DocBauer

I'm just knowledgeable about coaching hires to be dangerous. But I'm probably as dangerous as a wet firecracker when it comes to who would be a good pitching coach hire. Riverbrian is right on in regard to HOF players, in any sport, often not being good coaches. They had the talent, the will, and that special something to excel. It's hard for them to settle for less than what they themselves accomplished, and don't always know how to express what they did. They just did it. That's why I'm not sure you can name a Maddux as a great idea for a pitching coach. If interested, perhaps he could be excellent. So could Glavine and Smoltz. But there has to be the want to be a coach, as well as the ability to articulate the job. But those would be some interesting ideas to be sure. I don't know Cuellar is the right guy, but I've only heard glowing reports about him in the past. And I'm greatly intrigued by Marty Mason. Firstly, he's only been with the Twins for two seasons, so he's no Twins "insider" for those who want a new voice and approach. Secondly, he has familiarity with May, Meyer and other pitching prospects. And thirdly, he actually comes primarily from the Cardinals organization, an organization often lauded here and other locations for being able to provide quality pitching.

Very optimistic on both Rosario as well as Kepler. I know it's SSS, but considering the shortened and disappointing season Rosario had, seeing him participate in a AA or AA+ environment has me encouraged he's returning to form. Everyone is talking Chattanooga to begin 2015, but I wouldn't rule out Rochester. And I've always believed, nothing but a feeling, that while no slugger, his HR power would start to come back with physical maturity, experience, and simply a chance to play at a comfortable level. He's actually been promoted pretty quickly in his career. I also have a gut feeling the light is going to come in for Kepler as well. There just seems to be so much natural talent and ability there for him to not turn a corner one of these days.

I think the makeup of the coaching staff is going to be both paramount and interesting in its makeup. Molitor had a very long and distinguished career. He's been in organized ball for about 40 year, and he's obviously played under and with a lot of quality baseball people, and had a lot of contacts both at the major league and minor league level as a player and coach/instructor. Initially, he wasn't my first choice as I found myself swept up in the idea of Dougie M to have that young manager who would be with the club for the long term and this next wave of the "new Twins" arriving. And while it's doubtful Molitor will be as long term as his predecessors, the more I thought about his qualifications, and his work with the Twins minor league players, and their glowing comments about him, I began to feel better and better about him being the choice with Doug getting additional milb time to develop himself as a manager. (Still feel he or Mauer may be the guy in a few more years). I have a hard time NOT seeing Bruno back. Likewise, I think Cuellar would be an excellent choice to return as either pitching or bullpen coach. His reputation has always been glowing, and he probably deserved a promotion to the ML club sooner than last year. I had honestly never thought of Robin Young until recently, which I mentioned elsewhere, until I heard him mentioned by a respected local journalist. I find myself intrigued by his presence. I also wonder about the possibility of Dale Sveum as bench coach. Would he leave the Royals to join Molitor as his bench coach? He might, joining a former teammate, and might enjoy the idea of being a #2 with the idea of using it as a springboard to another shot as a ML manager. I like the idea of a former ML catcher being on staff as well. I think Steinbach is certainly a possibility to be retained, assuming he doesn't move on to join LaRussa in some capacity. If not him, what about Henry Blanco? I believe he's with the Diamondbacks, but perhaps he's ready for a new challenge? Molitor has ties as a player to former Latin players such as Roberto Alomar, Tony Fernandez and Alfredo Griffin. Could any of these be coaching possibilities? The pitching coach is obviously going to be a major hire. And I confess I'm at a bit of a loss for possibilities for this spot.

I wonder, if the entire Maddon surprising out situation had never transpired, would there be so much vitriol and angst among the Molitor and Ryan haters?

I generally like this. I'm uncertain as to friction with Gardenhire, or how much truly existed. There have been some rumors over time, but I don't know that we'll ever know if it is true, or to what degree. At this point, it is water under the bridge. As to Seth's comment about Molitor being brought on last season as the eventual choice, I don't know. Perhaps. Again, we'll probably never know. But he did seem to have a positive impact on the club last year. And after the previous three seasons, I think that very well may have been the only real reason he was added. Again, at this point, water under the bridge. I disagree with Molitor being an inside hire simply because he's been employed by the Twins the past several years. I disagree because he is a knowledgeable, HOFer, respected baseball guy who was not a part of the Gardenhire team until last season. Further, his playing career was only a few years with the Twins, after time with the Jays, and most if his career with the Brewers. Has he been part of the organization? Absolutely. But I just don't see Molitor as a corporate "yes man".

