DocBauer

A couple brief comments regarding the initial 4 points posted first: 1] I firmly believe the Twins are at least 50/50 on signjng one of the top FA arms. They went hard after Darvish and were one of the finalists. The Cubs went an extra year and "won" his services. (Might have bumped the A/V a bit I can't remember). They were serious about Wheeler at $20M plus but had the door slammed immediately as he just didn't want to leave the east coast. But the point is, they HAVE previously looked at the big arms. I think they WILL look again. And if they succeed, well, awesome! But it will impact point #2. 2] I DO think the Twins are going to trade for a rotation piece. I'm oblivious as to who and a bit sketchy as to how. Odorizzi and Maeda were virtual steals for a milb player, but can they do it again? Just a gut feeling, but I think the FO is looking to trade from their milb depth for an arm and wanting to keep the ML roster mostly intact at this point. I mean, we're talking about a re-tool vs a re-build so I don't see more than one roster fixture being moved. 3] I believe Pineda is a virtual lock for about $8M. Maybe with a couple kickers thrown in. But to me, that's a re-sign and agree it's not like some "on the market" signing. And so that still leaves 2 holes to fill. 4] I agree reinforcements are close. Could be as many as 4 or 5 ready by mid-season despite the disappointments of delayed development in 2021. But we're talking mid-season more than likely. You can't open 2022 on wishes and prayers to begin the season. I'm out on Greinke due to age and his previous reluctance to include the Twins as a tradeable team. Not saying I don't make a call to see if he's suddenly had a change of heart, but I don't expect it. I confess I don't know a lot about DeSclafini, but looked up his numbers. I'm OK with him but a little "meh". Not crazy about being 32yo, but if he really figuresd some things out and made some nice adjustments, he could be just as good working with Johnson. But are we talking a 1yr deal or something more? He could be an outstanding 1yr option, maybe some sort of 1+1 or option year, but I'm not willing for more than that at this point. Gray and Ray should almost be included together as they've both been mentioned in regard to the Twins as "potentials" the past few years as much as Stroman. Same age and similar careers. I could see either on 1 plus deal and could be OK. I think the Twins are out on any of the TOP SS options unless they wash out in the SP FA market. That's how and why they signed Donaldson. BUT, if they can bring in a couple solid arms via trade and FA...heaven and baseball gods forbid they bring in 2 FA that are quality without breaking the bank...they could still make a strike in that area. But do they need to? And I'm being serious here. With a better pen and a little better health the second half, the Twins basically played .500 ball with a patchwork rotation. What could they accomplish with a couple better rotation pieces to lead the rotation? Basic logic and finances and what little we actually know and speculate about what we know about the FA options available, Stoman and Ray and Gray make the most sense as FA signings if you're looking for someone to lead the staff. I believe Stoman made $12M last year and pretty sure that was his biggest $ year to date. He's been tied to the Twins for years now as a very similar pitcher to Berrios. (FWIW). He would seem to be the perfect target for a 4 or 5yr deal at $18-20M per deal that doesn't break the bank or preclude the Twins from making additional signings or moves. Maybe most import, he's been a model of health and consistency. You could even throw in an "out clause" after the 2yrs if you really needed to, allowing for the rise of milb talent. I think Ray and Gray offer the same potential as Stoman, without as much consistency, and might come in a little cheaper. Do the Twins have to sign Scherzer or Thor or Bauer to compete? Hell no! But these are a couple of arms listed who are still young enough, proven enough, talented enough to actually head the rotation without blowing up payroll. IF you make the right and smart move, you STILL have the "luxury" of a 2nd FA signing or a smart trade to bring in that Odorizzi or Maeda trade to fill the #2 spot. Such a trade could a steal as they've done before, hopefully, or it could include a couple quality milb prospects and one ML player like Kepler or Sano along with someone like Sands, just for example. Make no mistake, I'm open to a lot of potential scenarios here to bring in a couple quality SP options to lead our 2022 rotation. I'm inclined to keep the ML roster intact as much as possible as 2 steps forward and 2 steps back doesn't lead to success. But the Twins have enough talent and depth and $ available to make one or two smart moves to re-tool this roster without blowing up the roster or the system to make 2022 a competitive team. And whether they sign one of FA SP pitcher mentioned previously, as a primary or secondary, I have thoughts about guys like Rodon or Bundy. Would you bet big $ on Rodon? One big year for Rodon? Or would you play it safe for Bundy who has flashed and might be primed for a good year with Johnson and the Twins after a career with Baltimore and the Angels? Sorry to be long winded, but there are a lot of different venues for this FO to follow the next couple of months to add and re-tool this rotation.

