DocBauer

1A couple quick comments first: A] I would be SHOCKED if the Twins signed any kind of middle of the rotation arm. As of this moment, you have 4 SP already locked in, plus Paddack still on the roster, plus a good looking collection of young arms at AAA. With a very tight budget, where does the $ come from to sign this potential starter? And does you really need one with what's on hand? B] A proven, middle of the order bat would be really nice. And there's a few small scenarios via trade and/or the dumping of salaries to make it happen, but it seems to we're probably back to a $ issue again. It seems to me lineup depth and continued improvement from the players on hand is more realistic than the addition of a big bat. As to NEEDS? 1] 1B: Other than saying we COULD go with Miranda, maybe Julien if he turns it around, give AK one last shot, 1B is a big open hole right now. I don't see a 39yo Santana as a fix, with all due respect. I'm not certain there's any likely FA at this time. But is there a solid, dependable, affordable LH 1B to add via FA or trade to work with Miranda? 2] RH CORNER OF: IMO, I'm giving Keirsey a LOOONG look as my primary backup CF option to begin 2025. He also gives speed off the bench. Rodriguez might be ready later in the season, but I'm talking a quality defensive CF to begin the season. Can they find a RH OF who can beat up LH arms without being horrid against RH pitching and play solid defense? Not needing an All Star, just a good, solid, RH OF. No more Margot specialists who are below average in most areas and end up playing more than wanted. 3] LHRP: You don't have to have a LH in the arm just to have one. There's no room for a LOOGY any longer. But at least ONE lefty who can be OK against RH bats gives the pen a lot more depth and an important option in crunch time. There's a couple interesting internal options on hand, but I'd rather have them as 2nd options and not the primary one. Is there room and opportunity to add one, good, solid option here? If Paddack can be moved to a team who sees him and his rather small $7.5M contract and replace him with a rookie, that gives a small amount of $ to play with. Maybe that adds the OF and the LHRP? Then what do you do at 1B? And if that $7.5M could help bring in a 1B, then you've got to go pretty cheap to try and find options for the other two spots I've mentioned. I think the team is weaker without Castro. His cost isn't great. I'd do everything to keep him. And I'm not sure moving Vazquez provides enough help, especially considering you've got to replace him on the roster, but it might help the $ a little. I guess what I'd DREAM of is moving Paddack and the FO being willing to bump to around $140M-ish? You don't have a lot to work with for moves, but you at least can play a little bit, and maybe use your system for a good addition or two. I think you have to TRY and address the 3 spots I've mentioned, and try to find a more consistent offense between new coaches, better health, and continued development of the young bats.

I know I'm repeating myself, but I think Paddack is 50/50, maybe 60/40 to be traded. The FO hates letting go of depth assets, and Paddack...a little stronger this year, longer removed from past surgery...offers up decent upside for the Twins, or someone else interested. But he's potentially part of the equation here. Do the Twins feel comfortable with a 2nd year player and a rookie in the rotation? And what if someone gets hurt in ST? They might not have any choice as they may be forced to move on from a few guys to tweak the roster and be able to sign 1 or 2 FA. If Paddack is back, he's one 1 of 5 in the rotation to begin the season. If he's moved, Festa gets first shot at the last spot. I don't see the Twins brining in anyone at this point. They need an OF and a 1B that might have to come from outside the organization. You don't trade away a $7M rotation arm and then sign another.

One down year shouldn't automatically create a dismissal of any prospect, but Winkel, Cardenas, and Cosetti all had down/disappointing seasons. Baez and Ruiz weren't great by any means, but didn't bottom out either. Olivar clearly seems to have the best offensive potential at this point, but he's barely played at AA, and I'm not sure about his defense at this point. I think it's a little unfair to use Baldelli's use of Camargo as an automatic negative. IMO, there is a tendency for Rocco to often work young guys in slowly, more slowly than I would agree with. And Camargo's time with the Twins was kind of a mixed baggage, but seldom for long. He battled an injury or two this season, but was very productive in 2023. FWIW, Williams wasn't quite as good this season as last, but it's my understanding he's worked very hard the last couple of years on his defense. But even with a poor 2024, if you look at Camargo the orwvious 2 years, and his career 31% caught stealing %, he's definitely the #3 catcher currently. Very frustrating to me he didn't get any legitimate looks in 2024. Sysrem catching didn't look this bad coming in to 2024, but it sure doesn't look very good going in to 2025 at this point.

I sometimes wonder if MAYBE part of the big payroll slash of last year was to put aside a little $ to prepare for this year? I mean, they did still end up with a partial TV deal didn't they? Or maybe I'm offering them too much credit. I don't know that there was any choice but to go this route, but it's the right one. Less $.now, but with room to grow future earnings as your fan base grows, and comes back, and new revenue streams open up. There are plenty of ticked off fans angry for good reason. But if the Twins can win games, fans will come back. And not only is $100 for a full season very reasonable, but at $20 a month, "lost fans" can decide month to month how interested they really are. Better revenue sharing is still a major key to the future of MLB. But as I understand it, the streaming of MLB does not preclude cable and satellite fans from continuing to watch via their chosen platform. What there is from streaming, cable/satellite, revenue sharing, and the new "extra $ bump" being paid to teams no longer on the big TV $ bandwagon will keep teams and the game afloat. But it's going to take time for all of this to sort itself out and continue to grow. But step one was to make this change, get out in front, and prepare for the future. That also means fan inclusion again, something that has been sorely missing the past few years.

