Seth Stohs

You know it is coming, but certainly there will be some disappointment. With just two weeks before opening day, the Minnesota Twins made some more moves. They optioned Danny Santana, Eric Fryer and Kris Johnson. Five players were reassigned to minor league camp. They are Sean Gilmartin, Brandon Waring, James Beresford, Jermaine Mitchell and Darin Mastroianni. [PRBREAK][/PRBREAK] Danny Santana was the biggest name on the list on Sunday as he was optioned to Rochester. That he was optioned at this time tells us that the team is comfortable with Pedro Florimon being ready for spring training. Santana was the player who likely increased his value most in spring training. In the clubhouse, Santana told the Pioneer Press's Mike Berardino that he was sent down and told to focus on making the routine play. He said he planned to be back "in a couple months." The Eric Fryer promotion means that it is between Josmil Pinto and Chris Herrmann competing to back up Kurt Suzuki. With Beresford sent back, Doug Bernier and Jason Bartlett are still around to compete for a possible second utility infielder role. Gilmartin came to the Twins this winter in exchange for Ryan Doumit. He pitched well in camp and hopes to return to form in 2014 after an injury-plagued 2013 season with the Braves. Jermaine Mitchell hit well early in camp. He is a veteran with plenty of minor league experience who could surface if the Twins need a fifth outfielder. (earlier in the week, I asked Mitchell what he enjoyed most about being involved in baseball) http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UI6GeuvoE-g Darin Mastroianni was taken off the 40 man roster this winter. This demotion is pretty telling in what the Twins are thinking in the outfield. His ankle was hurt throughout the 2013 season affecting his best tool, his speed. Brandon Waring hit two home runs in spring training and showed he can be a good third baseman as well. That is consistent with what he has done with the Orioles in recent years, mostly in AA. He has very good power. The Twins now have 40 players remaining with the big league club in camp. They have 20 pitchers (4 non-roster), four catchers (one non-roster), nine infielders (four non-roster) and seven outfielders (two non-roster).

On Friday afternoon, the Minnesota Twins played the Baltimore Orioles to a 2-2 tie at Hammond Stadium. The big news of the day was that the Twins had restructured closer Glen Perkins’ contract. Meanwhile, on the back field, the two Twins' Class A affiliates were playing spring training games against the Class A affiliates of the Tampa Bay Rays. It may not sound all that great to many, but when the Cedar Rapids team threw three of the Twins top young pitching prospects, it made for must-see-MiLB! Kohl Stewart, Fernando Romero and Lewis Thorpe all took the mound for the Kernels. On the other field, minor league baseball’s top two RBI producers of 2013 started where they left off.[PRBREAK][/PRBREAK] Let’s start with the Cedar Rapids game? Why? Because pitching is what wins, right? And the (distant) future of Twins pitching was on display. Making the start for the Kernels roster was 2013 first-round draft pick Kohl Stewart. He struggled a little bit with his control the first couple of batters. The leadoff batter hit a leadoff single up the middle. He stole second before the next batter singled to right field, the lead runner stopping at third. It was at that point Stewart took off a bit. He got a weak ground ball to first base (the run scored). He then struck out the next two batters on curve balls. In the second inning, he struck out the first two batters, both also on the curve ball. He walked the third batter on a close, 3-2 pitch. He had a two-strike count on the next batter when the base runner was caught stealing. In the third inning, Stewart got a broken-bat grounder to the short for the first out. He fielded his position well on a comebacker from the second batter. The third batter got hold of one and hit a triple off the wall in left field. However, Stewart recorded the third out on a soft liner to the third baseman. That was it for Stewart in the outing. He gave up one run on three hits. He walked one batter and struck out four. He was consistently throwing 93-94 mph with the fastball and touched 95 (and he makes it look easy). The curveball was a very impressive pitch and had other pitchers sitting behind home plate shaking their heads. Asked for his thoughts on his first outing, he said, “I felt good. I was a little wild in the first inning, but the more I went on, the more comfortable I was. I kind of settled in the second and third inning. There’s a lot more out there.” He threw three of his four (or more) pitch mix in the game. He didn’t even throw what some believe could be his best pitch, the slider. Said Stewart, “I only threw fastball, curve, change today, two-seam. I didn’t throw the slider today.” http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ndE8-fO2g18 Next in for the Kernels was hard-throwing 19-year-old Fernando Romero. He came in and was very impressive. The strong-legged, strong-armed right-hander made things look pretty easy in his first inning. He got a broken-bat groundout to first base on the first batter. He then struck out the next two batters he faced. In his second inning, he struck out the first batter. The second batter hit a bounding ground ball. Shortstop Jonatan Hinojosa made a terrific play but the throw to first was just a little late. The next batter reached out and hit a grounder through the right side for a single. Romero responded with a strikeout. However, the sharp breaking ball got by the catcher for a wild pitch and a run scored. Romero did get the final two outs without further damage. So, Fernando Romero gave up one run on two hits in two innings. He walked none and struck out four. As impressive, the radar gun showed his fastball between 92-95 mph, touching 96 a couple of times. He breaking ball clocked in at about 84-86 mph. He also had a changeup in the 83 mph range. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WZTlWSGoCWQ For the 6th inning, the Kernels brought Lewis Thorpe into the game. Things weren’t easy for him in his first inning. The first batter singled. The next batter hit a ball to shortstop that was an error. He recorded the first out with a fly out to center field. The next batter had a single to right to load the bases. At that point, Thorpe bore down. He got a strikeout on a sharp curve ball. Then, he pumped up his best fastball of the day to get a strikeout for the third out of the inning. In the 7th, Thorpe walked the first batter. The next batter bunted, and Thorpe fielded his position well and got the out. With a runner on second, he got a line out to third base which was turned into a double play when the runner was too far off second base. In his two scoreless innings, he gave up two hits, walked one and struck out two. He sat between 89-91 mph with his fastball. His breaking pitch and changeup are in the low 80s. You can see the competitive fire, even in a game like this. When he had the bases loaded and just one out, he got the two needed strikeouts on two different pitches. The curveball was sharp, and the fastball hit 93 mph. He found that second gear, so to speak. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=B89DegYAkYU Though the three pitchers threw for the Cedar Rapids Kernels work group today, it is unlikely that any of them will start the season with the Kernels. They will most likely start the season at Extended Spring Training. Christian Powell and Chris Mazza each pitched an inning as well. Offensively, Zack Larson had two singles in four at bats. Alex Swim caught the final six innings. He went 1-1 with a double and a walk. Chad Christensen went 2-2 with a two-run single. On the other field, the Ft. Myers Miracle played as well. They used five pitchers. Lefty Mason Melotakis went the first three innings and looked like he was throwing pretty hard and showing a good breaking ball. Minnesota-native Brandon Peterson worked the next two innings. The reliever from Wichita State throws really hard (I was unable to see a radar gun) and showed a sharp slider. He looks like he could be really effective out of the bullpen. Todd Van Steensel continues to impress. He looks like a guy who can come in and get hitters out. He gave up a couple of hits, but he looked strong. Finally, Alex Muren worked the final two innings. Pedro Florimon played for the Miracle. He batted each of the first three innings and played three innings in the field. In the first inning, he batted second and flew out to left field on the first pitch. In the second inning, he batted third and struck out looking. In the third inning, he batted second, swung at the first pitch and bounced back to the pitcher. In the second inning, he fielded a ground ball cleanly, but the throw short-hopped Dalton Hicks for an error. Two batters later, he got another ground ball, fielded it smoothly and made a strong, chest-high throw. Don’t be surprised if he gets a start for the Twins by Sunday. In 2013, Dalton Hicks led minor league baseball with 110 RBI. Coming in second was Adam Walker with 109. It appears that the duo is starting 2014 on the right track. In the second inning, Walker crushed a ball well beyond the fence in left field for a home run. In the sixth inning, he came up with the bases loaded and drove in two with a single up the middle. Logan Wade and Zach Granite scored. Hicks came to bat next and his double drove in two more. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=88bh8JTQCBM Walker was 2-4 with the three RBI. Max Kepler also hit the ball well. He had a line drive triple to the gap in left centerfield and displayed very good speed. He added a single later in the game. Hicks was 1-2 with a walk and the two-run double. Please feel free to comment and ask any questions that you would like.

It's been a struggle for Luke Bard to get on the mound since signing with the Twins in 2012. The 23-year-old right-handed pitcher is at his second big league camp, hoping he can get and remain healthy throughout the season. I had the chance to catch up with him following a workout and before he went to eat some lunch. In this two-part interview, I talked to him about how he's feeling and how spring is treating him. I also asked whether or not the surgery would affect his opportunity to start, or if he would be in the bullpen http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pZRg6v0FiRI As you can tell, he is excited to get throwing off the mound and hopefully start moving up the organizational ladder. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=E9DWv5WMdBw Bard is another Twins prospect who is a tremendous person. He has worked very hard and wants to be very good. When healthy, he has the chance to be very good. Reports are his pitches have a lot of movement and bite on them. Hopefully he can get into games in April. Once healthy, he has the chance to move pretty quickly.

The Minnesota Twins have certainly had a strong connection to Australia, especially the past dozen years. They have signed pitchers such as Michael Nakamura, Grant Balfour and Liam Hendriks. They have even signed hitters like Glenn Williams and Luke Hughes. In 2005, the Twins signed an infielder from Australia named James Beresford. Since signing with the Twins, he has represented Australia in several international competitions including the World Cup and the World Baseball Classic.[PRBREAK][/PRBREAK] He has had the opportunity to become a free agent each of the past two seasons, yet he has decided to remain with the Twins. Last year, he made it to the highest minor league level and put up his best offensive numbers. He is again at big league camp looking to make a positive impression. Beresford is likely to spend much of the 2014 season in Rochester with the Red Wings, but he is being given an opportunity to compete for a bench job with the big league club. “It’s been fun. I can’t really control how much game time you get, but they’ve given everyone a bit of opportunity. It has been great to go out there and play. It’s been a good start. Just enjoying it and hoping to get a few more at bats in the next week or two.” Considering his long road to get to this point, these types of opportunities are pretty special. When he was signed, he was very young and very thin. He was the definition of a project and has had to work very hard to move up each level. He spent a year with the GCL Twins, a year with the Elizabethton Twins, two full seasons in Beloit and a year in Ft. Myers. In 2012, he played in New Britain. He returned to New Britain to start the 2013 season. He played 45 games and hit .316 before moving up to Triple-A Rochester. He played in 58 games for the Red Wings and hit .298 and helped the team get to the playoffs. Combined, he got on base just over 36% of the time as well. The 25-year-old has needed that time to develop properly. He needed to mature, physically and mentally. Each level gets a little bit tougher. Regarding the move to AAA, Beresford said, “It’s just been a progression. Moving up to AAA, I struggled for the first two weeks, getting used to the league and that type of thing. The pitchers… you’re typically not going to see guys who throw as hard, but they throw a little more offspeed in hitter’s counts. So you can’t always be gearing up for fastballs. You just have to adjust because they don’t have the 96 mph fastball. They tend to throw their sliders and changeups for strikes in hitter’s counts. That’s the biggest adjustment. It turned out to be a fun season, making the playoffs. It was a good year.” This past offseason, Beresford became a six-year minor league free agent for the second straight year. This time around, he quickly re-signed with the Twins. There were several reasons that made the decision pretty easy for him. “Just the things the Twins said to me. Pretty candid things. The positive things they had to say. The opportunities they said they were going to give me. And, I definitely saw a chance to get up to the big leagues this year provided I play well. I don’t see a big difference. I signed a little bit later last year just because I wanted to see what the market was like. After we saw what was going on, we decided that signing with the Twins was the best option. This year, they were just really aggressive and I wanted to get back straight away so it was a positive thing.” Beresford played almost exclusively second base in 2013. In 2012, he spent equal time between shortstop and second base. Prior to that, he played nearly exclusively short. The move to second base likely has much more to do with Danny Santana than Beresford who feels prepared to play all three infield positions as a utility player if needed. “I’m pretty comfortable playing all three positions. Probably most comfortable at shortstop and second just because that’s where I’ve played the last couple of years. The good thing about third is it’s just a reaction position. Ball is hit hard, you don’t have much time to move and think. So I think third is probably a little easier to pick up. Second base has been good to work on the pivots and double plays. It’s a lot different than shortstop where momentum’s taking you toward first base. At second, there’s a different turn, so that was the biggest adjustment I had to make last year.” Being an Australian playing baseball in the United States certainly presents challenges not only for the player but for his family. Beresford says that his parents come to the States every year, usually for about two weeks. However, technology has allowed them to watch him play most of his games. “They get to see me at home, which is nice. They follow at home. At AAA, it was nice because all the games are televised on the computer.” However, that isn’t as easy as it may appear. Beresford continued, “The day games, the 1:00 games, are usually like 3:00 in the morning. They’re usually up for those as well, provided I’m in the lineup, so they’re along for the ride too.” Asked if he was disappointed to hear about Zach Greinke’s comments about not wanting to play games this spring, Beresford understood. “Obviously you have to look at the bigger picture. These guys are established big leaguers and just want to be ready for the season. Obviously traveling to Australia is a long trip. I understand where he’s coming from, but at the same time, it’ll be a great experience. The travel is obviously going to be hard, but I think once they do it, they’re going to see how much of a nice place it is and enjoy it.” Back to the subject at hand. We’re about two weeks from knowing the Twins opening day roster, and James Beresford is still in camp. Still competing for a job. Still working hard to show the Twins coaches and front office that even if he’s not on the opening day roster, he can contribute to the team in a role when needed later in the season. What would it mean for him to get that call, whenever it is, that he is heading to the big leagues? “It would be pretty special. I think it’s so far away. That’s kind of how I look at it. I don’t look at it as trying to get called up. I’m just trying to play hard, have fun and enjoy it. If it does happen sometime, it would be pretty special.” “I know that if I go out there and do what I’ve been doing the past couple of years which is just take it day by day and as long as my process is right, then the results will take care of themselves.”