I like his potential a lot and really hope we find a RH Cave replacement and allow Celestino to begin the year in St Paul. He needs to play daily right now to improve his bat and hopefully unlock some additional power potential. IMO his floor is a quality and versatile 4th OF. His ceiling is a starting OF, of course. I'm not worried about him being passed by at this point. I truly believe Lewis is going to stick at SS and while I'm not in a hurry to move Martin off of SS...you always give a talented kid like him time to see how he develops...I think he's going to end up in the OF with the ability to still help in the infield.

What makes his season even more amazing is he barely pitched after being drafted in 2019, missed 2020 like everyone else, and was this damn good this quickly. I fully appreciate comments and reports I've read previously that his secondary stuff needs work/improvement. But isn't that true for most any young pitcher? Especially one who has ONE season of experience.

Mike, I can't really disagree with you. And I don't want to for sure. But I'm afraid I'm kind of forced to. I think some of the young arms could be up and ready in as little as half a year, Balazovic, Winder, Sands and hopefully Duran, etc. But we have to have a full rotation to begin the season. Now, they don't HAVE to sign three FA. It might be two and a trade for a third, but they need arms. I think Pineda is a virtual lock for 1yr around $8M. I almost don't count him as a FA because it's really just keeping one of our own. But he's really a #3. I think Ryan and Ober are near locks. And I still think a healthy Dobber is going to play a real part in 2022 at some point. And the Twins have more thN enough $ available to make ONE big FA signing, and I'm still thinking Stoman is just an obvious choice. But they still need one more guy to help front the rotation. Could be a trade. Could be another 1yr deal on a rebound or "prove it" kind of deal for someone coming off a disappointing year. But they just have to add two guys to Pineda, Ryan and Ober, don't they?

Absolutely agree with this OP 100% 1] I've thought all along this team needs to re-tool and not re-build. Losing Maeda really hurts and makes said re-tool a lot harder. But when I look at the position player portion of thisLet team I'm still excited. Granted there were some down years for some if the guys. But with a couple rebounds, just a little better luck injury wise, and the continued development of Jeffers, Kirilloff, Larnach, Celestino and the debut of Miranda I think there is still a lot of offensive potential. 2] Let's face it, even if the Twins were to max out their payroll, to around $150M, they simply can't make the SPLASH moves very often that other larger market teams can. Which is why they just have to be smart. Have they always been so? No. But the Odorizzi, Maeda and Cruz moves WERE. Most of the trade returns they've made look solid and a couple of the guys are starting to make their presence known. Yes, they can make a splash here and there. But again, it's about being smart. And they are going to have to be really, really smart this offseason in regard to the rotation. They have room for one big move there, but doubtful they can make two. 3] The previous years this group has done a really solid job of building the pen without spending a ton of $. And they seem to tweak things as they go along and have even better second halves. While the 2021 pen just imploded the first half, it was put together in a way that SEEMED smart initially. And boy was it a better bullpen the second half. They absolutely need one really good arm for the back of the pen. And maybe they need another smaller Clippard or Robles type of addition. (Not sure it's necessary but wouldn't hurt). But with that one good addition, I'm encouraged.

