DocBauer

Sucks any way you look at it. Just wish we had better clarification. I've read where he took the same approved medication he took for his broken jaw, but for his elbow, but just didn't get medical clearance this time. if so, a silly and stupid mistake and he'll be back on track June 1st and ready to go at AA, or a brief stop at FtMyers first, with AAA still in sight, and possible MLB in Sept. The suspension shouldn't hold him back much considering overall ability. Now, if there is more to this, the a wakeup call s definitely in order!

Still advocate Willingham as the primary DH. Like Drew at SS, but especially with reported contract demands, prefer Garza, with a trade or packaged trade of Correia and another, and run with Floriman/Escobar at SS. I am less concerned with an offensive upgrade at the number 9 spot in the order than I am at adding Garza to SP and overall defense and offense, (Hicks, Presley and Arcia hopefully). Now, if the Orioles want to trade Hardy and we can pull off a trade 2 or 3 team trade then OK. Otherwise, make the move for Garza with a front-loaded offer, and stick with Floriman/Escobar at SS.

JP, you have given a thoughtful and fact filled analysis that is very compelling. And if the Twins DID sign Drew tomorrow I would do at least one cartwheel for overall improvement/investment in the club overall and I wouldn't object or pout in any way. But while your post was filled with positive reasons for signing, I am going to offer an opposite opinion despite what I just stated. My biggest objection resides in your positives. Precisely, comments such as "for a shortstop" which you state often in your argument. Now don't misunderstand, I not only understand the context, but also understand the goal of putting the best and deepest 9 on the field. But at the end of the day, despite some aberrations in the late 80's and some of the 90's, (steroid era?) SS has been, and always has been, a defense first position. A strong offensive SS is a blessing for a team, and MLB has seen a revolution at the position in regards to outstanding athletes playing the position who can contribute both offensively and defensively over the past 10-20 years, steroid or not. It's a natural progression of athleticism the same way football has seen more mobile QB's and the NBA has seen more athletic and offensive PG's. But SS is still a defensive position. And there has been a bit of a "correction to the norm" if you will the past few years. This leads us back to the "for a shortstop" argument. Despite cuts and new media money, sooner or later the Twins hit an investment wall. And if they invest wisely, do as rumored, I'd much rather see an investment in Garza as a #2 pitcher who sometimes qualifies as a #1 with a possible trade of Correia. Another solid bench player or two like Baker and someone else, and this is a better overall club top to bottom than signing someone who gives solid defense and offense "for a shortstop". Floriman and Escobar, can handle the position very well defensively, with some offensive versatility, and room for improvement. Santana may yet prove to be an even better as well as younger and cheaper alternative with the, possibly even better and more talented, Polanco and Goodrum just behind. Not objecting to Drew. Just think we can spend better, go with what we have and wait for the future, spend our money better, rather than on "for a shortstop" improvement.

Agreed. I hope his progress and time at CR and exposure in the AFL means he's ready for Ft Myers. My only caveat is that with time missed to start last season, I wonder if he might not be better served to tear up CR for a month or so to get his legs under him and then move up.

I too would love to see a study or some cold hard facts regarding coaching/manager retention vs overhauls/turnover. Im 48 and been a sports fan for 45 of those years, especially the Twins and Vikings. Goodness knows those teams have made mistakes with hirings in the past, but simple observation over the years clearly reveals two things to me: 1) hiring a good coach/manager and riding him through the good times as well as the down/re-build or re-tooling times. History of consistently winning teams and organizations proves this. 2) hiring/providing the financial wherewithal to maintain quality position coaches. In baseball, I believe this extends to the minors and roving instructors as well. I really like our milb set-up of coaches all the way from top down, not to mention the rovers and "special" instructors; the Carews and others. I think the Twins have a good manager, as stated above, and a real quality set of coaches, yes even the often picked-on Anderson, and am extremely pleased at Molitors addition which I think is huge. My only reservation/complaint is having only Cueller as the only Latin coach.