The Minnesota Twins returned to Hammond Stadium on Wednesday to play their first game there since Sunday. The Twins lost 8-4 to the Pittsburgh Pirates. Things didn’t go well for Kevin Correia or Vance Worley in the game, but Oswaldo Arcia returned from his food poisoning time off. Aaron Hicks was not in the starting lineup, neither was Chris Colabello, but the two provided some strong offense for the Twins. Before we begin, a reminder that you should “Like” the Twins Daily Facebook page where well over 100 photos have been uploaded. Also, expect to see some more Twins Daily YouTube video.[PRBREAK][/PRBREAK] Here are several notes from the day at Hammond Field: CORREIA GIVES UP HOMER TO FRIEND Kevin Correia was charged with four earned runs on seven hits over three innings. He said he was happy with his control over the first two innings, but he did give up three runs in the third inning. Jaff Decker led off the inning with a double. Correia got the next two batters out. However, Pedro Alvarez acme up and launched a long home run, nearly out of the ballpark in right centerfield. The two were teammates with the Pirates as recently as 2012 and are good friends. Correia said, “I talked to him (Alvarez) a little before the game. The wind was blowing out to right pretty good. I told him, ‘Gonna try to get one?’ He said, ‘No way.’ Sure enough, he got it. More important is what Correia said next. “It’s also one of those things. I almost got out of that inning. In a situation with a runner on second and two outs and Pedro Alvarez coming up… In a normal (regular) season situation, he’s not going to get a fastball right there to hit. It’s one of those spring training type deals.” CORREIA ON WORKING WITH PINTO Correia talked briefly about working with Josmil Pinto in this start. I asked if they had worked together yet this spring. “I haven’t this spring yet. Last year I did at the end of the season. Had a few starts with him. But that was our first outing this year together. (He’s) still young and we haven’t had a lot of work together. We’re really working to get it nailed down by the end of spring, and hopefully we’ll be on the same page come opening day. ” THE CHANGEUP OF DEOLIS GUERRA Deolis Guerra came on for the fourth inning and was again very impressive with a 1-2-3 inning. His changeup is absolutely big league and Ron Gardenhire knows it. “He’s got a good one. He’s got a good angle going. His velocity is 88-90. He’s got a nice angle over the top. He’s healthy. He’s always had a great changeup. Watched him pitch last year. His changeup is a dominant pitch. He can throw it just about any time. It’s a really tough pitch for him. He’s throwing real good in spring training and let’s see how we go along here. A guy we thought a lot of when we got him in that trade. He’s had some injuries and hasn’t gone as far as we wanted him to yet, but he’s coming along pretty good. Ball’s coming out of his hand pretty nice. He’s a young kid. A really young kid.” WORLEY’S PERFORMANCE Vance Worley was charged with four runs on four hits and two walks in 3.2 innings. The numbers don’t look great, but there are some positives. For instance, his first inning produced four ground balls. He missed on a pitch to Travis Ishikawa who hit it onto the batter’s eye for a home run. Worley said he felt good and had better command of his pitches. He also said that the home run wasn’t off of his best pitch. “Threw three changeups today, one of them was the bomb. Fourth best pitch, but it was working well in the ‘pen. I figured today would be a good day to work on it.” Worley said that in his previous start, he felt too good in the bullpen. This time, he didn’t. “Today, I wanted to make sure I wasn’t too good in the ‘pen and use all the good stuff.” He said that with a sly smile. THE RETURNS OF HICKS AND ARCIA Oswaldo Arcia has not played in over a week due to food poisoning. He was in the Twins starting lineup on Wednesday. He had a rough go of it as he was 0-3 with three strikeouts. It was a much better return for Aaron Hicks, who also was out for over a week. He was not in the starting lineup again, which caused more consternation. Rob Antony described it as mild inflammation in his elbow, though it only caused pain when he hit. Hicks came into the game in the middle innings to replace Alex Presley. On a 1-0 pitch in that first at bat, Hicks crushed a long home run just to the left of the centerfield batter’s eye. Asked what his approach was in that first at bat, he said, “Trying to get a good pitch to hit, got one, and it was a good first at bat.” What was the pitch that he got? “Fastball, little two-seemer inside. Got out front and hit it pretty well.” Pretty well. Probably 420 feet well!! COLABELLO: TEAM’S BEST HITTER THIS SPRING Chris Colabello has been pretty impressive so far this spring. He homered on Wednesday and is now 7-15 with two doubles and the homer. Gardy has certainly noticed. “All I know is he’s swinging really well right now, putting nice swings on the ball, driving it all over. He’s been our best hitter so far in spring training. I do know that.” But he isn’t going to say that is solely due to the mechanical adjustments that Colabello worked on in the offseason. Hitting well is nothing new for the first baseman. “You’ve got to remember the guy had a pretty good year last year of hitting. He’s off to a good start which you have to do in spring training.” Colabello discussed the home run following the game. “Trev(or Plouffe) was on second base, nobody out. Situation like that, still looking to drive the ball, but really making sure that worst case, getting the runner to third. Threw me a breaking ball 0-0, bounced it, so I was kind of dead red. Ran in on me a little bit, so I kind of had to force it that way.” Regarding his manager saying he’s been the team’s best hitter this spring, Colabello took it in stride. “It’s obviously good. My job here is to come in every day and play hard, try to have good at bats, work to get better every day and let the cards fall where they may.” He also credits some of his success to being more comfortable. “I’m more comfortable in my environment, and this year obviously I know the guys a little bit and the coaching staff. One day at a time.” Yes, it’s a bit of a cliché, but when you’ve played independent league ball for as long as he did, it’s like the only way he knows how to think. DEIBINSON ROMERO CAN HIT Deibinson Romero hit a ground rule double in Wednesday’s game. On Sunday, he hit a triple over the head of Ben Revere in centerfield. He is now 6-14 (.429) on the season with three doubles and a triple. Gardenhire has noticed. “Debby’s swinging really well. He always seems to come up and get the barrel to the ball. Absolutely. He missed all of camp last year because of visa problems and didn’t get a chance to take a look at him, but he had a pretty decent year at AAA. He wanted to re-sign back with us. We re-signed him. Brought him in to camp, and he’s playing well. Doing very well and getting the barrel to the ball.” Asked whether his defense is something he would feel comfortable with, Gardy responded, “He catches the ball. If you go by all the scouting reports, which is all I have to go by until I see him, limited range, but he catches the ball he gets to but he caught the ball well, and he moves around OK.” WILL TWINS CARRY TWO UTILITY INFIELDERS? Eduardo Escobar is certainly the favorite for the utility infield spot. He is a solid defensively player and is out of options. Asked if it is conceivable for the Twins to have two utility infielders, Rob Antony mentioned several variables, including whether they bring 12 or 13 pitchers up for Opening Day. He mentioned that Gardy will determine his 25th roster spot. “It’s all going to depend on how he sees these guys playing. How he plans on using them and everything.” The second utility infielder would come from a group including Jason Bartlett, James Beresford and Doug Bernier. How has Gardy seen them play so far this spring. Well, Beresford and Bernier will provide tremendous defense in the infield, and Bartlett is shaking off some rust. Offensively, it’s a different story. Beresford is 2-11 (.182) so far this spring. Bernier is 1-8 (.125) Bartlett went 0-3 on Wednesday and is now 0-17 (.000). On Thursday, the Twins will host the Boston Red Sox at Hammond Stadium. Phil Hughes is expected to make the start. Sam Deduno is slotted into the bullpen. I will again be sure to check out the minor league workout in the mornings. The affiliates will again be playing the affiliates of the Boston Red Sox. I will also be tweeting during the game from the Twins Daily twitter account, so follow that.

As you’ve noticed, I enjoy writing stories about guys that don’t get as much attention. It’s why I cover the minor leagues. It’s because I enjoy the human interest side of baseball. Sure, we’ll write about the big stories too here, but getting to know the other guys who are putting in work every day down here in Ft. Myers is important too. Doug Bernier is a guy who knows about hard work and perseverance. He made his big league debut in 2008: two games and four at bats (no hits) with the Colorado Rockies in 2008.[PRBREAK][/PRBREAK] In 2013, shortly after his 33rd birthday, and about five years since his debut, he got the call he’d worked so hard to get again. At the All-Star break, he learned the news that he would be heading back to the big leagues as a member of the Minnesota Twins. “It was so awesome. It was like all the work that happened, to actually get to the big leagues and play and get some time there. You know, the first two weeks there, my mind and heart were just racing all the time. But after a little bit, I was able to slow down and it just kind of felt like baseball a little bit. That’s exactly what I wanted to feel when I got up to that level. It was a blast, and that was something that I thought about every day this offseason and it’s where I want to get back to.” Photo by Steve Mitchell Many would have left the game sometime in between, satisfied to get that one chance to forever call himself a big leaguer. Bernier has those moments cross his mind too, but obviously he is thrilled he didn’t quit on himself. He also had a very strong supporter encouraging him along the way. “There was a couple of times where I was getting frustrated, but I also talked to my wife about it a little bit. She was totally supportive. She wasn’t like ‘hurry up and hang ‘em up so we can have a normal life.’ It’s cool just to have the support from her, and she’s like, ‘If you still love it, and you still believe you can do it, and you still believe you can play in the big leagues, go for it.’ And that’s what we did, and that made me relax a little bit, and I just went out there and played and had fun. So that was a little easier.” At the end of the season, the Twins designated Bernier for assignment, removing him from their 40 man roster. Maybe 24 hours later, he re-signed with the Twins. It was an easy choice for the veteran. “To me, it was easy. This is the place I wanted to be. Sometimes you can just kind of feel right away the closeness between the guys, the chemistry. I felt like even on the minor league side here. There was a closeness between the guys which is pretty unique. And it’s just a fun place to play baseball every day. And also, I had the opportunity to play in the big leagues last year. After the season, for me, it was a no brainer. I wanted to be back here.” Bernier has always played a very good defense. He takes a lot of pride in it and works at getting even better. “I’ve kind of always been that guy. I’ve had a lot of years in the past where I struggled offensively, but being able to stay consistent defensively has kind of kept me around. They tell you to separate offense and defense. That was something I had to do because if I didn’t, I’d have been out of the game a long time ago.” Bernier came into spring training this season with the same mentality he has every year, to make himself better. “I mean really, I’m just trying to do what I can to try to improve my game. I know there’s a lot of things I can work on. I’m just trying to go about it, do the best I can. Just trying to improve myself, and hopefully with that it can help the team. Just working on playing multiple positions, and trying to get better offensively. That’s just kind of the process of spring but everything’s feeling alright.” Bernier is a guy who not only wants to play baseball, but it is really important to him to be able to help others. Maybe they won’t experience the same journey he has, but players of all ages, kids and adults, often have questions about the game. Bernier and his wife found a way to do that. They started the Pro Baseball Insider website to put themselves in a position to help others. Twins Daily contributor AJ Pettersen has contributed a few articles to Bernier’s site as well. “The thing we started with Pro Baseball Insider is… I was doing lessons on the side, and we were getting kids that were asking, ‘Why do you do this? Or why do you do this? My high school coach is telling me this, is this good or is this bad?’ A lot of times, it’s just knowledge and information. I’ve been fortunate to be around a lot of the best baseball players in the world. I feel like, sometimes kids have questions like, ‘Are plastic spikes good, or are metal better?’ Things that you kind of take for granted that they have questions about.” Bernier continued, “Being able to talk to a bigger community of kids and parents, I thought was a pretty cool thing for me. So we decided to put the website together with some basic instruction on there. We have a little feature where people can e-mail and we can communicate back and forth. Sometimes we go in-depth on things. It was basically just a way to communicate things I’ve learned and what others have learned. I guess the professional way of doing things to try to teach kids when they’re young so hopefully they don’t have to go through the same mistakes that I had to battle through. I guess that was kind of the idea behind it.” Giving back is something that is often said, but it isn’t always followed up on. Bernier said that he gets quite a few e-mails from people each week. 2013 was certainly a dream season personally for Doug Bernier in many ways. After such a long time, he finally got a chance to get back to the big leagues last year, appearing in 33 games with the Twins. He was able to take a few weeks off after the season and spend some quality time with his wife and daughter. He was able to reflect for a while on all that happened but also looks forward to getting back in 2014. “It was a couple of weeks of being able to reflect. Once I started working out, it was just how I do it. Just get back and work hard. At that point, I wasn’t thinking about the past. I was just kind of thinking about what I was doing that day and thinking about this upcoming season.” Less than three weeks until Opening Day, and Doug Bernier is still on the Twins spring training roster. The odds may not be real high that he starts the season in the majors, but it wouldn’t surprise me if he surfaces with the Twins again in 2014.

The Minnesota Twins were back in action on Tuesday after an off day on Monday. The team traveled to Port Charlotte and lost to the Tampa Bay Rays by a score of 7-1. Jason Kubel homering seems to have been the main story of the game. As Twins Daily fans would know and expect from me, I chose to stay in Ft. Myers because there were two more minor league intrasquad games. Four Twins pitchers threw in the game to mixed results, but there was plenty going on in the games. [PRBREAK][/PRBREAK] Note - There are a LOT of pictures from yesterday's games in this article, but there will be a lot more on the Twins Daily Facebook page throughout the afternoon. Be sure to Like Twins Daily on Facebook to see more. The biggest news was that Matt Guerrier made his first appearance in a game on the mound. It wasn’t a big league game, but it was a milestone for the 35 year old veteran nonetheless. He looked good. The first batter he faced was Byron Buxton who hit a hard ground ball that third baseman Tony Thomas dove to his left for, got up and got him by a half step. The next batter was Jorge Polanco and he grounded out as well. John Murphy came up and hit a fly ball to left center that should have been an easy out, but it dropped for a double. Good thing Tom Kelly didn’t see that. Guerrier walked the next batter before getting the final out on a lazy fly ball. The secondary news was that Jared Burton came in and pitched the first inning for New Britain. To say it didn’t go well is an understatement. The first batter was Corey Wimberly, and he singled. With Burton not even paying attention, the diminutive veteran stole second and third base. Then Burton hit Chris Rahl who proceeded to steal second base on the first pitch. The next batter hit a hard one-hopped that Jorge Polanco, playing shortstop, dove and caught. He got up and threw a short-hopper to first base that got by the first baseman just enough for both runners to score. CJ Ziegler, the large man signed from independent ball this winter, hit a deep double to the right centerfield fence. On the next pitch, Danny Ortiz hit a ball about 420 feet to right field, and it was 5-0. Burton did get the next hitter, Reynaldo Rodriguez, out on a ball that was caught near the fence in centerfield, about 405 feet from home plate. Frankly, I went over to watch the other game at that point, but I understand he got the final two outs of the inning. It is important to note that he doesn't throw his slider this early in spring training, so let's not make too much out of this. In good news, Brian Duensing and Glen Perkins had relatively easy innings. Perkins made a couple of hitters look silly on his slider, caught by the catcher near the back foot of right-handed hitters. Mike Kvasnicka and AJ Pettersen, like Perkins, are former Gophers, put the ball in play against him. Kvasnicka flew out, and Pettersen lined out to third base. That’s the big league portion of the minor league report for today. Below, you will find several other observations from intra-squad game two. Pitchers of the day: ROCHESTER/NEW BRITAIN GAME: Matt Guerrier, Jared Burton, Brian Duensing, Glen Perkins, Pat Dean, AJ Achter, Dakota Watts, Mark Hamburger, DJ Baxendale, Madison Boer, BJ Hermsen, Cole Johnson, Tyler Duffey, Brett Lee FT. MYERS/CEDAR RAPIDS: JO Berrios, Felix Jorge, Yorman Landa, Stephen Gonsalves, Josh Burris, CK Irby, Chris Mazza, Carson Goldsmith, Sam Gibbons, Tanner Mendonca, Dereck Rodriguez, Todd Van Steensel THE PITCHERS: DJ Baxendale looks tough. Like Scott Erickson, he looks in for the signal with his hand in his glove, peering over the top of his glove. He has a quick delivery, but he throws pretty hard and his breaking ball looks really tough. Todd Van Steensel went 5-2 in 2011 with the Elizabethton Twins, but after the season, he was released. The Australian went back home and he been pitching in the Australian Baseball League. This spring, he the Twins re-signed him. Watching him reminds me of former Twins reliever, turned dominant closer the last few years, Grant Balfour. He wears the goggles. He pitches solely from the stretch. He has a high leg-kick and he throws a lot harder. We’ll see where it goes, but still just 23, he is worth watching. Also, how can we not cheer for a guy who got to take a selfie with Taylor Swift. Reports from last year were that lefty Pat Dean topped out around 88 mph, but he was throwing pretty well on Tuesday. He showed terrific control in the strike zone, or just off the corners throughout his two innings. The former third round pick gets forgotten, but he did make it to AAA last year. I had the chance to talk to AJ Achter a little bit yesterday. He pitched and said he felt really good. I asked him about his experience in the Arizona Fall League last year, and he said he enjoyed it immensely. He said he threw really well early, but by the end of the season, his arm was really tired and he had little left. He’s looking forward to a fresh start this year. Brett Lee has been my choice throughout the offseason as a sleeper candidate. The lefty looked really good pitching against the AAA hitters on Tuesday. I talked to him afterward for a little while. He said it felt good. They were encouraged to get a feel for all of their pitches. Going forward in spring, they’ll start focusing more on fastball command. He has a nasty slider that he said is going well so far in spring. BJ Hermsen had a rough year in 2013. He would be the first one to admit it. What he won’t admit is that the strained oblique injury that he suffered late in spring training last year affected him the entire year. Obviously Hermsen relies on his control and movement. But when your side hurts, imagine trying to find a consistent release point that doesn’t hurt. He looked good in his first outing of the spring on Tuesday. Tyler Duffey pitched, and got a bunch of ground balls. I was able to stand behind the plate a little more when he was pitching and saw the life on his pitches. He didn’t throw real hard, but he did got a lot of sink, and because of it, you can see why he has the potential to be an extreme ground ball pitcher. Mark Hamburger looked solid in his first inning as well. He throws pretty hard still, and that mustache has to be intimidating. JO Berrios may not be tall, but he does a very nice job on the mound. I watched his pregame bullpen. He throws hard and locates well down in the zone. His breaking pitch looked devastating in the bullpen. He did walk one batter in his first inning, but he got out of it. In the second inning, he got a weak ground ball to first base. Then a ground ball back to himself that he made an athletic, diving play on. He struck out the final batter he faced. He did miss on his location on one pitch that I’ll write more about later. Stephen Gonsalves is tall and long. He looks like a pitcher, especially standing on the mound. He has a very smooth delivery and great arm action. He didn’t throw blazing fast at this stage, but he’s got a good, consistent release even on his breaking pitches. He got hit a little bit, and he even walked one, but in all, it’s clear he has some potential. Felix Jorge came on and he definitely looks like he’s going to be good. He is tall and he is very lean. He throws hard, but has good control. The breaking pitch and the change looked pretty good. Yorman Landa also threw. He’s a little bigger and stronger than Jorge at this point, but the scouting reports that I’ve seen and heard were on display in this game. He throws really hard and he doesn’t always know where it’s going to go. In fact, he hit Ivory Thomas, who isn’t a real big target, near the shoulder with a pitch. Reports on Josh Burris were accurate too. Throws hard, struggles with control, hammer for a curveball! Brian Gilbert looks like a late-inning reliever. He’s got a certain mound presence that is clear watching him. He throws pretty hard, and does have good control too. Could move quickly. Dereck Rodriguez, I wish I would have seen more of him, but he is tall and thin. Kind of the opposite build of his father who is aptly nicknamed “Pudge.” He does throw hard. He’ll have to work on his other pitches. He’ll go back to EST and develop. THE HITTERS I have to lead the hitters with Brian Navaretto. I mentioned earlier the one bad pitch the JO Berrios threw? It was to Navaretto, and he deposited it well over the left field fence. Unlike a day earlier, this one stayed fair. He had at least one other hit in the game. Travis Harrison says that he is seeing the ball really well. He hit the long home run on Monday and hit some hard line drives. He said that he is disappointed somewhat in moving to the outfield because he felt he made some real positive strides throughout the 2013 season. He pointed at Jake Mauer and said, “a huge amount of credit goes to that guy right there.” But he also understands it and knows that his best attribute as a player is his offense, specifically his power. Byron Buxton grounded out in his first two minor league at-bats. He then hit a chopper down the third base line that he beat out. He played just five innings. Same thing with Jorge Polanco. In one of his at-bats, he lined a ball to center in one at-bat and went all-out to second for a double. However, he played shortstop and it was a mess. He made no fewer than three errors that I saw. He was saved on another one when a ball went under his glove and the second baseman fielded it and stepped on the base for an out. Listen, he’ll be fine as a shortstop. It wasn’t a good day, but he can field. It is also clear that he is a second baseman. Max Kepler played for the Ft. Myers team and played the full game. He struck out against Gonsalves, but he hit the ball real hard a few times. He played right field throughout the game. Starting to feel better about my pick of Stuart Turner as my breakout hitter of 2014. He hit a long double to right field off of Duensing. He had another line drive hit. He also does a tremendous job behind the plate. You can see that clearly. We also shouldn’t overlook 2013 ninth round pick Mitch Garver. He’s a terrific backstop as well, and he can hit too: a lot of line drives. Up the middle defense looks to have some potentially really good glove guys. Nelson Molina, Will Hurt, Carlos Avila, Jonatan Hinojosa, Ryan Walker, AJ Pettersen, Niko Goodrum, and Jorge Polanco are all really good glove guys. The guy people wanted to talk about was Engelb Vielma. He has made some tremendous plays with the glove. Levi Michael did not play on Tuesday after a leg injury on Monday. It didn’t appear serious. Nate Roberts is around and doing some running and such, but he has not played yet. DISCLAIMER: Yes, I am aware that seeing these guys for one or two games does not a sufficient scouting report make. However, it is great to be able to see these players who otherwise you only know through box scores. It is enlightening. Twins play the Pirates in a couple of hours. Kevin Correia and Gerrit Cole will be starting. Oswaldo Arcia is returning to the lineup and the outfield. Aaron Hicks is again not in the lineup. Robby Incmikoski is here in Ft. Myers with the Pirates broadcast team. Also, Jack Morris is making his radio debut today. The game will also air on FSN at 12:05 (central).

