DocBauer

I think we're going to have a long offseason to debate position by position, but I'm just going to hit on various points here: 1] PAYROLL: And this is the million dollar question isn't it? Pun intended. Despite what's been publicly stated, will they reverse gears and lower payroll? IMO, no they won't. The Pohlad's are looking at receiving $1.5-6B coming in the next 6-12 months. There's little to no reason to LOWER the product your trying to sell. For that matter, I wouldn't be shocked if Joe manuevered managed to talk the family in to a small increase as a "parting gift" to the team. I mean, $15-20M split between 10 family members is a little over $1M per person when they might all be looking at a $150M share. NOT saying that will happen, but we're talking a drop in the bucket to not cut payroll. 2] The Twins need to get faster and more athletic overall as a team. A little better defense sure wouldn't hurt. Luckily, there's some of those guys on the way, a couple of which might be ready this season. But I'm not sure I see much in the way of FA or trades this offseason that add that. I think the team may end up working more around depth pieces that can help, less in the way of full time players. 2A] Being limited doesn't mean there are zero possibilities to add here and there. I'm hoping the Twins can keep both Helman and Keirsey around for 2025. They may end up as nothing but AAAA players. But you don't know if you don't give them a shot. They offer the POTENTIAL to be good defense players with some speed to help the roster depth and provide some of that speed and athleticism. That's part of the reason I'm hoping they can keep Castro. 3] I expect them to explore trades for Vazquez and Paddack to gain some $ room to make a couple moves. We've hashed those possibilities many times already so I won't go in to detail. But I believe either, or both, could be moved. 4] I expect one surprise trade. They have enough young talent in the system to withstand such a move. I can see Lee or Keaschall, maybe even the just drafted Culpepper as being options in a move to acquire a young catcher from someone...and arm probably included...or a young 1B, or a talented RH OF to balance the lineup. I'm not sure I see as SP or a Jax or Duran being moved as you then weaken another portion of your team. And those kind of guys are not only hard to replace, they still aren't overly expensive for the next couple of years. 5] IMO, in no particular order, the priorities are A] figuring out 1B, B] figuring out 2B, C] finding a solid RH bat for the OF to balance the lineup that can actually do OK against RHP, D] Come up with a viable, relatively proven LHRP for the pen instead of being "forced" to depend to heavily on Funderburk/Headrick/Moran. There's already an interesting OP concerning the Twins looking for a young catcher. Maybe that's where that one sort of big trade comes in to play. From there, you are more free to move Vazquez and use the $ savings to address the other spots I've mentioned. 2B has options on hand from Lee, if not moved, Castro if kept, Julien if he rebounds, and Keaschall at some point if not moved. Maybe Eeles even enters the equation at some point. 1B will include Miranda at some point I'm sure. I'm NOT saying 1B isn't important and that good defense isn't great to have there. But 1B and LF are the two spots on the field where you can live with a lower defensive player with a good/contributing bat. The past few seasons we've seen Sano, Arraez, and Solano suddenly move to 1B and at least be competent there on the fly. Miranda actually improved at 3B this year, has potential to improve with work and experience there, Julien's previous bat could be an option there, etc. I WANT a full time, quality player there. But I don't know that adding from the outside for that player NOW is going to happen. I'm certain the FO will be looking for a good fit and opportunity there, I'm just not certain the move is there just yet. For the love of all that is good about baseball, can't they find a decent RH bat for the OF that doesn't stink against RHP? Maybe a RH version of Kepler? Doesn't have to be an All Star caliber player, just a good, solid bat. The recent OP about possible LH pen arms that might be available was very interesting. It offered up at least a little bit of hope there might be an addition that could be made there that doesn't blow up payroll. I have at least a little faith in a couple of lefties on hand, but I'd like them better as a secondary option for the pen. I don't know how each of these will be addressed, or how to address them just days after the WS ended. I don't believe this team needs an overhaul, but it does need a re-tool here and there. And those are the spots that need to be addressed, whether internally or externally. It might not be easy, but that's why Falvey is in charge and not ME, LOL. But that's what I see as we prepare for the winter.

Oh, I think Varland is a shoe-in for the pen. I have a strong belief in his future there. And I don't think Tonkin is any sort of MUST for the season, but he was much better than Staumont wouldn't you say? And an inexpensive, solid inning guys in the pen doesn't sound bad, and it's something Rocco likes to have. I'm completely fine going a different direction and saving an extra $1M by not keeping him. I just think he's gotr some value in that middle relief role as a veteran for less than $2M.

It's an interesting idea for sure. I don't know that Rushing has to be THE guy, but I like this idea in general theory, regardless of which young catcher from whatever team. I don't want the Twins to make it a habit of trading away young, inexpensive talent to fill holes. Once in a while, sure, that's part of how you build your team. What I like about this scenario is the Twins moving young, inexpensive talent but bringing BACK young, inexpensive talent. The Twins can, for example, trade Keaschall or barely across the rookie threshold Lee and an arm like Culpepper or Lewis for one of the young catchers brought up in the comments section, if not Rushing himself. Some team might want a move proven, veteran player, but another team might want that young, cost controlled talent back. And that's where I can see the Twins making a deal. NEXT, since we keep hearing that Vazquez...with only a single year left on his deal...is so well regarded that he could be traded straight up, maybe traded with a lower level prospect attached, or possibly traded with a little $ tossed in to save the Twins some payroll and gain flexibility. If you can do the first part, then it only makes sense to this second part. MAYBE you can add a decent prospect along with Vazquez and come up with a LH pen arm or a RH OF bat in the return? But even moving Vazquez straight up, and very possibly moving Paddack, gives the FO $17M to work with in FA...possibly a couple $M more depending on final arbitration moves/numbers...to add that RH OF bat and LHRP without having to address catcher as you've already done that. Maybe I'm getting ahead of myself here, you've still got to find the right team to work with and right young catcher you like, all without giving up TOO MUCH in a fair deal, but if the FO could pull this one off, if Vazquez really is regarded so highly by other teams needing catching help, and if Paddack could entice a team needing rotation help and finding $7.5M to be a bargain to pay, these couple of moves could be the start of a nice re-tool for 2025.

