DocBauer

Linus, agreed another, better arm or two would help. It always does/would. Agreed. But what really frustrated me was games where we were behind 4 runs and he'd still ride his best arms in the hope of a comeback instead of trying someone else and holding back on over use of his most trusted arms.

His contract never bothered me. The economics of baseball, clearly re-affirmed here, are what they are. His lack of RBI was frustrating when you look at his batting numbers and RISP AVG. But the past few years, he hasn't always had a lot of guys OB in front of him. There have also been quite a few years where there was a questionable bat behind him. (Post Morneau for example). Not every good/great hitter/player is a HR hitter. Gwynn and Boggs weren't power hitters by nature. When they tried to be, their other numbers suffered. Why does Mauer need defending? He doesn't and I think he'd say the same thing. But sometimes, some feel a lack of a certain "something" downgrades the overall ability and effectiveness of a player and his career. I still believe he is a HOF for his first 9 years. Unprecedented numbers and accomplishments for his position.

Spot on. Never understood when Mauer was out, and Grossman was in the lineup daily, why wasn't his best skill, is OB%, used in the lead off spot? But at the end of the season, when injuries took out so many bats, he suddenly decided riding Grossman's hot bat in the 4 hole. Just maddeningly inconsistent.

Can't and won't argue. Great choice! This is the Gibson we thought we were getting after '14 & '15. Glad he finally arrived! Could make a very strong arguement for Roger's and have no complaint from me. I'd say Gibson wins because he is a SP and sank pretty low in '16 and the start of '17. My only qualm with Garver on the list is being a rookie, kind of defeats the "improved" part of the equation, IMO. Still, I'm a believer and really felt his defense improved as the year went on. The bat looks pretty legitimate to me. I think he's the primary catcher when 2019 is said and done.

Shocked? No. Surprised? Yes. All the more so as it was quickly done. I wasn't sure he'd be back, but with all the injuries, and I think some genuine growth and improvement in his style, I thought he might get another year. Injuries or not, there was questionable usage of the pen and frustrating lineup choices at times. Which confounded me as at times he was actually innovative. (Ex: Polanco succeeding so well as the #3 hitter). I don't believe injuries or bad performances sealed Molitor's fate. It was the pen usage, odd lineups, playing certain veterans too much, and poor overall team fundamentals at times. People talk about the "Twins Way" as if it was a bad thing. But one thing you didn't see from TK lead teams, and most of Gardy's, was a team that just beat themselves so much. I really believe they will be going out of the organization for the next manager. I'm hoping for a little younger, and hoping for a stronger Latin influence on the staff.

Mejia will be pitching somewhere for us. And he will definitely get a rotation shot. With a little good luck, he and Romero will BOTH be in the rotation with Pineda or Odorizzi moving to the pen. I tend to believe the FO will take a small step back and persue a more minimalist approach, as stated. I also believe they will make the one "major" pen move and then 1 or 2 minimal signings are sort through the depth they have. And while there are some unproven guys there, there is still depth to roll through. FA, May, Rogers, and a rebound by Hildenberger and/or Reed, (hopefully both), is not too bad of a beginning. I also think there will be at least one quality infielder signed. Our depth, except for Gordon potentially, is all too low in the system. They will add one good piece there, and then look for another Adrianza type. I'm having a hard time seeing a major move in the rotation. I wouldn't be opposed to it! But...especially if you consider the new "opener" strategy as an option...you have Berrios, Gibson, Romero, Mejia, Pineda and Odorizzi with Stewart, Gonsalves, Littell, maybe Slegers, and both Thorpe and Wells at some point for depth. I'm speculating work on the pen and infield and pretty much status quo on the rotation at this point. *Side note: All 3 of Gibson, Pineda and Odorizzi could potentially be gone after 2019. Not say any or all 3 will, but jt coukd happen for various reasons. This could change the dynamics of the FO thinking.