Question: has one pitcher, Tanaka, really held up FA for all the remaining SP on the market as teams scramble to bid for him? I mean, it's now past the first of the year, and arguably, the top three (American) FA SP's are still on the market, along with a fairly close 4th in Arroyo. There are also a few decent mid-rotation types available on the cheaper side as well. So is everyone really holding out for Tanaka, or are there enough questions about the remaining FA available based on reward vs financial demand that is slowing, and thusly, lowering the market? I strongly advocate signing Garza, provided there isn't some pending physical condition worrying doctors and scouts. (Nothing concrete, but there have been small whispers) I have no problem at all with $15-16M per for him and what he brings. Now, anything beyond 3 years and an option or easy auto based on performance, or a possible guaranteed 4th year does bother me. I say to put the money on the table up front one way or another, but hold it to 3+ or 4 years max. The Twins CAN afford this move. They ABSOLUTELY SHOULD make this move. Correia can then be traded for a solid bench contributor or decent prospect. (Possible package scenarios apply here as well) Dont kid yourself, either now or sometime before the start of the season, probably during ST, Correia will be easily moveable to someone needing depth and innings and consistency from somewhere, either because they are short in the rotation to begin with, or due to injury or slow rehab for someone on their roster. He provides a track record, a solid year last year, short term commitment, no great financial commitment, and the Twins could even afford to pick up at least a portion of his contract to make said trade easier. Now picture this rotation: Garza Nolasco Hughes Pelfrey Deduno, (healthy) Gibson, Worley-Diamond winner. (Deduno out, Gibson with options) Our bullpen pretty much as currently constructed. (Tonkin ready to move in) And our position player roster/lineup pretty much as is/expected with a few battles: notably CF and LF with lead off considerations. A few more million in FA/Correia trade to add, hopefully, a couple versatile bench players (Betemit & Baker anyone?) and the Twins are a nice mix of experience/proven players as well as young talent, roster flexibility, a balanced and solid bullpen no longer overworked, and the best rotation in years, with the oldest SP being what, 31? I know injuries happen and can derail a season in any sport. Players at any position and any sport can suddenly lose it. But you sign Garza to go along with what has already been done, add a couple more solid, relatively inexpensive role players like those mentioned, move Correia in some fashion, and look at what is now on the field and tell me this isn't the best, most interesting and competitive Twins team in years!

Lot of debate on both sides of the fence on this issue to be sure. And while I clearly saw both sides, I, for one, was more than OK with Gardy being back. Despite being frustrated with some of his stubborness to platoon to matchups on occasion, to yo-yo youngsters at times or fall in love with certain players, he manages a bullpen well, runs a good clubhouse and keeps his team on an even keel most of the time. Despite the past few seasons, I never felt he suddenly forgot how to manage. Injuries and a substandard lineup are not all his fault. i certainly agree that change is inevitable, and freshness can be its own reward at times. I like the stability for now, and with a new FA approach and the youngsters on their way and close, Gardenhire may yet prove himself again. Now, if we continue down the same road as the last three years.....

Light foot, love your lineup, and it reflects man of my own Twin fantasy lineups on paper doodles and in my head. Only qualm I really have is both Vargas and Hicks arriving, and arriving so soon to both figure in the lineup. Think Hicks might still be part of the equation. And not certain...yet...that Dozier is someone we trade. One, Rosario has to beat him out or he too might yet figure in the OF equation, and Two, keep wondering if an established, experienced and confident Dozier couldn't move back his previous life-long position of SS at some point. Pitching wise, I still believe in Gibson and feel he should be part of your starting 5 equation. Getting excited for 2015. Almost wishe we could just skip ahead.

Like Polanco a lot. Wonder if time and play will stretch his arm out a bit more? Definitely would like to have a strong arm on your SS, but range, fielding, accuracy and quick release may be more important overall. I do think the Twins have a future stud/replacement in the system. And he has a great overall skill set. Just have to be a little patient. Have a feeling this could be his breakout season. His name is Niko Goodrum. Got a great feeling here.

Totally agree. Would love to have an all star or nearly so performer at SS who could also be a gold glove and silver slugger contender yearly. We all know how few of those guys are around. When push comes to shove, give me a defensive SS who can help all around offensively. Maybe it's just me, or the games I watched and listened to, but on many occasions he seemed to get a clutch hit, or a sacrifice, or take an extra base. And his defense was clearly the best we've seen/had in years. He may be done, he may be toast, but remember, only a rookie last year, and only 27 this year. With even a little overall improvement across the board statistically, not unreasonable for a second year player, combined with his defense, I'm very happy with him at SS and #9 in the order.

