Jeremy Nygaard

It wasn't a great week overall for Twins affiliates, but there were still some highlights to talk about that took place over the last week. If you missed it, read Nick's Twins Week in Review after you've read about the minor leagues. TRANSACTIONS Alex Kirilloff was activated from the Twins injured list and optioned to Triple-A. Trevor Megill was traded to the Brewers for a PTBN and cash considerations. RESULTS Tuesday (4/25): Blowouts and Bombs Wednesday (4/26): Not a Good Day in the Twins Organization Thursday (4/27): Saints March Home Early Friday (4/28): Woods Richardson Takes No-No to the 6th Inning Saturday (4/29): Wichita Offensive Explosion Highlights Disappointing Night in the Minors MORE TWINS DAILY MINOR LEAGUE CONTENT Twins Minor League Hitter of the Month - April 2023 Alex Kirilloff and Embracing the Unknown Edouard Julien’s Triple-A Improvement Checklist TUESDAY’S PROBABLE STARTERS Nashville @ St. Paul (11:07 PM CST) - RHP Aaron Sanchez (1-1, 2.42 ERA) Wichita @ Northwest Arkansas (11:05 PM CST) - RHP Travis Adams (1-3, 7.71 ERA) Cedar Rapids @ South Bend (5:05 PM CST) - LHP Jordan Carr (0-1, 3.38 ERA) Dunedin @ Fort Myers (6:00 PM CST) - RHP Cory Lewis (2-1, 3.32 ERA) WEEK IN REVIEW Triple-A: St. Paul Saints (Week: 2-3) Overall: 15-10, 2.0 games back in the International League West. Overview: After a convincing series win against Rochester, the Saints lost three of their final four games before the finale was rained out on Sunday. 🔥: Michael Helman returned to the Saints and had two home runs (among four hits) and six runs batted in. 🔥: Mark Contreras was the only Saint who batted better than .300 (8-22, .421) and supplied a nice power supply with three doubles and a home run. 🔥: Louie Varland and Simeon Woods Richardson are both jockeying to join the Twins rotation and did well in their starts. (You can see entire stat lines for them in the Top 20 roundup below.) 🥶: Dereck Rodriguez allowed four runs on five hits in his lone inning of work. 🥶: Andrew Stevenson had been very good for the Saints, but was 3-15 this week with six strikeouts. What's Next: The Saints will host Nashville (14-12) in the front half of a two-week homestand. Double-A: Wichita Wind Surge (Week: 2-4) Overall: 9-12, 5.0 games back in the Texas League North and currently tied for last place. Overview: Lots of scoring for both Wichita and Springfield this past week (all games had 10 or more combined runs), but the Wind Surge had two games where they combined for one run. They also lost while scoring 10 and now have a three-game losing streak. 🔥: Yoyner Fajardo tied for the organizational lead with 9 hits on the week. He scored six runs, walked twice and stole a base. He only had one strikeout in 23 at-bats. 🔥: Yunior Severino has continued to provide power and a load of strikeouts for Wichita. Three more home runs this week, ten runs batted in and also ten strikeouts. You can take the swing-and-miss when you have a .373 OBP with a .958 OPS on the season. 🥶: The pitching staff, as a whole, struggled mightily. Five different pitchers who pitched three or more inning had ERAs of 12.00 or greater. All but two pitchers on the entire staff allowed two or more earned runs. Five pitchers issued three or more walks. What's Next: Wichita will look to get back on track as they travel to Northwest Arkansas (10-11). High-A: Cedar Rapids Kernels (Week: 3-3) Overall: 9-11, 5.0 games back and in last place in the Midwest League West. Overview: The Kernels took three of the first four in the series, but lost the final two games to settle for a split. 🔥: Ben Ross was the lone hitter with a batting average over .300 (6-19, .316). Ross had two doubles, two walks and stole a base. 🔥: Regi Grace pitched well at the back of the Kernels bullpen. He earned a win and picked up a save by pitching three near-perfect innings over two games. He struck out three in three innings and only allowed a walk. 