Pearce is a guy I'd be interested on a 1 year deal as a nice role player. He could even play a game or two here and there in the OF I'd expect. I just wish he were LH to better compliment Austin as Sano, Garver and even Astudillo can help at 1B. You and I have always been believers in Sano at 3B. And I think we both agree that if he continues down his new condition path it will only make him more effective defensively. He's already surprising quick and agile for his size, charges the ball well and has than amazing cannon for an arm. Now, of course, he still needs to find some semblance of his previous hitting ability. Where I disagree is when you state we don't need infield help. Or are you referencing just the corners in this case? If you are, then I still like a better back up 3B than Adrianza, though Astudillo is definitely a possibility there. But the middle infield definitely needs an addition.

Great point Vanimal. I should expound on my commentary. He would clearly be paid as a starting caliber infielder. Now, how much is still up for debate. Regardless, he has the ability to compete and start at 2B, SS (with Polanco moving to 2B), or 3B if Sano is injured, moves to 1B/DH etc. I don't feel he would have to be signed with a single position in mind. Only, that he will be paid like a starter, be given the opportunity to start at 3 different locations, and at worst, he could/would play daily SOMEWHERE if the chips fell just right. Say an Iglesius fell in to our laps. As Brian pointed out above, part of his appeal IS his versatility. So I don't think any specific position has to be declared.

I am a huge fan and believer in Escobar and I just dont see $45M for 3 years. IMO, that would be a total turn around from the depressed market we saw last season. But to me, he makes the most sense. He is an super utility guy to play daily and yet can also thrive very well starting at a single position. Healthy, playing any where close to his previous self, Sano is the primary 3B. Especially if he continues on his current diet and exercise program. He can also fill in at 1B and DH. I am leaning toward a 2nd 1B/DH type, with Mauer retired, who can bring a decent LH bat. But then I look at Astudillo and others and start to talk myself out of it.

The whole game, and so many moments, made it a special and moving day. And not just for Joe and his family, but for all of us. Personally, I was greatly moved when he came out in catching gear and had to fight my own tears. It was fitting! As was his hustle double to OF. He was an amazing catcher, one of the best I ever saw, and probably the best hitting catcher we've ever seen. And he was always a class act in everything he did, on and off the field. Going to miss him, if this indeed is it. It's going to very strange not seeing #7 on the team, or in the lineup, if he decides it's time. I wish him the very best!

I absolutely don't understand why the Twins insist on marching Astudillo out to play daily. I mean, all this guy does is play decent defense and hit the ball and hustle while playing with exuberance. Those kinds of guys are a dime a dozen! #Astudillorocks

Is it just me, but with his physique and blonde highlights, I keep seeing "Sano Jr" when I look at Willans. Let's face it, his "shape" is round, and he's not exactly speedy. But he runs better than you would expect, and I agree there appears to be some quickness to him. Hey, athletes come in different shapes and sizes. I know his shape, but don't know his conditioning. I know your post was tongue-in-cheek, but considering the opportunity that may be in front of him, you do have to wonder a bit about him shedding a few pounds to get ready for 2019.

I actually like that bench with a healthy and productive Buxton and Kepler in the OF. And to be clear on the subject, Buxton only needs to hit around .250 (for now at least considering his potential) with even reasonable contact to let his defense and natural power and speed take over. Kepler just needs to even out some weird really splits. I could argue with Garver on the bench. I actually think Castro is a good catcher with a mediocre bat and decent power. I think we missed him this year mkre than some realize or want to admit. But Garver has a much, much better bat with potential. His defense has improved as the season went along. Whether it's early or eventually, I'd like to see Garver as the primary catcher who can DH/PH and even fill in at 1B.

My own echoing side note: May asked to go to the pen at Rochester as part of his rehab. As I recall, he felt he could more effective in shorter stints as he got his legs under him and shook off rust. I believe he really enjoys relieving now and I think that's where he's going to end up in 2019 and beyond. Despite a few poor appearances here and there, I think he's done very well. Imagine much better he could be going forward with surgery and rehab now behind him.

Love the idea in principal. Like it even better if, as in Oakland, there was maybe a section of fans who created their own "Twins Time" location so other fans could feed off the energy but not be directly disturbed by the noise of the drum scenario.

