DocBauer

Everything stated and displayed seems to make perfect sense. But along with those changes, I'm again reminded of something Cruz, reportedly, asks Buxton on a constant basis: "Did you go up there with a plan? Did you have fun?" Being healthy and playing daily...building on experience...along with these changes has to make a difference. I believe he came in to this season with only about 1,000 career AB

Based on history of success, I'd still be in for 1yr at fair value. (Not sure what that $ is, to be honest). A club option wouldn't be bad, but doubt he would go for it anyway. But for me, that's about it. I'd rather invest a couple solid prospects in to a trade acquired arm that's actually pitching now and pitching well. If we signed Kimbrel tomorrow, hes probably not ready until mid June at the earliest.

I was just thinking about this subject a couple days ago. Thanks for doing this so I didnt have to take all the time for research, lol! All of this, and the results and waiving of Addison Reed should show us, as does past history, that the FA RP market may be a bigger crapshoot than any other spot. Now, that shouldn't preclude signings in the future. Some do work out. And if you have a pitching coach you really trust and believe in, so much more the reason to make a move or two on the FA market. But clearly, IMO, we need to be a little more forgiving for the FO going the flier and internal development rout this past offseason.

Wow! That stinks! But a little surprised its Arraez coming up. Didnt see that one coming.

I think this is a tremendous OP and discussion. And I don't want to turn it in to a Kepler/Polanco post because that's not what jts supposed to be. But I have to, for a moment, as stated, Kepler is hitting #1 against RH batters, where his OB is at least acceptable, combined with power. Polanco may actually be the best #1 hitter in the team. But if be thrives so well where he is at, and a flux of Kepler, and previously Garver, do the job ahead of him, does it make sense to change at this point? Honestly asking as it it is working! Before I can honestly address Buxton, I have to regress a bit. When I heard rumors about a Cruz signing I didn't buy in. Didn't think it would happen. Personally, I wanted McCutchen or Brantley for greater roster/lineup flexibility. When I heard Falvey talking about the possibility of signing a veteran bat who could be productive and offer leadership and experience to the lineup and the team in general, I felt Cruz was a done deal. Shortly thereafter, it was. And there was a lot of conversation in regard to Cruz being not only productive, but a great role model for Sano and others. For those who may have missed it, about a week ago, during a telecast, Morneau I believe it was, was talking about Buxton going up to bat. The report was when Buxton returned to the dugout, Cruz would always ask him; "Did you have a plan? Did you have fun?" THAT is leadership, and it is HUGE! Even some of the greatest talents in any sport can take time to find themselves. Because Buck wasn't Griffey Jr out of the gate is no reason to penalize him. He beefed up, and came in with a different attitude this season. The attitude was simply, paraphrasing, do what feels right, trust in it, quit worrying and tinkering, and just let his natural ability take over. Do you realize he only has about 1,100 ML AB thus far? Buxton remains uber talented. His new found determination and approach is working. He is STILL learning, but producing! On a talented and deep team, he is making the most of his opportunities as the #9 hitter, behind decent hitters, and ahead of other good hitters for one of the most prolific lineups in the ML. What on earth could be wrong with letting him be relaxed and productive in the 9 hole for a few months more, or even the whole season, as he grows in experience and his approach? I am reminded many years ago when Manny Ramirez didn't want to hit cleanup. He wasn't comfortable there. Imagine that. One of the most prolific batters of his generation not initially comfortable with being pressed in to that spot. We all know how it eventually turned out. What is happening with Byron right now is working. He is growing and learning on a winning team with a hell of a lineup. Don't be too quick to ask for change. It seems unnecessary right now.

Can't like this post/idea enough!