🔥: Kyle Jones has been inconsistent through four starts, but when he’s good, he’s really good. In five shutout innings this week, he allowed three hits and a walk while striking out five. 🥶: Keoni Cavaco has had a bumpy go since being drafted. In four games this past week, he was hitless in 11 at-bats, striking out seven times. He did walk four times though, if you’re looking for a silver lining. What's Next: Cedar Rapids hits the road for a two-week road trip, starting in South Bend (13-8). Low-A: Ft. Myers Mighty Mussels (Week: 4-2) Overall: 12-9, 3.0 games behind Bradenton in the Florida State League West. Overview: Fort Myers took three of the first four before a Saturday rainout forced a Sunday double-header, which they split. 🔥: Carlos Aguiar had five extra base hits (two doubles, three triples) among his eight hits. He scored six runs and drove in four. He did strike out 10 times, though, in 26 plate appearances. 🔥: Andrew Cossetti keeps raking. He had six hits this week and five of them were doubles. 🔥: CJ Culpepper threw five shutout innings and struck out seven. He only allowed three hits. 🥶: Mikey Perez had 24 hits in 10 games after being drafted in 2021. He really struggled in 2022 and 2023 hasn’t been much better. A 2-16 week drops him to .118/.211/.206 on the season. 🥶: Develson Aria, who’s been highlighted before, struggle in his start this week, allowing five hits, three walks and four runs in the 3 ⅔ innings. He did strike out five. What's Next: Fort Myers will host Dunedin (10-11) this week and get to stay at home again the following week. PROSPECT SUMMARY This Prospect Summary shows our current Twins Top 20 Prospect Rankings and how they performed last week. The Prospect Tracker will be updated on the first of each month throughout the season. Notice that these pages now include stats and splits, as well as past article links, video and more. (Season-long stats will be in parenthesis.) 20. Misael Urbina, OF, Cedar Rapids: 4-21, HR, 3 RBI, 2 R, BB, 11 K. (.138/.230/.246. .476 OPS) 19. Jose Rodriguez, OF: Extended Spring Training 18. Tanner Schobel, 2B, Cedar Rapids: 4-19, 2B, HR, 5 RBI, 2 R, 2 BB, 2 K. (.203/.260/.348. .608 OPS), played two games at second base (ten total) and committed one error chances (two in 42 chances total); played two games at third base and was perfect in seven chances (has not committed any errors in 11 total chances in six games). 17. Ronny Henriquez, RHP: On Minnesota’s injured list with elbow inflammation. 16. Jordan Balazovic, RHP, St. Paul: 0-0, 4.50 ERA, 2 IP, 2 H, ER, HRA, 4 K. (1.30 WHIP, .192 BAA) 15. Matt Canterino, RHP: Still recovering from Tommy John surgery. 14. Noah Miller, SS, Cedar Rapids: 3-24, 3 RBI, R, 2 BB, 5 K. (.247/.333/.315. .648 OPS), played shortstop in five games (15 total) and committed no errors in 20 chances (one error in 58 total chances); played one game (three total) at second base and committed no errors in six chances (15 total). 13. David Festa, RHP, Wichita: 0-0, 6.23 ERA, 4.1 IP, 7 H, 3 ER, 2 HRA, 1 BB, 7 K. (1.11 WHIP, .229 BAA) 12. Yasser Mercedes, OF: Extended Spring Training 11. Matt Wallner, OF, St. Paul: 2-12, 2 R, 3 BB, 6 K. (.268/.453/.500. 953 OPS); Minnesota: (.000/.273/.000. .273 OPS) 10. Austin Martin, SS: Martin is still recovering from an arm injury. 9. Louie Varland, RHP, St. Paul: 1-0, 1.69 ERA, 5.1 IP, 4 H, 2 BB, 8 K. (1.27 WHIP, .263 BAA); Minnesota: (1.17 WHIP, .250 BAA) 8. Jose Salas, INF: 3-15, 2B, 2 BB, 4 K, 1 SB (.143/.226/.161. .387 OPS), played one game at shortstop and had no errors in two chances (one error in 17 chances in five games total) and two games (six total) at third base with no errors (one total) in three chances (12 total). He played two games (five total) at second base with no errors in five chances (no errors in 14 total chances). 