Wanted to like and copy a couple posts here but phone is not letting me. Grrr! Great to see Berrios end on such a high note, especially after he struggled some in the second half. I absolutely believe we have yet to see the best of him. Really have enjoyed watching Cave this season and agree there may be potential as more than a 4th OF. Despite known struggles/issues, Buxton and Kepler will have a lot to say about that. Plenty of room for all 4. And what a great "problem" that would be to have! Astudillo should absolutely be on the 40 man! Period! I can see scenarios where he doesn't make the opening roster, but he needs to be kept. Really nice role player and I'm believing his bat plays at the ML level. Believer and fan of both Roger's and May. Remember, May is still on the comeback trail. He has largely impressed, but still shaking off rust. Also like Hildenberger but believe he's best from the 6th-8th. Is it my imagination, or has Molitor seemed more affable and relaxed the past couple of months? He's actually been humorous in some of his interviews.

End of the season, and most of us are in a "meh, who cares" attitude. But the truth is, we really do care. I have a few thoughts to toss out: 1] Odorizzi's season has been mediocre. Can he be better in 2019? Absolutely. Is he a decent/quality 5th SP. Yes, he is. Could his overall stuff and SO ability play up even better as a set up man and potential closer even? I believe it could, and I wish someone would make that move and convince him that he should make and embrace that move. 2] Why I he'll can't Duffey do what he did, and has shown he can do, more often? Scared as he'll We're going to let him go and he'll figure it out somewhere else and become a quality RP for someone else. 3] I want to believe in Austin so badly! His milb career says he can hit and produce. Since coming to the Twins, he hasn't hit the best, but we've seen the power and potential. Between his time in N.Y. and Minnesota, he has 17 HR in 233AB. 2018 is his first extended playing time at the ML level. I want to believe he's a really nice piece we acquired in trade. Someone,please, convince me one way or another. 4] Very disappointed to see Astudillo wasn't catching tonight until I saw the box and realised he was starting at 3B! See he went 3 for 5 and didn't see or hear the play, but heard Dan and Corey say be made a great defensive play. I am SO on the bandwagon for him being on the 40 man and being the 25th-26th man on the roster. 5] Vasquez, Reed and Curtiss each got a full IP? WOW!

Let me return the "agree with everything you say" comment. I was not high on Gordon when drafted. His ratings were pretty much 50 across the board and I simply couldn't understand his ratings and hype and draft positioning considering that, despite the whole "bloodline" argument. I have come around, however, due to his overall skill set, reported work ethic, and the flashes he has shown each of the last two half seasons. I'm just waiting, and holding out hope, to see that full season of production. I'm still wondering, especially when I hear reports he's still only 160lbs or so, that maybe he just needs muscle and to grow in to his body some more. And I'd hate for a top pick to become a utility player, but you need those too. If all he became was another Escobar, or a better hitting version of Newman/Adrianza, he's still be a nice piece on a good club.