On Monday, the Minnesota Twins had an actual off day. The players and the coaching staff were given a full day off. However, on the minor league side, things were really busy. They held a regular workout from about 9:30 until 11:30, but then after lunch, they played their first intra-squad game of the season after four full days of workouts. On Tuesday afternoon, there will be another set of intra-squad games.[PRBREAK][/PRBREAK] At 1:00, the Rochester Red Wings work group played against the New Britain Rock Cats work group. At the same time, on an adjacent field, the Ft. Myers Miracle work group went up against the Cedar Rapids Kernels. There was actually quite a crowd at the game. For a minor league guy like myself, this is an amazing atmosphere. I walked back and forth between the fields with a camera, trying to get pictures of everyone. However, with prospects playing on both fields, it can be a little overwhelming. It is also pretty incredible. As mentioned on Sunday, the Twins cut 16 players from Twins camp. Those players were encouraged to take Monday off as well and are expected to report to minor league camp on Tuesday. Notes from the day: Pitchers of the day: ROCHESTER: Virgil Vasquez, Taylor Rogers, Matt Summers, Matt Hauser, AJ Achter and Ryan O’Rourke. NEW BRITAIN: Jason Wheeler, Mason Melotakis, Tim Shibuya, Chad Rodgers, Matt Tomshaw, Tyler Jones. FT. MYERS: Aaron Slegers, Kuo Hua Lo, Christian Powell, Fernando Romero, Randy Rosario. CEDAR RAPIDS: Kohl Stewart, Lewis Thorpe, Ethan Mildren, Derrick Penilla, Tyler Stirewalt. Of course, the questions you will want to ask likely revolve around seeing Stewart, Thorpe and Romero. I can’t blame you. Those are three guys that I found myself gravitating toward when they were on the mound. Obviously what they did statistically doesn’t really matter at all, especially five days into camp. Where all of these pitchers were on Monday is not where they hopefully will be in April and throughout the season. Here are my thoughts on those three and some others. Kohl Stewart – He certainly is an athlete. He has a good delivery, and he does throw pretty hard (though I don’t think he was airing it out yet). He struggled some with his control and walked a couple. He’s not as tall as many of the Twins pitchers. He’s about 6-3 and has room to grow. Lewis Thorpe – The lefty was pretty impressive as well. He showed a good fastball and a good curveball, and many think his changeup may be his best pitch. There was contact on him, but for the most part, he also just threw strikes. He has a very smooth delivery. It is clear he’s got a high baseball IQ and knows how to pitch. Couple that with his stuff and he has a chance. Fernando Romero – He threw the hardest of the group, and he does have that slider. He struggled with his control as well. He is not tall, and he is pretty stocky. Scouts likely notice that he has some pretty big, strong legs. Randy Rosario – Jorge and Landa didn’t pitch, but Rosario was impressive. He’s a small, athletic guy with a lot of energy. He does throw pretty hard, and when he throws strikes, it’s hard to make great contact off him. Jason Wheeler – The very tall (6-8) lefty looks pretty impressive. He’s lanky, and the mechanical adjustments he made while working with Ivan Arteaga last year have helped him increase his 87-89 mph fastball to 91-92 mph. He has very good mechanics and a nice delivery. He also has a brother that plays in the big leagues. Mason Melotakis – He definitely did not have his best control, but he does throw hard. He threw a lot of fastballs in the dirt. Matt Hauser* – He throws really hard. It might be a bit straight though as he was hit really hard. Again, nothing to worry about, but he is a reliever to watch this year. Tim Shibuya – He missed much of the early part of the 2013 season after shoulder surgery the previous offseason. He showed his old impeccable control and appeared to be throwing harder than I recall. Taylor Rogers – The lefty makes it look pretty easy out there. He has a great delivery and really good arm action. He also touches 93, so he’s worth watching. Kuo Hua Lo – He struggled with his control early, walking a few in a row. He has a delivery in which he brings that ball and his glove over his head and then pauses before throwing. Tyler Stirewalt – I know he’s a guy that Jeremy Nygaard and I talk a lot about due to his football background. He didn’t throw as hard on Monday as I thought he might, but you can see that it’s there. He works from about a ¾ release point and has a good slider. Definitely a project. The Hitters: Travis Harrison – Yes, they had him playing left field throughout the game. He will likely spend some time at third base again in 2014, but he will get a lot of time in the outfield. He’s one that goes without batting gloves to get that feel in his hands. He worked a count against Matt Summers and crushed a pitch well over the left centerfield fence for a home run. He put some really good swings on the ball. He also showed more speed than I recall from last year. Brian Navarreto – The 6-4, 220 pound, 18-year-old catcher was pretty impressive. Behind the plate, he set up surprisingly low. He also displayed a very strong, accurate arm, throwing out a would-be base stealer at second base. He came to bat with the bases loaded one inning. He destroyed a pitch down the third base line that the ump called foul. Tom Kelly joked, "Hey, you hit it too far anyway.” A couple pitches later, he settled for an RBI single. Engelb Vielma – There has been a lot of talk about him. I will say this, he plays a pretty good shortstop. He made a play up the middle on a ground ball and flipped it perfectly to second base to start a double play. He’s thin and has a lot of room to grow. Offensively, he is a slap hitter, as you’d expect. He does have good speed. We’ll have to be patient, but you can see what the Twins see in him. Nelson Molina – Again, he is a guy whose tools are quite evident. The team’s 11th round pick a year ago has the tools. He has a good glove at shortstop with good range. At about 6-2 and really skinny, he has some growing to do. If he does, he could be one to watch. That would also help him at the plate, where he looks like he could struggle in the short term. Also, Will Hurt plays a tremendous shortstop. Tom Kelly – TK warrants his own section. We know he’s a roving instructor, but you can see, up close, the love and passion that he has for the game. He was frequently talking to Chad Christensen. In fact, he held up a full round of infield before the games to show Christensen a couple of tips. In the game, he’s walking around with his fungo in his hands. He’s shouting encouragement to players, and he’s observing. He’s seeing the minutiae that most of us miss. Players who didn’t pitch today were behind the home plates, watching their teammates. Many of the pitchers will throw on Tuesday. John Murphy made a remarkable diving catch down the left field line in the second game. He all-out dove after it and made the play. JD Williams was in centerfield for the New Britain team, at least for a few innings. He made a terrific diving catch in left center. He remained on the field for a little while before coming in. He told me later that he was feeling much better. He had landed on his hip and was moving slowly. Levi Michael – At one point, he found his way on base. He stole second and then grabbed a leg. It looked like it could have been a pulled muscle, or maybe even just a charley horse. A couple of new hitters hit back-to-back in the first game. Brad Nelson and CJ Ziegler both look to have a lot of power and not much speed. They are both big and strong and clearly around for power. Twins Daily contributor AJ Pettersen had a single, a walk and a couple of stolen bases. He didn’t play defense early in the game, but he did go play centerfield for a couple innings. The first two batters flew out to him when he got out there, and he made the plays. Before the game, I had the chance to talk to a couple pitchers. I talked to Tyler Jones who was my choice for minor league reliever of the year last year. He provided the “best shape of my life” line, but he certainly looks the part too. With that 97 mph fastball, he has a chance to move a couple of levels this year. I also talked to veteran Mark Hamburger. He is incredibly excited to be back with the Twins. He said this spring he feels so much better and he sounds like it too. He is in a much better place in his life. He looks truly happy. Asked whether he will get a chance to pitch as a starter or out of the bullpen, he said he wasn’t sure. He will be working late in the intra-squad game on Tuesday, but he was told that he would be given an opportunity to start. He talked about how he has his 50 games to get stretched out down in Ft. Myers. He enjoyed his time with the Saints, but this is where he wants to be. Don’t forget that he pitched in September for the Rangers briefly in their first World Series run. He has a chance to contribute this year. I plan to spend time at the major league camp some on Tuesday morning and again watch the minor league intrasquad game in the afternoon. Remember that Jeremy Nygaard and I will discuss all kinds of Twins and Twins minor league topics on Tuesday night's Twins Hangout at 8:30 (central time). One last thing... here is some video of Lewis Thorpe on the mound.

Each year, the Minnesota Twins (and every other big league team) invite several players to spring training who aren’t on the 40 man roster. Many of those guys are veteran minor leaguers, but this year the Twins brought in some of their better prospects. Byron Buxton, Miguel Sano and Alex Meyer, the team’s top three prospects, came to camp but were sent to minor league camp on Sunday. One of the other intriguing prospects who was invited to big league camp was catcher Stuart Turner. I had the opportunity to catch up with the backstop moments before he was tapped on the shoulder and asked to go to Ron Gardenhire’s office.[PRBREAK][/PRBREAK] Stuart Turner was born and raised in Eunice, Louisiana, a town of just over 10,000 in central Louisiana. He said, “Everybody goes to the high school to play football, baseball, or basketball. It’s a community that everybody supports everybody, and I have a lot of love and support from back home and I’ll try to make those guys proud.” Turner lettered for three years in baseball in high school. He was an All-State player all three years. He then spent two years at LSU-Eunice where he was a two-year starter who led his team to a national championship. He was also the recipient of a Rawlings Gold Glove. Last year, he went to Ole Miss where he hit .374. The Twins made him their third round pick in 2013. Leading up to the draft, Turner chose not to think about it any more than necessary. “I just knew that I needed to play ball and help my team try to win a game and everything will take care of itself. God has blessed me with the spot I was drafted in and the opportunity I’ve been given. Just now I continue to play ball and see what I can do.” He was also named the recipient of the Johnny Bench Award, given each year to the top catcher in college baseball. (See video of him speaking after winning the award) Fellow Twins minor leaguer and 2013 draft pick Mitch Garver was also one of the final three nominees. “That whole experience. I just try to play ball and help the team with games. With the draft, I was blessed to be taken where I was taken. Same thing with that award. I was lucky enough to receive the nominations and lucky enough to win it. It’s just a blessing. Try to come in and help the team win and to play my best every day and let things fall where they fall.” Turner is certainly known for his defense first and foremost, and he has had a lot of mentors to learn from throughout his years. He said, “I’ve been blessed to be with catchers my whole life. My high school coach was a catcher. In college, at Ole Miss, the three coaches (head coach and two assistants) were all catchers. Then to get to my first pro team (Elizabethton) and have Jeff Reed who was a 17 year catcher in the big leagues. It’s kind of like, God continues to bless me and put me in the right places and lead me the right way. I’m just very thankful for that. Reed did a wonderful job with hitters. At Instructs was when I got the most catching coaching from him because he was able to specifically work with the catchers. He was tremendous at what he did.” Upon being drafted, he went to play for the Elizabethton Twins. In 34 games with the E-Twins, he hit .264/.340/.380 (.721) with five doubles, three homes and 19 RBI. He felt that going to Elizabethton was a blessing for him in that it helped him adjust to the professional baseball game. “I’m from a small town, so going to Elizabethton was a little gift in disguise. Just not getting overwhelmed right away. The biggest adjustment was playing every day. Even though I wasn’t playing every day, you had to get to the field and get ready every day. I wasn’t used to that. It took some time to adjust to the wood bat, to not being in the lineup every day.” He also got to catch some pretty good pitchers at Elizabethton last year. “Jorge Felix and Yorman Landa, they pitched really well for us all year. It was fun to catch those guys. They work both sides of the plate. Then late in the year, Kohl Stewart and Stephen Gonsalves came up and, with those two guys out of high school, their maturity level was really encouraging. I think there’s great things to come for all of those guys. And out of the bullpen, there were plenty of arms that could knock down one, two, three, four innings if they have to. That whole staff was pretty special with the newer draftees, the high school guys, some of the older guys. Everybody just came together. The season didn’t go like we hoped it would, but when everything was clicking, that staff was one to be reckoned with.” It is pretty rare for the Twins to give a big league spring training invite to a draft pick from the previous season. However, teams need plenty of catchers in spring training because there are so many pitchers. Rob Antony discussed Turner before Sunday’s game. “Didn’t see a lot of him, but he lived up to his billing that he’s a really polished catcher, and that’s the reason we brought him up here. When you get to the last few guys and you bring in a few catchers, you want guys who will come in to catch bullpens, work hard and get good experience. He did exactly what we wanted.” Turner certainly enjoyed his time in big league camp and made a strong impression. He received his minor league invite before the holidays. “It was a week or two before Christmas. Terry Ryan gave me a call, and he told me they traded Ryan Doumit, and they were going to bring me in to help with some bullpens and stuff. Like I said, I’m just making the most of it.” Making the most of it means, in part, that he has been able to pick the brain of several catchers who have a lot of big league experience. “I see Kurt (Suzuki) doing some drills, and I ask him what is he working on, and he’ll tell me. Little things like that. Talking with Steiny (Terry Steinbach) about pitch selection. Just the other day, I made a bad pitch call. He came and talked to me about it and explained his thought process. It’s talking to those guys with the experience. It’s so much easier to get some knowledge.” Those are good things for Turner to pick up, and he clearly takes his role as a catcher very seriously. However, he also wants to go out and show that he is a good hitter and is willing to work to improve. “I’m a guy that takes a lot of pride in my defense and continue to work very hard on my hitting. That’s what I wanted to do (in big league camp). I wanted to show that I’m a good defensive catcher and show that I’m willing to work, put the extra work in the cages, off the tee, whatever it is. I’ll continue to do that on the other side and continue to do it all summer. That’s nothing different, but I wanted to do to show those guys that I was really willing to work.” Asked where he thinks he will begin 2014, his first full professional season, he said, “They’ll send me where they think I should be at, and we’ll go from there.” For what it’s worth, I think he will skip Cedar Rapids and jump up to Ft. Myers and play for the Miracle. However, with his skill set, he could be a fast riser. He won’t be overwhelmed. Turner is smart and understands that it’s all part of a bigger picture. As you can read, his faith is something that is very important to him. “My parents raised me to believe in my Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. Without him, nothing would be possible and I thank him every day for it.” On Tuesday, Turner will report to minor league camp. However, he looks at his time in major league camp as very fruitful. “It’s been unbelievable. Being able to be here with these guys. The experience, the staff. Everybody’s been there and done that. Just being able to be here and experience it. Seeing how they go about their business is the biggest thing. Getting ready day in and day out.”

Max Kepler got the news this morning that he was likely dreading, but expecting. He was optioned by the Twins and will report to minor league camp on Tuesday. He had gone 5-11 in his limited plate appearances in his first big league camp. Not a bad showing for a 21-year-old who played ball in Low-A Cedar Rapids in 2013. Though it was a short stint, Kepler did make an impression. Rob Antony said, “I think Max Kepler handled himself extremely well and had a good spring.”[PRBREAK][/PRBREAK] As you would expect given that Kepler was signed as a 16-year-old from Germany, it has taken him some time to move through the system. He spent a year in the GCL followed by two years in Elizabethton. Last year, he missed the first half of the season with an elbow injury. In 61 games, he hit just .237/.312/.424, but he displayed the tools that made him sought after as an amateur. He got an opportunity to play in the Arizona Fall League last year and enjoyed the experience despite its challenges. “It was awesome. It was a real honor. But, the pitching was a lot more challenging out there. Maybe it’s because of the jump from A-ball to Fall League. Pitching was mind-blowing at first, just seeing how good they were. It was awesome being out there with players, as good as they are.” Over the winter, Kepler was able to spend two months in Germany with his family around the holidays. Otherwise, he spent his time in San Francisco working out. He went there with a plan. “Running, lifting in my legs. Didn’t do a lot of upper body like I had in the past. I felt too heavy on top.” In the past, Kepler has played around the outfield and at first base. In the Fall League, he played almost solely at first base. He thought that might be where he would spend a lot of time this spring, but he hasn’t. “Wherever they need me. They told me I was going to get a lot of work (at 1B) this spring, but I’ve been in the outfield every game. I love it out there, and I’m up for whatever.” Asked what his strengths were, Kepler has a very interesting response. “Thinking positive, right now. I’ve learned to think positive. I used to get frustrated at everything back when I was younger. If you think positive, everything will come. It’s a big thing in this game.” He understood that the answer might create follow-up, so he continued. “(I) get that question a lot. ‘What do you think your strengths are?’ Immediately you think of physicality; hitting, throwing. I’m just trying to balance all of that. Just trying to think positive and do the best I can.” When it comes to others, it’s understandable they would jump to the physical. Kepler stands 6-4 (at least) and 220 pounds (at least). He’s got quick hands, strength and power. He has decent speed for his size and plays solid defense. These are all things that aren’t lost on Rob Antony or the rest of the front office. Some people have looked past guys like Max Kepler, who has developed well. He’s got a tremendous body. He’s got a good swing. He’s athletic. He can play 1st or the OF.” Kepler has said, and did so again this morning, that he has been told that he will move up another level this year and play in Ft. Myers. Kepler had a strong showing in big league camp which will only bode well for him going forward. He has the tools and the projection. Now he’s had some exposure. It will be a big year for Kepler to start putting up some numbers as well, even in the pitcher-friendly Florida State League.