On a hilarious but serious note...I enjoyed the comments about Hrbek being in the booth far more than any of us know. If he isn't too busy hunting, fishing, bowling, drinking, or working with his wonderful charity, why isn't Hrbek hired by the Twins in some capacity? Is there a better PR VP candidate? Is there a better choice to join the TV and radio booths for color commentary? He is doubtlessly full of humor, experience, perspective and stories. And while seen outwardly at times as a loveable lug, Hrbek was a highly successful pro. And he's literally a lifelong Twin.

Sorry if I am repetitive, but I have concerns about this whole issue. 1) "Sources" say this, and "sources" say that. Some of these "sources" say things that seem to contradict one another. Sorry if I'm a bit jaded or suspicious of Mr Source, but over the years I've just hear and read too much from him to get immediately worked up about what he says. 2) The Twins have a manager opening. They are the only team with said opening when Maddon becomes a FA. Maddon is a respected baseball guy with a quality track record. And yet, for some reason, Terry Ryan, a veteran and very respected baseball man in his own right completely and utterly ignores Maddon. Nothing. Nope. Nada. Even Ryan's bosses make no attempt at contact, or urge/force him to make a simple phone call. Does anyone else a flaw in basic logic here? Either there is something here we are not privy to, or Mr Source is mistaken. 3) Maddon is now a FA, and there is one team with an immediate opening. And it's reported he respects the organization, likes Target Field, and would welcome speaking with the Twins. And yet he and his team take absolutely no initiative on their own to make a simple phone call to inquire interest? Am I the only person that sees complete disconnect here?

I felt the interview was honest and about as transparent as you could expect. I appreciated comments made about stretching payroll above normal parameters when the organization felt there was a solid reason to do so. And if you look at the 2010-2012 seasons that is clearly evident. I would have liked to hear more about 2015 though, in relation to comments from Ryan in reference to "$100M should be more than enough." Target Field is one of the top ballparks in all of baseball. And the Ft Myers complex, already nice, now has to be the industry standard! But I'd like to know more about this new Dominican facility.

Cool thought. But honestly, I don't know anything about him. Do you have any information to share?

Pinto has potential still. Personally, I don't think he played all that bad the end of 2013 as the primary, unless I was missing something. Suzuki has his flaws, but he's solid behind the plate, calls a good game, seems to have the trust of the guys who throw to him, and isn't anemic with the bat. Is it possible his 2 year extension was given with Turner and Garver firmly in mind? I know it's early, but from everything we hear, it seems like the Twins really pulled a couple potential gems out of that draft.

Right there with you. Until his recent and unfortunate surgery, I had Melotakis right there too. Here's hoping his rehab is complete and quick. I had hoped and believed the Twins would spend solid money on a FA RP to setup for '15. I have since cooled my thoughts to a less expensive, Burton-esque candidate simply because of the tremendous wealth of talented relievers that could/should climb quickly. If even one of these guys makes it all the way to the show this season that is outstanding. And it could easily be more than one. Oh, but let's not forget Tonkin, Achter and Oliveros either.

Another great read! Thank you! Bummed about Rogers. His pedigree out of college looked pretty solid. His milb track record has been solid as well. I have some doubts about his ceiling. He seems to throw fairly hard, reports are pretty solid on his stuff, but there are some concerns about his SO rate. Of course, SO's are not the be all and end all of any pitcher. I know Seth holds him in pretty high regard. I don't think anyone would expect him to push for a ML job suddenly, but I was eager to see what he could do in the AFL, then use that as a springboard for next season. I really thought Kepler was ready to take that first big step last season. Disappointed he didn't, but encouraged he finished strong. His showing thus far in the AFL has me encouraged that my pick to click was just one season early. If the light is indeed coming on, and he can play at AA this season...WOW...I'm really liking our OF and depth in the next year or two.

Yes. But I would Jake Reed as a real possibility as well.

OK, I'll play. I actually find most of these to be sound. Yes to a FA SP, and your choice are sound, but there are a few to choose from and not sure if it will necessarily be one of those two. But why does Masterson just feel like a fit? Back to the AL, back to the Central, and he was part of the Santana rumors several years ago. No to Pinto being traded. The Twins are rebuilding, I think he's still young enough, still talented enough, still has real potential I feel the new staff will want him. Now...if someone comes calling for him as part of a deal....then maybe. I actually like the Twins to hit .500 next season. No to Mauer regressing. Just the opposite. He is not old, despite a few nagging injuries here and there, he is not breaking down. He will have this full offseason to work and prepare like normal, will get over 500 AB's and will at least resemble the Mauer of old. Kyle Gibson will not be the Twins ACE. But he will build in his experience this last season, and the "rookie" pitcher who was good to excellent in about 2/3 of his starts, (not so good to bad in the other 1/3) will be good to excellent in about 3/4 of his starts and be the Twins #2 SP. One of my own: He won't be a stud, never has been, but Nolasco will be healthy next season and force detractors to eat some crow as he will win 12-14 games and pitch at least 180 innings, and probably 190.