I understand the framework of the idea. It's not crazy. But not only does moving Jax take away the Twins #1-2 pen arm, but if the Cubs really want to move Alcantara and gain talent, do they really want a 30yo arm that failed previously as a starter? Two months in to the season he's suddenly back in their pen again and then what? Wouldn't Vazquez, Paddack, and someone like Morris, Ryan, or Lewis plus something like #5M in cash for Alcantara and player X make more sense for both sides? The Twins save $7M to be spent elsewhere, they get a really talented RH 4th OF who hasn't quite put it all together yet, a prospect, and the Cubs get a veteran arm with some upside who can move to the pen later if needed, and one of the Twins top 5-ish pitching prospects ready now, or by mid season, plus the veteran, defense first catcher they need. That sounds more balanced and realistic to me.

I also object to the notion that the Twins must move either one of them. 1] IF you were to move either, with Vazquez on a 1 year deal, why would you EVER trade Jeffers? So you can have ZERO MLB catchers in 2026? 2] IF you paid $4-5M of Vazquez's deal to move him, who replaces him? You'd better be really like Camargo and believe in him, otherwise, you're back to FA to sign a guy like Vazquez for the $ you just saved, when you already traded the kind of player you'd end up signing to take his place. Also, where does this idea of a $160M payroll come from that is forcing you to move either catcher? Unless I am grossly misremembering, minus FA already out the door, bringing the rest of th3 existing roster back and paying out the expected arbitration numbers, the Twins would be sitting at almost exactly $135M. If anyone is moved, it's Paddack, who's $7M would be more palatable to other teams, and is a possibly solid rotation arm with experience and upside.

I'm sorry to ask who and what you think is throwing against the wall and see what sticks? I ever feel "icky" asking that question.

Got to watch the second half of the game when I got to work, recorded the game, and will watch the 1st half in particular when I do so. So I'm a little out of the loop compared to the rest of you as a comment. 1] Not going to get down on Darnold after 1 game. He's been borderline outstanding so far. The Jets actually have a really good defense. Coming in today, Jets #5 in scoring defense, the Vikings #4. For both teams, who knows how the London games affects players. 2] Jones is a GREAT RB. His loss hurt no doubt. But Chandler has proven himself as a quality #2. He was damn good in a losing season in 2023. He actually outperformed Jones a couple weeks ago. He might be the #1 best KO option, based on previous use, if not for the new rules. A poor running game today was partially due to the Jets defense and a not so great game from Donaldson. For the future, the Vikings are going to have to consider a RB in the next couple of drafts because Jones isn't getting younger, and is on a 1yr deal as well. But he is still a STUD when healthy to be sure. 3] The Jets AREN'T a bad team personel wise overall, with a great defense, and a HOF QB, but I was very nervous late in the 4th quarter. I kept expecting the traditional "of course...Vikings" ending. Maybe we're beyond that with this staff? 4] When the draft happened this year, I knew the Vikings might draft a kicker. But history has shown how many kickers were drafted early, and failed. How many kickers were drafted late, and how many FA kickers were as good or better. When Reichard was selected, the boards said he was the 2nd best because despite being super accurate from about 48-50 yards in, and crunch time being reliable, beyond 50 was a stretch. That was the profile. But this kid is almost automatic so far, not a surprise considering his career, and seems to have a bigger leg than advertised. 5] We are going to be forced to examine CB when the season is done due to age and 1 year deals, but the FO has rewinded and rebuilt the CB on the fly in impressive fashion. 6] Am I the only one who has been impressed by a DL who supposedly only had 1 good player? I still think they need to add 1 more quality player to have a really good DL, but I've been impressed. ANY CHANCE the Vikes could extend Flores with $ to just be happy and stick around? 7] Imagine the offense with Hockensen healthy again? 8] Ingram, now is his 3rd season, NEEDS to take a step forward. He's a good run blocker, and seems to get outside and do a good job at the 2nd level. But his pass blocking is still average at best. But he's gotten better. Brabury has improved over time, and with this staff. He's still a better run blocker than pass blocker. Once in a while, he still just gets run once in a while. And both he and Ingram just seem to have a "foot" problem if not stance issue. When you pass block, you need to raise your helmet more and use your eyes. But that doesn't mean stand up straight and get run over! Size and strength are important in pass blocking, but your feet are the most important part! Drives me crazy how both of these guys just forget to KEEP a bend, and keep their legs UNDER them. ONE of them figures it out fulltime, we've got an even better OL for now and the future. BOTH do it, look out. Brandel has been everything we'd hope for in the OL. And the OL hasn't been poor at all, but it could be REALLY GOOD if Bradbury or Ingram could just take that next step. If Darnold doesn't suddenly regress, or massive injuries set in, I don't think this team is an illusion. All the pieces are in place for a really good and exciting team going forward!