The Twins saw a couple of familiar faces on the other side of the diamond when they squared off against the Philadelphia Phillies on Sunday afternoon in Ft. Myers. However, at the end of the day, er.. game, there was no winner. The game ended after nine innings with a 1-1 tie in front of a Hammond Stadium record crowd of 8,764. Ben Revere reminded Twins fans of what they missed in the bottom of the fourth inning. Josh Willingham lined a ball to left-centerfield. Revere ran toward the gap and left his feet. He made one of his patented diving catches, parallel to the ground. It warranted cheers from the home crowd. He went 1-4 in the game.[PRBREAK][/PRBREAK] It comes as the Twins still have a question at centerfield. “(Aaron) Hicks hasn’t been out there. (Alex) Presley’s been fine. (Darin) Mastroianni’s out there today,” Rob Antony continued before the game, “You’d always like the players to determine it for you if you’ve got an open competition. It’s a little tougher when no one separates themselves.” Also, former Twins pitcher Jeff Manship started on the mound for the Phillies. He is currently in a bit of a battle for the 5th starter job with Philadelphia. He gave up one run against the Twins, a first inning, RBI single off the bat of his former battery mate, Joe Mauer. It would prove to be the lone run for the Twins on the day. Mike Pelfrey was good through three. He uncharacteristically walked two, but did not allow a run or a hit over his three innings. Sam Deduno gave up only a bloop single and a walk. Kyle Gibson pitched better than his line. He gave up an unearned run on just one hit. He also walked a batter. Seven of the nine batters who put the ball in play against him hit the ball into the ground. He was sitting at 93-94 mph with the fastball with a slider in the mid-80s. Michael Tonkin pitched a scoreless ninth and struck out two on fastballs. He touched 97 a couple of times. Replay was again part of the storyline. In fact, Ron Gardenhire asked for replay twice in a matter of two batters. The first play was whether a Brandon Warring wild throw went out of play. The second was a play at home. Danny Santana threw home and Chris Herrmann thought he applied the tag. The home plate umpire disagreed. In both cases, the calls were not reversed. It wasn’t because of conclusive evidence, just that there aren’t as many cameras and angles at the spring training games as there would be in a regular season big league game. Sunday Twins Notes: I talked to lefty Logan Darnell shortly before he was told he would be sent down to minor league camp. He was very excited to have been added to the 40 man roster and has enjoyed his time with the Twins. He hopes to return to Rochester where he ended the 2013 season. In his first start with the Red Wings, he had a blister pop, said it was bleeding all over. At New Britain, he had finally reached a point where he was consistent, and consistently eating innings and succeeding. When he got up to Rochester, he had to make an adjustment. He said he just struggled with that consistency at the new level. He wants to correct that and hopes to debut sometime in 2014. Chris Colabello and I chatted a little this morning as well. I asked him about decision to remain with the Twins instead of signing in Korea where he would have been guaranteed (reportedly) about double the amount that he would make with the Twins in 2014 if he was on the roster the full season. However, he said it wasn’t about the money. “I basically paid to play independent league ball for all those years.” It reminds me of a guy in a similar situation who had the same opportunity. A year before he made his big league debut with the Phillies, Chris Coste was offered the opportunity to play in Korea. He said the money made it something to consider. However, he told me, “My goal isn’t to play in Korea, it’s to play in the big leagues.” You have to admire the sentiment. Aaron Hicks said that his elbow felt fine. Likely would be another day. Rob Antony said that with the day off tomorrow, he will likely play on Tuesday. The same is true for Oswaldo Arcia who took batting practice on Saturday. Pedro Florimon took a full round of infield on Saturday. On Sunday, he took a round of batting practice. Rob Antony said, “He’s going to hit off of live pitching in the next day or two and will likely be in games by the end of the week. His first game will probably be in three games or something.” Dan Rohlfing was the Twins 14th round pick in 2007 out of high school near St. Louis. He was a project. He played third base in high school and the Twins made him a catcher. He slowly worked through the Twins system. In recent years, he’s logged time in the upper levels of the minor leagues, splitting time between catcher and the outfield. He could have become a minor league free agent following the season, but when the Twins told him right away they wanted him back, he didn’t give it a second thought. He and his agent worked out the details to get him to the Dominican Republic where he was part of a championship. Once that was set, he was thrilled to sign back with the Twins. I talked to Adam Walker down at minor league camp for a while. The Wisconsin native spent some time around the holidays at his parent’s place. There was a big snow storm. He had to shovel. He soon returned to Jacksonville (where he went to college) where he spent the rest of his offseason. Talked to Luke Bard, who was married in January. Although he is listed on the DL on the minor league rosters, he says that his arm feels really good. The Twins have an off day on Monday. However, the minor leaguers will play their first games of the year. It will be Rochester against New Britain and Ft. Myers against Cedar Rapids.

The Twins just announced that 16 players were told this morning they will be sent to minor league camp. Seven 40 man roster guys were optioned. So were nine non-roster invitees, including the team's top three prospects. Byron Buxton homered yesterday and was sent down this morning. So was Miguel Sano, though that obviously comes as no surprise. In a bit of a surprise, Alex Meyer was also sent down. [PRBREAK][/PRBREAK] The Twins optioned lefties Logan Darnell, Edgar Ibarra and Brooks Raley. Right-hander Trevor May was also optioned. Kennys Vargas, Max Kepler and Jorge Polanco were optioned as well. Those re-assigned to minor league camp (meaning guys not on the 40 man roster) included nine more players. Along with Meyer, Buxton and Sano, the team also sent pitchers Lester Oliveros, Yohan Pino down. Catchers Kyle Knudson, Matt Koch and Stuart Turner will soon report to minor league camp. Also, outfielder Chris Rahl. The Twins roster now consists of 48 players. They have 22 pitchers, five catchers, 12 infielders and nine outfielders. I spent time talking this morning with the three catchers who were sent down. Stuart Turner talked about his being a great opportunity for him, one he was very thankful for. Matt Koch was excited to learn from the likes of Terry Steinbach and work with some of the pitchers he did. This is Knudson's second big league spring training, so he knew it would be coming soon. I also talked to Max Kepler who said he has really improved his outlook and ability to handle struggles. Logan Darnell was enjoying his time in camp, learning a lot. He hopes to be in the Rochester rotation this year.

My flight arrived in Ft. Myers at about 5:00 p.m. local time on Friday night. Pick up the car. Find the lodging. Find something to eat. Crash. On Saturday morning, I actually was able to wake up after hitting snooze just twice. I was pretty proud of myself. Despite a GPS error that sent me the wrong direction, I was at Hammond Stadium by about 8:00 AM. The Twins bus to Dunedin had already taken off. No worries, I still put in six-and-a-half-hours of “Work.” Day One at Minnesota Twins spring training, for me, was a day to catch my bearings, get the lay of the land, and see a little bit of everything.[PRBREAK][/PRBREAK] There were several that did not make the trek north to play the Blue Jays. Pitchers played long-toss on the main stadium and got their running in. There was an extended round of infield featuring Deibinson Romero, Jorge Polanco, Danny Santana, Kennys Vargas and Joe Mauer. One important thing to note is that Pedro Florimon participated in a full round of infield for the first time since his appendectomy. Kurt Suzuki could be seen in the main bullpen, working on blocking pitches in the dirt. Later, at Tom Kelly Field, Santana and Polanco were taking more ground balls off the bat of Paul Molitor. Jason Bartlett was taking grounders at second base. Joe Mauer took more ground balls at first base. He worked as though there was a runner on first base that he was holding on. He came off the bag to make plays. A couple of times, Tom Kelly came down the line and provided Mauer with additional pointers. With the new boardwalk overhead the whole conversation could be heard. Tom Kelly and Paul Molitor hitting fungoes on Tom Kelly Field. In the batting cages under the bleachers, Aaron Hicks and Alex Presley were taking cuts. Rod Carew was instructing. Later, Carew was working with them on drag bunting. He would be a good guy to do that! About 100 yards from Hammond Stadium, fans can find the minor league facilities. It is comprised of three full fields, a bullpen and a half-field. Of course, there is the newly-renovated clubhouse and training area for the minor leaguers as well, though I couldn’t see that. Work is also continuing on the dorms that Twins minor leaguers will be able to use as early as next spring training. Getting welcomed to Ft. Myers by Tommy Watkins is always nice too. About 9:30, the minor leaguers began to take the fields. The Cedar Rapids roster again went to City of Palms (Red Sox old facility) to work out due to space constraints. Players remaining broke into two groups, the hitters and the pitchers. In those groups, they did their stretching. Hitters did some base running drills as well. Soon, an incredibly controlled chaos broke out. One field had pitchers doing PFP (Pitchers Fielding Practice). The bullpen mounds were full. Infielders were all on one field and ground balls were hit from several angles. Outfielders worked on throws, but also took fly balls, line drives and ground balls, working on their footwork, throwing and routes. They came together and ran some infield practice that included the pitchers backing up bases. Catchers worked on blocking pitches in the dirt, coming from out of their stance to field bunts and throw, and a lot of footwork. Like I said, there is so much going on, yet it runs so smoothly. Mark Hamburger's terrific mustache doing some PFPs. Around 11:30, those minor leaguers went to grab some lunch. By 12:20, they were back on the field. It was time for batting practice. Three of the fields went about the same general process. A group of four hitters would take a good round of batting practice from a coach. Then, pitchers were brought in to face the hitters. Alex Wimmers throwing live batting practice. That is obviously a good thing and a necessity as players get set for their first games of the spring on Monday (against each other). Some pitchers did better than others. Some of the young pitchers showed their good and their bad. For instance, hard-throwing Fernando Romero was quite impressive. Yes, he throws very hard. I also saw the looks on the faces of hitters and coaches when he threw a couple sharp sliders. Romero was pitching to outfielder Zach Larson when a slider got away. It his Larson right square in the shoulder. He stepped out of the batter’s box and didn’t even wipe it off. When asked, he told an onlooker, “It was only a slider.” Fernando Romero throwing speed balls. The day came to an end around 2:30 for the minor leaguers. I can confirm that infielder Adam Bryant has decided to retire. The former ninth round pick suffered with injuries in 2012, and missed all but one inning of 2013. As I wrote last week, he was still suffering from the toe injury. It certainly is fun to see former Twins Doug Mientkiewicz, Chad Allen and Tommy Watkins coaching the players up. It’s very interesting to watch Gary Lucas, Stu Cliburn and Ivan Arteaga work with pitchers. There are a lot of Minnesotans at Hammond Stadium. There are also a lot of parents and families of players. I was fortunate. I started talking to a couple about how nice it was being down here after such a tough, long winter in Minnesota. Turns out, they were the parents of Caleb Thielbar. Soon after, I heard my name. It was AJ Pettersen’s mom. I asked how she knew it was me, and she said she watched the Twins Hangouts, at least those that AJ is in. AJ’s dad was also there. So was his younger brother Luke who recently announced that he will follow his brother and play baseball for the Gophers. It was also nice to see AJ’s wife again. Looking around and such, it is clear that there is a certain bond, of sorts, among parents of ball players. Twins Daily contributor AJ Pettersen taking a round of infield at shortstop. The weather was a common theme for more than the fans. It was a conversation with the players well. I talked to a few of the Minnesota players who just came down to Ft. Myers in the last week or so (Nate Hanson, Austin Malinowski), and the sentiment was the same. They are glad to be out of the snow. Minnesota native Austin Malinowski throwing live BP. I also talked to catcher Tyler Grimes who said he came to Ft. Myers a month ago because he “couldn’t do any work outdoors in Kansas.” Over the next week, I will be representing Twins Daily in Ft. Myers. John did a great job last week, and be sure to check out Twins Daily on Facebook to see his interview with Glen Perkins. I will also be at several of the Twins games and doing stories. However, as you likely hope and expect, I will attempt to follow the minor league side of things as well. Nick and Parker will take over in coming weeks. (by the way, I also posted many pictures on my Facebook page from spring training) Watching BP (L to R: Lance Ray, AJ Pettersen, Doug Mientkiewicz, JD Williams) The biggest thing I learned on day one for me was probably a pretty obvious thing. Yes, I took in a lot of baseball activity and enjoyed it. I learned a lot about the updates to the stadium and much more. But the biggest thing I learned… USE SUNSCREEN!!! We bought sunscreen on Friday night. I managed not to even think about it on Saturday morning. It was “only 51 degrees” (sorry again to those up north). I didn’t need it, right? WRONG!! My head is red. It hurts. Tomorrow, I will be loading on a bunch of sunscreen, and likely purchasing a Ft. Myers Miracle hat to don while outdoors down here. Lesson Learned! And now I can’t wait for Day 2!

Two weeks ago, I posted version 1.0 of the Roster Projections. As I sit in the Minneapolis airport, with just over an hour remaining before boarding, I thought version 2.0 would be good. I am excited to spend the next eight days in Ft. Myers and I definitely welcome and encourage people to send me questions or specifically any questions you would like me to ask players. Not a lot has changed in the two weeks as far as my projections. There may, in fact, be even more question marks. At this point, I don’t think any more players would be classified as a “given.” So, check out my new roster projection and thoughts, and then fill the comments with your thoughts. The players in red are players that I believe are givens to make the roster (obviously pending injury). Those in black are potentially up for grabs. Catchers (2): Kurt Suzuki, Eric Fryer To this point, I don’t think the catcher situation is any more clear. Suzuki still appears to be the favorite to start, and he will certainly make the Opening Day roster. Josmil Pinto is now playing and appears to be healthy, so he’s back in the mix. With him being 25 already and the fact that a catcher is not going to play every day anyway, I could see a scenario in which he makes the team and catches two or three times a week and DHs once or twice as well. He certainly would, or at least could, be a solid bat off of the bench when he doesn’t play. At this point, I still think it more likely that Eric Fryer or Chris Herrmann head north as the backup. Herrmann is left-handed and has versatility. Fryer is right-handed and has played a bit of outfield in the minor leagues as well. Infielders (5): Joe Mauer, Brian Dozier, Trevor Plouffe, Pedro Florimon, Eduardo Escobar, No change here. The question seems to be whether or not Florimon will be ready for Opening Day. If he’s not, the question becomes what to do at shortstop and at utility infielder. We know that Escobar is out of options and is a given to make the roster. Would the Twins have him start if Florimon isn’t ready? If so, would they add Jason Bartlett, Doug Bernier or James Beresford to the 40 man roster for a couple weeks to serve as the utility infielder? I think if we know that it’s going to be a week or two that Florimon is out, the Twins would start the season with Danny Santana as their starting shortstop. He would know that no matter what, he would head down to Rochester when Florimon is ready to come off of the DL. He is on the 40 man roster, so that would be cleaner. Outfielders (6): Josh Willingham, Alex Presley, Oswaldo Arcia, Darin Mastroianni, Jason Kubel, Chris Parmelee I’m not changing my outfield projection at this point. Willingham remains the only given. I would like to think that Arcia is a given, but I just don’t know if that is true. I thought Jason Kubel was borderline given, based on him turning down an MLB deal with another team to sign a minor league deal with the Twins. However, as much as spring training numbers don’t mean a thing, he has looked lost at the plate to this point. Obviously a lot can change. My sense is that the centerfield decision is not as much of a given as I initially thought. I believe that Presley is the leading candidate, but I think that Aaron Hicks is going to get a real opportunity to win the job again. Presley is a given in that he is out of options and he would slot into the 4th outfielder job is he is not the starter. If Presley is the starter, Mastroianni likely remains the favorite to be the fourth outfielder although Wilkin Ramirez and Jermaine Mitchell are likely to stick in big league camp and be given plenty of opportunity to win a backup role. Chris Colabello would be a guy who would provide a lot of power from the right-side of the plate as you note that this is a left-handed heavy team. Chris Parmelee is out of options and is showing well in the early stages of big league camp. I think he’s nearly a given as well, but could he win the starting right field job from Arcia (which would push Arcia back to Rochester)? Starting Pitchers (5): Kevin Correia, Ricky Nolasco, Phil Hughes, Mike Pelfrey, Vance Worley No change at the top of the starting pitching ranks. The top four will be in the rotation to start the season, unless they are not healthy. The fifth starter job is still as much in the air as ever. Worley has been solid. Diamond had a good showing and then struggled on Monday night, though he didn’t get any defensive help. Deduno is working out of the bullpen to this point. He could be being eased back and monitored more closely after his shoulder surgery. Kyle Gibson has been good in his appearances. His wife will be having their first child in the next week, but he will continue to make his spring starts. I think he’s going to have to be a shut down pitcher to win a job, but I think he can be. Same thing with Alex Meyer, though based on his time missed a year ago, I think the odds are even less for him. Bullpen (7): Glen Perkins, Jared Burton, Brian Duensing, Casey Fien, Anthony Swarzak, Caleb Thielbar, Sam Deduno I believe that, barring injury or trade, the first five remain givens. The question becomes how the guys who are out of options affect the bullpen. As you can see, I now have Sam Deduno taking Ryan Pressly’s spot in the bullpen. He could pitch in long relief and Swarzak could be given some more high-leverage situations. I think that Caleb Thielbar will earn, or has earned, a job as well, but since he has two options remaining, he could be squeezed. I think that with all of the left-handers on the 40 man roster (plus Gilmartin and others), Diamond could be a trade candidate if the Twins can find a taker. What are your thoughts? What does your roster look like?