Garver: Never expected him to be an All Star, but always felt he'd be a good bat with power and production who could hold his own behind the plate. I think we've seen enough of the bat to knkw the potential is real. I agree his defense got better as the season progressed. I wouldn't be a bit surprised to see him overtake Castro in 2019 as the primary catcher at some point. Cave: Smart or lucky by the FO, a great move. His power seems pretty legititimate and didn't start coming on until last season so they picked him up at just the right time. (And no room in NY). Not sure if his ceiling, but he hits, has power, runs decently, and has played good to excellent defense despite a few bad moments. Still only a rookie. Really like him as the 4th OF. (The "starting" still have the most overall potentialm IMO). Astudillo: Love this guy! He's a great story and a bunch of fun to watch! But is he anything more? Baseball is littered with solid role players who never stick until they find the right team and right time. Astudillo could be one of those guys. I'm honestly starting to think he's more than just "the round guy who is fun to watch". Personally, I think he's looked OK behind the plate. How good is he as an OF, 3B, 1B, 2B? I don't have a clue! But even fill in servicable increases his value. SSS or not, should we really be surprised by his hitting performance? The guy doesn't walk or SO much, but is a career .306/ .345/ .409/ .754 milb hitter who's best power numbers have come this season with Rochester and the Twins. Romero: He is, absolutely, a key to the Twins moving forward. Development, service time, or just careful handling, arguments can be easily made he wasn't given enough ML time this year. But the mere fact he was promoted so early in the season shows his potential and the belief the FO has in him. And we've seen flashes of what he can become. I have a huge believer in Berrios and his future. That being said, is it so hard to believe Romero could actually be the Twins best SP come end of 2019 or beginning of 2020? Littell, Gonsalves, Stewart and Vasquez: Littell has not impressed me, despite some good milb numbers. I feel he was brought up too soon and put in an awkward position a couple times. Still, he's a wait and see. Seems Stewart has been around and debated forever, but he's still only 23, showing at least some hope/potential so we will see. Gonsalves is the guy I'm still high on. I have made claim more than once I expected him to struggle when first brought up. He simply doesn't have the big FB or whipeout breaking pitch to get by with. But he's long, has a decent FB, reportedly an excellent change, and a pair of breaking pitches still developing. What he has done is make adjustments at every level he's been at, and just get better and better before moving up again. I believe he will be a very solid ML SP with #3 potential. (I also believe Thorpe will surpass him at some point in 2019, but there is room for both). Vasquez: LH, breathing, with an outstanding slider and huge milb SO totals. This is the kind of guy who carves out at least a decent career for himself. But is just a LOOGY? Or can he be effective against RH hitters? With Moya ahead of him, at least for now, and Mejia out of options and ticketed for the pen if he doesn't earn a rotation spot, Vasquez will begin 2019 in Rochester and we'll see what happens. This is NOT a great rookie class. But we shouldn't have expected one either with still recent graduations and the realization the next wave of high end prospects were all in high A or below. But Garver has a real chance to be solid and more productive than the average catcher, Cave was a solid find. Romero should be a stud in short order. Astudillo could be a 13th player find and depth piece. If not traded, I still feel Gonsalves will be part of the rotation in the near future. (How about Berrios, Romero, Thorpe and Gonsalves as 4 of your 5 by as soon as late 2019 or 2020?).

I think Grossman is back for depth. If the OF is healthy and producing, his only having to play in the field here and there and be a bench bat isn't a bad thing, especially as a 5th OF. Anyone know if he has an option left?

I think it's safe to say we all hope you are wrong about Gordon, I am going to give him the benefit of the doubt for a while longer. His strong first halves each of the past two seasons tells me there is talent and potential to be a nice ballplayer. (Though with Lewis as the potential solution at SS and Polanco possibly at 2B, Gordon's best roll may be as utility player or trade bait). The problem is the second half fades. This season, it could be due to his AAA promotion and figuring things out. But his second half fade at AA in 2017? Conditioning? Endurance?

I don't know if Stewart is better described as an enigma or Kelly and Hyde. Quality ERA, high ground ball %, extremely low HR totals, reports of low 90's velocity consistently and a slider that had real potential and overall success in his milb career, and even a bit of a surge in SO to begin this season. But the lack of control and lack of SO is both alarming and confusing. We've been talking about Stewart for so long now,it's almost crazy to realize he's only 23yo! And despite repeating his odd pitching numbers at the ML level, as you state, he's actually getting some results. Youth, interesting SSS results, low HR totals, high ground ball % all give me some hope. If I'm not mistaken, the 1 seamer he's throwing now began just this season. Probably nothing more than a back end starter at best, or effective middle man, he's showing he has a chance. Jay is an entirely different matter. I don't want to debate the whole RP to SP argument. Considering his arsenal and college usage, at least it made some sense at the time, in the absence of a better overall arm. But at worst, I also felt he'd be up as a dominant LHRP by now. And there is still real value in that. But at this point, for injury or whatever reason, he has yet to even dominate AA. He should absolutely go unprotected at this point. There are other 40 man candidates to keep, promote and push. I hope he goes unclaimed and comes back. Sometimes a guy just gets right in body and mind and something starts to click. Maybe that's him in 2019? But right now, I'm afraid it's time to move on.

No going to go in to depth, but have been universally pleased the FO since they arrived. But the handling of some of the injured this season has been perplexing AT BEST. Also, such a short bench in September is just ridiculous. Gordon and Wade have to be added in the off season, yes? So there was no way to make room for a pair of position players NOW vs later and allowed to experience MLB and work with coaches for a month????