Any notion of a rebuild is ridiculous and impractical as well. And Nick has done a really good job of addressing that. The word for me is RETOOL the team. Look, the 6 week disaster of this season had me, an ardent and dedicated fan, hardly watching as it was painful and confusing to watch. Period. But I like to feel I can take a step back and take a long, honest look at things despite the utter disappointment in the 2024 collapse. The 2023 team was a good one. They won a playoff series and woulda/coulda/shoulda maybe beat the Astros. And maybe they would have another day. But they still had a good season and got the monkey off their back. Despite a ridiculous start to 2024, confounded me and I think all of us, they were a very good team for 4 months. They were something like 17 games above .500 and all but guaranteed a playoff spot, and a chance to overtake Cleveland, right up to the point where they lost the 4th game of the Texas series, missing out on a sweep, and then SOMETHING UNEXPLAINABLE happened and they suddenly bottomed out! The frustration, hurt, disappointment, and anger are real, and justified. But when I look long and hard at this team, what's available, what's nearly ready, I'm actually optimistic about 2025 with a RETOOL. And yes, I realize I'm a bit of an optimist by nature, lol. But seriously... ROTATION: Lopez, Ober, Ryan, and SWR is a hell of a nice 4. It's a 4 we would have salivated over just a few years ago. And it's good enough to hang with most any club. Paddack being kept or dealt is an interesting conversation, but also an interesting part of the rotation, potentially. Festa and Matthews will only grow and learn from 2024 to be ready at some point next season, if not immediately. And there's other good looking arms behind them. BULLPEN: Ah yes, the bullpen, and all the angst it carries with it. Like any rotation, it needs depth, but it's also probably the hardest part of a team to predict. But as of today, it will consist of Duran, Jax, Sands, Varland, Alcala, Topa, and Stewart. Are there question marks? You bet! But Alcala used properly makes a difference, IMO. Topa's knee healthy, he's probably not worse than a solid 6th inning guy. If Stewart's shoulder "clean up-not repair" can give 40-50 IP, that's a HUGE difference right there. And Varland has the stuff, and past success, to suggest he could be really good at 1-2 IP at a time. The issue, as of now, is the LH side. I'd move Headrick to the pen permanently yesterday, and maybe see if he's a candidate for a cutter or splitter to add to his repertoire. He's got some decent stuff to work with. So does Funderburk, if he can get back more of the control/command he showed in 2023. Moran coming back from surgery might need some time, but we shouldn't forget about him as an option at some point. If trade or FA could bring in just a single, solid contributor, the pen could be a really solid unit in 2025 POSITION PLAYERS/LINEUP: A lot of this hinges on 3 players: Correa, Buxton, and Lewis. Time, new therapy, and new shoes, could be an answer for Correa. Buxton seemingly no longer hindered by his previous knee issue might finally allow his hip issue to decrease, if not right itself. I'd take 100 games again, but if his hip is actually better, maybe 110-120 games? Lewis' body just more used to more games, the knee issues now a full season plus behind him, does he stay more healthy? And does all of that mean he can now just grow and adapt and learn as a potential stud batter? I don't think optimism here is unwarranted. I think even the most hardened fan can't help but look at what Wallner has done the past 2 years, including an awful start to 2024, and not admit he's looked damn good, and damn dangerous overall. Larnach has really grown. He might be even better without the turf toe that bothered him much of the past season. And as much angst as there has been about Vazquez and Jeffers underperforming...Jeffers more in my mind because we've seen what he CAN DO...they're still a solid duo who put up way better than league average production from their spot. Lee looked great, then pretty bad after a shoulder injury and his return. But what if he's 100% to begin 2025? He's not some middling prospect. He looked great in ST, raked at AAA, and looked good before he hurt his shoulder. MAYBE he's better starting off at AAA as some have suggested. Or maybe he's ready now and just needed to get his feet wet and get healthy again? Castro was great until he tweaked his back, but couldn't be afford rest or IL time so he struggled the 2nd half. I believe in him. Miranda proved what he might still be until he also tweaked his back. How good might he still be? Again, question marks, but talent available to be sure. Second base is an issue until/unless Lee is really ready, Castro sits there instead of being the team's SUPER UTILITY guy, Julien suddenly gets out of his own head and "gets right" again, or Eeles...who I was absolutely bring in as a ST invite...gives notice to everyone that he can actually play this game and isn't just a good story. When! How's that for a running sentence? Lol. At least there are OPTIONS there. 1B, backup up CF, LHRP, and a RH OF who can hit and play solid defense and not be an embarrassment against RH pitching are the holes I see. There isn't, right now, that TOP DOG #4 type proven hitter like a Cruz we had previously in the lineup. But that's not going to happen via trade or FA. It's going to have to happen internally. And maybe the RETOOLING of the coaching staff can help with that and player development. SO WHAT ABOUT THOSE COUPLE HOLES? (I've already touched on the LHRP role) As much as so many of us are intruged by the potential of E Rodriguez, he's so young, missed so much time, I wouldn't dare suggest him on the club to begin the season unless he was playing daily. Instead, I'd give Keirsey every chance, daily, in ST to prove he can AT LEAST hit a little, and keep him as a Buxton fill in with good defense, and provide a PR speed option and late defensive replacement role. That could change later in the season. I'm not ruling out Martin, but his TOTAL GAME has to be raised a notch before he's ready for the role. If Keirsey...maybe Martin...could handle that Buxton backup and speed on the bases role, PLEASE tell me it wouldn't be that hard to make a trade or inexpensive FA signings for just a solid, competent RH OF who could play the corners decently and provide some LH bashing while still being OK against RH arms. I'm not asking for a star player, just a good OF with solid offense who isn't going to ruin the lineup if being forced to play more than 25% of the time like another Margot. NO MORE SHORT SIDE PLATOON ONLY RH bats who end up playing more than you wanted. As to 1B, I have no clue. I think we all see scenarios where Miranda, a healthy AK, (we can all wish), and a rebounded Julien provide OK defense and some quality production. I'm not discounting a kid like Severino suddenly taking a step up, but I think that's a longshot dream for opening day. And it would be great if the Twins moved Paddack's $7M and added another $10M and brought in Paul Goldschmidt on a 1yr deal because the market was light, to provide defense and an experienced bat with power who might have something left, but I sure don't see that happening. Betting on Santana again at 39yo doesn't make sense. It shouldn't be so hard to find a solid 1B who can, at least, be a complimentary bat should it? But the Twins are currently minus a 1B at an offensive position. And that is weirdly odd to me. But as of today, it's probably the biggest hole in the lineup. LONG STORY SHORT: Yeah, RIGHT Doc, nothing i do is short, LOL. This team, RIGHT NOW, is good enough EVERYWHERE, if you just step back and take an honest look at what's on hand, and what's really close...Rodriguez, Keaschall, Festa Matthews, and others...that it just needs a RETOOLING. And again, a different hitting staff on the coaching side might help. Offensively, over the past couple of seasons, despite some weird and complex differences, the Twins have ranked pretty high over all of MLB. But the cold streaks early and late have been an issue, especially early. I expect no sudden difference no matter who the Twins hire. I'm just hoping for more consistency if the performance of a team that is think has the talent to continue to be very productive overall. No rebuild. Keep what we have, DEVELOP what we have, find a little more consistency in the approach, and RETOOL the spots I've mentioned. There's a lot of potential on this team.