Personally, I'd take Kimbrel tomorrow, and I haven't previously been 100% on board with that to date. I think a 1yr deal is not only the way to go, but what he probably wants at this point as well. I'd really like a 2nd yr option, and we could afford it, but would, again, say he wouldn't go for it. I'm a little confused as to what would have to be given up draft pick wise. I've heard a 3rd rounder, or the signing team's 3rd pick, which ever round it was in. (Meaning a possible 2nd round pick if there is a compensation pick involved). I really hate to give up an early pick like that, especially since this FO seems to have a good eye in drafting and acquiring talent. But the simple, honest truth is, only a handful of guys from any draft class make it, much less make it for a long and steady career. The developmental highway of EVERY MLB team is littered with top prospects/draft choices that failed to meet expectations, or make it at all. On a team with this much talent, playing this well, there is real opportunity for someone like Kimbrel to make a significant difference. That has to be weighed vs an unknown draft selection that may or may not ever pan out. Regarding others you mentioned, to dismiss the arms/potential of Romero or Mejia at this point would be misguided. I think we all know it's not as easy of an adjustment to make as just saying: "go to the pen and throw hard and dominate." The FO was probably hoping for that. It could still happen. But whether it be mental or physical preparation and adjustment, it hasn't happened as of yet. I have honestly been surprised by the, so far, sustained success of Harper. Magill has the velocity and breaking ball to be very effective if he can control the BB and HR he allowed last season. Either, or both, could be fine, or very good, as 7th-8th men in the pen. But as of now, there is no 2nd LH to rely on at all. And while I like Parker, and feel May is going to settle in nicely, there is a very real need for a top fireman to join Rogers. It's great to think about what a couple of these guys could do come the second half of the season, and what they could bring then, and for the future. But that is a dangerous "what if" game for a team looking this good. If not Kimbrel, for various reasons, so be it. But the FO needs to be aggressive with at least one big move. Kimbrel costs money and a questionable draft choice. A LH option costs a couple prospects in a deep system. The FO has been very clear about adding to the team if the window for contention arrived. The window is wide open at this point!

Just wanted to touch on the whole Hildy vs Duffey scenario. I think Hildenberger has looked pretty bad recently. Not banging on him, just stating a fact as my eyes have seen it. Doesnt mean he cant get back in a groove and be good again. Maybe he could use that AAA re-set. I dont for a second believe Duffey is any kind of pen savior. As Seth quoted in response to something I said elsewhere, if Duffey pitched all the time like his last appearance, he'd never be sent down. True enough! What I DO LIKE, however, despite SSS is his great start to the season thus far at both levels AND increased velocity. Hes no savior. But he might be developing in to the more consistent pen arm we've always wished he might be. More of the Johnson effect. Hopefully.

Not worried about Rooker at this point. Only 24yo and in his first year of AAA and 2nd full professional season. Further, like last year, he has started to heat up after a slow start. But IMO, Raley has surpassed him as a prospect. I want very much to believe in Smeltzer. He is obviously a "pitcher" and not a thrower. Some guys just figure it out and know how to do it. But I think we still need to see some more.

100%! He is not maxing out or realizing his potential at all. And I say this as both a fan and a believer. I cant explain his BAIP numbers. He shows a good eye, solid contact skills, a sweet stroke, and plenty of natural athleticism and power. But it's all of those qualities that tell me how much room for improvement there is in his game. He played club ball in Germany, not at an elite HS program or a participant in traveling teams or specialized camps. He made steady progress before a seeming breakout in AA and then practically skipped AAA. Hes still only 26!

Duffey has been such a frustrating enigma. Looked like the move to the rotation was a smart one, and then it blew up. No problem, just move him to the pen again. Except, he's just been so inconsistent there as well. But it's not only a new season, but a new staff. Early results are excellent at both Rochester and with the Twins. SSS, but encouraging. To me his biggest problem has been lack of consistent control and location of his curve. If he can find that, and this increased velocity is for real, he could be a huge help. Is this more of Johnson's work? If so, it's a small piece of the puzzle most have dismissed that could pay real dividends.

Might be the first time I've ever listened to an interview with Stewart. Agree he sounded very candid about today, no excuses, knew what worked and what didnt and made some adjustments. Still only 24yo until after the season and in his first full season of AAA, and yet it just feels like he's been around forever. He scares me when I watch him sometimes as it seems he's just on the edge. But as he stated, if he can get that 3rd (of 4) pitch working most nights, he shows he can at least be solid. I think we all know by now he's just not going to be the top of the rotation guy we hoped for. And at 24, he's not exactly a late bloomer. He just is what he is and what he's going to be, which is probably a nice, solid #4-5 SP. There is still real value in that.

I liked the Cron signing but had no clue he could play defense like this! It's not hyperbole to say he's played at a Gold Glove level thus far. His low AVG and OPS mentioned are misleading. His numbers clearly show he has been productive. He started slow, had a bit of s hot streak, then cooled down again before this most recent outburst. Numbers fluctuate a lot in the early going. He was such a smart sign!!

Agreed. Hildenberger has been very good. Now he's had a couple bad games in a row. Such is the nature of life as a RP. Now, if the trend continues and doesnt reverse itself soon, it's time to worry. That being said, I still dont understand May for a handful of pitches. No reason he couldn't have and shouldn't have started a clean 9th. Very hard to win a game only scoring 3 runs and leaving how many guys in scoring position? Lost in all of this is Pineda's best start. 3 runs in 6 IP is 3 runs in 6 IP no matter how you look at it. When his performance is something to complain about, you really dont have anything to complain about.