Taking my shot at the whole "re-build" idea: 1] We have to remember that the re-buikd stretches over two different FO. That is not an excuse, it's a fact. And each FO has made moves toward that end. Has there been some "dumpster diving" here and there...(And I don't like that term)...yes. But you also have to field a team. Let's use Suzuki, just for an example. What kther catcher was available to rush, promote, and let develop? Trade for one? With what assets? The young players in the system you want to develop for said re-build? 2] I am NOT saying anyone/everyone is performing to expected/hoped standards...at least not yet...but Rosario, Buxton, Kepler, Berrios, Sano and Polanco are all young players, (still young players), promoted very aggressively. And we have seen performance, flashes of performance, along with some very bad play. Isn't this collection of talent part of a committed re-build? Wasn't the best promotion of Romero yet another indication? The new FO has signed some vets. They've even cycled a few guys back through that have frustrated us and left us scratching our heads. And I'm not excusing them for some of these moves. But they have been pretty aggressive with acquiring young talent to stock the system in a variety of ways and have been quite aggressive with promotions of many of these players. Rooker played half this season in AA, in only his first full season. Khiriloff and Lewis and Rortvedt were moved aggressively. This was Thorpe's first full season back, I believe, and be even got a brief taste of AAA ball. There is talent and depth in the system. There have been indications of strong promotions. There is enough depth to even make a trade or two to augment the roster with guys that aren't "dumpster diving". And no, the 1 year deals the FO handed out last off season don't qualify. They were short deals for guys with some track record that just didn't work out. But they resulted in some net gains as well. 3] Part of rebuilding requires development and patience. Nobody wants to hear that. They all want the Twins to have a couple 19-20yo come up and look really good because a couple of other guys on different teams have done that. In all my years of watching baseball, I've seen very very few guys who ever did that. A couple years ago, Berrios and Rosario were called potential busts by many because they didn't dominate immediately. Berrios was deserving of his All Star selection, has tons of potential still, and could/should develop in to a legitimate #1-2 SP. Rosario is one of the best and most exciting OF out there and deserved to go to the All Star game. Before his leg injury and screwed up off season, Sano was an All Star just last year. By all reports, FWIW, he took his demotion and new plan to heart and is saying all the right things about his approach to finishing this season and getting ready for next season. Kepler showed he could hit RH and teased us with his potential despite practically skipping AAA ball. He reversed his splits this year. Why can't he even out his numbers against both sides in 2019? And second half last season and since coming off his suspension, we've been seeing the potential in Polanco's bat. Despite a sudden bad stretch, Hildenberger has turned in to a quality part of the pen. Rogers, just as much. Remember last season when many claimed he was just a LOOGY? Stewart, Littell and Gonsalves in the rotation, Moya and Vasquez (along with Busenitz who may be done) have received looks now. They are, at least getting their feet wet. I have real conflicts with a couple guys not up, some of whom need to be added to the 40 man anyway, but each player and each situation is different. 4] There have been additional non-Twins prospects who have received real opportunities. Cave was acquired after probably his best milb season as a WTH move and looks like a real keeper. Austin, still only 26,has big time power, a solid milb track record, and has thrived since getting his first extended opportunity with the Twins. I have no idea his ceiling, but he's at least an interesting piece who appears to be at least complimentary. While perhaps mis-handled at Rochester, (perhaps because they didn't really know what they had), Astudillo is getting an extended loom instead of just riding veteran Giminez to the finish line. Yes, promotions need to take place, and some of the most talented of which should be pushed some. And yes, there are some holes to be filled yet, whether by said promotions, trade, FA, or even a filler piece or two. But this team absolutely bas been, and still is in, a rebuild mode.

Actually a very interesting question, and one I hadn't thought about. I think the assumption of Kepler over Cave is two fold. 1] He's considered the better defender. 2] POTENTIALLY he's the better hitter, at least in regard to contact and OB. Fair or not, I do see Kepler as the more talented player. But I've been pretty impressed by Cave this far.