This is one of the more exciting positions in the Twins system, to me. For a few years it seemed the Twins only had god defense "organizational" guys. Now it appears we have some really intriguing prospects. Suzuki was a quality signing. His re-signing may have been on the high side, but the market for catchers is very shallow. Even not strong throwing, even with offensive regression, he's a solid ballplayer and quality game caller and receiver. Pinto is stuck a bit in no man's land. My hope is the new staff will continue to work with him, that his reported strong work ethic will continue, and he will get more and more opportunity to prove himself and gain opportunities. There's just too much talent and potential to give up on. I've been a big believer in Herrmann as a solid backstop and hitter who could offer bench flex ability. I still maintain his biggest issue has been being yo-yo'ed up and down the chain instead of being allowed to play and develop. If Rohfling could hit he'd already be in the majors. Koch disappointed this season, but I had hopes before last season. I figure he's got one more season to rebound. And the reason is Turner and Garver. Call me a huge optimist with these two. All kinds of offensive and defensive potential here. Navaretto and Fernandez each offer talent that the Twins can afford to take time with. I think the next couple of seasons could provide some real excitement at the catching position.

Nice. I remember when drafted he was considered an unspectacular but solid SS who should stick defensively with hit ability, some speed, and some pop. We all want and hope 1st round picks turn in to something important, if not big. But if he develops in to a nice, versatile role player, ultimately, that's not a bad thing. Every team needs those too.

Not saying the Twins are overly deep with middle infield talent, and there's some guys on this list that are very young and very much unknowns as a result, but overall, a big black hold has been closed the past few seasons to provide some quality play and options at the ML level, and some at least interesting options in the pipeline. Count me as a big Dozier fan and believer. And I believe we have yet to see the best of him. I know some point to his age and later arrival/maturity, but players at all positions mature at different rates and ages. You don't draft 15 year hall of famers. You draft good baseball prospects from HS and college, work with and develop them, sometimes move them around, and when they're ready, they're ready. It's ridiculous to state Escobar is a utility player only. He's way too young for that, and does offer a solid set of skills, and really had a very nice season once he got his chance. And if a quality utility guy is his best role, then so be it. There's nothing wrong with that. No questioning the talent and potential of Santana though. I was actually pleasantly surprised by Beresford development this season, but I'm wondering about his floor and ceiling, and if he'll ever get a real shot. The glove appears to be there. I like Nunez as a nice little hitter/utility guy off the bench. I probably like him better than most. But I think his time is limited with Polanco on the way up. Goodrum interests me as a talented and seemingly versatile player potentially, offensively and defensively. Is he another potential Santana? Did his experience at 3B last season increase his versatility or slow his development? Vielma is the guy I find fascinating. I don't know a lot about him except what I read here at TD. All accounts have him as a potentially outstanding defensive SS. I know he's young and physically needing development. But I find myself eager to know more about his potential if he hits a growth spurt or two.

I appreciate the passion. Other than Gomez, who else have the Twins acquired via trades that have gone on to success after leaving the Twins?

I'm more than fine with the solid, improved, (still improving?) Plouffe at 3B for now. Sano is the real deal, but has rust to shake off. I believe he begins the season at AA to do so. Doubtful Hanson has a ML future, but he's the kind of player you try to bring back to help fill out a roster as a solid player. Romeo's window is closing, but I'm still baffled the Twins didn't promote him this season for some kind of audition of look-see. I find Haar interesting. Long, long way to go. But is he a mid round steal option? I'm a big believer in Christiansen and feel he could be a nice multi positional role player. He is a former all Big 10 SS who also played the OF, and would seem to have the defensive ability to play multiple positions. Goodrum I don't get. He's a 2nd round pick, an exciting athlete with growth potential who has reportedly been a very solid SS with offensive potential and speed. My understanding was he moved to 3B to allow Polanco to be the primary SS. Has he already outgrown SS? Is there something lacking at SS despite earlier reports as to his potential and ability there? I'm wondering if he's been given up on too soon if the move to 3B is permanent.