Thank you so much Steve for your personal and very relavent observations. At the end of the day, most of us have box scores and various scouting reports made to us to wet our appetites on the potential of prospects, without real life data to fall back on. As stated in another thread on Kepler, my father saw him in ST 2012 and was impressed by their short conversation, and told me "he just looks like an athlete when you watch him. Smooth in everything he does." Also, as previously stated, you can't hide pure athleticism, which Kepler seems to have in abundance. Talent without work means nothing. But there has never been a negative word mentioned as to his ethic or attitude. While he may not have had a dominating season to hang his hat on to this point, though 2012 at Eliz. may come close, he has shown spurts and quality overall skills. Based on his 2012, had he not had the injury problems early in the year, I think he would have made a believer out of everyone at CR this past season. Now, at his VERY young age and limited experience, would it have been enough to get him promoted to FtMyers at some point is difficult to say. In every sport, you find talented young athletes who have all the skill set in the world but who played at a lower level of competition, or weren't able to concentrate on a single sport, and need a little time to devote themselves to adjusting and learning and growing. Not comparing their game, but consider Torii Hunter for example. A little time, coaching, experience, and it starts to click. Kepler is one of my chief picks to click this year for the Twins prospects. Ft Myers wouldn't surprise me, but betting a short sting at CR just to start and then a promotion. This will be his year. AA in 2015, alternating between OF corners and 1B.

The same sense of patience would also apply to Meyer, in my opinion. He'll be up sooner rather than later, but lets let him get a few more innings under his belt so he can reach the bigs, and stay there for good. While not worried about his development or future, the delay in Rosario's season beginning is a huge disappointment. I never thought he'd break camp with the Twins this year. But I was greatly looking for improvement and subsequent advancement to AAA early or immediately. Of course, that's going to be delayed now, and might push his MLB debut to September. And that is really a shame. And while I am a believer in Dozier, always have been, I disagree with those who seem in a hurry to usher Rosario back to the OF. While it could happen eventually, and he would almost certainly be a quality offensive performer there with a variety of skills, ( and I believe some of the power he showed earlier will return once he develops and settles in), he has the athleticism and has shown some ability and improvement in the inf that I'd keep him at 2B for now. What a wonderful dilemma in a year or so to have two excellent young 2B to work with. And who knows, having played SS his whole life, and having gained experience and confidence, perhaps Dozier could yet make the move back to SS? Polanco, Walker and Kepler are going to be a bit behind these 4, perhaps as much as two seasons. Perhaps Stewart will fast track and join them. Oh my, what a haul over the next 2-3 years!

As a fan I want these two to make a rush to the majors. But I hope the Twins have the patience to not rush them. I believe their game and production will clearly dictate where they should start this next season, and will just as clearly dictate when and where they should move up to. In the early 80's the Twins had a group of talented young players, maybe not quite at the elite level of these two, but not that far off. And while not all of them achieved the great success hoped for, Bush and Laudner to name a couple, though the had decent careers and helped win, Gaetti, Hrbek and Puckett (a cople years later) took a few lumps, but produced, and grew quickly. It would be naive to think Buxton and Sano won't take a few lumps themselves at some point, but the talent level and potential is undeniable. And really, they have not only shown that tremendous ability, but have produced consistently and dramatically with no regression. I don't even count the slippage in BA for Sano at AA as regression because he still showed a good enough eye and patience for a quality OB, plus power and RBI while continuing to hone his defense. In fact, for both players, despite being different types of talent and performers, what I find so encouraging with both is that OB skill. Might be the hardest thing to teach and hone, as well as the best indicator of offensive potential. I don't know what Sano's potential BA might be, but the defense seems to be coming nicely, and the power and run production should be excellent. Buxton seems to me to be a Ricky Henderson type with better arm and defense. With his athleticism and growth potential, I see potential 20 HR power in time. A Griffey Jr possibly? Which might not only make him a great lead off hitter, but potentially a future #3 hitter down the road. I'm just in favor of that road being as smooth as possible for both of them. I hope expectations from the front office, as well as us as fans, will be tempered enough to provide at least a little patience in their handling.

Response to two comments listed in some recent posts. One I believe I made once before in that procedures for Diamond and Worley may have been relatively minor, but there is the throwing off of normal conditioning and preparation time for an athlete that needs to find consistency n his approach. Further, possibly greater for a pitcher, there is a need to not only have a feel for their pitches, but to mentally trust in their arm's condition as well. Two is that Worley and Diamond ARE still on the roster, and each WILL be given an opportunity. Debate at length, as we could of many ball players, as to talent, potential and worth, (goodness knows I've taken cracks at it) but the Twins have not released either player, nor have they given any indication that they will not be given fair chance to prove themselves. I am pleased that at least we have depth and options available to us at this point.