7. Connor Prielipp, LHP, Cedar Rapids: Prielipp is expected to resume throwing this week, though it’s unclear when he will return to game action. (1.75 WHIP, .294 BAA) 6. Simeon Woods Richardson, RHP, St. Paul: 0-1, 2.57 ERA, 7.0 IP, 3 H, 2 ER, 2 BB, 4 K (1.57 WHIP, .298 BAA); Minnesota: (2.14 WHIP, .350 BAA) 5. Edouard Julien, 2B, St. Paul: 3-13, 2B, RBI, 2 R, 3 BB, 6 K, SB. (.241/.414/.426. .840 OPS); Minnesota: (.222/.276/.444. .720 OPS) 4. Marco Raya, RHP, Cedar Rapids: 0-0, 9.00 ERA, 3.0 IP, 4 H, 3 ER, BB, 2 K. (1.41 WHIP, .211 BAA) 3. Emmanuel Rodriguez, OF, Cedar Rapids: Rodriguez is still recovering from an abdomen strain. 2. Royce Lewis, SS: Lewis is still recovering from his second ACL surgery, but is getting back into action in extended spring games. 1. Brooks Lee, SS, Wichita: 7-22, 3 2B, 4 RBI, 6 R, 2 BB, 3 K. (.263/.323/.439. .762 OPS), played all five games (19 total) at shortstop and committed no errors in 20 chances (two errors in 84 total chances). PLAYERS OF THE WEEK (as voted on by fans on Twitter) PITCHER - Simeon Woods Richardson, St. Paul. (Woods Richardson 36%, Enlow 27%, Culpepper 25%, Grace 12%) HITTER - Mark Contreras, St. Paul. (Contreras 49%, Severino 40%, Aguiar 6%, Ross 5%) Who would have been your picks? Any early season surprises or disappointments? Ask questions and discuss the Twins prospects in the COMMENTS below. View full article

Nimmala would be the only guy that gets top half of the first round consideration of these five. The rest probably slot somewhere on Day 2 or 3. My best guess (right now) is Crews and Skenes go 1 and 2 and the Twins take whichever of Langford, Jenkins or Clark that is available (in that order).

We’re back for another #PersonalCheeseballs installment. This time focusing on some shortstops, which may be the most interesting position as it usually includes premium athletes who could easily make a position-change. Many second and third basemen go through high school and/or college as shortstops. It’s not uncommon for a pro centerfielder to have spent many innings playing shortstop as he developed. The term “personal cheeseball” (better represented by #personalcheeseball) originated over twenty years ago in the Baseball America offices when former writer and current Twins scout John Manuel started using it as “shorthand for a personal favorite that does not reflect the popular consensus.” And that’s what you’ll see here. If the first two installments, we covered players from the midwest and catchers. This list will look at present-day shortstops. And, again, as a warning, my radar isn’t reflective of any single team’s preferences or draft board. Arjun Nimmala, SS, Florida prep (committed to Florida State): Nimmala is one of the highest-ceiling-but-comes-with-questions prospects in the draft and that’s evident by where you see him in different rankings. If you believe in the hit tool and that he can remain at shortstop, he’s a potential top 10 pick. If you have doubts about the hit tool or think he’s destined for a corner, those questions drop him down the board. Nimmala, who will still be 17 on draft day, has impressive raw power and an arm that will work on the left side of the infield. Nimmala is the type of player I can see the Twins being infatuated with. Antonio Anderson, SS, Georgia prep (committed to Georgia Tech): The Georgia prep-to-pro pipeline is alive and well and Anderson has a chance to be another success story from the southern hotbed. Those that don’t love his swing view him as a lesser project than those that do. The switch-hitter has plenty of power, but not a ton of speed. He’s a shortstop for now, but plenty of arm if a move to third base (or right field) is needed. Below is a video of Anderson, which feels like what it would look like watching Byron Buxton bat through a mirror. Jose Luis Ortiz, SS, Puerto Rico prep (committed to Houston): Ortiz is a smooth defender with a cannon arm. The bat, well… that’s a different story. It just takes one team to believe they can develop the bat and that is a much easier