Paddack didn't last the season and didn't have a particularly good season at that. However, he'll only be 29yo next season, and further "built up" and further removed from his last surgery, there's some upside still there. And to be fair, as @Brandonppointed out, he had some good appearances in 2024. $7.4M is not a lot to pay a SP. The Twins like depth, almost to the point of detriment at times, and Paddock provides that. What if SWR regresses? (I don't think he will). What if someone gets hurt in ST? Paddack provides insurance instead of being "forced" to make room for a rookie starter, and St Paul is brimming with options. But I've said for a few weeks now that I think it's 50/50 he's moved elsewhere despite some positives to keeping him. Another team could be very interested in a $7M SP with experience and upside, maybe even as a mid season flip if their season doesn't go right. There's a couple holes currently on the roster, LHRP, 1B, RH OF, in which there aren't obvious answers at this time. Paddack's salary won't go a long way to fill any of those spots, but it sure could help. And sooner or later, when you have this many young arms ready, or nearly ready, you have to trust in them. I still say it's 50/50 he's moved. If he is, I wonder if it's for a prospect and to free up $, OR, is there any chance he brings back that LH pen arm, or that RH OF that's needed? I can see him having success in the pen. And if the Twins simply can't find a taker, or they have to buy down his deal so far it doesn't offer any real net gain, then they probably keep him. At that point, the $ is spent. So maybe he can be convinced that a pen move is the best thing for his health, and his career. It would take a hard sell as I think he's convinced he's a starter. But after so many surgeries and injuries, maybe he's ready? That's too much $ for that kind of role, but, if the money is on the books already, I can see him thriving in the pen. But I think the Twins pay him to be in the pen only as a last result. They either target him for the rotation, or they move him.

Agree on the velocity issue. 90 MPH from a lefty with a great change and curveball might still play, especially if control/command is there. And also wonder if more time away from surgery might not see his velocity gain a few ticks. Hopefully it will. But I have to wonder if he doesn't need a 4th offering? Could a cutter give him a different enough look to keep hitters further off balance? If the velocity doesn't tick up, or not enough, I'm wondering if his best role, and quickest route to MLB, might not be in the pen. If the FB is located well, the change should help him against RH hitters, and the curve could be affective against both sides.

I never bought in to him being injury prone initially. The TJ surgery he had was early in his career and is over and done. His wrist issue was a genetic issue, not an on the field injury. Complete pass in my mind. Then he hurt his shoulder while diving for a ball. Stinks, but that happens. Again, I can give a pass. But then he hurts his back and hides the injury's severity. Sorry, but now I'm starting to wonder about being injury prone vs being unlucky. But despite a financial crunch, I have to believe the Twins can afford $1.8M for a former top prospect, who has flashed when healthy, and who still has an option I believe. With his wrist seemingly 100%, what if he really has been unlucky the past 2 seasons? What if he works really hard this offseason to be in great shape and actually BE HEALTHY for 2025? You can't just let that guy go without giving him one more chance can you? Maybe it will be a $1.8M error. But it's a potential error I think you have to be willing to take. His salary shouldn't have any serious affect on 2025, and the potential he still has is worth that last shot, so I say keep him and see if he can finally reach his potential.