Stewart is a no brainer. He's inexpensive, and absolutely one of the top 3 arms in the Twins pen when healthy. The surgery he had at the end of 2024 was supposedly a clean up procedure and not a serious one. If that's true, and he's only used 1 IP at a time, could he be nurtured for 50 innings? If so, HUGE win for the pen. Topa's track record is a bit spotty with his one season being 2023. But that was only a year ago. And he's going to cost little more than a rookie level replacement. I think you bet on the whole offseason to make sure his knee is 100%. I think you've got, potentially, a really good 6th inning guy for not a lot, with the potential he might even help in the 7th. And he's got at least one option still left to play with. Not sure why everyone is so down on Tonkin. Age? Memory bias of his time with the Twins when he first came up? He was very solid as a long/middle man with the Braves in 2023 when he came back to MLB. His overall 2024 numbers, split between 3 teams, were extremely close to his 2023 numbers, even better in a few instances. I'm less excited about bringing him back, but he's been a pretty reliable middle man the past couple of years, and those guys who can throw more than one inning at a time have value as well. If's not offered, he'll be snapped up in a moment by someone for exactly that role. I know there's a $ crunch here and at some point, a hard decision or two might have to be made. But as pointed out by others, these 3 combined would cost about $4.5M or less. That's a lot of inexpensive depth and I'd sure hate to lose any depth for such a small $ amount, but it could happen. Honestly, I might be more worried about a 40 man spot right now. Let's say they're all 3 brought back: Duran, Jax, Stewart, Sands, Alcala, Varland, Topa, Tonkin from the RH side with Duarte, Henriquez, Winder, MAYBE Canterino for additional depth, and Kyle Bischoff looks like he might help and what about someone like Blewitt coming back? Not to mention any other reclamation projects that are always brought in with MILB deals. I feel pretty good about the RH side. From the LH side I think we'd all feel better if trade or FA could bring in just ONE solid, dependable arm we could count on. From there Funderburk, Headrick, and the returning Moran all offer depth and a possible second option. And maybe the $ is going to be so tight they have no choice to let one of these 3 in the OP walk. But it sure seems like they should be affordable to keep.

I don't disagree with most of what you stated at all. He wasn't good defensively at all, save a handful of decent plays. And that pretty much eliminated from CF. I agree with all of that, as well as not liking or wanting another version of him getting the number of PA he received. I think I was pretty clear on that, and have been previously as well. I was simply stating that he was about league average, or slightly above, when facing LHP as a hitter. And that was the role he was SUPPOSED to play. He didn't start the season well, or end it well, but while I don't have the numbers present, he was more effective through June, July, and I believe part of August. There were a couple stretches where he set the table and had some key hits in that time frame. But again, IMO, it goes back to better internal scouting as well. In his case, just because he was a veteran doesn't mean he should have been playing as much as he did when the results against RHP were so abysmal. When someone doesn't due a good job, he shouldn't be placed in those positions when there just MIGHT be someone available who'd be better. I think ignoring situations and opportunities like that are stubborn short sightedness by the FO. It's one of the few weaknesses I see from those in charge.

From a Twins perspective, our questions about arbitration and a potential roster spot are now answered. His retirement at this point offers some clarity in these matters. But regarding Kirilloff directly, while he achieve his dream of playing MLB, it's got to be bittersweet for him as well as for us as fans. Even with time missed due to injuries, he absolutely raked as a hitter and flashed some real power potential as well. His swing was sweet, and I always saw him as a high AVG hitter who might even hit .300 with a lot of doubles and potential 20HR power. I feel for him and hope for as close to 100% recovery for the rest of his days. He's got the rest of his life with family to be healthy for. And it's the rest of his life that is of much greater importance than baseball. I wish him the very best. Have a good life AK. We'll always remember you fondly.

The Twins FO has to self scout better than they have. A few years ago let pen arm Anderson...believe that's right...rather than give him a shot. The Twins could have BOTH Stewart and Jeff Hoffman in the pen but they let Hoffman walk despite a good spring. While we love blaming him for everything that went wrong in 2024, Margot hit well against LH arms and really set the table at times through the summer months. But he was never supposed to have 343 PA. But there he was daily for weeks at a time when injuries hit. Meanwhile, former 4th round draft choice Keirsey sat in AAA, a reportedly much better defender, with more speed, and a LH bat with some power that didn't get a shot until the season was over. Why? Maybe he would have stunk. Maybe Keirsey just isn't destined to play MLB. But until he gets a shot to see if he can be a useful option, he's just a guy at AAA putting up great numbers. But better depth and better use of veteran players to help augment young pitchers and young position players? That takes $, not just smarts. You need some smarts to go along with $, and for the most part, I think the Twins FO is pretty bright, even if I don't always agree with them. But there's nothing the Twins FO doesn't already know that the Dodgers mysteriously hold in secret.

Sorry, but our new hitting instructor's primary job is to help Jenkins reach his potential? Unless I'm mistaken, Borgschulte's PRIMARY job is to work with the current ML team. He will probably see and probably work with Jenkins SOME in ST. But that's supposed to put him on a career path? NOTE: Sorry, we're going to need some kind of nickname for Borgschulte going forward. #1] Borgi #2] Schulte Other than some time in ST, Jenkins, Rodriguez, Keaschall, and others are going to be under the tutelage of the MILB instructors the FO has put in place. Borgi might head some changes going forward that he and the FO have in mind, but he's going to have little to no influence directly with Jenkins until late 2025 at best. His job is with Lewis, Miranda, Lee, Wallner, Julien, and others for 2025 along with the rest of his staff "yet to be named". THAT'S his current role. Is it just me and fantasy to say that Cruz should be hired as an assistant batting coach to bring not only a ML veteran approach, but a Latin presence?