#1] Ryan is an athlete and competitor and bright. Don't underestimate those qualities. His FB is average velocity, 91-94, but plays up due to location and release. We were informed his secondary stuff needed work. OK. But I watched his games and his secondary stuff looked pretty good to me his first 4 starts. Not talking about the teams he pitched against, just watching his stuff. His last start was pretty scrappy, but come on, we're talking about a rookie pitching his final game after attending a family situation. At the risk of sounding really old, I just love the moxie of the kid and believe his stuff plays and plays well. I am NOT going to annoit him as a future ACE. For one thing, I've learned that ACE status is rare and COMPLETELY unpredictable. But I honestly see his floor as a quality #3 and very probably a quality #2 in a season or two. Anything more than that is up to him and time and experience. (FWIW, I also see Ober as a potential #3 if he just stays healthy and keeps growing and can keep the HR numbers down) #2] Nick, you have more optimism regarding Jax than I do. He is, unfortunately, a victim of circumstance in his delayed development. But I DO SEE a decent FB and a very njce slider. And the kid is smart. Fully appreciate numbers posted previously as to his rookie performance. But there is that key word: ROOKIE. For someone who wasn't even expected to pitch at the ML level this year, how much do we stare at the final numbers? Shouldn't we, in this case, just look at the positives and the FB and slider and just wonder about gaining experience and wonder/project what he might do in the pen? Honestly asking. I think he might have a real role there in the future, but I'd think it would be mid 2022 and not before. #3] Never doubted AK before and won't now. This last wrist injury is not the same injury he had previously. So at this point, there is nothing chronic to worry about. He will probably end up at 1B because he's so good and natural there. And that's fine. But he's also solid in the OF. #4] Nick, IMO, you are way off on Lewis for 2022. Maybe I'm just a blind optomist, but I believe in this kid so much! I 100% believe he is going to hit, provide power and speed and be exciting. I fully believe he has all the tools necessary to be at least a "competent" SS. I say this as no expert, but I've seen enough from milb hilights and ST games to recognize the skilllset is there. Now, I'm not expecting greatness right away, or in the future, but be should be at least solid. And I expect growing pains both offensively and defensively early on. But I will be pleasantly shocked if he's ready for 2022 in any way other than a late season promotion. No matter his talent, attitude, intelligence or "gamer" ability, he just needs to PLAY.

Just a couple side notes: 1] I have no idea right now without looking back at previous handbooks, or reading the new one comjng out, or doing exhaustive research, etc, what Fatherstone or Funderburk throw. But you don't have the K numbers they had this year if you don't have SOMETHING to offer in regard to velocity and breaking pitches. Seems jts all about control and refinement with them. 2] I remember Featherstone transitioning to the mound after his rookie half year as a position player. But I had completely forgotten he had TJ surgery and missed 2yrs PLUS the 2020 season. To miss all that time and yet pitch at A+ in 2021 with success and a high K rate is pretty remarkable, even with a high BB rate. 3] For some bizarre reason, I thought Laweryson was drafted earlier than 2019. I guess memory fails sometimes, LOL. He appeared in 10 games his rookie year at Elizabethton, 6 GS before I GS at CR. He then, like everyone, missed 2020 and jumped to A+ CR this year with mixed results in 15 games. His ERA was high but his other numbers were solid, including high K numbers. The more I look at and reflect on this group of "marginal" prospects who are all outside the top 30 prospect lists with the exception of Wallner, the more curious and interested I become. I'm expecting nothing from Bechtold, sorry to say. I have some hope that the athletic Helman will blossom. But more and more I'm seeing a real plan for the pitchers here. They are "asking" Funderburk and Featherstone to prove they are ready for Wichita next year. And they are asking Laweryson to follow the Gross and Gipson-Long path of later round draftees who have a SOMETHING to work with and develop. I hate to just repeat my previous comments about this group being "interesting" and agreeing they are all "show me" prospects, but the more I look and reflect the more I'm intrigued. I think the FO is being very deliberate with the arms they sent to AFL, knowing what they already have with the arms they didn't send.

Easy choice. And he may never again reach some of the numbers he hit this season. So what?! HR might decrease, doubles might increase, BA might go up, etc. This guy is a STUD. And we've seen glimpses of what he can do before and we shouldn't really be surprised. And while it's OK if the roster construction going forward has him as an occasional backup SS, he needs to remain at 2B. He's good there and only going to get better. In the history of MLB, SS and CF were defensive positions. And then things changed in the 80's and beyond when we began to see amazing athletes take over those positions to change the game and our perceptions. But for some reason, we still hold on to archaic beliefs that 2B is where you just "stash" a guy who can't play SS. Talk to Whitaker, White, Knoblauch and other amazing 2B along with Altuve and Dozier and tell me a 2B can't be an important player in a crucial position daily. This guy is a STUD. Keep him at 2B, and maybe a backup SS depending on how the roster shakes out. He can be a fixture for the next several years.