To be fair to Castro, it's my understanding he's had a back issue that developed about the All Star break. Unfortunately, he wasn't allowed enough rest time to get right. I can see him being the primary 2B if nobody else steps forward. But I think he's best being that super utility player he's been previously. And that's where I'd like to see him, and where I think he excells.

Based on the 2024 payroll numbers, and inflation in general, but MLB in particular, yes, they probably were at a lower comparable payroll than when in the Dome. Simply not going to get in to another arguement about ownership...there's enough of that already...what's so damn frustrating is that I have previously argued against the "ownership is cheap" arguements because I saw moves, and some big signings, and extensions, and a year by year growing payroll the previous seasons before this one. But even though I believe, and have believed and stated previously, that I think MLB is in for some major changes going forward. A recent OP used the word "reckoning" I believe. But nobody saw or expected changes before 2024 happened? They did as hoped and kept growing the payroll, at least somewhat year to year before. And that's what I find so frustrating and disappointing.

I haven't given up on Martin. I saw enough from him, at times, that I can SEE the good ballplayer that is "in there". But except for a couple stretches, he never hit all that well. And he has little power, but at least I see the potential to spray the ball around for doubles and the such. But other than a handful of nice plays at 2B and the OF, his defense was just pretty bad. And I understand he was a rookie, and that he missed a lot of time in 2023 due to injury. And he's got the talent to work hard and improve his game, no doubt. But I just didn't see anything this past season that makes me feel confident he's ready to be a top reserve anywhere in 2025.

I tend to agree with you here in general. And I'm not SOLD in any way that an older player, like Keirsey for example, could/would break that mold. But in the case of someone like him, for example, we're talking about injuries and the lost 2020 covid year setting him back, and delaying his development. And I'm just using him as an example, rather than using someone like Jose Cruz who broke out late. But could someone develop late in their career to just be a solid, useful player rather than a star or regular player? I just think if you've got someone who checks a few important boxes, and they MIGHT fit a role that's needed, shouldn't you at least give said player an honest look?

I'm not betting on Keirsey coming anywhere close to what he's been in MILB the past 2 years. However, if he could hit even in the .240 range with decent contact, and OB ability little over .300 with some XB hits and SB ability as a bottom hitter, I'd take that. At least until Rodriguez was ready. Personally, I wouldn't move Larnach at all. IMO, he's in LF and Wallner in RF. Castro can also fill in CF occasionally as well. And I don't care if Keirsey bats LH, and don't know why the Twins seem to be fixated on that. I want some who can play a good CF and not embarrass at the plate. I'd just like to see Keirsey get a legitimate shot.

Just my opinion, but there are 3 spots 4 spots I see needing to be addressed. 1] Who plays 1B? 2] Who is the primary backup to Buxton? 3] Who is a reliable RH bat for the OF to help against LHP? 4] Can we find even ONE solid LH arm for the pen? I believe Paddack is moved to open up $ for an add, unless he himself beibg back that addition. Buxton can be backed up by Castro on a limited basis. Keirsey has the defense and speed , with some pop/power, to at least play good defense and contribute at the bottom of the order. Rodriguez will be ready by mid season. Martin can help, but he'd have to improve a lot, IMO. So that's probably covered. If Funderburk can get back the better control he had in 2023, he helps the pen a ton. Moran comes back from surgery, but how quickly does the command come back? I'd have Headrick move to the pen tomorrow and get him ready to be a reliever. HOPING there's a late 20's type arm that's ready to leave his mediocre rotation days behind and focus on a new and better career in the Twins pen. At least there's a couple options here. So I don't see a major trade or anything resembling a big $ signing. I'd backup CF is covered short term and long term, could they trade for or sign an inexpensive decent, solid RH corner bat to face LHP that isn't a complete vacuum against RHP? Tired of a ONE WAY RH platoon bat. Can't be that hard or expensive can it? But about 1B...sigh...I'd like to aim higher than Santana, but don't see the $ to bring someone on, and we don't have anyone at 1B in the system at this point to take the job. While it sounds bizarre to say since it's usually presumed to be the "easiest" position to find someone for, I'm worried about 1B. I'd love an honest to goodness, solid 1B whi can crank 20+ HR with a decent overall bat. I don't think that's the soon to be 39yo Santana who's not very good against RHP. But who else? Do we have someone we can trust? A possible platoon that works? My priorities are 1B, RH OF, LHRP, reserve CF option, possibly in that order as there are some internal options that might help fill in a couple of those spots already.

While I think Rodriguez could be an option at some point, I don't see him as the guy to open the season. He just missed too much time this season. Unless he falls on his face, I'm going with Keirsey as he's got the defense, can provide speed on the bases, and if the Twins can afford to add a Rah bat, he only has to play the corners. I'm not sold on Martin at this point, and Castro gets some CF time as well. By mid year, if Byron goes down, it might be time to turn to Rodriguez. I'm just saying no to the begining of the year.

Nothing wrong with the choices here. But something doesn't feel quite right with no Lewis on the list.

I am SO excited for Em Rod, disappointed so much in his ongoing injury this season, hopeful for a big 2025, but still cautious about a plate approach nobody seems to be able to put a finger on. He could be a washout, a good player, or a star. Why do I keep getting "Knoblauch vibes" in regard to Eeles?