Personally, in today's ever changing market place, and the Twins seemingly growing in to that world with SOME of the payrolls they've had since the move to Target Field, and the new found FA aggressiveness they began to embrace last season, I don't think Maddon would not be approached or hired due to contract. I mean, really, as someone pointed out, in a multi million business in which Pelfrey gets a $5M deal, paying a top, well respected manager something similar really shouldn't be an issue. I find the timing of Maddon's exodus interesting. Why not leave right after the season was over, if he was feeling frustrated and wanted to move on elsewhere. Was he truly not aware of his option? Did he really leave because the GM left and he felt daunted by the change? Personally, and I know I'm a devoted fan, I think we need to get over any insecurity of being a Midwest and mid-market team that nobody wants to come to. There is some real history involved with Twins baseball. And while the team may run things smart and responsible, to the point of being frugal at times, we haven't been in the Calvin G days of penny pinching for some time. Target Field is one of the best venues in all baseball. The teams spends plenty on scouting and development, works constantly to upgrade facilities, has some pieces in place, and one of the best milb systems around. We might not be where Maddon wants to be, but I wouldn't take that as a slight. This is a pretty good job to have.

Hilarious! But on a serious note, at age 60, is it possible he wants a taste of a big market that might have a bigger checkbook? I mean, the reality is that his next job just might be his last. And while not in the slightest way to demean Maddon, are the Twins better off long term with a quality candidate who is younger and would be part of the rebuild, the next phase of Twins winning, for a longer tenure? Just idle speculation.

I confess to not knowing much about Martinez, other than knowing him as a solid ballplayer, but I am confused and a bit disappointed he apparently didn't get an interview. Especially consider his experience with Maddon and the Rays. But, maybe there was no permission given. I think the search, thus far, seems to be pretty thorough. I don't believe Ryan has simply been giving lip service to a well rounded search. Lovullo's candidacy is proof of that, in my opinion. But I am confused as to continued angst to the Twins looking "internal" for their final choice. Sure Molitor has spent the past few years coaching in the Twins system, and drawing rave reviews from the very players he would be expected to manage, but he also coached for Seattle, spent the majority of his HOF career in Milwaukee, and spent three seasons with Toronto before his three seasons with the Twins. So what exactly makes him solely a Twins insider? (Even though that's not necessarily a bad thing) Dougie M was drafted and developed by the Twins, but also spent time with the Royals, Mets, Pirates, Red Sox, Dodgers and Yankees. He played 12 years, or at least parts of, 7 with the Twins. But because he started with the Twins, then was well thought of enough to come back to the organization as a milb manager, he's exclusively an "insider"? (Again, I don't know that that's necessarily a bad thing) I actually find that kind of funny and kind of insulting, both because it suggests the Twins are somehow inept on all levels, which is most definitely not the case, but also because it seems to indicate the Twins cloning a certain type of coach/manager. Let me ask you, if Molitor and/or Mientkiewicz coached last season for another organization the way Redmond and LeCroy did, would that make them a better candidate?

Please don't confuse "the Twins Way" as being some all encompassing thing based simply on the past 4 years. The "Twins Way" when employed properly, is sound all around baseball. It's a solid rotation, usually anchored by a couple studs, and a quality bullpen. It's quality defense, and a mix of aggressive hitting and base running with a blend of power, speed and hitting while also employing situational hitting. Yes, it's easy to dismiss this as "just good baseball". And that is true, but only to a certain degree. There has been conversation and debate, for instance, of the Royals way or the Orioles way of doing things lately. Historically, there has been the AL power, station to station game vs the NL speed and defense and situational way of doing things. At their best, winning seasons, the Twins have found a nice mix of all approaches. And it's usually been accomplished with smart baseball moves, relying on the milb system, using key trades and FA signings to augment the roster, and even some key waiver-wire FA acquisitions. There have been years, certainly, where the Twins just didn't have the horses to make it work. But TK won 2 World Series with it, and while Gardenhire never won one, and trails TK in overall wins, he also produced, I believe, more winning seasons and playoff appearances. Don't dismiss what the "Twins Way" really is just due to 4 disappointing seasons.

Can I offer my application as your assistant, or at least, as AN assistant? No experience playing or coaching the game. ( played football) But semi-intelligent, open-minded, and a passionate and devoted fan who was watched and listened to the Twins since I was 5, 44 years total. And I called for, dreamed and hoped for the Twins to sign Kazmir each of the last two offseasons.

FWIW, Santana also began in the bullpen. First as a rule V stash, then as a valuable arm growing in to a role. Not saying that should be Meyer's route......just saying.