Larnach isn't going anywhere barring a massive return. He's FINALLY figured it out, despite battling turf toe and a late season leg injury that might have been related to trying to play through the turf toe. I read comments to Rocco about why he played Larnach in the #2 hole so often. It's because, as the OP states, he worked hard to become one of the Twins best hitters. Imagine his maturity as a hitter with 2 good feet going forward. Larnach has a good eye, that's the reason he was able to adapt. What's always surprised me was his opposite field HR and doubles power. Nothing wrong with a solid hitter with big doubles and occasional HR power. But what he needs to do NEXT in his development is to take those breaking pitches he recognizes is to TURN ON THEM. His doubles might go down, or maybe not, but is HR numbers will jump to the 20 range. Personally, watching him a lot, he's an OK OF. He's just not as bad as some have stated. His arm is solid. With some of the OF talent coming up, he's probably best at 1B...if he can handle it...or as a primary DH. And maybe he's a future trade chip, but I have to laugh a bit that he's a trade chip NOW. Who else plays LF in 2025 unless you move Castro there full time. Then you weaken your bench and versatility. Larnach shouldn't be going anywhere soon. And we should be enjoying his development.

I'm a HUGE prospect guy and an eternal optiimist. But I also believe in the reality of talent vs potential, and potential often takes a little time to be met. JENKINS: Talking old school vibes, he reminds a bit of Griffey Jr and Eric Davis. He's just got the IT factor few prospects have. And we were damn lucky he fell to us! But 20yo, barely, when 2025 begins and only 6 games at AA, and still developing his power, he would have to take a MASSIVE leap to impact the Twins this upcoming season. He'll begin at AA in 2025, and just might force himself to AAA at some point. Sorry, not sorry, basic logic says he's ready some point in 2026 as a 21yo. 21! If he doesn't debut then, for whatever reason, we're talking 2027 as a 22yo?! Still a crazy good path for a super talented kid! RODRIGUEZ: His thumb injury threw off his progress, and any potential debut. It happens. Despite his crazy good discipline in the batters box, he needs to make a little better contact on pitches IN the box. And from all reports and numbers, he's almost TOO disciplined at times and might need to learn to actually swing MORE. Imagine that, a hitter who needs to swing more? AAA is NOT MLB. But the pitchers are still more advanced than the AA level, a mix of journeyman and quality prospects. He just needs to be healthy and refine his approach a little more against AAA arms. ML injuries can affect his debut, but I'd think he's "ready" about June/July to debut. Standard caveat that he MIGHT struggle a bit and go up and down and be ready to RAKE in 2026. KEASCHALL: First off, a correction. Keaschall has appeared at 3B TWICE since being signed. He did make 27 appearances there in college, but has barely touched 3B as a pro. So far, as a pro, he hasn't played SS, despite 57 games there in college. And that might be partially due to his impending TJ surgery that the Twins new he needed, but held off for about 3/4 of the season in 2024 so he could play and continue to develop. They shut him down early so he could have the surgery and be ready for ST in 2025, hopefully fully rehabed. Due to his injury, he's primarily played a lot of 2B, 1B, and DH, with an interesting mix of LF/CF, which he also played some in college. In fact, when drafted, there were reports he might be a CF option based on his athleticism and previous college experience. He might be one of the Twins best trade chips. But rumor has it when the Twins and Jay's were talking trade at the 2024 deadline, Keaschall was asked for and the talks pretty much stopped at that point. In other words, the Twins LOVE this kid. As a position player, unless something goes inexplicably wrong, his TJ shouldn't affect his defensive future. His bat, athleticism, and approach SCREAMS ML player. He could be a 1B with way above average athletic ability you normally don't see at that spot...who says an athlete is "wasted" by playing 1B...or the Twins primary 2B...Lee shifts to 3B and Lewis to 1B...or as a replacement for Castro as a Super Utility player at some point, even though his arm might not play as well at 3B/SS. His bat and athleticism is something the Twins need. And with some AAA seasoning, I can see him ready June/July, same as Rodriguez. There are really good reasons the Twins love him, including his "gamer" attitude and are reluctant to move him. But I'm going to extend the "bats who might make a difference in 2025" because I think we need to look reality in the face. Even IF the Pohlad's toss Falvey a $ bone to augment the roster next year, it probably won't be massive. How about Keirsey as guy...drafted by the current FO...who has done EVERYTHING he could the last 2 seasons...who MIGHT be a 4th OF to spell Buxton, provide speed off the bench, and be POTENTIALLY solid with the bat, at least until someone like Rodriguez is ready. He wouldn't have to hit to some great standard in order to have value as a defense first player with speed off the bench to be valuable. And here I am again saying that Helman...also a draftee from the current FO... MIGHT be a call up at some point as a guy who can play everywhere and provide some defense, pop, and speed. In SSSS last year he actually got a few hits. He's been invited to each of the past 2 ST. But he's barely been given a chance at the ML level, despite being a late bloomer, until late in 2024. I have ZERO illusions at this point that either Keirsey or Helman have a long future with the Twins based on other talented players coming up behind them. Given a chance, who knows, either might turn out to be a good bench option. Again, no expectations. But while we're waiting for Rodriguez and Keaschall, might either of these two provide solid bats and solid play in 2025 at some point? Unless there is something the FO sees that we don't as outsiders, I'd bring Eeles to ST as a non roster invite. Maybe he's just a good story and a 1yr aberration. Maybe that's all he is. Period. But what he did in 2024 is pretty damn incredible! And he might need to prove himself more/again in AAA next season. But is there a chance he's another Pedroia or Pedroia-lite? If so, you should pay attention and give him an opportunity to at least show what he's made of. All 3 of these aren't near the potential of the OP's intent for difference makers. But all 3. IMO, are guys who MIGHT make a difference in the short term and should be thought about. If you want a DARK HORSE for possible bats In 2025, I'd offer up Carson McCusker. Rosario is a RH power hitting prospect getting a lot of run right now as he's a potential 40 man add with question marks but some future potential. But what IF the statuesque 6' 8" McCusker...huge zone and long swing...could suddenly reign in his K % and make better contact? Look, I have ZERO belief McCusker is going to be a ML ballplayer. OK, maybe a 5-10% chance. I'm just saying, for giggles at least, the 26yo, former Brewers draft pick, had a good 2024 season. He produced at both AA and AAA with almost equal splits, about 2/3 at AA, with a combined .841 OPS with a combined 43 XBH. But what IF he suddenly gets his K and BB under control and continues to produce in 2025 at St Paul? Could he be a POSSIBLE injury call up, fill in piece? I just think he's someone to watch as a "maybe" contributor next year. Again, for giggles sake at least.