Major League spring training has been running for two weeks now. The team has played five games already (with four wins). Today (Tuesday), minor leaguers will need to report to Ft. Myers for the start of camp. They will undergo physicals on Wednesday, and their first official practice will on Thursday. 72 pitchers (25 left-handed) and 54 hitters who have not been at big league camp this year will be throwing bullpens, taking ground balls, shagging fly balls and taking some batting practice. Today, I want to give a bit of a spring training preview from the minor league perspective with some interesting things to look at. [PRBREAK][/PRBREAK] By early next week, the Twins will start sending some of the players from big league camp down to minor league camp. You may read the phrase, “Sending them across the parking lot.” If you have been to the Twins camp in Ft. Myers, the phrase makes sense. If not, the Twins minor league facilities are literally on the other side of a big parking lot, just a hundred yards or so from Hammond Stadium. After about four days of work- outs and practices, the minor league teams will start playing some games. The Rochester roster will play the New Britain roster. The Ft. Myers roster will play the Cedar Rapids roster. The teams will also play some games against affiliates from other organizations. As players are removed from big league camp, they’ll likely move to the Rochester roster and players there will move down to New Britain and so on until the last week in March when the affiliates' opening day rosters will be set and travel plans made. The Coaching Staffs Rochester: Gene Glynn (Mgr), Tim Doherty (hitting coach), Marty Mason (pitching coach) New Britain: Jeff Smith (Mgr), Chad Allen (hitting coach), Stu Cliburn (pitching coach) Ft. Myers: Doug Mientkiewicz (Mgr), Jim Dwyer (hitting coach), Gary Lucas (pitching coach) Cedar Rapids: Jake Mauer (Mgr), Tommy Watkins (hitting coach), Ivan Arteaga (pitching coach) Elizabethton: Ray Smith (Mgr), Henry Bonilla (pitching coach) GCL Twins: Ramon Borrega (Mgr), Riccardo Ingram & Rudy Hernandez (hitting coaches), Ehren Wassermann & Luis Ramirez (pitching coaches) The big change in the Twins minor league coaching staff is that Ivan Arteaga and Gary Lucas are switching levels this year. Lucas has been in the Midwest League for many years and he moves up to Ft. Myers. Arteaga has changed teams several times in the past few years. He will be tasked with working with some of the Twins' top pitching prospects in Cedar Rapids in 2014. For their Elizabethton rookie team the Twins will still need to hire a new hitting coach for 2014. Former big leaguer Jeff Reed had been the hitting coach for 12 years. Of course, since the Elizabethton season doesn’t start until mid-June, the Twins have some time to make that decision. Injury Update Top relief pitching prospect Zack Jones had successful surgery last Monday. Doctors had found an aneurysm in his shoulder which was cutting off circulation. He said he will not be able to start throwing for six or seven weeks, so his season will be delayed. JT Chargois had Tommy John surgery last September and will begin 2014 on the disabled list. The timing of his surgery is in line with that of Kyle Gibson's and Alex Wimmers'. If he maintains the same timeline, he could be throwing off of a mound by early June and possibly pitch some rehab games in the GCL in July. Adam Bryant continues to have problems with his toe. Nate Roberts has been running in Ft. Myers. I think we’re all hopeful that he can stay healthy. Alex Wimmers and Chris Mazza are already throwing bullpens in Ft. Myers. Position Changes Each year there are typically a couple of position changes. A year ago at this time, Tyler Grimes came to camp as a catcher after spending the first two years of his professional career as a middle infielder. This year, there are a couple of cases worth watching. Travis Harrison will be spending quite a bit of time in the outfield in 2014. He actually played quite a lot of outfield in summer ball during his prep years, but the Twins had him play third base since drafting him in 2011. He made some strides in 2013 in Cedar Rapids, and he will see time at third base in 2014, but he will also be playing a lot of outfield. Mike Kvasnicka has played a few different positions since the Astros drafted him in the first round out of the University of Minnesota. They tried him at third base, and behind the plate. Last year with Ft. Myers, he played in right field. He is going to get some time behind the plate again in 2014, though he will also play in the outfield. When the Twins drafted Dereck Rodriguez, they knew they had an intriguing prospect. The son of future Hall of Famer Ivan Rodriguez is quite athletic. Because he has all of the five tools, the Twins played him in the outfield. Unfortunately, he was frequently injured and didn’t show a lot with the bat. Arguably his best tool is his arm. Because of that, there was always talk that he could be moved to pitcher. That transition began during the offseason in Puerto Rico and will go into full effect in 2014. Brad Steil begins his second season as the Twins Director of Minor League Operations. There is a lot of talent throughout the system, and the organization has been recognized by national sites as one of the best in baseball. Each affiliate will have several players with big league potential. As you know, each year, there will be a handful of prospects who will take big leaps forward. Who will those be this year? Twins Daily strives to be the best place on the internet for Minnesota Twins minor league information. As we have done in previous years, we will continue to post daily game updates and reports. We will attempt to stay ahead of any news and information throughout the system. Please let us know if there is any more information or storylines that you would like us to follow.