As a reminder, I work for a computations company. Not the biggest like Comcast, or Time Warner, but big enough to matter. The cable cutting is very real, and growing weekly, monthly, etc. Smaller companies across the country have already dropped TV service to their customers, or have advised them to seak alternatives by the end of this year, or early next year. I brought this up early in the year, and offseason after cost cutting announcements, because it's real. It's entirely possible the MAJOR markets such as LA, Chicago, Boston, Philadelphia, Atlanta, and even NY, will also be pinched in the future. But for the NOW, they have enough of a population base that they may not be affected substantially for at least a few years. I'm NOT excusing Twins ownership from ADVANCING payroll year to year before the inexcusable bombshell of lowering payroll this season, and completely BLOWING viewership across the Midwest and alienating and basically pissing off a huge chunk of their fan base. And im also NOT patting myself on the back for being an oracle of "what is to come". But I've said before, and agree with the OP, that there is a financial reckoning coming for MLB. I don't want baseball to decline, much less die. But as much as the Twins are going to be squeezed by the whole Bally debacle, and the impending changes, it's potentially worse for other teams. I believe the Rangers were getting something like $65-70M from Bally/Diamond Vision? Well, that's now gone or close to being gone. And I'm NOT feeling sorry or have empathy for $B owners who NEVER open their books...other than the Braves and the Jay's due to being publicly owned and being forced to...who look at profit in what is almost certainly a very small portion of their enterprises by owning an ENTERTAINMENT franchise like a MLB team. I excuse none of them. But when the Golden Goose suddenly passes away, there is going to be a major shift in how EVERYTHING works in MLB. It began in 2023, increased in 2024, will gain momentum, and will only be heavier in 2026 and beyond. What has CONTINUED to frustrate and confuse me to exasperation the past few years is that NEITHER the MLBPA OR MLB ownership has EVER been progressive or smart enough to recognize what is and has been happening! Is it just "tradition" going back to mid 20th century that baseball owners should grapple for the last remaining $ available on a yearly basis? I mean, teams have changed ownership multiple times over the decades, but their remains a foul stench of obtuseness to me. And the union...despite some recent changes to assist MILB in $ and benefits...has still been more concerned about escalating salaries for STAR players and less concerned about the rank and file players. Meanwhile, the NFL, decades ago the 2nd child of professional sports, created an even financial platform the last 20-30 years...with different FA tweaks...to assure that every organization had an even playing field in regard to what was on the field. NOT PROFITS! There's still enough local broadcasting and merchandise sales, and home ticket sales, etc, to make as much $ as possible. But the ON THE FIELD TEAM has a minimum and maximum to adhere to. (The NBA is similar, but they also have a couple loopholes here and there for teams to play with). Basically, every NFL team has to play on the same field, pun only partially intended. And it's up to ownership, the FO, and the coaches on the field to build the best team you can. If you stink at it, you stink. If you do good, you win. If you do either consistently, we'll, you're consistent either way. But it ALSO allows teams to make changes, make moves, make turnarounds, and suddenly be relevant again. As has been pointed out by others, MLB has guaranteed contracts. The NFL does not. But as also pointed out, more and more, the NFL is guaranteeing percentages of contracts. Again, what's baffling to me is that neither side of ownership and the MLBPA seem to be able to recognize that the world they WANT to embrace just doesn't exist any longer. It's actually quite likely there will be legal action in the near future from the union as to collusion of the owners suddenly holding down salaries since for MOST teams they are going to see a RAPID reduction in viewership income UNTIL/UNLESS streaming services start to "pick up the bill". But that's going to take time. MAYBE that FORCES MLB owners to finally open their books. Maybe not. But even if they do, it doesn't change the financial fact that the world and the viewership world is changing fast and drastically. Yes, I'm being long winded, but all of this is a reality coming to a ballpark near you SOON. In the next 2 years, or less, you will see litigation from the players union for collusion that might not swept under the rug again. What BOTH SIDES could do is FINALLY sit down and HONESTLY put forth a plan where revenue sharing is UNIVERSAL. The 5 or 6 top market teams will BALK at that initially, UNTIL/UNLESS they realize they would be facing a potential year long strike, as well as time spent in Congress debates. At that point, each side...baseball gods be praised...will decide a floor, and a cap, like the NFL, will make sense for EVERYONE, rather than see MLB torn down. AT THAT POINT, teams will have a 3-5 year time frame to "grace in" existing contracts on the books to comply with the new parameters. From then on, every team, similar to the NFL format, will have an equitable chance to compete based on how well they run their organization. And the league, as a whole, will HOPEFULLY, build up the league as a WHOLE for public fan support and viewership. And EVERY team, like the NFL, will still have opportunities to make as much $ as they can from merchandising and every other advertising format and stadium naming and other options as they can. This MIGHT sound long range, but it's not. There is a major change coming to MLB whether we like it or not. The question remains, are the parties involved smart enough to figure it out before it's too late?