He was a top prospect for a reason. We've seen glimpses of what he can, supposedly when healthy. I used to fight claims he was injury prone. The TJ surgery while a prospect isn't completely out of bounds. The wrist issue appears to be of a genetic disposition, and therefore, to me, not an injury. I accepted his shoulder injury diving for a ball and hurting himself while landing hard. But then he hurts his back, underplays it, and only reveals how bad it is when they were going to option him down. I'm begining to think he's never going to be close to 100% But even with a tight budget...and I'm hoping like hell that ownership tosses Falvey a $ bone on their way out...$1.8M for a guy who DOES have talent, and has an option remaining, i think you keep him. I agree with an earlier post he might be a 3rd or 4th guy in a trade. He could be of interest to someone betting on a healthy turn around. But I only drop him...possibly try a MILB signing...if the 40 man gets tight and they need to protect someone else. As an example, let's say they really want to protect an arm like Nowlin, a LH pitcher with upside someone might want to stash in their pen. If it came down to AK or a talented arm like that, I'd keep the young arm.

To be clear, the days of a LOOGY are done. I'd rather have 8 RH quality arms in my pen who can HOPEFULLY get a LH batter out than a lefty specialist. That's why Okert was so disappointing and while the collapse of Thielbar was more so, as he was solid for a few years against RH bats. I know I'm repeating myself here, and I'm not offering up answers right now, but figuring out 1B, adding a quality RH OF bat who doesn't such against RHP, and ONE quality LHRP are the top 3 priorities for the FO in 2025. HOPEFULLY you still have ONE good LH arm you can trust in the 7th and 8th, think Thielbar pre 2024. IDEALLY, you have a 2nd LH arm you can feel good about in the 6th and maybe the 7th. Even IF the FO raises payroll as a "goodbye present" to the FO that will cost them pennies, the Twins probably aren't going to be able to add a $5M dollar RP no matter what. So I immediately dismiss the top options. Without taking the time to look at every single pitcher I reference here in regard to splits, there are some interesting ideas here. I agree Bummer looks good, but he's probably re-upped with the Braves. Dangit! So who's next? Chafin keeps plugging along and doing his thing, but I'm not interested in good K numbers and bad BB numbers from a 34yo arm who made $5M last season. Ferguson had a bad year with a high BB total but good K % at 28yo and only made $2.4M last year? He should be a major target! Raley should be a MILB target at his age and coming off surgery. Period. (But I'd do it). Smith is also a MILB deal target. Period. I'm betting Bummer won't be an option. I'm interested in Chafin on a 1yr deal less than the almost $5M he made last year. Ferguson sticks out to me as a smart signing despite some high BB numbers. He only made about $2.5M last year. And Raley on an incentive deal falls right in line with the way Falvey has often looked at pitching opportunities in the past. Raley is similar to the Pineda deal a few years ago. MY THEORY ON LHRP is conversion. NOT MENTIONED in the OP is, are there LHP out there late 20's who haven't put it together yet, or coming off injury, that can be moved to the pen to maximize their stuff and re-define their career? INTERNALLY, I'm 100% on moving Headrick to the pen tomorrow and throwing his best stuff for 1-2 IP and see what you've got. I'm on the same boat with Nowlin...i hate not waiting to see if he MIGHT settle in as a SP option...but with so many other rotation options ahead of him, i think any control issues can be mitigated by being a hard throwing LH option in the pen vs waiting and hoping he's a late draftee who MIGHT be a back end rotation arm. Headrick and Nowlin and the talented Funderburk, who has good stuff, should all be in ST to see what they can do. Funderburk is already in the pen, but Headrick and Nowlin should also be. ONE MORE addition from what Nick has presented, or maybe another option from somewhere else I'm not thinking of right now, COULD/SHOULD give the pen multiple options. Let's not forget that come May, or June, if not immediately, Moran is a very talented arm that might surprise everyone.

I'm glad to see Rosario get in the extra work at the AFL this year considering the time he missed. The fact that they're doing so tells me they remain high on him. Plus, they have to decide if he's going to be protected on the 40 man this year. It's kind of a double edged sword really. The extra time helps prepare him, hopefully, for 2025 even though the pitching is considered more A+ in the AFL these days, and less AA quality. But on the other hand, if he does well, it might make him more enticing for a team to draft him in the rule 5 and try to stash him. I'm still not 100% convinced the Twins protect him. From what I've read, the arm is OK, and he's not just a slow plodder, but he rates about average at best defensively. Could a team really afford to keep him all season on a ML roster? IDK. But maybe a team like the A's or Dirty Sox might take that chance. I was glad to see Ross going to the AFL. He's athletic and versatile, but didn't hit well at all in 2024. I know it's SSS so far, but all he's done is prove he can take a walk so far. Not good. If DeAndrade isn't going to be healthy enough to see some time in the AFL, then why is he there? Why not send someone like Schobel instead, a Ross-like clone, to see if he can ramp up his bat?

Bragg is a late round pick in 2023 and has been hurt. So he's getting in IP to make up for lost time for sure. I'm not 100% on this, but I believe the rest of the arms were all signed post draft or out of the Independent Leagues the past couple of years. Were I to speculate, I'd say they're being auditioned to work on some things and figure out where they slot in for 2025. For whatever reason the Twins, and it seems most teams, are holding back top prospects from the AFL these days in order to just work with "secondary" prospects to give them a little more time and opportunity. For the Twins more specifically, I think they "trust" their top pitchers just working at the complex in Ft Myers in the Instructional League. I guess that makes sense to me.