With the exception of Wallner, this AFL group does seem light on prospect status. But I find this group to be "interesting". I agree with jmlease1 that this is very much a "show me" group. But I'm kinda OK with that after the lost 2020 year and who these guys are. Funderburk and Laweryson are 2018 and '19 selections that need IP. One is a high K LH RP and the other a SP. Again, they need IP to get ready for 2022. They wouldn't be here if the Twins weren't looking at each moving up at least a full level in 2022. Featherstone is a bit older, but a recent convert to the pen after being drafted initially as a position player, much like Gore. He is absolutely a "show me" something high K arm who again needs IP. Helman and Bechtold are very similar while being very different at the same time. Both are a little long in the tooth prospect wise, but each is again "interesting". Helman is a 2B/CF who mostly played the OF this past season. He is a good athlete with speed and power potential he began to really show this year. But the bat hasn't fully played yet. This is his opportunity to show he's ready for AA in 2022 or maybe get passed by. Bechtold has always been reputed as being an excellent defensive 3B who has also played some 1B and a little 2B. As a JC draftee he dominated his rookie half season and then slid production-wise. The power seemed to come in 2021 even though the bat lagged a bit. He also began to work behind the plate between games in order to utilize his arm and increase his versatility. I believe he got a one game start behind the plate at the end of the season. Don't be surprised if you see him behind the plate in a few games. Not a great group. I do believe the Twins are being cautious with some arms they COULD have sent. But I think they are being very deliberate in the arms they sent to AZ to see if they can improve and make the next step. I was excited when Bechtold was first drafted, but an OK rebound in 2021 doesn't excite me. The more athletic Helman interests me. But really, I'm watching Wallner and the arms to see what they might do. Not an exciting group to be sure. But there is some interest here.

I'd like to address Chief's comment directly. But I would add Donaldson to the "has to go list" along with Kepler and Sano. At least in theory. (I'd disagree on Arraez because I think he fills a role that nobody currently can as the team is constructed). I am not going to re-hash my previous post, which was basically I'm not sure trading anyone from the ML roster makes sense as there are enough question marks to go along with real hope and projection to be excited. For example, I think Kirilloff is going to be great and I think Larnach is going to be very good. But how easy/ready are we to replace Kepler? If you already need to, hopefully, find a better 4th OF than Cave, now you might need someone even better if Max is gone. Further, any sort of "consistency" from the inconsistent Sano is still something productive and dangerous that I would love to hitting in the 6-7 spot regularly. And then there remains the debate about CAN you trade Donaldson, and what would it cost in $ to do so, and do you get enough back via $ relief and/or a player to make it worthwhile? But Chief is 100% correct that unless you are prepared to begin the 2022 season "heavy" with positional depth, even without a set DH, you still have a hard time finding room for everyone. Now, that's a good problem to have for sure. Kirilloff is READY, whether at 1B, or the OF, or both. But we need room for Arraez. We need room for Garver to DH some. Sano plays 1B and DH. How soon will Larnach be ready? Day One? A month in? And even IF Miranda starts 2022 at St Paul due to a roster crunch, you will have to make room soon if not immediately. Pitching is the issue, and we all know that. And sometimes "room" just happens organically due to injuries and the such. So I do think "room" may have to be made just to balance the roster and include SOMEONE in a deal for pitching. I don't like weakening the lineup at this time with optimism but question marks on hand. It would be my hope that another Odorizzi/Maeda trade from within the system would bring in #2 SP...unlesswe double dip in the FA market. (I'm not including Pineda as I think he's a done deal on a $8M-ish already). But I am thinking the Twins may have to make room by moving SOMEONE as part of a deal to provide opportunity for the talent on hand and be able to utilize it properly.

I've always been a huge fan of Berrios and really miss him. Not going to take this space to comment at all about whether be should have been moved except to say I do understand why be was, and the haul was excellent. While I think there are some very intriguing options out there to "replace" him, maybe even very effectively, I do think there is a segment of the fan base that never fully appreciated how good he is/was and may change their opinion now that he's gone. Not sure I can say anything more about Ober that hasn't already been said, or that I haven't already said myself. But all the hard work, adjustments made on the fly during the season, he's just a great story. And I think he's a keeper though I'm uncertain of his ceiling. But what he did isn't just a SSS at this juncture. I'm not that concerned about his HR totals as a] he was a rookie and b] when you keep free passes down, HR and XBH don't hurt you so much. And while his ERA isn't outstanding, without an exact number in front of me I'd bet he's at least a quarter run per below the AL average.