Quality MLB ball players, not necessarily all stars, just quality players, hit their strides at different times in their careers, whether it be almost immediately, after a couple of seasons, and in some cases, after a few years. This often more true for pitchers as even some very good, solid SPs take a few years to really understand the art and approach to pitching vs throwing and trying to over power or attempt to fool everyone. To say the Nolasco, coming off possibly his best season to date, only 31, and helping stabilize the worst starting staff in baseball was not a good signing is short-sighted if not blind. Even if he isn't coming n to his own a bit late n his career, if he only pitched to his career average norms he is a vast improvement and stabilizing force that gives the Twins a chance to win any given day. Granted Hughes has never reached the heights predicted for him, not close, nor has he found real consistency. However, he's definitely young enough to improve and yet harness at least some of that talent and potential. For some seasons, and parts thereof, he has shown flashes. This, combined with a change of scenery, and removing him from perhaps the worst ballpark he could have pitched in for half his career, (the various numbers and splits have been gone over extensively to this point), is also a quality signing, and again, only a broken crystal ball could possibly tell you this was some sort of mistake at this point. Not getting in to the debate here about Pelfrey vs Correia being somehow redundant of a signing as each is nothing special, both eat innings, should only keep one of them, etc, etc. But Pelfrey is an inning eater vet, signed to only 2 years, and to not a very large contract to muck up payroll. He is a good teammate, and offers improvement potential now stronger and better recovered from surgery. These two guys provide depth and OPTIONS for the Twins. Depth and options that were previously filled the past couple of seasons by AAA filler. Again, not a bad signing for these stated reasons. Suzuki in place of Doumit for back up C? I'd take Suzuki all day long. Even a healthy Bartlett and Kubel are inexpensive, low risk signing that may prove much ado about nothing. But there is potential for a return on either of them in some helpful capacity. And I don't believe TR and the Twins are done yet. But as was pointed out by TwnsTerritory, what else were they to do? Put all their eggs in one long-shot basket, cross their fingers and hope?

Milb contact, probably with incentives, and rehab as long as he needs. Even if not ready until the second half of the season, it's a safe and very low risk option, even if it goes nowhere. Ive been liking this idea for some time now, and not because he's a former Twins great. Even if he makes it back, I'm sure we've probably seen the last of his real greatness. But he's experienced, hard working, LH, and always kept himself in good shape. The kind of flyer that seems to pay off for a playe or two every year, and he could be that guy. He's not the kind of guy to necessarily bet against.

On a selfish note, no qualms with Rochester as a franchise, or for the local fan support, which seems excellent, but I wish you were back in the PCL so the Twins AAA would make it here to Omaha. Of course, it would render my Red Wings cap kind of useless. Lol

I hope you are right. Again, his numbers in the AFL were pretty pedestrian, however, he was a level or two above his head and coming off a shortened season. I'd like to think natural talent, the challenges he faced and learned from would project him to FtM. I think CR to open the season, get his legs under him, might be the more conservative and perhaps prudent move. Regardless, he is one of my picks for a milb to really show this season. By all accounts, including my father who watched ST 2012, the young man just exudes athletic ability. Is this the year it all starts to click? I really believe so. Back to the OF while continuing to play 1B. Can you imagine his overall athletic skills taking over for Mauer in a few years while still backing up the corner OF spots? This is the year it all starts coming together.

Just an observation. There is a lot of debate over the value of Worley, one and a half quality seasons of MLB work, and Diamond, almost a full year of quality work, and their potential long term, and as rebound candidates. But I do find it interesting that nobody includes Andrew Albers in any of the discussions. Now I know his stuff is pretty limited, and that he's already probably seen his 15 minutes or so of glory and fame, however, I do find it curious he's never mentioned. After his first couple of wonderful starts/moments of glory, he fell back to earth. Though he didn't pitch all that poorly in some of his remaining starts. Despite his limitations, I found his approach to be fun to watch. He worked quickly for the most part, he seemed to attack hitters, and he didn't seem intimidated. While his final numbers were helped out by his first couple of starts, his overall ERA was 4.05 with a 1.18 WHIP, slightly higher hits per inning, and a 3-1 strikeout to walk rate. Again, just an observation.