task that developing a guy who can hit into a shortstop. Sam Antonacci, SS, Illinois JC (committed to Coastal Carolina): Antonacci will be a great value pick for someone. He’s a very good hitter and that’s his best tool, but there’s plenty else there to work with as well. If a team can get him out of his college commitment, they will be getting a solid prospect who could continue to develop. Braylen Wimmer, SS, South Carolina: Wimmer is the only four-year college shortstop on the list and is unique in that he’s back at South Carolina for his senior year and not signing as an 18th-round pick last year. Wimmer is a tall (6-4) shortstop and that doesn’t always work out, but it’s worked out so far this year in the SEC. He’s got some pop in his bat and has shown a much better eye at the plate. A team may overdraft him to pay him underslot, getting some financial wiggle room while adding an older, solid prospect. Wimmer has had some success against really good pitching too. Next week, we will take a closer look at third basemen, but not before you get a look at the initial Consensus Big Board. There are plenty of others that could have been listed here. This isn’t to say anyone is or isn’t going to be a good draft or baseball prospect. If you have your own local #personalcheeseball, leave in the comments! View full article

I think it's only a matter of time before Kirilloff takes Larnach's place, imo. It's not a secret that Larnach crushes fastballs, but he still struggles against everything else and teams are figuring that out. Give it another week and they flip-flop.

Another minor league week has been completed and there have been ups and downs throughout the organization. Who provided the ups? And who suffered the downs? Read on to find out. Image courtesy of William Parmeter (Andrew Cossetti pictured) If you missed it, read Nick's Twins Week in Review after you've read about the minor leagues. TRANSACTIONS Michael Helman's rehab with Fort Myers is over and he'll be re-joining the Saints. RESULTS Tuesday (4/18): Ober Leads Shutout, Wind Surge Blasts Off Wednesday (4/19): Little Offense, but Aria and Cossetti Showed their Mussels Thursday (4/20): Cossetti Continues to Clobber Friday (4/21): Wallner, Garlick Power Extra-Inning Walkoff for Saints Saturday (4/22): Rucker and Shuffield Lead With Late-Inning Homers Sunday (4/23): Rehab Talents Providing Fireworks on the Farm MORE TWINS DAILY MINOR LEAGUE CONTENT Bailey Ober Inching Towards Twins TUESDAY’S PROBABLE STARTERS St. Paul @ Rochester (5:05PM CST) - RHP Aaron Sanchez (0-1, 3.12 ERA) Springfield @ Wichita (7:05PM CST) - RHP David Festa (1-1, 3.07 ERA) West Michigan @ Cedar Rapids (6:35PM CST) - RHP Kyle Jones (0-2, 5.65 ERA) Fort Myers @ Daytona (5:35PM CST) - LHP Develson Aria (0-0, 2.25 ERA) WEEK IN REVIEW Triple-A: St. Paul Saints (Week: 5-1) Overall: 13-7, 1.5 games back in the International League West. Overview: The Saints had an excellent week, but didn't make up any ground on Memphis who lost yesterday to snap a 12-game winning streak. 🔥: Jordan Balazovic has been good in his short appearances so far this year. He allowed one hit and struck out three in two innings this week. Could he eventually represent himself as a bullpen option for the Twins? 🔥: It's going to be Alex Kirilloff time sooner or later. Kirilloff played in only four games, but had six hits including a double and two home runs. He drove in nine and also walked more times (3) than he struck out (2). Hard not to like a .462/.588/1.000 (1.588) slashline for the week. Kirilloff will begin the week with the Saints, but if he ends the week there remains to be seen. 🔥: It wasn't a great cameo for the Twins, but Matt Wallner is hitting (1.126 OPS for the week) for the Saints. He also took 9 walks compared to 5 strikeouts. 🥶: After a spot start with the Twins, Louie Varland was back with the Saints and struggled in his only start. He allowed five runs on seven hits and a walk. He did strike out eight over his 4 2/3 innings. 