Huge ^5 to the posts above I liked! Very good takes, even if I don't agree 100%. I agree Donaldson should have been included in the OP. He can't be ignored as a trade piece due to depth and replacement options. His biggest problems as a trade option are obvious and we all know them; age, injury and salary. I am and have always been OK with moving him if the right deal, presents itself. But there is also the idea of how little he may bring back prospect wise and salary relief wise vs being a good ballplayer and veteran presence and "red ass" who could bring a little fire to the team. It's not just about finding room for Miranda and others to play. A lot of times these things just work out over a full season. We've seen this over and again. But having too much talent is NOT a bad thing! That's when your manager FINDS ways to get guys in the lineup. Which is easier without a fixture at DH, which I believe will be the case in 2022. Please trade Donaldson IF IT MAKES SENSE for what you gain vs what you lose. So why do I start with Donaldson? Because keeping him or moving him affects the rest of the roster and the others proposed here in the OP. A healthy Kepler is way better than what we saw in 2021. Unless someone blows us away, you are selling low. He is a premium RF defensively and a solid CF with power who just needs to sit more against LH pitching. Despite my belief in Kirilloff, Larnach and Celestino, all other OF options are solid journeyman or prospects a year away. Garver is a good, not great, solid catcher who is one of the best offensive catchers in the game. He needs to catch 50-60% of the games and spend time at DH and maybe even a little 1B to keep his bat in the lineup. I think Jeffers has a bright future, but I'm not ready to give him the #1 spot right now and move Garver. As has been pointed out by others in various threads, you don't necessarily get better by trading someone who is amongst the best at his position. Arraez may be the best pure hitter and clutch hitter and OB hitter on the team. And with a team of talented producers with BIG TIME power you'd want to trade the BEST pure hitter, contact hitter, and OB guy? He's only 24yo and has basically 2yrs at MLB. He's OK defensively at 3 positions and can also DH. Again, why does a DH have to be ONE GUY? He will only get better, I propose, defensively with experience. He fills a needed spot in the lineup as something different than a 3 outcome player. The Sano debate has been ongoing for a few years now. You're either done with him, or, you recognize his career OPS and how dangerous he is as a streaky producer but would just love to see him as a lower fixture in the lineup as a 1B/DH and "emergency" 3B and want to hold on to him for at least one more year because he can carry a team at times. Look, I am NOT opposed to making trades to re-tool the roster. Not at all! I just don't feel moving Kepler or Garver or Arraez at this time makes roster and production sense. I think those moves potential hurt as much as they help. I'm OK with moving Donaldson and Sano if it makes sense. I think the FO WILL make some FA moves. I think they WILL make some trades. But when you make trades, you have to give up something to get something! But I'm tired of the Twins traded Gil, or Yanoa, both low A prospects to get something they thought could help the team. Doesn't every team, even the best and smartest teams, still make deals of prospects in hope of augmenting their roster? I just keep reflecting on the Odorizzi and Maeda trades. Can this FO do it a 3rd time? They need to find a quality veteran and spend the $ to lead this team and Stoman is the obvious choice. But isn't there enough milb depth to make a similar move without depleting the ML roster?

My only quibble is the "improved" part of the conversation. IMO, Polanco was a "rebound" winner, with Garver finishing 2nd, because we've already seen what he can do when healthy. Yes, I'm splitting hairs, but I think he's always been awfully good when healthy and ready to go. I think I would have voted Buxton, despite the time he missed. He's been growing and developing each of the past couple of years...despite the missed time...until he just turned in to a DOMINATE presence in 2021. IF he's still around in 2022...and I sure hope he is....(I think he will be)...and if he's healthy enough for 120-140 games....(knock on wood or anything hard)....he might just be the Twins #3 or #4 hitter. Ahh, but to dream.....

Outstanding Nick! That was fun! Well written! Of course Ober is the slam dunk winner. How he re-built his delivery in 2020 for increased velocity and smoother mechanics for greater durability is a great story. Further, he and Johnson continued to tweak his approach and delivery during his rookie season as well. I'm really impressed with the kid. How good can he be? Time will tell. But I think he's very possibly headed for a nice career as a #3-4 SP. I was also very impressed with Kirilloff rebounding after his poor ST. He just needs to be healthy. Guy is going to be a good one. Larnach was rushed, like a few others, and really flashed initially. Should we be surprised? I don't think so. Nor should we be surprised that he then struggled. I still have a lot of hope and confidence going forward. But will he be ready to start day one in 2022? Mmmm...I hope so but wouldn't be surprised to see him begin the year over in St Paul. The "arguement" for Gordon says it all. Very Happy for the young man! He has overcome a LOT. Now he just needs to gain 10-15lbs before next season and continue what he's been doing. I was wary of Jeffers repeating what he did in 2020. I've seen enough at this point to be pretty optimistic about his future. I don't think there is anything to add in regard to Ryan. Can I toss out a couple honorable mentions or "at a boys"? Celestino and Rortvedt were never supposed to play at the ML level this year. But I think watching them you can see talent and potential. Celestino took what he learned to St Paul and finished strong. Rortvedt not so much, but you saw glimpses of ability and potential. And finally, while others will disagree with me, and that's fine, Jax had moments and games where he actually showed potential. He also was not supposed to be in ML ball this year. The FB is OK and the slider shows some nice stuff. I have no idea what his future holds, probably in the pen, but there is enough there to keep him around and see.