So, again, Doc restated my argument very well. There are rational reasons to be on both sides of it, but I just feel strongly we're a 70ish win team who shouldn't be worrying about 34 year olds with no future on the team. I'd rather have someone be awful and know they're awful. In my little corner of "fantasy" Twins baseball, two things happen. One is that Hicks makes the club in CF. (more on that in a moment) And the other is that Correia is traded before the season starts due to Gibson let's say, or before the all star break. Not knocking his efforts last season, or what he might contribute to help our cause this season. I just WANT someone younger with more upside (use Gibson again here) to take/earn his place for the long term health of the club. Of course, I want the Twins to win, be competitive, and don't want someone plugged in to a spot to be aweful just for opportunity sake. I am going to argue a bit about the Twins being a 70ish win team. Certainly, after three just awful and disappointing seasons there is doubt. But I truly feel with better health, a rotation that HAS to be better at this point despite the Correia debate, a solid pen, we could potentially see a team that might win 80, and compete for a .500 record. I feel the Mauer move to be an excellent one. (Let's move on from his value as a C, that ship has sailed) Without even improving upon his usual number peripherals, just having him in the lineup most days improves the team's offensive potential. (And yes, could see some of his numbers improve) And I feel he'll be an excellent defensive 1B. A healthy, more productive Willingham hitting his normal stat line, hopefully mostly at DH, the very talented and exciting Arcia, Dozier, who might see power regress but might see Avg. and OB progress, etc, should improve the offense. As I stated once before, it's not like it could be worse! And as I have also stated before, I believe Hicks is a key component for this team. He was rushed. He was a disappointment. All true. But then again, he WAS rushed. He did show flashes. He actually showed some improvement before injury. He's still ver young and talented and a great defensive CF. Recent reports say he was Rochester's best player at the close of the season. Just think of him playing CF, hitting 8th, providing great defense, hitting anywhere from .230-.250 with SB's, speed on the base paths, triple potential, 30 2B's, and double digit HR potential (maybe 20). This allows Willingham to primarily DH, and Pressly and ? to play a corner OF position and provide at least limited lead-off ability. This helps improve the offense, as well as the defense, especially with a few fly ball pitchers on our staff. Nolasco, Hughes pitching more to his potential and more like his road numbers, an improved Pelfrey, etc, etc, plus a solid pen not overworked. Color me an optimist, but I see a better team than 70 wins.

Right along with one of the points I made earlier. There is definitely a knock on Correia for lack of upside and overall stuff. And once again, if a younger player has upside and is pitching well, you want that upside player to build your team with. Conversely though, you want to breed, or re-breed as it were, a culture of winning and competitiveness for the fans, the turnstiles and team finances, and for the young guys coming up to feel a part of winning and competitive spirit. I think it's wonderful that our debate for the anticipation of the coming season is over a #4 starter. Marvelous! The Correia argument is a bit of a conundrum, but a beautiful one. Lol. I believe, again, that TR has very purposely brought about this "depth" to provide options. Not only out of ST, but a month or two in to the season when someone might be healthy, or just ready. Even mediocre SP has some sort of trade value. While I do find fault with some things related to Gardenhire, such as stubbornness with certain players in the past, I am a fan. It is his job to help the team win. To that end, I do worry somewhat about him stubbornly holding on to a veteran in favor of a younger, higher potential prospect. But after the past three seasons, the moves TR has made this off season, the young kids on the rise, I believe there is a light to be seen up ahead. Perhaps I am mistaken, but I feel that he and TR are on the same page. I don't believe moving someone like Correia will be a problem. Simply though, someone has to show that they are ready to take that spot in the rotation.

Unlikely, but possible Minnesota could be seen as a quality location for him. There is a clear need for a frontline starting pitcher, he'd be "the man" there, there would be somewhat less pressure and media attention on him, it's one of the most beautiful parks in MLB, and by most accounts a good pitchers park. And if he doesn't sign for too many years, he could still be looking at an even bigger payday as a late 20 early 30 SP. As I stated, somewhat unlikely, but not unreasonable circumstances. But even if true, I'd stay away. It's not about the posting fee. At least 6, and probably as many as 10 or 12 teams will post the 20M. In the long run, they can all probably afford it. For a moment, forget about the failed Nishi experiment. Forget about Japanese pitchers success, or lack thereof, at the MLB level, or any arguments as to AA or AAA level of talent overall in Japan. Honestly now, how many 25y.o. SP have you EVER seen that you would feel comfortable giving $15-20M per year at 6+ years to? If I had a crystal ball I felt I could trust, OK. I just don't feel comfortable with this idea.