Yes. But it's my understanding Prielipp did not go throw an entirely new surgery, but rather, had a brace put in place to firm up his elbow from the previous surgery. I'm going to assume that until I hear otherwise. Even then, he wouldn't be the first to have a pair of full TJ procedures. But if he did, that MIGHT change his career path. But I'm going by what I believe I know at this point.

A very fun walk down memory lane. I appreciate this being TWINS CENTRIC, but I personally believe the Senators should always be considered. In fact, I think ownership has been delinquent in seemingly refusing to acknowledge the Twins as a continuation of the same franchise, which they are. So I would like to include Allison as part of the list. Hard not to argue with Butch as the catcher, but Salas's rookie season was really good. Unfortunate that he never came close to duplicating it. I think I'd disagree at 3B. Castino was a really good glove man from day one. And he posted solid numbers his rookie season to be sure. But it's hard not to go with Gaetti for me. Casting wins the defensive arguement as it took a while for the RAT to turn in to a great glove man. But with their OPS within just a couple of points of one another, I'd go with Gaetti's greater power and 32 more RBI. Hrbek is all time Twins great, and one of my favorite players ever to don the red/white/blue. But one thing I'll always remember is the debate between him and the GREAT HOF Cal Ripken Jr that year. Of course, being a HOMER, lol, I always felt Hrbek was jobbed by Ripken since he was an Oriole, and a SS. That's what my teenage self told myself at the time, of course. Looking back now, Ripken had a couple more R's, had more DOUBLES, and a couple more HR, and a single more RBI on a better team that won 92 games. But Hrbek was well ahead of Ripken in AVG/ OB%/ almost identical in SLG%/ and over .50 points higher in OPS, which wasn't even recognized at the time to my best recollection. Ripken was, of course, very deserving of the award. But it's hard not to reflect on Hrbek's numbers for a losing team and better quad slash line and wonder if today's voters might not look more closely at those numbers, especially the OPS, and if the voting might be somewhat different today, and a little closer. Fun article!

Going to hit on the 3 young arms in the OP first PRIELIPP: He's a TOP rotation prospect if the brace surgery finally repaired his elbow. Based on how good he looked to end 2024...even in SSS...it appears that's the case. As mentioned by @bean5302 his innings will be on a build up in the 30-40 pitches allowed, then 50, 60, etc. I think there's a good chance he's stays at the complex for a couple weeks with the warmer weather before probably going to AA. If he progresses as hoped, he could see AAA before the year is done. I don't want him in a pen role whatsoever, unless it's late in the season and they want him to continue getting work in, but don't want to overdo his IP. So he might piggy back later in the year. I don't see any way he pitches for the Twins in 2025. RAYA: While it seems as though he's been around forever, he was picked in 2020...a weird year for all picks...then was held out in 2021 due to a shoulder issue. (I don't recall ever hearing it was serious enough for surgery). He's only thrown for 2 seasons so far, and was 21yo for most all of the 2024 season while at AA. While he was "nursed" throught the season, he was slowly allowed to throw more pitches as the year went along, and was healthy the entire season. While different pitchers and very different body types, I heard an interesting comp recently between he and Ober, and how they were brought along slowly due to previous nagging type injuries. The Twins will begin stretching Raya out more in 2025 I believe, but barely 22yo, there's no rush for him to debut with the Twins in 2025, and I don't expect him to. MORRIS: FWIW, he was actually a higher draft choice than Matthews, Lewis, or Culpepper. Ay 23yo, hes younger than Festa or Matthews. IF Paddack is moved, Morris is probably the 7th SP. Barring a rash of injuries, he'll get plenty of AAA time to refine his stuff, and his approach. NOT MENTIONED, BUT SHOULD BE: LEWIS: The Twins MILB pitcher of the year in 2023, he got off to a slow start last year due to a minor injury. While he needs to lower his BB, and hopefully add a little velocity still, he could easily be in line for promotion before Morris. He was a bit of a forgotten man in in 2024...as was Culpepper for all the same reasons...and should be on this list. NOWLIN: He'll be almost 24yo when 2025 begins, and reached AAA to end last season. Hits per 9 aren't really an issue, and his K's per 9 have been consistently around 10 per. BB per 9 has been an issue however. And he's been somewhat inconsistent game to game. At times he dominates a game, and other times the control/command isn't there and he only goes 3-4 innings. But the stuff seems to be there to dominate at times. Generally speaking, I've always believed in keeping a young arm in the rotation for as long as possible, until it appears a pen role is simply the right place for them to be, just in case the light suddenly comes on. Varland is a good example. While I'd bet he'll start 2025 in the Saints rotation, I could see him shifted to the pen at some point to maximize his stuff and potentially help the Twins. He should also be mentioned. CANTERINO AS A WILD CARD: Personally, unfortunately. I've gone from HOPE in Canterino to WISH AND A PRAYER he is ever a ML pitcher. But the elbow is now repaired. To this day I've never heard what his shoulder injury in ST was, how bad it was, and exactly what was done. Was it an invasive surgery? Was it just a cleanup procedure? A cloud of mystery surrounds him. But at this point, I think it's clear that if he comes to ST healthy and ready to go, his future is in the pen. Age and previous injury seems to dictate it's time to throw more often, but fewer innings at a time. Our own Stewart is an example of a former top prospect who dealt with multiple injury setbacks before being healthy enough to reach his potential as a valuable bullpen piece. HOPEFULLY, the "cleanup" Stewart had to end last season is just that, and he'll be an important 50 IP part of the Twins 2025 pen. We can only wish the same for Canterino. But I do think one more year of wishing isn't just wasted time.