I just don't understand the timing, like everyone else. But it would make some sense they were trying to sneak him through while nobody was looking. I watched the interview with Falvey after my original shock and angst and found myself looking at the situation a bit differently. While we have heard ZERO specifics, and probably never will, it appears painfully obvious that his 2022 is in doubt. And while the Twins HAVE to make moves via FA and trade to augment and change portions of the team, they also need 40 man spots to do so, as well as protecting a handful of some quality kids in the system. Remember, Enlow has to be protected and is coming off surgery. Hopefully he will be ready to take the mound at some point in 2022, but when? And Maeda also has to be protected. Right there are 2 pitchers taking up 2 spots that can't be counted on for much of anything at this point. Not sure there is room for. 3rd. I'm disappointed and frustrated, but I'm starting to see the logic here.

On paper this sounds like a good idea. But in reality I don't like it. I think Garver's bat is just too important to move. Echoing previous comments, his bat is needed and he should be spending time at DH as well going forward, something I've been championing for some time. I could buy in to trading Jeffers with someone else to make a move like thus, even though I hate to lose him as I think he has a bright future. If that was done, we'd need to bring in another backup, preferably LH, as I just don't think Rortvedt is ready yet. I keep reflecting on the Odorizzi and Maeda trades and want to believe they can pull another rabbit out of their cap for a solid starter, along with a FA signing, using some milb depth.

While I'm a little late to the party, I have to toss my $.02 in to the conversation. And I'm giving Rocco an overall grade of a C, maybe a C+. But I'm splitting my grade with a D in the first half and a B in the second half. I don't put all the blame on Baldelli for April and May. I don't blame him for injuries. I don't blame him for Colome because as bad as he was, you had to believe in his history and I'm sure it was believed he would quickly figure things out. (Of course, he did, but not until around June). Where I find fault with Baldelli was some strange pitching moves and player substitions that often made no sense. While SP often only work 5 or 6 innings at a time now...and I'm sure there was a sense of protecting arms for the duration of the season after only a 60 game one in 2020...there were a few games when someone was rolling pretty well and should have been stretched another inning. And while poor play/performance falls on the players primarily, as a manager part of your job is to make sure your guys are mentally ready to go. And there were just too many mistakes and errors and ineptitude those first months. And why on earth do you speak about Bell's desire/opinion to have Arraez, your best over "hitter" and OB threat being a fixture in the #1 spot but then not do it? The team played much better the second half. And they didn't quit. As a squad, they seem to enjoy playing together and seem to like playing for Rocco. I think it's incorrect and perhaps a little naive to say they played better because their season was over and they had no pressure on them. It would be very easy to be out of contention so early and just lose interest or become frustrated. And there was no fighting, no back-stabbing, nobody ever got thrown under a bus. A lot of the crazy mistakes we saw the first few months disappeared. And without their best bat and best two pitchers, and a rotation that was cobbled together, they simply worked better as an overall team. So that's my opinion and my grade.

Agreed. But as I just posted previously, how do we feel this same time next year...maybe mid-year...when Celestino, Waller, Steer, Julian and others have some more time under their belts? Instructionals and another normal full milb season could easily change a lot of things. There are a LOT of kids I have my eye on from AA on down to the FCL. (I still can't get used to the FCL name). Prospect lists and milb rankings could change a lot by this time next year, including depth of positional players.