It's been over four months since I have updated the Twins on Twitter feature. Some players have moved to other organizations. The Twins have also added several players to the organization who are on Twitter. Some are active. Some... not so much. Consider the below a resource for Twins fans who happen to be on Twitter to know who they can follow. I do ask your help, however. Am I missing anyone? Are there others (maybe media) that you would like to see added to this list?[PRBREAK][/PRBREAK] This is a list of the Minnesota Twins, minor leaguers, affiliates and more (as of March 1, 2014), along with the number of followers that they have. Let's help add to those totals. Feel free to comment [TABLE=width: 448] [TD=align: left]First Name[/TD] [TD=align: left]Last Name[/TD] [TD=align: left]Twitter[/TD] [TD=align: left]3/1/14 Update[/TD] [TD=align: left]AJ[/TD] [TD=align: left]Achter[/TD] [TD=align: left]@ajachter35[/TD] [TD=align: right]860[/TD] [TD=align: left]Bo[/TD] [TD=align: left]Altobelli[/TD] [TD=align: left]@BoAltobelli[/TD] [TD=align: right]233[/TD] [TD=align: left]Oswaldo[/TD] [TD=align: left]Arcia[/TD] [TD=align: left]@arciaoswaldo[/TD] [TD=align: right]3,146[/TD] [TD=align: left]Ivan[/TD] [TD=align: left]Arteaga[/TD] [TD=align: left]@IvanArteaga[/TD] [/TD] [TD=align: left]Luke [TD=align: left]Bard[/TD] [TD=align: left]@Luke_Bard[/TD] [TD=align: right]1,061[/TD] [TD=align: left]DJ[/TD] [TD=align: left]Baxendale[/TD] [TD=align: left]@DBax24[/TD] [TD=align: right]4,444[/TD] [TD=align: left]James[/TD] [TD=align: left]Beresford[/TD] [TD=align: left]@JamesBeresford2[/TD] [TD=align: right]1,268[/TD] [TD=align: left]Doug[/TD] [TD=align: left]Bernier[/TD] [TD=align: left]@dougbernier[/TD] [TD=align: right]781[/TD] [TD=align: left]J.O.[/TD] [TD=align: left]Berrios[/TD] [TD=align: left]@JOlaMaquina[/TD] [TD=align: right]1,200[/TD] [TD=align: left]Evan[/TD] [TD=align: left]Bigley[/TD] [TD=align: left]@Bigley3[/TD] [TD=align: right]700[/TD] [TD=align: left]Brandon[/TD] [TD=align: left]Bixler[/TD] [TD=align: left]@BrandonBixler[/TD] [TD=align: right]380[/TD] [TD=align: left]Hudson[/TD] [TD=align: left]Boyd[/TD] [TD=align: left]@boyd_hudson[/TD] [TD=align: right]615[/TD] [TD=align: left]Joshua[/TD] [TD=align: left]Burris[/TD] [TD=align: left]@Josh_Burris_[/TD] [TD=align: right]234[/TD] [TD=align: left]Byron[/TD] [TD=align: left]Buxton[/TD] [TD=align: left]@OfficialBuck103[/TD] [TD=align: right]12,844[/TD] [TD=align: left]Chris[/TD] [TD=align: left]Colabello[/TD] [TD=align: left]@CC20rake[/TD] [TD=align: right]3,702[/TD] [TD=align: left]Logan[/TD] [TD=align: left]Darnell[/TD] [TD=align: left]@ldarnell15[/TD] [TD=align: right]425[/TD] [TD=align: left]Pat[/TD] [TD=align: left]Dean[/TD] [TD=align: left]@PDean15[/TD] [TD=align: right]489[/TD] [TD=align: left]Scott[/TD] [TD=align: left]Diamond[/TD] [TD=align: left]@Scott_Diamond58[/TD] [TD=align: right]16,465[/TD] [TD=align: left]Lewin[/TD] [TD=align: left]Diaz[/TD] [TD=align: left]@lewin_diaz[/TD] [TD=align: right]42[/TD] [TD=align: left]Brian[/TD] [TD=align: left]Dozier[/TD] [TD=align: left]@BrianDozier[/TD] [TD=align: right]16,538[/TD] [TD=align: left]Brian[/TD] [TD=align: left]Duensing[/TD] [TD=align: left]@BrianDuensing52[/TD] [TD=align: right]17,413[/TD] [TD=align: left]Tyler[/TD] [TD=align: left]Duffey[/TD] [TD=align: left]@TheDoof13[/TD] [TD=align: right]275[/TD] [TD=align: left]Ryan[/TD] [TD=align: left]Eades[/TD] [TD=align: left]@R_Eades37[/TD] [TD=align: right]5,013[/TD] [TD=align: left]Eduardo[/TD] [TD=align: left]Escobar[/TD] [TD=align: left]@escobarmaracay[/TD] [TD=align: right]3,574[/TD] [TD=align: left]Eric[/TD] [TD=align: left]Farris[/TD] [TD=align: left]@eRoc86[/TD] [TD=align: right]2,959[/TD] [TD=align: left]Andrew[/TD] [TD=align: left]Ferreira[/TD] [TD=align: left]@Get_Meaty[/TD] [TD=align: right]3,840[/TD] [TD=align: left]Casey[/TD] [TD=align: left]Fien[/TD] [TD=align: left]@CaseyFien[/TD] [TD=align: right]680[/TD] [TD=align: left]Pedro[/TD] [TD=align: left]Florimon[/TD] [TD=align: left]@DroFlo25[/TD] [TD=align: right]85[/TD] [TD=align: left]Eric[/TD] [TD=align: left]Fryer[/TD] [TD=align: left]@EJFryer[/TD] [TD=align: right]160[/TD] [TD=align: left]Dallas[/TD] [TD=align: left]Gallant[/TD] [TD=align: left]@DGallant18[/TD] [TD=align: right]533[/TD] [TD=align: left]Mitchell[/TD] [TD=align: left]Garver[/TD] [TD=align: left]@MitchGarver[/TD] [TD=align: right]822[/TD] [TD=align: left]Sam[/TD] [TD=align: left]Gibbons[/TD] [TD=align: left]@gibboo25[/TD] [TD=align: right]136[/TD] [TD=align: left]Kyle[/TD] [TD=align: left]Gibson[/TD] [TD=align: left]@KGib44[/TD] [TD=align: right]10,299[/TD] [TD=align: left]Brian[/TD] [TD=align: left]Gilbert[/TD] [TD=align: left]@BGilly1s[/TD] [TD=align: right]181[/TD] [TD=align: left]Stephen[/TD] [TD=align: left]Gonsalves[/TD] [TD=align: left]@TheSGonsalves[/TD] [TD=align: right]688[/TD] [TD=align: left]Niko[/TD] [TD=align: left]Goodrum[/TD] [TD=align: left]@NikoGoodrumTC[/TD] [TD=align: right]23[/TD] [TD=align: left]Zach[/TD] [TD=align: left]Granite[/TD] [TD=align: left]@Zgranite[/TD] [TD=align: right]281[/TD] [TD=align: left]Steven[/TD] [TD=align: left]Gruver[/TD] [TD=align: left]@sgruv30[/TD] [TD=align: right]151[/TD] [TD=align: left]Deolis[/TD] [TD=align: left]Guerra[/TD] [TD=align: left]@deolisguerra[/TD] [TD=align: right]10,037[/TD] [TD=align: left]Bryan[/TD] [TD=align: left]Haar[/TD] [TD=align: left]@BryanHaar24[/TD] [TD=align: right]210[/TD] [TD=align: left]Nate[/TD] [TD=align: left]Hanson[/TD] [TD=align: left]@NHans12[/TD] [TD=align: right]516[/TD] [TD=align: left]Matt[/TD] [TD=align: left]Hauser[/TD] [TD=align: left]@mhauser_17[/TD] [TD=align: right]373[/TD] [TD=align: left]BJ[/TD] [TD=align: left]Hermsen[/TD] [TD=align: left]@BJHermsen12[/TD] [TD=align: right]1,807[/TD] [TD=align: left]DJ[/TD] [TD=align: left]Hicks[/TD] [TD=align: left]@DHicksMTB[/TD] [TD=align: right]1,205[/TD] [TD=align: left]Aaron[/TD] [TD=align: left]Hicks[/TD] [TD=align: left]@AaronHicks31[/TD] [TD=align: right]15,892[/TD] [TD=align: left]Kent[/TD] [TD=align: left]Hrbek[/TD] [TD=align: left]@Hrbie14[/TD] [TD=align: right]4,832[/TD] [TD=align: left]Phil[/TD] [TD=align: left]Hughes[/TD] [TD=align: left]@PJHughes45[/TD] [TD=align: right]88,821[/TD] [TD=align: left]David[/TD] [TD=align: left]Hurlbut[/TD] [TD=align: left]@leftydh1989[/TD] [TD=align: right]220[/TD] [TD=align: left]Will[/TD] [TD=align: left]Hurt[/TD] [TD=align: left]@Will_Hurt[/TD] [TD=align: right]682[/TD] [TD=align: left]CK[/TD] [TD=align: left]Irby[/TD] [TD=align: left]@ckirbythe3[/TD] [TD=align: right]762[/TD] [TD=align: left]Tyler[/TD] [TD=align: left]Jones[/TD] [TD=align: left]@TmfJones[/TD] [TD=align: right]33[/TD] [TD=align: left]Zack[/TD] [TD=align: left]Jones[/TD] [TD=align: left]@Jack_Zones04[/TD] [TD=align: right]506[/TD] [TD=align: left]Jason[/TD] [TD=align: left]Kanzler[/TD] [TD=align: left]@JasonKanzler[/TD] [TD=align: right]152[/TD] [TD=align: left]Max[/TD] [TD=align: left]Kepler[/TD] [TD=align: left]@kepleroni[/TD] [TD=align: right]984[/TD] [TD=align: left]Kyle[/TD] [TD=align: left]Knudson[/TD] [TD=align: left]@KKnudson6[/TD] [TD=align: right]580[/TD] [TD=align: left]Matt[/TD] [TD=align: left]Koch[/TD] [TD=align: left]@M_Koch4[/TD] [TD=align: right]104[/TD] [TD=align: left]Zack[/TD] [TD=align: left]Larson[/TD] [TD=align: left]@ZackLarson24[/TD] [TD=align: right]390[/TD] [TD=align: left]Brett[/TD] [TD=align: left]Lee[/TD] [TD=align: left]@BLee092090[/TD] [TD=align: right]115[/TD] [TD=align: left]Austin[/TD] [TD=align: left]Malinowski[/TD] [TD=align: left]@AJMalinowski24[/TD] [TD=align: right]488[/TD] [TD=align: left]Trevor[/TD] [TD=align: left]May[/TD] [TD=align: left]@TrevMay54[/TD] [TD=align: right]6,891[/TD] [TD=align: left]Trevor[/TD] [TD=align: left]May (MAZR)[/TD] [TD=align: left]@TrevorMAZR[/TD] [TD=align: left]NA[/TD] [TD=align: left]Chris[/TD] [TD=align: left]Mazza[/TD] [TD=align: left]@ChrisMazza10[/TD] [TD=align: right]359[/TD] [TD=align: left]Aderling[/TD] [TD=align: left]Mejia[/TD] [TD=align: left]@AderlingMejia[/TD] [TD=align: right]78[/TD] [TD=align: left]Tanner[/TD] [TD=align: left]Mendonca[/TD] [TD=align: left]@TanTheMan13[/TD] [TD=align: right]495[/TD] [TD=align: left]Kaleb[/TD] [TD=align: left]Merck[/TD] [TD=align: left]@KalebMerckin[/TD] [TD=align: right]315[/TD] [TD=align: left]Alex[/TD] [TD=align: left]Meyer[/TD] [TD=align: left]@Meyer17A[/TD] [TD=align: right]6,939[/TD] [TD=align: left]Levi[/TD] [TD=align: left]Michael[/TD] [TD=align: left]@LeviMichael9[/TD] [TD=align: right]373[/TD] [TD=align: left]Ethan[/TD] [TD=align: left]Mildren[/TD] [TD=align: left]@EMildren4040[/TD] [TD=align: right]485[/TD] [TD=align: left]Jermaine[/TD] [TD=align: left]Mitchell[/TD] [TD=align: left]@jtrane24[/TD] [TD=align: right]861[/TD] [TD=align: left]Jonathan[/TD] [TD=align: left]Murphy[/TD] [TD=align: left]@JMurph6[/TD] [TD=align: right]281[/TD] [TD=align: left]Brian[/TD] [TD=align: left]Navarretto[/TD] [TD=align: left]@Brian_Navarrero[/TD] [TD=align: right]87[/TD] [TD=align: left]Ricky[/TD] [TD=align: left]Nolasco[/TD] [TD=align: left]@RNolasco47[/TD] [TD=align: right]23,125[/TD] [TD=align: left]Lester[/TD] [TD=align: left]Oliveros[/TD] [TD=align: left]@lesteroliveros[/TD] [TD=align: right]2,571[/TD] [TD=align: left]Ryan[/TD] [TD=align: left]O'Rourke[/TD] [TD=align: left]@RyanO_Rourke[/TD] [TD=align: right]687[/TD] [TD=align: left]Chris[/TD] [TD=align: left]Parmelee[/TD] [TD=align: left]@CParms27[/TD] [TD=align: right]9,185[/TD] [TD=align: left]Derrick[/TD] [TD=align: left]Penilla[/TD] [TD=align: left]@leftywayz[/TD] [TD=align: right]21[/TD] [TD=align: left]Glen[/TD] [TD=align: left]Perkins[/TD] [TD=align: left]@glen_perkins[/TD] [TD=align: right]25,777[/TD] [TD=align: left]Brandon[/TD] [TD=align: left]Peterson[/TD] [TD=align: left]@Bpeterson_12[/TD] [TD=align: right]356[/TD] [TD=align: left]AJ[/TD] [TD=align: left]Pettersen[/TD] [TD=align: left]@apettersen1[/TD] [TD=align: right]972[/TD] [TD=align: left]Josmil[/TD] [TD=align: left]Pinto[/TD] [TD=align: left]@JosmilPinto[/TD] [TD=align: right]599[/TD] [TD=align: left]Trevor[/TD] [TD=align: left]Plouffe[/TD] [TD=align: left]@TPlouffe24[/TD] [TD=align: right]29,312[/TD] [TD=align: left]Jorge[/TD] [TD=align: left]Polanco[/TD] [TD=align: left]@Jorge_Polanco1[/TD] [TD=align: right]910[/TD] [TD=align: left]Christian[/TD] [TD=align: left]Powell[/TD] [TD=align: left]@BooPowell20[/TD] [TD=align: right]511[/TD] [TD=align: left]Ryan[/TD] [TD=align: left]Pressly[/TD] [TD=align: left]@pressly_ryan[/TD] [TD=align: right]2,461[/TD] [TD=align: left]Jake[/TD] [TD=align: left]Proctor[/TD] [TD=align: left]@JProc23[/TD] [TD=align: right]1,226[/TD] [TD=align: left]Michael[/TD] [TD=align: left]Quesada[/TD] [TD=align: left]@KSada55[/TD] [TD=align: right]279[/TD] [TD=align: left]Brooks[/TD] [TD=align: left]Raley[/TD] [TD=align: left]@BrooksRaley[/TD] [TD=align: right]2,645[/TD] [TD=align: left]Chad[/TD] [TD=align: left]Rodgers[/TD] [TD=align: left]@CMRodg[/TD] [TD=align: right]292[/TD] [TD=align: left]Dereck[/TD] [TD=align: left]Rodriguez[/TD] [TD=align: left]@DereckRodRF3[/TD] [TD=align: right]334[/TD] [TD=align: left]Taylor[/TD] [TD=align: left]Rogers[/TD] [TD=align: left]@trogers34[/TD] [TD=align: right]385[/TD] [TD=align: left]Dan[/TD] [TD=align: left]Rohlfing[/TD] [TD=align: left]@DanRohlfing[/TD] [TD=align: right]1,425[/TD] [TD=align: left]Miguel[/TD] [TD=align: left]Sano[/TD] [TD=align: left]@SanoMiguel[/TD] [TD=align: right]7,393[/TD] [TD=align: left]Danny[/TD] [TD=align: left]Santana[/TD] [TD=align: left]@bigmen07[/TD] [TD=align: right]377[/TD] [TD=align: left]Bryan[/TD] [TD=align: left]Santy[/TD] [TD=align: left]@BKSanty41[/TD] [TD=align: right]242[/TD] [TD=align: left]Aaron[/TD] [TD=align: left]Slegers[/TD] [TD=align: left]@Aslegers[/TD] [TD=align: right]897[/TD] [TD=align: left]Manuel[/TD] [TD=align: left]Soliman[/TD] [TD=align: left]@Soliman30[/TD] [TD=align: right]604[/TD] [TD=align: left]Kohl[/TD] [TD=align: left]Stewart[/TD] [TD=align: left]@KohlStewart1[/TD] [TD=align: right]5,811[/TD] [TD=align: left]Tom[/TD] [TD=align: left]Stuifbergen[/TD] [TD=align: left]@TomStuifbergen[/TD] [/TD] [TD=align: left]Miguel [TD=align: left]Sulburan[/TD] [TD=align: left]@054_miguel[/TD] [TD=align: right]359[/TD] [TD=align: left]Kurt[/TD] [TD=align: left]Suzuki[/TD] [TD=align: left]@kurtsuzuki[/TD] [TD=align: right]31,666[/TD] [TD=align: left]Anthony[/TD] [TD=align: left]Swarzak[/TD] [TD=align: left]@ASwarzak51[/TD] [TD=align: right]9,996[/TD] [TD=align: left]Tony[/TD] [TD=align: left]Thomas[/TD] [TD=align: left]@GoldGlover2B[/TD] [TD=align: right]1,661[/TD] [TD=align: left]Lewis[/TD] [TD=align: left]Thorpe[/TD] [TD=align: left]@LewisT18[/TD] [TD=align: right]508[/TD] [TD=align: left]Matt[/TD] [TD=align: left]Tomshaw[/TD] [TD=align: left]@matthewJTomshaw[/TD] [TD=align: right]282[/TD] [TD=align: left]Michael[/TD] [TD=align: left]Tonkin[/TD] [TD=align: left]@mtonkin37[/TD] [TD=align: right]773[/TD] [TD=align: left]Stuart[/TD] [TD=align: left]Turner[/TD] [TD=align: left]@sturn26[/TD] [TD=align: right]1,486[/TD] [TD=align: left]Daniel[/TD] [TD=align: left]Turpen[/TD] [TD=align: left]@DdTuRpEn[/TD] [TD=align: right]145[/TD] [TD=align: left]Kennys[/TD] [TD=align: left]Vargas[/TD] [TD=align: left]@kennysvargas[/TD] [TD=align: right]46[/TD] [TD=align: left]Tanner[/TD] [TD=align: left]Vavra[/TD] [TD=align: left]@tannervavra[/TD] [TD=align: right]498[/TD] [TD=align: left]Ruar[/TD] [TD=align: left]Verkerk[/TD] [TD=align: left]@ruarverkerk[/TD] [TD=align: right]407[/TD] [TD=align: left]Adam[/TD] [TD=align: left]Walker[/TD] [TD=align: left]@walkoff28[/TD] [TD=align: right]1,130[/TD] [TD=align: left]Ryan[/TD] [TD=align: left]Walker[/TD] [TD=align: left]@RyanWalker25[/TD] [TD=align: right]158[/TD] [TD=align: left]Brandon[/TD] [TD=align: left]Waring[/TD] [TD=align: left]@WaringBc[/TD] [TD=align: right]625[/TD] [TD=align: left]Tommy[/TD] [TD=align: left]Watkins[/TD] [TD=align: left]@TommyWatkins[/TD] [TD=align: right]1,719[/TD] [TD=align: left]Dakota[/TD] [TD=align: left]Watts[/TD] [TD=align: left]@watts_22[/TD] [TD=align: right]1,303[/TD] [TD=align: left]Jason[/TD] [TD=align: left]Wheeler[/TD] [TD=align: left]@JasonMWheeler[/TD] [TD=align: right]216[/TD] [TD=align: left]Stephen[/TD] [TD=align: left]Wickens[/TD] [TD=align: left]@wicks1221[/TD] [TD=align: right]140[/TD] [TD=align: left]Corey[/TD] [TD=align: left]Williams[/TD] [TD=align: left]@coreyw24[/TD] [TD=align: right]360[/TD] [TD=align: left]Jared[/TD] [TD=align: left]Wilson[/TD] [TD=align: left]@DubsDeuces[/TD] [TD=align: right]156[/TD] [TD=align: left]Alex[/TD] [TD=align: left]Wimmers[/TD] [TD=align: left]@AlexWimmers21[/TD] [TD=align: right]1,400[/TD] [TD=align: left]Vance[/TD] [TD=align: left]Worley[/TD] [TD=align: left]@VANIMAL_49[/TD] [TD=align: right]50,390[/TD] [/TD] [TD=align: left]FRONT OFFICE [/TD] [TD=align: left]First Name [TD=align: left]Last Name[/TD] [TD=align: left]Twitter[/TD] [TD=align: left]3/1/14 Update[/TD] [TD=align: left]Minnesota[/TD] [TD=align: left]Twins[/TD] [TD=align: left]@twins[/TD] [TD=align: right]189,680[/TD] [TD=align: left]Dave[/TD] [TD=align: left]St. Peter[/TD] [TD=align: left]@TwinsPrez[/TD] [TD=align: right]19,972[/TD] [TD=align: left]Dustin[/TD] [TD=align: left]Morse[/TD] [TD=align: left]@Twins_morsecode[/TD] [TD=align: right]12,336[/TD] [TD=align: left]Mike[/TD] [TD=align: left]Herman[/TD] [TD=align: left]@HermTT[/TD] [TD=align: right]2,463[/TD] [TD=align: left]Mitch[/TD] [TD=align: left]Hestad[/TD] [TD=align: left]@mitchhestad[/TD] [TD=align: right]204[/TD] [TD=align: left]Jack[/TD] [TD=align: left]Goin[/TD] [TD=align: left]@jdgoin[/TD] [TD=align: right]480[/TD] [TD=align: left]Bryan[/TD] [TD=align: left]Donaldson[/TD] [TD=align: left]@MNCommunityGuy[/TD] [TD=align: right]1,636[/TD] [TD=align: left]Andrew[/TD] [TD=align: left]Heydt[/TD] [TD=align: left]@AndrewHeydt[/TD] [TD=align: right]735[/TD] [TD=align: left]Mike[/TD] [TD=align: left]Kennedy[/TD] [TD=align: left]@TwinsPRMachine[/TD] [TD=align: right]696[/TD] [TD=align: left]Brace[/TD] [TD=align: left]Hemmelgarn[/TD] [TD=align: left]@bracehemmelgarn[/TD] [TD=align: right]1,841[/TD] [TD=align: left]TC[/TD] [TD=align: left]Bear[/TD] [TD=align: left]@TC_00[/TD] [TD=align: right]12,013[/TD] [/TD] [TD=align: left]Twins Daily [/TD] [TD=align: left]3/1/14 Update [TD=align: left]Twins[/TD] [TD=align: left]Daily[/TD] [TD=align: left]@TwinsDaily[/TD] [TD=align: right]3,588[/TD] [TD=align: left]John[/TD] [TD=align: left]Bonnes[/TD] [TD=align: left]@TwinsGeek[/TD] [TD=align: right]6,717[/TD] [TD=align: left]Seth[/TD] [TD=align: left]Stohs[/TD] [TD=align: left]@SethTweets[/TD] [TD=align: right]5,801[/TD] [TD=align: left]Nick[/TD] [TD=align: left]Nelson[/TD] [TD=align: left]@Nnelson9[/TD] [TD=align: right]3,124[/TD] [TD=align: left]Parker[/TD] [TD=align: left]Hageman[/TD] [TD=align: left]@ParkerHageman[/TD] [TD=align: right]4,279[/TD] [TD=align: left]Brock[/TD] [TD=align: left]Beauchamp[/TD] [TD=align: left]@rocketpig76[/TD] [TD=align: right]83[/TD] [/TD] [TD=align: left]Jeremy [TD=align: left]Nygaard[/TD] [TD=align: left]@JeremyNygaard[/TD] [TD=align: right]879[/TD] [TD=align: left]Cody[/TD] [TD=align: left]Christie[/TD] [TD=align: left]@NoDakTwinsFan[/TD] [TD=align: right]1,053[/TD] [TD=align: left]Twins[/TD] [TD=align: left]Hangouts[/TD] [TD=align: left]@TwinsHangouts[/TD] [TD=align: right]189[/TD] [TD=align: left]Gleeman[/TD] [TD=align: left]and the Geek[/TD] [TD=align: left]@GleemanandGeek[/TD] [TD=align: right]966[/TD] [/TD] [TD=align: left]Minor Leagues [/TD] [TD=align: left]3/1/14 Update [TD=align: left]Rochester[/TD] [TD=align: left]Red Wings[/TD] [TD=align: left]@RocRedWings[/TD] [TD=align: right]7,641[/TD] [TD=align: left]Josh[/TD] [TD=align: left]Whetzel[/TD] [TD=align: left]@JoshWhetzel[/TD] [TD=align: right]1,215[/TD] [TD=align: left]Morrie[/TD] [TD=align: left]Silver[/TD] [TD=align: left]@MorrieSilver8[/TD] [TD=align: right]437[/TD] [TD=align: left]Jim[/TD] [TD=align: left]Mandelaro[/TD] [TD=align: left]@JMand1[/TD] [TD=align: right]1,345[/TD] [TD=align: left]Christopher[/TD] [TD=align: left]Fee[/TD] [TD=align: left]@CJFee[/TD] [TD=align: right]234[/TD] [/TD] [TD=align: left]New Britain [TD=align: left]Rock Cats[/TD] [TD=align: left]@RockCats[/TD] [TD=align: right]6,441[/TD] [TD=align: left]Ken[/TD] [TD=align: left]Lipshez[/TD] [TD=align: left]@KenLip1[/TD] [TD=align: right]154[/TD] [TD=align: left]Jeff[/TD] [TD=align: left]Dooley[/TD] [TD=align: left]@Jdooleysports[/TD] [TD=align: right]458[/TD] [TD=align: left]Andrew[/TD] [TD=align: left]Walter[/TD] [TD=align: left]@Mnfanfromafar[/TD] [TD=align: right]763[/TD] [/TD] [TD=align: left]Ft. 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Twins fans may have gone to bed on Friday night excited to get their first glimpse of the 2014 Minnesota Twins. Saturday's noon (central time) Twins game will be televised on Fox Sports North. Twins fans were also holding on to a hope that uber-prospect Miguel Sano might be able to avoid Tommy John surgery. Unfortunately, that proved to be just a dream. On Saturday morning, Twins media was informed that Sano will head to Minneapolis next week and have Tommy John surgery.[PRBREAK][/PRBREAK] Sano is a clear top ten prospect in the game of baseball. He is regarded as the top third base prospect and the best power-hitting prospect in baseball. He hit 35 home runs in 2013 between Ft. Myers and New Britain. There was some hope that he could surface with the Twins sometime, maybe early, in the 2014 season. However, in just his second game in the Dominican Winter League, Sano came out of the game with a sore elbow. After seeing Twins doctors and the respected Dr. James Andrews, the decision was made for Sano to rest for two months, and then start a throwing program in January. Things went well until Thursday's intrasquad game. Sano made two nice plays and showed off his strong arm. However, when he had to make an off-balanced throw, the pain came back. The Pioneer Press's Mike Berardino posted a Tout video of an interview he conducted with Sano after learning the news. It's sad, and you can just seen the sadness and disappointment in his face. He is expected to miss the entire 2014 season. Recovery time from Tommy John surgery for position players is generally in the six to eight month range as opposed to the twelve (or more) months it takes a pitcher to return. It will be interesting to see how the Twins and Sano handle his return. Could he be some at bats in a rehab in the GCL late in the summer? He should be ready for Instructional League. Could they send him to the Arizona Fall League? There is no reason to believe that he won't be at 100% before next spring training. Twins fans can hope. Best wishes to Miguel Sano.