Discussing the Twins MILB system is always a favorite topic of mine. I really this end of the year segment BECAUSE it's not a prospect list, but rather it's just interesting to see who had the best season regardless of being a top prospect or not. It's really interesting to look back on the past years and see who, obviously, didn't make it, and those that ultimately did. There's some pretty good players on previous lists that turned out well, even if they aren't with the Twins. Obviously, there ARE some of the Twins top prospects on this season's list. And there's a trio in Keirsey, McCusker, and Eeles who have some rather obvious questions that need to be answered, but who might turn in to decent ballplayers. Will Keirsey get a REAL SHOT in 2025 to back up Buxton, and the corners, and provide defense and speed on the bases? Right now, I'd rather see him than Martin, and not more Margot types. Can McCusker reign in his K's enough, make enough contact, that could allow him to be a RH power bat for the corner spots and DH at some point? Is Eeles a really good story, or, is he a Pedroia/Altuve "type" that really is too good to not make it? And then you have a young A ball trio in Cespedes, Olivar, and Winokur that have a long way to go, but are all worth watching to see what happens. If Olivar keeps hitting, can he play enough defense to make it as a catcher? Cespedes isn't a teenager any longer, has really started to produce, but can he take it to another level in 2025? And while I don't know if Winokur can stick at SS long term, he is SUCH an intriguing mix of size, strength, and speed at such a young age...coming off a really good 1st full season...that he's got to be one of the more interesting/fascinating players in the system. Can't wait to get to the pitching side of things! *NOTE* I appreciate Eeles has a single pro season. And there should naturally be some skepticism regarding such a rapid rise coming out of seemingly nowhere, and his lack of height...though he's got a solid frame...certainly has to affect projection, and probably kept him from being drafted. I'm pleased that MLB ranks him currently 30 in the Twins system. And that's probably fair all things considered. He's in that gray area of "do it again". However, despite begining his career at a lower level, if feel it's prudent to recognize his last season was at Coastal Carolina, which is not exactly a poor program these days. And at CC, he was pretty much the same player he had always been previously. He might just be better than a "good story".

Just a few comments about some of them: 1} Keirsey: I'm just blown away by the FO opinion on him considering they drafted him, and drafted him high. Why should it matter if he battled injuries his first couple of years, missed covid, but then began to really hit his stride and play great as a 26yo? He blew away AA in 2023 before finishing solid, but not quite as well, at AAA. This season, except for a brief injury and some "get right" time, he absolutely raked. But the Twins kept running poor defenders like Martin and Margot out to CF why? Because they hit RH and the Twins needed their RH bats for 25% of the time and were willing to live with poor defense in a key spot? I just get so frustrated when I see player value going to waste. To have a player develop later than originally hoped for due to a couple tough seasons physically, then covid, and then to just ignore what it looks like he's become because of age or handidness is roster and asset malpractice IMO. I have him penciled on to my early 2025 roster as a spare OF, primary back up to Buxton, PR, and hopefully decent/acceptable LH bat. 2} McCusker: He simply may not make enough contact to ever be viable at the ML level. The one time Brewer draftee didn't cut it initially, but really seemed to develop in the Independent Leagues. And so far, with the Twins, he's developed/exploded to the point where he finished the season wrecking AAA pitching. The Twins have a real need for a corner RH OF bat...with Keirsey as my early backup CF option...and while McCusker may earn/force his way on to the roster at some point, I have a hard time looking at some of his contact issues and considering him a prime candidate for a roster spot to open 2025. Later in the season? He's a great story, and he might surprise everyone, but I can't see the Twins not looking for a more proven option. 3} Eeles: I don't have as many misgivings about Eeles, however, despite also being a wonderful story of being found in Independent Ball. He's younger, and his overall HIT ability and contact are very different/better. He won't turn 25yo for a few days yet, making him pretty much age appropriate for the AAA level. He was so good this season that he even skipped AA entirely. He HIT, made contact, took BB, and sprayed various XB hits (39) all over the ballpark at all 3 levels he played at. He also provided speed and SB ability. I'm not saying he should be the favorite to go in to ST and win the 2B job and be a catalyst for the lineup next season...but...I am saying I think he's a real prospect and just might be part of the equation in 2025 and beyond, even if it's not from day one. 4} Keaschall: Being 100% to begin next season...and he's supposed to be...and with a repaired elbow that should help him in the field, I think he nudges Martin out of the picture at some point. I haven't given up on Martin by any means, and I know he was a rookie last year, but other than a couple weeks of flash, I found his offense and defense both disappointing. Keaschall plays the same positions, and perhaps a couple more. And the bat looks legitimate, plus he has a speed component. Therefore, I see him as moving past Martin fairly soon if Martin doesn't take a large step forward.