A well written OP! And I mostly agree with everything stated. 1] While there has been some gnashing of teeth as to the Twins not selecting a P in the 1st round, I think the early results of the past few drafts have shown this FO and their scouting department have a good eye identifying arms from the 2nd round on. Not including some great to very interesting arms acquired in trades, they've brought on the likes of Enlow, Sands, Canterino, Verlander, Gipson-Long and others. The only bummer/downside is one that has seemingly affected most teams in that we are dealing with injuries as well as a lost 2020. I could care less about other organizations, but the Twins plan of bridging the gap from what was on hand to prospects got a big, heavy monkey wrench tossed in to the middle of the plan. Still, there is so much depth and potential it's hard to not be excited about what's coming up the next couple of years. 2] I am going to disagree somewhat on the offensive talent in the system. While I agree an infusion of additional offensive talent might be needed, there is a difference between lack of talent and a "gap" in talent. By that I mean to state the obvious that Kirilloff, Larnach, Jeffers and Rooker...despite SSS and what anyone's opinion of their potential might be...more or less "graduated" to MLB. (With things to still prove to be sure). We also saw Rortvedt and Celestino get promoted too early, but will hopefully take their experiences and grow along with the others. The Twins made a pretty concentrated effort over the past 2 or 3 drafts to bring in position players, especially in the infield. Steer and Julian are a part of those drafts. And while there may be some question as to where they will play, they are both showing versatility and mad offensive skills/potential. Holland from Auburn and Cavaco and Gray, Helman, and Mack are a collection who have all played a max of 2yrs thus far with mixed results thus far. They've also drafted OF like Keirsey, Garry Jr., Waller and Rosario since 2018 who have, again, barely played. We can also add in Sabato and Soularie as infield/OF options recently added to the system. Then you have to look at recent international signings from the past 2yrs who have only just hit the states. So while I think...without ignoring the mound...the Twins would be smart to add some additional offensive talent, I don't think they've been sleeping on adding positional talent. The only "problem" is a "gap" of positional talent created, in part, by the lost 2020 season. We have to remember the 2018 picks got a short season, and then 1 full year before sitting for a season. The 2019 picks got a half year to play pro ball. Period. The 2020 picks got nothing but instructs at best. Just saying, by this time next year we could be looking at the offensive potential of position player depth very differently after another instructional league and a second full season of milb. IMO, the problem may not be talent, but bad timing and the aforementioned "gap" that was created.

I'm taking a strange, opposite approach here. Rooker has always been declared as a solid athlete since drafted, and throughout his milb career, with a decent arm. This has been referenced to some degree in the OP. So why has that not translated? Has he just not worked hard enough at it? Or does he just not have good recognition skills? After watching such OF as Willingham and Young play the OF, I have the belief Rooker has room to improve defensively just through work and repitition. But his bat has to be his calling card, whether he is a DH or role player. He MIGHT be running out of time after a productive and exciting SSS in 2020. He sure didn't seem to take advantage in 2021 with the opportunities presented to him. But with a little 20/20 vision used, as well as some of the positives listed in the OP, he has clearly demonstrated in his milb career that each promotional level he has needed a little time to settle in, figure some things out, and then rake. Now, he hasn't exactly done the same thing at the ML level to be sure! And maybe he won't. But it's the hardest last step to make. I could see him being included in a package, especially to a team hurting for a semi-young power bat to add to their offense and willing to give him 400-500 AB. But I think he's talented enough I'd keep him on the 40 and continue working with him.

The world of a RP is volatile to be sure. Some arms die early, sometimes very early. Some arms seem to die and then try something different or take a different approach and find a 2nd life. A precious few are just great for almost their entire career. IMO, Duffey is SIMILAR to point #2. He won't turn 31yo, I believe, until December. There is no question he was mediocre the 1st half of the year. And I don't have his numbers in front of me, other than the team's last 30 games, but he seemed to turn a corner the 2nd half. His velocity seemed to increase lately as well, I've also seen and heard that he changed his off speed approach a bit. There was an interesting interview with Rogers lately where he spoke about changes Duffey made this season which lead to his better 2nd half. I think the Twins are counting on him and I would as well. I would do a 2yr with an inexpensive 3rd year option.