The OP is focused on the field. But IMO, what "cost the season" was ownership decided to slash the payroll. I honestly can't recall but ONE time in all of my years watching sports where a team...and it's fans...were subjected to a gut wrenching and seemingly oblivious "tear down" of hope and prosperity coming off a great season with high expectations for the next year. (For the record, the ONE example I can think of the Marlins winning the WS and then dismantling the team). I don't blame the FO for Margot...who actually did his job against LHP and helped the Twins win a bunch of games despite ultimately being way over played...or the vast number of inexpensive signings that didn't turn out. With the limited funds available, they went for quantity vs quality, waiting for a couple darts to hit "20". Able to do things over, they might have gone a different route. Topa shoulda/coulda been a real help if not hurting his knee, Duarte looked like a potential find before his elbow suddenly exploded, Margot did his job in a limited role, but the FO TRIED to find help in the quantity of HOPE. I don't think Alcala belongs on this list at all. He's a sacrificial lamb because he was the poor performer in that 4th game against Texas, and things unravelled after that game for WHATEVER reason. I mean, for goodness sake, they took 3 of 4 games! Just because that game is the unfortunate benchmark of a nose dive should make Alcala a footnote, not someone who lead to a disastrous finish. With Correa out, Buxton out, Ryan out, Lewis hurt, they still managed to "gut it out" for a good month and a half. But ULTIMATELY, there was just TOO MUCH to overcome with those guys out for so long. What I still don't understand is just HOW BAD the last 6 weeks were. I just can't wrap my head around almost EVERYONE slumping even when Correa and Buxton came back to attempt to "rally the troops". Just a couple more wins and they are in the playoffs. Maybe they get swept, maybe they surprise and rally and win a series. But "on the field", I think there were just too many injuries, and guys playing hurt, that a cascade affect happened. If someone wants to place blame on anyone in particular, that's OK. But I just think too many games missed by top players, the loss of Ryan and depending too much on rookie pitchers, and an offensive collapse, were just too much to overcome.

A great OP as usual Nick. And I'm appreciative of the "wins" you included. But you did fail to include Duffey as an internal win. EVERY SINGLE SEASON fans simply dismiss random FA under the wire additions as a "meh" signing. But every team does it. And if you're smart about it, you sometimes get a Clippard, or a Wisler. SOMETIMES you get a Thielbar or a Stewart, who can be part of your pen for more than one year. I'm sorry, memory fades, a decade or so ago, the Twins signed a Martinez who was a 30yo former stater who they converted to a RP who was really good for a couple of seasons. (Really wish someone could refresh my memory). Falvey, with a limited budget, bet on inexpensive quantity vs quality. He lost. Odds were he would he hit on ONE option, but he didn't. Duarte was the one potential win, but his elbow went to pieces, and every option went to bunk. How does the FO move forward in 2025 to build a better pen? Internal scouting is a part of that. Two years ago they had BOTH Stewart AND Jeff Hoffman signed on MILB deals. They kept Stewart, which was smart. They let Hoffman go, which was stupid. I can't even remember now who was kept vs a veteran having a good ST over him. The past is the past at this point. The FO should ABSOLUTELY look to arms coming off poor seasons either as starters or pen arms that have been good previously but failed on MILB deals and invites. But INTERNAL scouting should be paramount! Headrick has the previous experience as a SP and some decent pitches that you'd like to believe he could thrive as 1-2 IP option in the pen. Funderburk has already shown what he CAN do. But can he do it consistently? I'd like to hope he can. I'd like to think, even on a small budget, we might sign a LH that might surprise. But even without, from the RH side, we look really good at this point, with depth, and potential depth. Duran, Jax, Stewart, Alcala, Varland, Sands, Topa from the RH side, where is the LH help? NO LOOGY need apply. But are there LH options the Twins already have on hand? Or is that a top addition that might be hard to add?

So if I'm reading you correctly, the change is solid, but has room for improvement to make it a good offering to a great offering? A 3 pitch SP can succeed...at different levels...depending how good those offerings are. I keep wondering if Festa and the Twins are working on that 4th offering that might take him to another level. Maybe I'm thinking of someone else, but I'd swear I heard Festa was looking to refine a curve as a 4th offering this offseason?

Going to start by saying I'm not here to BASH Martin in any way, nor am I giving up on him as a useful ballplayer. He was a rookie for goodness sake! To the OP's question: "How encouraged should we be by Austin Martin's rookie season?" I'd answer "mildly encouraged". Again, he was a rookie. And rookies often hit speed bumps. He didn't stink, he showed a little speed, he hit a little bit, and kept his OB% above .300. But a few points: 1] I believe the Twins did him no favors by keeping him at SS as long as they did. I understand why they did so: if you have any chance to play in the dirt...3B/2B...might as well play some SS to learn more of the subtleties of playing in the dirt. But once it became obvious he was never going to be able to play there at all, barring emergency, he should have been moved earlier. 2] I wish once and for all...not JUST relating to Martin...we could BURY this imaginary nuance of MILB players ONLY being shuffled to different positions as being a Twins centric idea. It's NOT the Twins simply embracing "position less baseball". EVERY MILB team moves it's players around the field. It's been done this way forever. Only a few players ONLY play a single primary position, either because it's all they can...think 1B and CATCHER...or because they're a special talent, TOP prospect at a premium position. Prospects play different positions to see if they CAN so that they might fit needs at the ML level someday, and because other prospects need opportunities to play as well, and because MILB teams also have a limited roster, just like ML teams, and need to fill a lineup, and they want everyone to see playing time to develop. While Martin was probably left too long at SS, we need to stop this mantra about the Twins moving prospects around. It's just part of being on a MILB team, AND evaluating the future of a prospect. 3] To my knowledge, NOBODY ever proclaimed Martin had 20-30 HR power locked in his body ready to explode. As it stands today, Martin would seem to have similar "power" to Luis Arraez, just for reference sake. The stats aren't hard to look up. Some doubles power, little HR power. But Arraez is a very special BAT who does things very, very few players are capable of. Nothing Martin has done so far indicates he's even close to being a "special" hitter post college. If you are ZERO threat for XB pop/power, ML pitchers will eat you alive at some point unless you have amazing bat to ball skills to go along with a great eye. I'd really like to believe Martin HAS THE ABILITY to find a little more pop/power to spray the ball down the line, in to the gaps, and hit more doubles, leg out a few triples, crank the occasional HR, but at LEAST give a ML pitcher pause. To Martin's credit, he did have 20 XB hits in 233 official AB. Not bad for a rookie. 4] Reports spread around was that he was a "natural" OF who could transition there easily. That's not what I saw at all. I did see a handful of plays in CF and LF where he made some great catches. From my perspective, it seemed like he was much better with balls moving away from him vs balls hit directly at him. That's a big problem for an OF, especially one playing CF, as I saw WAY too many false steps that lead to hits and XB hits. That's a problem! He was average at best at 2B, with a few great plays with scoops in the hole to get the out at 1B. As of NOW, his glove isn't worthy of a utility player, especially with limited offense. CONCLUSION: Once again, he was only a rookie feeling his way. But he doesn't have any defensive value at the moment, and a very limited offensive profile at the moment. Honestly, TODAY, I'd have more faith in guys like Keirsey, Helman and maybe surprise prospect Eeles to actually HIT, run, pop a little, and play good defense. That DOESN'T mean he can't work hard this offseason, and in ST, to refine his defense and bat to be a quality reserve player. But he'd better do so, because I see other prospects hot on his tail that seem to be better options fairly soon. FINAL NOTE: FWIW, I don't like having a prospect up and not letting them play. (Camargo, Keirsey, Helman as examples). But for those who want to complain about Martin's usage against certain pitching sides, he actually hit better, and had a better SLG % against RH arms in 2024 than LH arms. I don't know if that's consistent with his college or MILB career, but the numbers are there.

