Did you raise your hand when I asked if you had ever heard of him? Will it surprise you as much as it surprised me when I looked and saw that he has played in the big leagues for six (SIX) teams. Don’t get me wrong. For those six teams, he has a combined total of 27 games pitched and 33 total innings. But he has received The Call from Cleveland (4 games), Baltimore (10 games), Tampa Bay (3 games), Milwaukee (2 games), and both St. Louis (2 games) and Toronto (6 games) in 2018. Even die-hard fans of those six teams may have to dig into their memories to remember. Guilmet is grateful for each opportunity, “I think there’s value in what I do, which is nice because other teams recognize that because it keeps me in this game and keeps me playing. I’m thankful for all the opportunities. I’ve always just kind of been kind of a keep-my-head-down guy, work hard, be a good teammate, go out there and compete. There’s always positives. Just happy to be able to play this long. Guilmet signed early in the free agent season and hopes to get another big-league opportunity. So far this spring, he has given up one run in six innings (1.50 ERA). He has walked one and struck out eight batters. So why the Twins? Guilmet had several options for where he could have signed, and may have had even more had he decided to wait a little longer in the offseason. “Anytime when you’re in that situation (free agency), you’re looking for the right fit. I think this is a great organization from guys that had been here that I know, everybody speaks highly of the Twins so it sounded like a good place to go and get a solid opportunity. Then the fact that they came after me early in the offseason, means they at least have a plan. That always speaks volumes as well.” His goals for 2019 probably won’t surprise you. “Make it back to the big leagues and find some success there. Getting a shot to get some innings and find some success there.” Mike Morin has pitched a lot in the big leagues, and he’s just 27 years old. He debuted with the Angels in 2014 and pitched in 60 games. The next season he pitched in 47 games, and in 2016, he pitched in another 60 games. The last two seasons, he has pitched in a combined 19 games between the Angels, Royals and Mariners, in large part due to injury. He comes to spring training, hoping to show that he is healthy and ready to get back to a bullpen role in the big leagues. For Morin, there were a number of factors, but a “family” dynamic was a big part of that decision.Morin was born in the Twin Cities and moved to Kansas City when he was very young. His dad is one of seven kids, so he still has a lot of family in the Twin Cities and says it “has always been a home away from home for me.” This is really his first opportunity to be a free agent, and he took the opportunity to heart. “First time being able to control my destiny, per se. I actually wanted kind of a family dynamic. My fiance is from southern California, so when I was the Angels I was able to spend time with her and her family there. The first time I got Designated, I was claimed by Kansas City, which is where I’m from. That was really good to sign a contract to play with the Royals, which was very cool. Then when I got designated, I got picked up by Seattle. So basically it was the first time I was on a team where I was away from people that I knew. I didn’t realize how important that was. So when I was looking this year, some of the offers that I had were pretty good. But when the Twins came, it was a no doubter for me. First and foremost, it is an opportunity to try to help the team out, but then on a deeper level I was born in the Twin Cities. I have some aunts and uncles and my god parents right there.That actually played a pretty big factor for me. As the season approaches, Morin looks toward helping the Twins. “Obviously my goal would be to make the Opening Day roster and have an amazing season, but we’ll see how it shakes out. There is a business side to it. But I’m trying to make that decision as hard on them as possible.” So far, so good. Morin has thrown six shutout innings and given up just two hits. He has walked one and struck out six batters. Most important, however, for Morin right now is to stay healthy and give himself a chance. “I feel like at points in my career, I can really help a team out, so my biggest goal is to be healthy, and I feel healthy, and I think that good things happen when I’m healthy. When I’m healthy, usually good things happen.” And then there is Wynston Sawyer. The catcher/first baseman signed with the Twins before the 2018 season and after splitting 2018 between Chattanooga and Rochester, he re-signed with the Twins and received an invitation to big league spring training. “First off, I like the organization. I’m comfortable here. There are a lot of good people here. Obviously, opportunity. It’s a place where, if you perform, you have a chance to be called up. I knew people here and coming back a second time, and coming into spring, seeing familiar faces was a nice thing.” While he is primarily a catcher, he has played a lot of first base in the past. He noted that he that he played 80 games at first base in 2015. “I actually feel pretty comfortable there. Honestly, I’ll play anywhere, but yes, playing catcher and being able to play other positions is beneficial.” His goal for 2019? “Stay healthy. Number one, stay healthy because when you’re healthy, you’re able to be yourself out there.” For Rosales and Duda, it’s about getting another opportunity in the big leagues. For Preston Guilmet, the goal is to make a Twins uniform his seventh in the big leagues. For Mike Morin, it’s about being healthy and getting back to his old self, as well as getting to play in front of a lot of family. For a guy like Sawyer, who was limited to just 36 games a year ago between Chattanooga and Rochester, it’s about staying on the field and hopefully getting The Call that every minor league player dreams of. Click here to view the article

Just to be accurate... that was Tyler Webb. He hit a couple of times, but he has a leg injury so he's only able to run at about 50% But yes, Willie Joe Garry Jr is pretty impressive. Looks a lot like Nick Gordon. Long, thin, pretty strong, fast. Nice swing. He has been in Ft. Myers since January 7th. But no, he will stay in Extended Spring Training and probably play for Elizabethton. Maybe even repeat GCL.

Thanks for all the questions, y'all!! I may do this one more time before heading back. Maybe during a spring training game or something.