Do I think Buxton has just had some bad luck? Absolutely. Do I also think his body, from a purely physiological standpoint may be more prone to injury? Absolutely that could be a possibility. And these two ideas aren't necessarily, potentially, mutually exclusive. It could be a portion of both. We just don't know and there is no statistic or measurement that can give us a definitive answer. Might as well ask a Magic 8 Ball for an answer. IMO, part of the discussion here is past reality vs hope. And that's fine. I have tremendous hope that Buxton WILL be healthier and have better luck going forward. And I'm 100% on board with an extension! And I repeat it's tweaking/changing the incentives and not the up front money that is the issue. And again, if the team has to pay him for an successful and incentive laden season they would be ecstatic to do so. But I DO want to make a statement that was brought up about other athletes and injury situations. To his credit, Buck has worked hard to gain good weight and muscle for his bat and his endurance. He has made changes in his defensive approach to help avoid physical abuse on "hard" contact plays and it seems to have helped. And I am NOT necessarily speaking about Buxton when I say this, but while speed MAY diminish somewhat, a large number of athletes truly hit their physical prime in regard to strength, explosiveness and endurance between the ages of 27-32. Again, I'm not speaking of Buck specifically, I'm just saying it happens a lot. And maybe, just maybe, it could offer a little glimmer of hope for him along with his hard work, experience, changes, and maybe even, yes, a little better luck. He should get 6 or 7yrs at around $15M with incentives that aren't unreasonable or hard to reach if he's just healthy and should "add up" to around $25-30M ish. And if you want to add an extra $5-10M for an MVP trophy, wouldn't the Twins be fine with that as well if it happened?

One of Jax's performances to end the season. Good for him! I think he is, unfortunately, a victim of circumstance. Not sure everyone realizes or appreciates that when the Twins drafted him they thought the military obligation was going to change at that time. It didn't for about 3yrs. So he barely pitched until 2018 when he got a half season and 2019 he finally got a full year. And then, of course he lost2020 like so many others. He's actually been promoted rather aggressively, all things considered, but will be 27yo when 2022 starts. But I think the arm talent, maturity and intelligence are there mixed with so-so results and coaching as well as adjustments made on the fly that he's protected going forward. Whether a SP or BP option, I think he's a late blooming option that has a possible future and deserves to be kept and protected. Not his fault he's been behind the 8 ball to start his career initially. I think there's something worthwhile to still work with.

This is the key! Reports are two-fold. 1] He wants to stay. 2] There was, reportedly, at least some agreement on the BASE salary but questions about the incentive targets. He is STILL young. He is immensely talented, He has grown so much as a hitter. Any decline in some of his speed the next few seasons DOES NOT diminish his value as a quality defender or hitter and producer. (See Puckett). Let me state and propose the following; between base salary and incentives reached by just being healthy, do you think ownership would blink/balk in the SLIGHTEST at Byron earning $25-28M in a season? No way! It would mean they had one of the best and most dynamic players in the game, Great publicity. Butts in the seats. And a player probably leading a team to the playoffs. The initial want and need seems to be in place on both sides, Get it done! Period.

I think, and have thought for a while now, he's a done deal. While I don't have any clue if there have been any negotiations between both parties I would lay real money there has at least been conversation. Personally, I never had a problem with him not being traded at the deadline. The Twins wanted and needed a veteran presence in their rotation, which we saw, and which they openly spoke about. One thing that I think escapes memory is Pineda was really one of the first creative moves this FO made to rebuild the rotation, while needing time to rebuild the milb structure. Signing him to rehab and get ready for the next year was inventive and WORKED, The entire diaretic discussion and suspension is water under the bridge. What happened was unfortunate to be sure, but should have no bearing on what he's actually done when on the mound. Once he was healthy in 2019, it took him little time to fit in and find himself. And at times, he was the Twins best SP. His lack of opportunity in 2020 was not related to injury but rather the suspension and a short season. In limited action, he was again very good. Yes he had some injury issues this past year. And yes, some of his numbers and velocity slipped a bit. But some of his numbers were as good or better than his previous production in a Twins uniform. He is experienced, and seems to have a bulldog mentality on the mound. He's been adapting. I am ABSOLUTELY NOT comparing him directly, but he sort of has the Maddux ability to learn and adapt. I know he's getting a little older, but he's not ancient or over the hill, And I dismiss his 2021 injuries to a SMALL extent as we've seen a HUGE rise in pitcher injuries at both the ML and Milb level this past year post 2020. I do not expect 180IP in 2022, but I think 150-160IP is reasonable to hope for. I think he's an easy $8M-ish deal as a #3-4SP depending how Ryan and Ober perform. At worst, he's still depth and quality when healthy to bridge the gap for the prospects to get ready and get their feet wet.