So Festa needs better command of his secondary pitches in order to put guys away quicker, which extends his IP ability, and will lower his HR propensity. Got it. Simple enough. Absolutely not trolling here. I'm just stating...tongue in cheek a bit...that it really might be that simple for him. The velocity is there. Anlot if the time, I thought his change and slider were better than his fastball. And frankly, for a rookie making in his debut, season I thought he looked solid to good most appearances. I can see the potential. A little more consistency and I can see a 6 IP starter with double digit K's consistently. Again, I liked what I saw. A 4th offering would be nice, and he might be working on one as we speak, but the 3 he's got look very good to me. Of course, every young pitcher "just needs" more consistency to be really good, right?

I understand the premise here, but can't agree with the outcome. I just don't see Severino as any sort of replacement for Castro other than being a switch hitter. I'm in the "hope" camp on Severino continuing to improve and being a viable 1B/DH option in the near future who MIGHT still be able to play a little 3B and OF corner. Curious, was he the selection because he's a switch hitter? Because he MIGHT be ready now? While he's a RH bat, and not ready yet, Keaschall is a much better comp as a potential replacement for Castro. Simply based on how the Twins have played himself in the field, Keaschall may end up playing 1B/2B/LF/ RF. With his arm repaired, it's possible he might play some SS or 3B, but I'm not sure if he would be as good as Castro at those spots. He's probably an even better hitter with more power potential and similar speed. There's a few other potential options further down the system that aren't proven yet, but if their bat picks up, Schobel, Ross, DeBarge, and even Culpepper. For that matter, i think Eeles might be a closer comp to Castro vs Severino. I agree with @riverbrian that the Twins need to stay away from short side options as much as possible. A RH shouldn't ONLY be able to perform against LHP. While Castro's splits have varied, he's had success against both sides of the mound. And while his overall OPS for 2024 was only a little above league average, his bad back skewed his final numbers from where he was at mid season when he went to the All Star game. HOWEVER, what really sets Castro apart, IMO, is his ability to be a quality 10th man EVEN IF his OPS is only around league average. IMO, he's quality at 2B/3B/LF and solid at SS/CF. With a decent bat, some pop, and good speed/athleticism he's well worth $6.5M as a full time player at one of his best spots, even as a league average producer. (He's better than that healthy) Being able to be that 10th man increases his overall value. I understand and appreciate the idea of trying to move on and "replace" him in a different manner due to payroll issues. I don't think Severino is a replacement, maybe a PART of doing so, if/when he's ready for the ML level. Unfortunately, I think a true replacement for him is a half season to a full season away from within the system. I think it would be a real shame if he has to be moved before next season considering his projected $ cost and value to the team simply due to penny pinching that might be forced.