As spring training games are set to begin for the Minnesota Twins, fans will finally be able to see how the players perform against other teams. As we’ve learned time after time, actual spring training statistics mean very little. Most positions are already accounted for. However, as we have documented the last two weeks at Twins Daily, there are still a few position battles we will be watching. Spring performance also is noteworthy for prospects and other players who just want to make an impression on the Twins coaching staff and brass. It may not mean making the Opening Day roster, but it might mean getting a look when a need arises through the season.[PRBREAK][/PRBREAK] Today, I’m going to take a look at some of the prospects who are in Ft. Myers looking to make an impression. THE BIG THREE There’s no question the Twins have one of the most highly rated minor league systems in all baseball. This is largely due to the Twins' Big Three. Byron Buxton is rated baseball’s #1 prospect by every outlet. Miguel Sano is touted as the top third base prospect in large part because he is generally considered the minor leaguer with the most power potential in the game. For me, Alex Meyer fits into the elite prospect category as well. As great as the potential may be for Buxton and Sano, Meyer is arguably the most important prospect in the Twins' farm system. Meyer represents what Twins fans (and coaches and front office personnel) have been awaiting for years, an ace. Not just a #1 starter, but a true ace. Blessed with a fastball that can hit triple-digits, Meyer also has a devastating slider and two other major league pitches. All three of these prospects are in big league camp. It is the first go ‘round for Buxton and Sano while Meyer was invited last spring after coming to the organization from Washington. All three are non-roster invitees. (Sano and Meyer would need to be added to the 40 man roster following the 2014 season while Buxton would not need to be added until after the 2016 season.) Because they are not on the 40 man roster, it is more likely the Twins will take a long look at them. It is also possible all three will surface with the Twins sometime in 2014. QUICK GLANCE If a player on the 40 man roster happens to get hurt while in major league camp, he would go on the major league disabled list. Because of that, players on the 40 man roster with little (or no) chance of making the Opening Day roster are quickly sent to minor league camp. Minor leaguers report to Ft. Myers on March 4 and their first full workout is March 6. The Twins first round of cuts will likely be soon after that. There are several players that fit in this category: Max Kepler – The outfielder/first baseman is young (20) and very raw, but he has a world of talent. He will start the season in Ft. Myers after playing just a half-season at Cedar Rapids last year before his Arizona Fall League stint. Jorge Polanco – The infielder is just 20 years old and played all 2013 in Cedar Rapids. He’ll move up to Ft. Myers for 2014. His prospect status has risen quickly the past two years, so he was an easy choice to be added to the 40 man roster. He’ll also be an easy choice to send to minor league camp right away. Kennys Vargas – If you thought the 6-5, 250 pound Miguel Sano was a large man, wait until you see Vargas. He is 6-6 and about 275 pounds. He (specifically his batting practice prowess) has made quite an impression this spring. He had a solid season in 2013 in Ft. Myers and will begin the 2014 season in AA New Britain. Danny Santana – Even with Pedro Florimon’s appendectomy and missed time in spring training, Santana will not be an option for Opening Day. I think he’ll start the 2014 season back in New Britain, but we could see him by season’s end. However, with Eduardo Escobar, Jason Bartlett and James Beresford in camp, I think he’ll be sent down quickly. Logan Darnell – The left-hander pitched for New Britain and Rochester in 2013. He is likely to spend the season starting in Rochester in 2014. Due to the logjam for the 5th starter spot already, Darnell likely gets sent back to minor league spring training pretty quickly. LONG LOOKS If they are still qualified as “prospects”, there are a few prospects who are on the 40 man roster and will still get long looks this spring. Kyle Gibson, Oswaldo Arcia and Aaron Hicks fall into this category. Josmil Pinto has a chance to be the Twins starting catcher. That offensive talent made a strong impression last fall in his big league debut. However, he was shut down quickly from winter ball due to a sore shoulder. On arriving in Ft. Myers, he was delayed by a back problem too. He’ll get a chance to compete though. Trevor May, like Darnell, is not going to make the Opening Day roster due to the crunch at the back of the Twins rotation. Also, he has only pitched in one game at AAA. The Twins will want to take a long look at him to get a better feel for whether or not he will be able to start long term. Michael Tonkin could also be around big league camp for a little while. Though he struggled at AAA and in the big leagues, he still has a big arm and the potential to pitch at the back-end of the Twins bullpen for years. ORGANIZATION’S NEW ARMS In the offseason, the Twins added a few pitchers to the organization. They will likely want to see them for a little while in an attempt to see what they have. Sean Gilmartin is not on the 40 man roster. He came to the Twins from the Atlanta Braves in the Ryan Doumit trade. A first-round pick just three years ago, he was injured in 2013 and hopes to show what he can do again when healthy. Brooks Raley was claimed by the Twins just two weeks ago. He had appeared in games for the Chicago Cubs each of the last two seasons, but he was removed from their 40 man roster and claimed by the Twins. The left-hander has started, but he also has pitched out of the bullpen. He certainly does fit the mold of soft-tossing lefty. Kris Johnson came to the Twins in a trade from the Pittsburgh Pirates. The Twins sent reliever Duke Welker back to the Pirates in exchange. Recall that the Twins sent Justin Morneau to the Pirates in late August for Alex Presley and a player to be named later. Shortly after the season, the teams announced that the PTBNL was reliever Welker. Then a month or so later, something happened and the Twins decided they would send Welker back to Pittsburgh for Johnson. Though already 29, Johnson made his big league debut in 2013. He showed that he isn’t just a soft-tosser. He capable of hitting 92 on the radar. ROAD TO RECOVERY There are two pitchers at Twins camp who came to the organization in controversial trades. They were both on the 40 man roster at one point, but injury cost each of them time and a spot on the 40 man roster. Last spring, Deolis Guerra was ready to pitch for Team Venezuela in the WBC. Unfortunately, a blood clot in his shoulder required surgery and he missed the entire season. He became a free agent following the 2013 season but chose to stay with the Twins. The same is true of Lester Oliveros. He could have gone elsewhere but stayed with the Twins. In September of 2012, he had Tommy John surgery and rehabbed throughout the 2013 season. Both pitchers are still 25 or younger. Guerra has a tremendous changeup while Oliveros was a hard-thrower. Both could fit into the Twins bullpen in 2014 if a need arrives. NON-ROSTER INVITES WHO CAN IMPRESS James Beresford put together his best offensive season in 2013, hitting over .300 while splitting time between New Britain and Rochester. The second baseman may compete (or should be allowed to compete) for a second utility infield position. Every spring training, teams need a lot of catchers at big league camp. The reason? There are a ton of pitchers at big league camp. There are four non-roster catchers in Twins camp. This is the fourth time Rohlfing has been a non-roster invite to big league camp. Last year, he split his time between New Britain and Rochester. He also is a terrific athlete who split his time between catcher and the outfield. Rohlfing became a free agent after last season but signed back with the Twins. Kyle Knudson was invited to spring training for the second time. The former Gophers star was healthy for the first time in his career last year and came through with a very solid season between Ft. Myers and New Britain. Matt Koch spent 2013 in Ft. Myers. He’s more of an offensive catcher, though, showing good power and an ability to hit for average. Stuart Turner was the Twins 3rd round pick just last year. He was the Johnny Bench Award winner as the nation’s top catcher. He is a guy who could move quickly. As we’ve learned, all the Twins home games this spring will be shown on FSN. Now when you see players wearing uniforms with numbers generally worn by offensive tackles and wide receivers, you’ll know a little bit about them. We are certain to learn even more about them throughout the 2014 season.

Eric Fryer is one of four catchers on the Minnesota Twins 40 man roster. We know that Kurt Suzuki will be on the Opening Day roster, but who will join him? Will it be the offensive force that Josmil Pinto could be? Will Chris Herrmann’s versatility and athleticism put him in the role? Eric Fryer knows that his defense is what gives him a chance to make the Twins Opening Day roster. I had the chance to talk one-on-one with Fryer last month at Twins Fest and got to learn a lot more about him and about what goes through the mind of a good catcher.[PRBREAK][/PRBREAK] Eric Fryer was born in August of 1985 in Columbus, Ohio. He said, “Columbus is kind of a Cleveland/Cincinnati split, but I was always a Reds fan. My dad liked The Big Red Machine.” And his favorite player? “I liked watching Pete Rose play, just how he always went hard-nosed and just went at it.” Fryer became a star in high school. He attended Reynoldsburg High School where fifteen years earlier another Major Leaguer honed his skills. The player is someone that Fryer has emulated throughout his career. “My favorite athlete was Mike Matheny. He was a catcher. We went to the same high school, same high school coach and everything. Talk about a guy who knows how to run a staff, knows how to block and throw and everything. I liked to watch him play as much as I could. He’s built a lot different than me. He’s a lot bigger than I am. It was cool. I got to see his Hall of Fame induction in our high school, got to meet him a couple of times, so it’s always been cool trying to follow in his footsteps. From the same hometown, getting up to the big leagues. So, I always emulated him growing up.” Matheny had a 13 year major league career and won four Gold Glove awards behind the plate. He was the catcher on two St. Louis Cardinals teams that lost in the World Series. In 2012, he was named the Cardinals manager, and in 2013, he led the team to the World Series where they fell to the Red Sox. Matheny went on to the University of Michigan. Fryer stayed home and played for THE Ohio State University. Following the 2007 college season, Fryer was the 10th round selection of the Milwaukee Brewers. After hitting .335/.407/.506 (.914) in the SALLY League in his first full season, he was traded by the Brewers to the Yankees for left-handed pitcher Chase Wright. In late June of 2009, he was on the move again, this time to the Pirates in exchange for pinch-hitter Eric Hinske. He hit .300/.391/.474 (.865) in 2010. In 2011, he moved up to AA Altoona where he hit .345/.427/.549 (.976) in 37 games. On June 26, he was called up to the big leagues and made his big league debut against the Boston Red Sox. It was an eventful debut. He started, batted eighth, caught James McDonald, and faced Andrew Miller. “I got thrown at in in my big league debut, and I had a collision at home plate with David Ortiz. So that was certainly memorable. He didn’t hit me super hard.” He played in ten games for the Pirates over about five weeks before being sent down to AAA Indianapolis. In 2012, he played in six more games with the Pirates. Following that season, he became a six-year minor league free agent, and the Twins signed him quickly to a minor league deal. He spent the entire minor league season with the Rochester Red Wings, playing for manager Gene Glynn. “For a while, we had like five catchers on the roster at one time. It’s pretty tough to get everyone some playing time, but the communication he had was very good. He let everyone know the plan. Down the stretch, him and (Red Wings pitching coach) Marty Mason, we got together and had a pretty good game plan as we put together a playoff push. They just really showed me how to lead, how I could lead the staff. They trusted my judgment, what I saw. They helped with the running game. For the most part, they gave their input and really encouraged me to do what I believe with the pitchers and it worked out well for us.” When the Red Wings playoff run came to an end, Fryer was one of seven players promoted to the Twins for the remainder of September. The circumstances of his promotion were very similar. As Fryer said, “In 2011 (in Pittsburgh), there were a lot of injuries. I think I was the eighth catcher the Pirates used that year.” He continued, “(It was a) Similar situation here with Joe (Mauer) and Ryan (Doumit) and the concussions. They needed an extra catcher. It was a fresh start for me. I was really excited to go up there.” Fryer played in just six games for the Twins, but hit .385 including his first major league home run, a moment he will never forget, even if it came in a game the Twins would rather forget. “It was pretty cool. I hit it. It is a huge ball park, especially in left center, so I was busting out of the box thinking maybe a double. Then the umpire put his hand up and swirled it. Oh my gosh. I’m not really a home run hitter. It was a huge joy, but I didn’t really know how to act. I think it was 16-2 or 3 at the time, so I had to kind of be cool. Everybody in the dugout was great, smiling. Gardy, after the game, like he does for everybody’s first home run I guess, brought everyone together, tossed the ball to me. So, it was a really cool moment that they made special even though the game is one we want to forget.” Since the offseason, Terry Ryan and others have continued to talk about the positive impression that Fryer has made within the organization. As any of us would, Fryer feels good about that. “I really appreciate that. It’s a big honor. It’s just nice to know that they trust you. Sometimes people worry that the backup catcher, whatever the role is, they’re going to derail it. You want to have a guy who will keep continuity with the staff and with the game plan every time out there. I think last year I showed I can do that. It wasn’t a lot of playing time, but when I went out there, I did some things that they liked. Did some things that the pitchers liked. So hopefully I can move forward and do the same thing.” Fryer is known as a defensive catcher. So, what does that term mean to him? “I think I have a pretty good relationship with pitchers. I think they know that when I’m back there, it doesn’t matter what I’m doing with the bat or anything. It’s me and them. We’re going to get through the game each time. I try to take it seriously, get stretched out, have a game plan. It was nice in AAA, I’ve been there a little bit so I kind of knew hitters, so that was a good part of the game. But, defensively, I think I do a pretty good job holding pitches, catching the low pitch, with balls in the dirt. They’re going to know that I’m going to do my best. Defensively, I’m going to do my best for them.” Fryer is a smart guy and knows that the best way to learn is through playing, but also through watching how others prepare. “I love picking the brains of the older guys. When I was with the Pirates, I got to talk to AJ Burnett and Kevin Correia. It’s just nice seeing those guys, even if you’re not playing, to see how they go about their business, how they prepare for a game, what they look for with hitters. It’s nice to talk to a lot of those guys.” So, how does he put all of that information into action during a game? In 2013, Fryer worked with many of the pitchers that we saw with the Twins. “Communication is big, not only with the pitcher, but the pitching coach and the manager, especially in the minor leagues. All those guys, when they’re going good, they’re attacking hitters. They’re going after hitters. They’re getting ahead. Catching Andrew Albers, some of his complete games, he was Strike 1, 0-1. It’s a big advantage to the pitchers, puts the hitters at a huge disadvantage. I was catching Vance (Worley) when he was rolling down there in AAA too. (Caught Kyle) Gibson a lot. The recipe was pretty much the same. We attack with the fastball, get ahead of guys, and then you can start picking around and do what you want to. Always pitch to their strengths, that’s the biggest thing. Whether it’s not working that day, we’re going to get it going the right direction one way or another. If it doesn’t work, start getting hit around, we go to plan B. I don’t like them to be passive, I want them to be aggressive. Go after hitters. I think that’s been a big recipe of mine, calling pitches.” Fryer is excited about the 2014 season and the signings that the Twins made, adding a couple of guys who have had a lot of success. “You want as many guys with playoff experience coming in here. Build a tradition, build it back up where there’s an expectation of going out there and winning every ball game. The moves that we made, it sounds like we’re moving the right direction.” I asked Fryer about his goals for spring training, and if that included making the Twins Opening Day roster. He said, “I think all of us are planning on making the team, but in the past, I’ve had chances to do that. If you start putting too much pressure on results instead of working to improve every day, then you actually put yourself in a worse situation. So I think going out and approaching it the same way I have each spring, just each day get a little better, build up to the start of the season. Normally that puts me in a pretty good spot. I think all of us -- me, Pinto, Herrmann, whoever else is challenging -- we’re going to approach it the same way.” But Fryer has a good perspective on this game. He fully understands his role as a backup catcher and dives into that headfirst. He is a guy that you can’t help but cheer for. “You never know when it’s going to be your last time in the big leagues. So I just want to do the best I can and play with my hair on fire,” Fryer continued. “Every day, I just try to treat it as a blessing. You never know when it’s going to be done, whether it is injury or they’re just going to tell you you’re not good enough, so go out there and play as hard as you can and enjoy it.”