There is actually a lot of great points made on both sides of this discussion. As I see it, the two camps are basically these: A) Correia turned out to be a better signing than anyone expected. He was generally solid and dependable. Again, more-so than anyone expected. How much worse would this team have been without him? His overall numbers would have been better with greater support. We want our team to improve. Having him slide further down the pecking order in the rotation will only make us deeper, better, and with a better chance to be competitive each game. Correia has never been anything special, just solid and largely dependable. He has no upside at this point. With the talent we do have, and the young talent on its way, some of who are ready or very close, why stick with a guy who lacks upside and won't even be with us a year from now? And really, the problem is, both sides are correct. TR has put together a potential staff that lacks a #1 starter to be sure, but has the best overall depth of talent and potential the team has had in several seasons. Nolasco and Hughes in particular, Pelfrey has had some success, does provide innings, and should be better this season, rebounding/rehabbing not only his arm n general, but his endurance and the mental part of belief in his arm. (One could hope for a suggest the same of Gibson and others as well) And there is nothing wrong with a stable innings eater like Correia adding to the depth of a chance to win with a solid performance day in and day out. Haven't we all seen enough of 5 & 6 run deficit games after 3 innings? But it's also true that Correia, signed through only this season, older than any other SP on the team, and without upside, is NOT a part of the future. Now it's true that winning is good, and a team "learning to win" and expecting to is also a good thing. But where does "solid chance to win today" meet the place of winning tomorrow? As I have stated before in regard to Deduno somewhat, but mostly Diamond and Worley, if you've done it before, you just might be ale to show that you can do it again. I know their injuries weren't of a major nature, but there was injury and some surgery as well. Not only do you have to get healthy, but you have to get your work in to build your arm, but to also get your "feel" back for pitches as well as your overall confidence. Does this excuse Diamond and Worley from just awful years? No. Do they have a long-standing record of quality production? Again no. But all of that does provide some small measure of possibility and opportunity that simply must be allowed. Unfortunately, when ST begins, I'm afraid Deduno may still be rehabbing and strengthening, etc. I have doubts he's going to be a 100% right off the bat. I think TR is hedging his bets. That would leave 3, not 4 fighting for the final spot in the rotation. There s no doubt and no debate that Gibson is the greater talent here. I hope he's ready, hope he kicks butt and takes names from day one. But one year of AAA, inconsistent, then consistent, then a MLB promotion where he struggles is almost to be expected for most young pitchers, much less one coming back from TJ surgery. I want him in the rotation, e needs to be in the rotation. But as I've said before, a few starts in AAA to stretch out and pitch every day to begin the season isn't a bad thing, or an inditement of his talent or potential. And how many times does anyone come through ST with every SP 100%, no blisters, no muscle pulls, etc. If Diamond and/or Worley can really find themselves again, I believe the Twins will make room for them, cheaper, younger, more upside, and surely someone could use a veteran like Correia. You don't keep a 1 year, mediocre innings eater over a younger player with some potential. It you also don't keep a younger player just because he's younger if he falls on his face. I truly believe the Correia situation will play itself out in ST. Ideally, he would be traded for something because two of Deduno, Gibson, Worley and Diamond will prove him expendable.

Going to agree with Brock on this one. There has been some pretty strong debate on here as to how the Twins bullpen ranks in MLB and the AL. I am on the side of a versatile and quality pen when you factor in wins, saves, ERA, IP, etc, etc. Especially when you consider how taxed our pen was. And Duensing, used properly, is a part of that. A cursory glance shows his career numbers better as a reliever. I have always believed some of his problems, when not ON, have been caused by being moved around too much. Which is rather odd when you consider the Twins have usually done a pretty good job over the years of defining rolls for their relievers. Duensing's stuff is not bad at all, but a little short for over-exposure, as a starter or too many RH's faced as a reliever. I believe given a roll in the pen and allowed to stick to it, he's pretty effective and worth holding on to for at least one more season. I prefer a known quantity for now that is still very cost effective. I know our pen has "potential" depth from both sides, and have stated this myself. But I think it's misguided to automatically assume said potential depth can just be plugged in arbitrarily and expect instant results. I do believe there are relievers and questionable back end starters that could find their way to be very good relievers, Albers as an example, but give me the known factor for now as we strive to put this back to respectability.