What SHOULD happen? On their way out the door, the Pohlad's grant something like a $150M payroll. That means everyone back that Falvey wants, $15M more in payroll to play with, and thr opportunity to add some more depending on moves here can make to free up additional $, such as moving Paddack to someone looking for an inexpensive veteran to flesh out their rotation. What WILL happen? Probably enough payroll to just being everyone back ($13M) and leave it up to Falvey how to create flexibility. That leaves a handful of spots that need to be discussed, a couple additions needed, and little to nothing to work with. CATCHER: I've been steadfastly opposed to moving Vazquez. The $14M TOTAL for 2 catchers isn't crazy and who replaces Vazquez? HOWEVER, from what Miller says and what Gleeman has heard from other sources, if Vazquez and his $10M actually could be moved, I think the FO is going to be forced to do so. Jeffers takes on more of a 60%-65% game split, and Camargo possibly contents for the backup job. There might be a cheap defense first option out there to bring in, but it's probably Camargo at this point. At least there's a good arm and some bat potential. I don't like it, but not sure Falvey has much choice. INFIELD: A healthy Correa, new shoes and no more plantar issues, SS is set, and both Lee and Castro are OK for days off. Lewis only turned 25yo in June. He's got the ability and arm to play 3B. There's no reason to jump the gun early and move him to 1B at this point. HOWEVER, if Lee is healthy, ready to go, and the bat is back as well, he can lock up 2B and still provide backup help at SS. BUT, if Lewis does happen to struggle, then I can see Lee to 3B and Lewis to 1B. But again, I'm not jumping the gun. As to 1B, I agree on keeping Kirilloff... who still has an option...for somewhere around $1.8M-ish via arbitration. I like ONE MORE CHANCE to be healthy and produce vs cutting him loose too early. (Long shot I know). Castro and possibly Eeles are 2B options, along with Julien, who I'm putting at 1B with Miranda. I'm betting the Julien who produced in college, who produced in MILB, who produced his rookie ML season is the REAL version and not what we saw in 2024. There's not a lot if other options than these guys, and Severino as the dark horse option, eventually at least. Not so certain Keaschall won't become a factor by mid season. OUTFIELD: I place priority on a RH bat that doesn't stink against RH pitching as a priority over acquiring a backup CF. Why? Because Castro is OK there occasionally, Keirsey and Helman are solid options defensively, have speed, and deserve a shot to see if they can stick, Martin is young enough and athletic enough to offer up at least a little hope, and Rodriguez might be ready by mid year. I don't have much/any $ to work with, but at least I have some options to work with. I don't on the RH bat side of things really. ROTATION: Move Paddack if possible, to save some $ for the few moves you can. Don't you dare trade any of the top 3. BULLPEN: Better self scouting would help. Hoffman has been great for the Phillies the last couple of years and all we had to was keep him instead of cutting him at the end of ST. Hiw about using what's on hand better? Alcala for a single IP. How valuable is Funderburk if he gets back to his 2023 command, which was better than this season for sure. Time to put Headrick in the pen as another LH option. What LH FA is out there coming off a bad season, or a former SP who's never put it together and is ready to become a reliever? They need to get smart on this one as it's a need. The base of the pen looks pretty strong at this point. Even if Vazquez and Paddack were both moved, Falvey isn't going to have a lot of $ to work with. It might be enough for a couple solid pieces but that's about it. Self scouting is going to be as important as external scouting. That's not to imply all doom and gloom, only that internal improvement and "being smarter" in scouting are going to be keys to building the 2025 roster.

A hard NO to all 3 offerings listed, unless you have any lingering concerns about players currently rostered and you want Iglesias on a small, 1 yr deal for 2B. At least he can hit a little. But while he may be fast, he doesn't steal bases. So other than taking an extra base, he doesn't do anything but provide a mediocre 1 year fix for much of anything. IMO, one of the biggest mistakes the FO made in 2024...I'm a supporter but will call out disagreements...was not allowing Helman and Keirsey LEGITIMATE opportunities to display any potential they might have when injuries hit and the roster was floundering. You should ALWAYS look internally if you have guys actually PRODUCING at the AAA level! Look, I bring up Helam and Keirsey A LOT. I've done it before the season began, during the season, and now after the season. That DOESN'T mean I think either of these guys are any sort of guarantee, or will even stick for anything other than the short term. There's actually a number of players in the system, in the top 20+, that are athletic and fast, and some can even hit and have power/pop. But Helman and Keirsey are both college players that had some early injuries, then missed 2020, and have bloomed late. BOTH have been riding impressive 2 year streaks of hitting, OB%, pop/power, and are athletic, speedy players, who have been forced to sit in the system instead of getting opportunities when injuries struck. Why? Why wouldn't you look internally when guys YOU DRAFTED have done well? Helman is a RH version of Castro, with possibly better OF defense, and more power. While he's had a couple injuries the past couple of seasons, he's been excellent at the plate and on the bases. They've even brought him to ST each of the past two seasons. Keirsey was the higher draft choices, has been at least as good of a hitter, with similar pop/power, and at least as much speed and SB ability. They gave a chance to a similar age Castro as a FA signing and were well rewarded by doing so. Is the fact that he had MLB service time the only reason he got a chance to develop with the Twins? You got a HUGE reward by giving him a chance. But you didn't offer up a same age, and a slightly older age, player(s) a reasonable opportunity to see what they could do given a legitimate opportunity? A couple years ago the FO was smart enough to bring in BOTH Stewart AND Jeff Hoffman as fliers for the pen. Both impressed. Stewart, as I recall, went to AAA briefly and then was recalled. Hoffman pitched as well, if not better, and was cut. And he's been a mainstay in the Phillies pen for 2 consecutive seasons now. IMAGINE having BOTH of them in the Twins pen the past 2 years? My biggest complaint with the FO is INTERNAL scouting at times. Honestly, it's a pretty small blip all things considered, but they also allowed LHRP Coulombe to leave for nothing to the Orioles that same season. You want to add some speed? Great. Speed alone means nothing. You want to add speed and athleticism to your roster? Then go ahead and do what you've done the last couple of drafts and add some better speed/athletic players to the system. And again, if you follow the draft, the IL signings, and the MILB system, you will see more speed and athleticism being brought on board. But that doesn't change 2025. And the options presented in the OP offer little to nothing other than a pipedream of SOMEONE SUDDENLY learning how to hit and steal bases. Even with a rise in payroll, and/if a move or two to add more $ to make a move, what combo player who can hit, play defense, maybe provide some power, and adds speed is even available? I suppose the FO could trade 3 top 20 prospects to someone for such a player that's cost controlled, but it isn't happening. It's too late to see if either Helman or Keirsey are REMOTELY proven that they might enhance the 2025 roster. A MISSED opportunity by the FO. But with questions about 1B and another RH bat of at least DECENT quality who can not stink against RH pitching, they are left to internal options that have been ignored thus far. If at all possible, the FO should be looking for a RH OF that can hit LH pitching but be "OK" against RH arms. They SHOULD be looking at Keirsey, Helman, AND Martin EVERY SINGLE DAY in ST next February to see if ANY of them have the ability to contribute, even for the short term for other prospects on their way. They also should ABSOLUTELY bring Eeles in as a non roster invite! He might ONLY be a good story. But considering how he obliterated MILB even at the AAA level, how could you NOT want to give someone like that an honest look? Speed/athleticism is not totally void on the current roster with health. Better base running should be stressed for sure. But more speed and athleticism is not just coming. It's POTENTIALLY better if you give your own backyard a legitimate chance to show what they might be able to do.