In January, we reviewed the catchers, the first basemen, third basemen, middle infielders and outfielders in the Minnesota Twins organization. Last week, we took a look at the starting pitchers. Today, we conclude the series by discussing the relief pitchers in the Twins system. Obviously the Twins find themselves in a situation where some starting pitchers could move into a bullpen role, but for this exercise, we’ll take a look at guys who have been relievers.[PRBREAK][/PRBREAK] The Big Leaguers The Twins bullpen was one of the few bright spots for the 2013 team. Yet, they were about league average, so there is room for improvement. Glen Perkins has proven himself one of the best relievers in baseball. Jared Burton and Casey Fien gave the Twins two right-handers late in games. Brian Duensing had a six-week rough patch, but he’s been a solid lefty in the bullpen for a few years now. Caleb Thielbar came up and was terrific. Anthony Swarzak pitched a ton of innings and was an unsung hero on last year’s team. Ryan Pressly was very good in his Rule 5 season, holding his own throughout the year. We did get our first glimpse of Michael Tonkin. He struggled in the big leagues, as well as at Rochester, so patience will be needed. However, the tall right-hander has a chance to be very good at the back-end of the bullpen. He will see more time in 2014. Late in the offseason, the Twins signed Matt Guerrier to a minor league contract. He spent six-plus years in the organization and was a very solid contributor for five of those years. He had forearm muscle surgery late last year, so it will be interesting to see when he will be ready. Prospect Rankings As those who have read me for years know, I tend to rank relief pitchers well lower than starting pitchers. That's not because I don’t think the role is important to a team. Think about it, nearly 1/3 of a major league roster is comprised of relief pitchers. For me, it only comes down to potential innings pitched in a season, starters vs. the bullpen. Here is a look at some of the top bullpen prospects in the Twins' farm system. Hard-throwing right-hander Zack Jones was my choice as the #22 Twins prospect and top reliever. In Ft. Meyers, he was consistently throwing fastballs above 95 mph and frequently hitting 99. He struggled in the Arizona Fall League and was shut down late due to cold fingers. On Monday, Feb. 24th, he will have surgery to repair an aneurysm that was found in his right shoulder which was cutting off circulation. He’ll miss the start of the season, but he should be able to return to form by midseason. Luke Bard came in at #23 in my rankings. If 100% healthy, Bard will likely get an opportunity to start, though he may be a reliever down the road. His stuff is described as “filthy” so he could be a fast mover. Michael Tonkin ranked #26 for me. He is 6'-7" and throws in the mid-to-upper 90s. After slow movement early in his career, he flew up the Twins ranks over the last two seasons. He began 2013 by dominating at AA. He moved up to AAA and eventually had a couple stints with the Twins. He really has had little success above AA so far, but he does have a big future. Tyler Jones was just outside my top 30. He was my choice for Twins Minor League Relief Pitcher of the Year last year. He dominated between Cedar Rapids and Ft. Myers. Formerly a starter, Jones made the transition to the bullpen smoothly. He has a fastball that touches 97 mph with an improving slider. Edgar Ibarra was added to the Twins 40 man roster this offseason after a strong year between AA and AAA. From June 4 through August 22, he gave up zero earned runs. In that time, he worked 31.1 innings over 26 games. He gave up just 13 hits, walked eight and struck out 27. The left-hander throws fastballs into the mid-90s with a very sharp slider. He should surface with the Twins at some time this season. Roster Projections In each of these installments, I have been making my roster projections. There could still be additional signings, and injuries will affect all of this. That’s why it is important to have more than just seven relievers at each level. In some cases, there will be even more. There are also always players put on the disabled lists. This just gives an idea of who could be at each affiliate at the start of the season. Minnesota: Glen Perkins, Jared Burton, Brian Duensing, Casey Fien, Caleb Thielbar, Anthony Swarzak, Ryan Pressly. Rochester: Michael Tonkin, AJ Achter, Aaron Thompson, Edgar Ibarra, Brooks Raley, Matt Hoffman, Yohan Pino, Virgil Vazquez, Lester Oliveros, Matt Guerrier New Britain: Zack Jones (injured), Corey Williams, Adrian Salcedo, Deolis Guerra, Dakota Watts, Ryan O’Rourke, Matt Hauser, Cole Johnson, Kevin Thomas, Chad Rodgers Fort Myers: Tyler Jones, Luke Bard, Steven Gruver, Madison Boer, David Hurlbut, Matt Tomshaw, Alex Muren, Jim Fuller, Dallas Gallant (50 game suspension), JT Chargois (injured) Cedar Rapids: Josh Burris, Josue Montanez, Brandon Bixler, Chris Mazza, Hein Robb, Kuo-Hua Lo, Christian Powell, Austin Malinowski, Brandon Peterson, CK Irby, Carson Goldsmith, Tanner Mendonca, Andrew Ferreira, Brandon Easton, Jared Wilson, Todd Van Steensel Extended Spring Training: Josh Guyer, Sam Gibbons, Andre Martinez, Seth Wagner, Damion Defrank, Leonel Zazueta, Reyson Zoquiel, Jose Abreu, Derrick Penilla, Zach Hayden, Cameron Booser, Tyler Stirewalt, Chih-wei Hu Feel free to discuss the players and the roster.

The start of minor league camp is still about two weeks. Today, I’m happy to post the below Q&A with the Twins 2013 fourth-round draft pick, left-handed pitcher Stephen Gonsalves. On signing, the 6'-5" lefty was assigned to the Gulf Coast League. He impressed. He gave up just one run in 14.1 innings (0.63 ERA). He moved up to the Elizabethton Twins where he gave up just two runs in 14 innings. Combined, he struck out 39 batters in those 28.1 innings. Recently, the San Diego native took some time to answer several questions. So, let’s get started. Let’s learn a little bit about Stephen Gonsalves.[PRBREAK][/PRBREAK] Twins Daily (TD): Growing up in southern California, who was your favorite team, and who were some of your favorite players to watch? Stephen Gonsalves (SG): The San Diego Padres have always been my favorite team and Trevor Hoffman has always been a great role model on and off the field. TD: What are your best memories from your high school baseball days? SG: My best memory from high school would have to be pitching my junior year City Championship Game at Tony Gwynn Stadium. I led off the game with a triple and then scored, and I pitched a three hitter. We had a huge crowd and a great group of guys that year. TD: As the draft approached, were you seeing or talking to more scouts? Did you have much conversation with any Twins scouts? SG: Yes I talked to numerous teams leading up to the draft. Many regularly attended games and made home visits. John Leavitt came to the house, but he was the only one I talked to until Draft Day. I couldn't be happier with the Twins organization. TD: When the Twins took you in the 4th round, where were you, with who, and what was that experience like? SG: By the time I was drafted, it was the morning after and we were all tired and nervous, but the calls started coming in early so I felt it was close to being real. I was home with my parents and my childhood coach Carlos Fletes. Carlos kept the mood light. It was stressful and then such a relief when it happened. TD: You've made it pretty clear at times on Twitter that you had hoped to be drafted higher. How disappointed were you with where you were drafted and some of the discussion that came up from that? (It seems you've used that disappointed as a motivator!) SG: I heard from many that I was likely to go higher. I tried to keep expectations low, but when the first round was through and guys I played with and competed very well against went before me, I was disappointed. My agent told me the draft was a beauty contest and just one day in my baseball career. I am very motivated to compete and advance to the next levels and have a long successful career in the major leagues. TD: How difficult was the decision to sign with the Twins as opposed to going to college? What were some of the factors that caused you do sign? SG: It was not difficult. I knew I really wanted to play and had determined a minimum slot and value that I would take. When that happened, I knew I was ready to go. TD: You and Kohl Stewart came to Target Field to sign your contracts. What was the experience like, being at the stadium and meeting some of the Twins front office, coaching staff and players? SG: That was one of the best days of my life. Being in the clubhouse and on the field for BP was amazing. I still dream about that day. TD: What was the adjustment to pro baseball like for you, on and off the field? (In the GCL and then at Elizabethton) SG: The adjustment has been smooth for me. The batters are bigger, I just picture myself in high school where I dominated and think of Crash Davis from Bull Durham. I tell the batter in my head that you can't touch this. TD: If you were to write up a scouting report on yourself, what would it be? What pitches do you throw? What would you say are your strengths, and an area you want to work on to improve most? SG: I pitch to contact. My fastball is my best pitch. My curve ball is developing. I pitch to win. I never want to come out of the game. TD: Who are some of the people who have helped you get to this point in your career? SG: I've had good coaching in travel ball including Carlos Fletes, my long time coach and friend, and Buc Taylor who coaches at the community college near my home. Both are great baseball minds and taught me more about the game and strategies for success on and off the field. My Dad played ball with me since I was a baby, and of course, my family has supported me and always been there cheering me on and getting me wherever I needed to be. TD: Outside of baseball, what do you enjoy doing? Hobbies? SG: I enjoy every type of fishing, spear fishing mostly, and golfing and surfing. TD: As spring training is now just a couple of months away, what are you most anxious and excited about? SG: I can't wait to get back on the field and compete with all the elite players. I'm excited for a full season since last year was just a taste of what's to come. I also look forward to exposure to the fans. I enjoyed going to spring training in Arizona when I was younger and look forward to the experience in Florida. TD: Have you set any goals for yourself for the 2014 season? Are there certain stats you will or have paid attention to? SG: I want to play a full 140 game season and will be very focused on my strike out to walk ratio. TD: Favorite Baseball movie? SG: Bull Durham TD: What is one thing about yourself that you would want Twins fans to know? SG: I want the Twins Fans to know that I will never let them down. I am here to play the game that I love and will always bring my best. I am so thankful for the opportunity that I have and believe I can compete at the next level and be a player that fans will love to follow. --------------- A big Thank You to Stephen Gonsalves for taking some time and doing a great job answering questions. He will soon report to Ft. Myers where he is likely competing for a job in the Cedar Rapids Kernels starting rotation.

Over the next two weeks, we’ll be writing about some of the biggest topics of the Minnesota Twins' spring training. Some of those are position battles. One such ‘battle’ fans will be playing close attention to in 2014 is one that was pretty big in 2013. Who will go into the 2014 season as the Twins starting centerfielder? Though you will likely read about this being a three man race for the job, it is likely really just between two players. That said, the player who may get the most attention at the position is a fourth option.[PRBREAK][/PRBREAK] LOOKING BACK Before we start thinking about 2014, let’s take a look back to one year ago. The Twins had traded Denard Span and Ben Revere. By the time of Twins Fest, the Twins' front office was touting Aaron Hicks as ready to take over. Sure, they also often said that Joe Benson, coming off micro-fracture surgery, and Darin Mastroianni would also be competing for the job. However, there was little to no question who would open the season as the Twins starting centerfielder. It was called a competition through spring training. Since it was called a competition there had to be a winner, and there was no question who won that challenge. Aaron Hicks hit like crazy in the very small sample size of spring training. In 73 at-bats, he hit .370/.407/.644 (1.051) with six doubles, a triple and four RBI. He also was three for three in stolen base attempts. Darin Mastroianni played pretty well too, but he entered the regular season with an ankle injury that cost him the majority of the year. Benson struggled, as was expected after missing much of the 2012 season. He hit just .151/.286/.283 (.569) with two doubles, a triple and a home run. After continued struggles, Benson was DFA'd and claimed by the Texas Rangers. He signed a minor league contract with the Miami Marlins this offseason. Of course, what fans remember much better than the spring training stats of Hicks are the numbers he put up in the regular season. He hit just .192/.259/.338 (.597) with 11 doubles, three triples and eight home runs. He certainly flashed some talent. How about the game against the White Sox when he stole a home run with his glove and hit a home run from both sides of the plate? Or, how about the throw in Yankees Stadium to nail a runner at third base? However, for the most part, it was a disappointing season for Hicks. In August, the Twins received Alex Presley from the Pirates in the Justin Morneau trade. He made 28 starts for the Twins to end the season and hit .283/.336/.363 (.699) with four doubles, a triple and a home run. Presley has struggled in parts of four seasons in the big leagues. Overall, he has played in 232 games and hit .264/.304/.411 (.715). In 733 minor league games, he has hit .292/.352/.437 (.789). LOOKING TO SPRING Let’s start with the obvious. Wilkin Ramirez is likely not in competition for the starting centerfield job. He may be competing for the 25th man on the roster, but it’s fair to say he won’t be the Twins starter. Also, Darin Mastroianni may be involved in the competition this spring, but ultimately, he’s fighting for a fourth (or fifth) outfield job after being designated for assignment during the offseason. The big question for Twins fans (and frankly, the front office) has to be; what does Aaron Hicks have to do this spring to win the centerfield job? Think about it. If he puts up the remarkable spring statistics he did a year ago, will he win the job? What are the intangibles that manager Ron Gardenhire will need to see for him to get the job. Hicks certainly has the potential and the tools to be a very good, all-round outfielder. He may never hit for average, but he has shown an ability to get on base. He does have extra base power. He plays tremendous defense and has a very strong arm. The Twins certainly have not given up on him. He gained ten pounds this offseason in an attempt to get stronger. He did not play winter ball which allowed him to clear his head and rest his body. He should come to camp strong. We know he will be either the Twins starting centerfielder or the Rochester Red Wings starting centerfielder. He will not be a backup at this stage of his career. The Twins brass need to determine what is best for him, long-term. However, the incumbent right now is Presley. Though he hasn’t shown a lot in the big leagues, his minor league career implies he could become a decent player. Specifically, he has shown an ability to get on base, and he has shown some extra- base pop. He is a solid defender, though certainly not in the class of Aaron Hicks. He probably profiles more as a fourth outfielder than a starter. That’s probably what he is with the Twins as well. He is likely the favorite for opening day starter, but at the end of the day, he is most likely a stop-gap. He is a place-holder maybe for Aaron Hicks who should come up sometime in 2014 and get another shot. He is also, in the big picture, a stop-gap till Byron Buxton arrives. Oh, Byron Buxton… He will also be at big league spring training this year. The consensus #1 prospect in all baseball is the talk of minor league baseball. The question with him is not IF, but WHEN. When will Buxton come up to the Twins, and just how great can be become. Of course, we also need to remember he has just a half-season of High-A ball under his belt. He is likely to start the season in New Britain, but a midseason promotion to the Twins is not out of the realm of possibility. In spring training, he will be looking to make an impression on the coaching staff. SUMMARY This will be an interesting competition to watch. As noted, I really believe it is a two-man race between last year’s opening day centerfielder (Aaron Hicks) and the incumbent for the job (Alex Presley). Ask yourself the question I did above: What do you think Aaron Hicks needs to do, or needs to show, to be the starting centerfielder? Presley is out of options, and he’s a solid outfielder, so he appears to be a shoo-in for the opening day roster, but should he be the starter? And, ultimately, how long will Twins fans have to wait for Byron Buxton. Buxton could force Hicks to a corner outfield spot and Presley to the role of backup outfielder again. How do you see this position battle playing out throughout the spring?

On Sunday, Minnesota Twins pitchers and catchers reported to Hammond Stadium. On Monday morning, they held their first official practice of the 2014 season. Finally, after a long, cold offseason, we have actual baseball to talk about. Opening Day is still about six weeks away, but over the course of spring training, we will attempt to project the Opening Day Twins 25 man roster.[PRBREAK][/PRBREAK] Today will be version 1.0. Obviously a lot can happen over the next weeks, including injuries and acquisitions, so this list will change from week to week. As a player becomes a given (in my opinion), I will highlight them in red. Check out my projections, and then let’s discuss. Be sure to add your projections too. Catchers (2): Kurt Suzuki, Eric Fryer Joe Mauer is now a first baseman. Ryan Doumit was traded. Kurt Suzuki was signed. Josmil Pinto had a nice September debut. So, how is this going to play out? Suzuki is going to be on the big league roster. Will he back up Josmil Pinto, or will he start? When Suzuki is named the primary catcher, will Ron Gardenhire be able to get Pinto enough playing time to justify a spot for him on the roster? To me, the competition is between Chris Herrmann and Eric Fryer for that backup spot right now. Infielders (5): Joe Mauer, Brian Dozier, Trevor Plouffe, Pedro Florimon, Eduardo Escobar The starting infield has not been in question all offseason, and that remains the situation as spring training begins. Mauer will be just fine at first base. Dozier will attempt to show that the changes he made in late May showed us what he really can do. Florimon showed that he is one of the game’s best defensively middle infielders. It’s a big year for Trevor Plouffe with the impending arrival of Miguel Sano. However, he’s pretty safe for Opening Day. As for the utility infield spot, Escobar will likely compete with James Beresford, Doug Bernier and Jason Bartlett for the utility job. Since Escobar is by far the youngest of the group, and he’s out of options, he’s easily the favorite. The other guys will be competing for the 25th roster spot with several others. Outfielders (6): Josh Willingham, Alex Presley, Oswaldo Arcia, Darin Mastroianni, Jason Kubel, Chris Parmelee Things are much less certain in the outfield than they are in the infield. The only given is Josh Willingham, who will likely be the team’s left fielder. I think that the bat of Oswaldo Arcia puts him on the roster, and I think he’ll primarily play in right field. Centerfield will be an interesting positional battle for the Twins in 2014 spring training. Aaron Hicks again has all the potential, but after his struggles in 2014’s regular season, what will he need to show the coaching staff this spring to begin the regular season with the Twins? Alex Presley came on and, although he has struggled in the big leagues with the Pirates, he has always shown good on-base skills in AAA. Darin Mastroianni was removed from the 40 man roster this offseason, but he has a shot to make the Opening Day roster. Finally, the Twins acquired Jason Kubel on a minor league contract. I want to put his name in red, but I figured I’d wait just a little bit. He likely will be the primary DH and could spend some time in right field as well. Chris Parmelee, also out of options, could compete with some infielders, Chris Colabello and others for that final roster spot. Starting Pitchers (5): Kevin Correia, Ricky Nolasco, Phil Hughes, Mike Pelfrey, Scott Diamond The Twins went into free agency and were very aggressive. They signed both Ricky Nolasco and Phil Hughes before December. Mike Pelfrey was brought back in December. Those three will join Kevin Correia who was clearly the Twins most consistent, solid starting pitching throughout the 2013 season. That leaves one open spot. As we all know, Sam Deduno, Vance Worley and Scott Diamond are all out of options. I think that Diamond goes into spring training as the leading candidate of that group, especially if Deduno starts the season on the DL. The two that do not receive the 5th starter job will also have a chance to stick around in the bullpen. Kyle Gibson is also in the running for the job, though the fact that he has two option years remaining may actually hurt him. However, I believe he will make more starts for the Twins than the three that are out of options. Prospects Alex Meyer, Trevor May and Sean Gilmartin will all get a good look this spring, and Meyer (and possibly May) will likely make starts for the Twins throughout the season. Bullpen (7): Glen Perkins, Jared Burton, Brian Duensing, Casey Fien, Anthony Swarzak, Caleb Thielbar, Ryan Pressly The first five spots are set, pending injury or trade. Glen Perkins is the closer. Jared Burton, Casey Fien and Brian Duensing are the set-up men. Anthony Swarzak was terrific in long relief in 2014, so will he stay in that role or be given more high-leverage situations. I’m assuming that they will have seven bullpen arms. Based on 2013, Caleb Thielbar and Ryan Pressly should be givens as well. However, the fact that Scott Diamond, Sam Deduno and Vance Worley are out of options while Thielbar and Pressly have two options remaining means that at least for now, I can’t change their font to red quite yet. Matt Guerrier may be in the equation as well, though it may completely depend upon his health. Michael Tonkin has a chance to be a solid big league reliever, but he’s got two options and hasn’t really had much success above AA, so he should start in Rochester. What are your thoughts? What does your roster look like?