Nick, I LOVE your work. And I think you're close here, but I will disagree slightly here and there. BUXTON: He was slow early despite a few good games. Then he got RIGHT again...it takes time to "get right" when you've been hurt and missed so much time...before missing more time. But I personally object to those who are in angst to Byron ONLY playing 100 games. Playing 100 games in CF was HUGE coming off a MINOR second surgery that freed him up to do what he did this season. TD residential physical therapist Lucas Seehafer has stated that recovery from injuries may, and often do, affect other areas of the body that compensated for the previous injury. Buck's issue this year was a reoccurrence of a hip issue, probably as a result of his now cleaned up knee injury. Unless his hip has turned in to a chronic issue, we might see more games next year. I suppose a "B" grade might be fair due to a bad early season, but I might go a little higher. CASTRO: I think he's a keeper. A bad back and playing every day hurt his overall numbers. He just shouldn't have been expected to play every day, but he was out there. His "B" is fair, but skewed by team need daily. JEFFERS and VAZQUEZ is wrong, overall, IMO. As a long standing champion of Jeffers, he really disappointed me this season with his bat suddenly going cold at times. I REALLY thought he had gotten his bat on track. And other than a couple months when he got hot, Vazquez was even worse than 2023. But the overall game calling and defense was still there for the duo. And when you reflect on their TOTAL PRODUCTION from the catcher position you get an OVERALL of 32 DBLS, 28 HR, and 91 RBI. Yes, SOME of that production included Jeffers at DH, but it wasn't to any great degree. As disappointing as both were, the TOTAL production is EXCELLENT for a catching duo. As a combo, overall, and bats that were usually at the bottom of the order...understanding both on a hot streak batted higher...their collective should be a much higher grade. ASIDE: If Jeffers actually FIGURES it out for good, he could be one of the best overall catchers in MLB! JULIEN probably deserves his "F" grade. A low "D" at best. He suddenly went from a TREMENDOUS EYE batter batter with some BB and power ability to nothing. Even his vastly improved defense suffered. There's still a good bat and good ML player in there somewhere, but SOMETHING got messed up in his head. LARNACH as a B+ is accurate. He's gone from a top 100 prospect with injuries and illness to a potential washout to a guy who suddenly started to figure it out and start to "figuring it out" this season, despite fighting turf toe and a late leg injury. He MIGHT just be on the precipice of taking the next step and building on this season. The approach we've been seeing is kind of what we've been expecting. His opposite field power is obvious. There's hope the pull power will kick in one of these days. If he can continue down the path he's on right now, he might be an "A" hitter in 2025. LEWIS has all of the talent in the world! Unfortunately, he might be a victim of his confidence of "i don't due slumps" for a while, in some people's mind. And that would be a shame. He's just so damned talented, and has already established a performance threshold of early excellence, that the public and himself are expect excellence always. I think WE, and himself, expect too much at times. He's just needing experience to adjust. As great as he's been, we forget all the time he's lost previously in development. His "C" grade is fair for 2024. I disagree with a D grade for Lee. I'd give him an INCOMPLETE for 2024. A back injury. RAKING at AAA, looking like a stud early upon promotion, then having a shoulder injury, and then coming back and being poor shouldn't give him any sort of real grade. IMO the defense plays at SS, and is even better at 2B and 3B. The talent and work ethic are there. The bat WILL PLAY eventually, though I'm not sure if it's more HR power, or doubles power, combined with a good AVG and OB ability, etc. But more time should be allowed. Again, he's INCOMPLETE in my mind. MARTIN as a "D" is perfect IMO. He had a hot streak at one point, but other than a couple good plays here and there, he was below average defensively at ALL positions. He wasn't strong offensively against either side of arms. I NEVER thought he was going to be a major contributor after a half season of AAA ball in 2023, but I had hopes. And maybe he'll put in the offseason work as a hitter AND a fielder to make a difference for 2025. But at times, honestly, logic escaped me why the Twins didn't give the older Helman a shot to see if he'd be a better option? And I'm also starting to think a healthy Keaschall might not just bump Martin aside sometime next season. NOT SAYING Martin doesn't have some talent, but at some point that talent needs to step forward. MIRANDA was a lost cause in 2023. A healthy Miranda regained satus this year. Then he got hurt again and was OK, but not great suddenly. How can he swing this much? Bad luck? Or is he another Kepler where everything just WORKS when he's healthy but goes to pot when he's dinged up a bit? Man, if he's grown as a player with experience and talent that he's shown, and can overcome, you'd like to place him as a primary bat, mostly at 1B probably for next season, but he does, unfortunately, come in as a talented question mark. I agree with Wallner as a B+ overall. If we examine Wallner from his promotion in 2024, and what he did in 2023, DESPITE the really bad early season numbers we saw in a limited number of AB this kid looks like not only a keeper, but a potential stud for years to come. (Even for those who despise high K rate players) over a fairly brief appearance in 2022, his COMBINED quad slash line in MLB, including his poor, but limited early 2024, is: .251/ .366/ .500/ .866 That's ALL STAR kind of numbers overall a full season, which he hasn't done for a full 162 games so far. And regression will probably settle in at some point. But then again, their is also progression due to experience and development. So it's safe to say, IMO, Wallner is either a really nice player, OR, potentially, a potential All Star player. I'm not going to agree or disagree in nature about Correa. Offense and defense he was an "A" or "B" if you want to include injury. His defense and offense was a good as ever when healthy. He's only a downgrade due to injury, IMO. Just a shame he was on track for one of his best seasons ever before PF hit him hard. YES, despite having a Nike deal for shoes, he changed to some New Balance cleats that made his feet feel better. That ultimately might cost him $M. But somehow, Nike, his sponsor, couldn't figure out a shoe that worked for him. That speaks a lot about Correa in my opinion. Correa might be a "B" overall for Nick, but I'm an "A" for production when healthy and attitude to get right trying to salvage the season.