Despite his slow start...heating up now...Rooker is a highly rated prospect for a reason. Tons of potential there. He got off to a slow start last season too, adjusted, and did great. But surely Raley has surpassed him in prospect status at this point. He may not have Rooker's pure power but seems to be a legit 20HR guy with better contact skills and better defense. (The Twins even used him in CF during ST).

Nope. I like Marwin a lot! Loved his signing. He has contributed despite his slow start, which he is known for. In fact, he may relax and be more productive in his customary role. Sano carries some past baggage that we don't have to re-hash. He is an elite talent. Despite his latest setback, I have never heard a thing about him being a bad teammate. His off season work has been well documented. And despite it being milb rehab, we have seen nothing so far but production from a guy who seems intent to get back. I appreciate your concern, but I think it's unwarranted.

I was going to make a post almost exactly lime this a couple nights ago, but didn't have time. Therefore, you just KNOW I have things to say! And for those who know me, I also have a hard time being brief in any way! LOL! But I'm going to do my best! As I stated in a blog here on TD earlier this evening, speculating on trades/acquisitions of any sort on May 9th are made in a speculative vacuum at this point. There is so much season to be played out, much less the remainder of a half season remaining until July. But here we are. If you were to write a horror story of anything and everything that could go wrong in 2018 for the Twins, unless you were of amazing imagination, I'm not sure you could have come up with details that were true last season. 2019 is still very early, but even with the horror/disappointment of 2018 behind us, it does not take a work of fantasy to see where this team is right now with returning young talent, some very smart additions, and a new and fresh approach with the new staff in place. Though I NEVER saw the re-invention of Perez coming to be sure)! I am all in favor of adding a quality rotation arm if said arm has control beyond this season. But, unpopular though it may be, I don't feel it's necessary/warranted at this time. Depth is scary right now. But Littell has been finding a groove. After a rough start, Thorpe has looked like we hoped and expected until his last start. Hopefully it was just a blip and he will be on track again next time out. Early to say, but Smeltzer looks like a guy who is suddenly growing and figuring things out. Gonsalves, who I still believe in, hasn't pitched yet and that stinks. But barring an injury curse, how much better does the depth look a month from now? If our biggest rotation issue is allowing a solid, quality veteran SP like Pineda a little more time to settle in and build himself back up and regain his "feel" for things as our #5 starter, life is pretty good. The issue is, clearly, the bullpen. And ,e.g. us be honest and clear, thus far, it has been solid. Toss produce my way all you want, it's true. But it's not great. There remains real opportunity to improve, and thus improve the entire team. Not pick all you want, but the core four is solid: Parker, May, Hildenberger and Rogers. I fully expect these four to continue to perform well based on talent and past history, even if that history has blips. (Such is the volatility of RP in general). But we need more than those four! And that is where opportunity awaits and must be addressed! This team needs TWO arms to be added to maintain a winning nature and be a contender. Regardless of how Rocco utilizes them, two arms are needed. The first is another power RH arm for late innings or high leverage situations to work with Parker and May, Hildenberger to a lesser degree. The second is a viable LH arm who can be counted on for at least a single IP. I am NOT saying don't go out and get someone! I hope we do! But if Johnson and Hefner can harness Romero's electric stuff over the next month or so, how much better does the pen look? Romero's stuff is so good that sometimes I wonder if he's young, inexperienced, and trying too damn hard. Maybe if he just trusted it more and threw right in the zone and let his stuff work he wouldn't find better results. The same might be true for Mejia. He has the pitches. Has he just had a tough "mental" transition to being a RP vs just throwing? Personally, I buy more in to Mejia than Moya or Vassquez. But again, if one of them can step forward in the next month, how much better does the pen look? I am more than OK with Harper and/or Magill as 7th and 8th options. Inherited runners scoring is something to be looked at closely. But even the best RP will allow some. Harper absolutely allowed some early. But he's pitched well lately and offers a completely different look/change of pace. A healthy Magill is someone I am very interested in if Johnson can help him find greater consistency. He walked too many guys last season and allowed way too many HR. But he also averaged a K per IP last season and throws in the mid 90's with a nasty slurve. Again, what can Johnson and Hefner do with these guys as the 7th and 8th BP arms? Really, the core of this team is still young, and finally coming together the way we have been hoping for. And Sano may be on his way soon to provide even more oomf and optimism. I think the next 30 days is going to dictate a lot of the rest of the season and any moves made. Romero finding himself, and hopefully Mejia or another LH arm in that time will emerge. If either, or both, happen, it will make a trade deadline move all that more interesting. Trade anyone and everyone...no matter their potential or how much we like them...except for Kiriloff, Lewis and Graterol. to bring in a power arm, similar to the Pressly trade to Houston last season, unless everything breaks right. You just don't trade any of those three unless there is a Verlander out there.

Dont disagree with you. But I feel Pineda has flashed and just needs some time to settle in. I haven't given up on Mejia as a SP. But I wonder if his troubles so far have been mental. Instead of worrying about starting vs relieving, maybe he can take his rehab time to realize he just needs to throw and trust his stuff. If he could do that, and Romero could harness his electric stuff over the next few weeks, the entire bullpen situation could look very different come July.

It's only May 9th and there is a lot of time not only for the season, but until the deadline. At the moment, we are in a bit if a fantasy/projection vacuum. That being said, I agree with your post 100%. With one exception. Gibson is only the #4 SP because there was where he was slotted to buy him some time to build up endurance and feel. No matter how well Perez and Odorizzi have done...and I hope they keep it up, or pitch at least close...I dont feel Gibson is a #4 SP at all. And I agree on Pineda as well. I believe he just needs a little more time to build up endurance and get his feel back in his first full season from surgery. History has shown us this, often with positive results. And Rocco has been nursing him a bit, which is smart. Rotation depth is scary at the moment. But Littell is warming up. Gonsalves hasn't pitched yet, which is troubling. Thorpe started slow, exploded, then had a clunker. How will he respond next time out is important. Smeltzer looks like a guy who suddenly found himself. A month and a half from now, the depth situation could look entirely different! But the pen is where at least one move needs to be made, no matter how solid/decent it has largely performed thus far. I am with you on the core four. But unless Romero can harness his great stuff the next month or so, or Reed suddenly surprise and become his old self, we need another quality arm that can be relied on. But we also need a 2nd lefty. Can Mejia take this time to accept his role and just trust his stuff and make a difference? Can Moya or Vasquez prove they can fill a viable role? I also don't want to overpay for help, but there is enough system depth to make at least one good move to deepen the pen without mortgaging anything. (Two moves may be needed). How much you give up, obviously, depends not only who is added, but how much remaining control is available. Here's hoping at least one of the aforementioned steps forward to make a difference.

Infectious, fun and productive, you could be right. He should be back soon, maybe Friday. Willing to bet he takes off where he left off. Correct me if I'm wrong, but isnt he still a rookie? Hands down the easy early choice for Twins rookie. With 500AB playing all over, he could grab a spotlight to be sure.

Watching the games on MLB app I dont get to see such commercials. But just reading your comments got me remembering the old "lumber company" commercials way back in the early 80's with Smalley, Wyneger and such. Might be appropriate for a rebirth. Something with forest scenes, sound of chainsaws and axes and shots of bombs by this team mixed in.

Right now, it's Rosario for production, enthusiasm and "style points" in a narrow margain ahead of Berrios. Polanco keeps doing what he's doing and Buxton keeps scratching at his ceiling, ask me at the end of the season. Could easily be one of them.

Gibson, what a bum! Guy goes out and blows a chance for a 3rd straight shutout. Was he more concerned about another SO that he lost concentration? Sheesh! (Heehee) Just outstanding! We knew what we had in Berrios, and felt he'd only get better. I think we all knew what we had in Gibson...with some room to slightly improve...but he was slowed early due to his illness and weight/strength/endurance loss. Most of us, I'd say, were wishy-washy on Odorizzi. We knew his potential, saw flashes with TB, saw his late 2017 results, as a better 2nd half in 2018 than first half, but still felt uncertain about him. Except for one clunker, he's been good to excellent. I'd say a handful of people here actually thought the Perez signing was a good one. (I was not one of them). With Gibson looking more and more like his old/new self, the Twins are marching out a legitimate, quality SP 4 out of 5 days. Pineda's history, healthy, is very solid. He has shown flashes. A little more endurance, a little more "feel" coming back and we could have one of the deepest rotations in MLB.

Awesome read! Thank you!

Crazy how I spoke about being disappointed in Cabbage as the season began, and here he is seemingly finding himself. I hope nothing but the best for the kid!