🥶: Trevor Megill was a nice contributor for the Twins down the stretch last year, but failed to make the team after a rough spring training. In two appearances this week, Megill allowed five runs on three hits, including two home runs, and walked three. What's Next: The Saints will head to Rochester to face the former Twins affiliate. The Red Wings (6-14) are currently in last place in the IL East and have the worst winning percentage in the whole league. It should be a good week for the Saints to continue to their hot play. Double-A: Wichita Wind Surge (Week: 2-4) Overall: 7-8, 3.0 games back in the Texas League North. Overview: Wichita's two wins ended two- three-game losing streaks. The bats just weren't up to the task getting shut out in consecutive games. But after allowing 27 runs in the last two games against NW Arkansas, the pitching staff performed better. 🔥: Blayne Enlow completed six innings in his start this week. He allowed two runs on four hits and two walks. He struck out five and held opponents to a .100 batting average. 🔥: Michael Boyle had a clunker last week, but put together two hitless outings this week. In three innings total, Boyle struck out four and only allowed one baserunner via walk. 🤔: Carlos Luna gets the same emoji for the second straight week. He doesn't put runners on base (0.64 WHIP)... but both hits he allowed were home runs. He remains a curious case. 🥶: Yunior Severino struggled to make contact this week, striking out a team-high (and tied for organizational-high) 10 times. What's Next: Wichita will be hosting last-place Springfield (5-10) as they look to make up ground on Arkansas and Tulsa. High-A: Cedar Rapids Kernels (Week: 1-5) Overall: 6-8, 3.5 games back and in last place in the Midwest League West. Overview: Only able to avoid a sweep against Beloit by winning Sunday, the Kernels found themselves in an eight-game losing streak. Luckily, the bats finally came alive and produced 11 runs. 🥶: Most of the Kernels. Of the many names that could be listed, no lowlights will be highlighted... cause it's not pretty. 🔥: Aside from Pierson Ohl, the starting rotation really struggled. Ohl struck out five in five innings and allowed only one run on four hits. 🔥: Charlie Neuweiler was a starting pitcher in the Royals system for part of last season, but struggled in his brief glimpses out of the AA and AAA bullpen. It's possible he's found a home in the bullpen with the Twins organization. He got eight outs this week and all the other team had to show for it was a walk and three strikeouts. 🔥: Kala'i Rosario broke out of his cold streak by getting six hits in 19 at-bats. He had three doubles and a triple, drove in three runs and walked three times. 🔥: Noah Miller and Noah Cardenas also had six-hit weeks. What's Next: A home series against West Michigan (9-6) who sits in a half game out of first place in the East Division. Low-A: Ft. Myers Mighty Mussels (Week: 3-3) Overall: 8-7, 2.0 games behind Bradenton in the Florida State League West. Overview: Lots of runs scored by both teams over the course of the last week, but a .500 week dropped the Mighty Mussels from a first-place tie into third place. 🔥: Cory Lewis is doing it. He's throwing the knuckleball (among his other pitches) and low-A hitters don't know what to do with it. He struck out six and walked two in five innings of one-hit, one-run (it was a home run) ball 🔥: Develson Aria is an intriguing left-hander who is getting results. The runner-up for pitcher of the week, Aria struck out four in five innings of near-perfect ball (he walked two). 🔥: Jose Olivares is the youngest pitcher on the roster and the 20-year-old is impressive. He threw 5 2/3 innings of one-run, one-walk, three-hit ball and struck out four. The strikeout numbers (7 in 10 2/3 innings) aren't overly impressive, but the lack of walks and hits (0.66 WHIP) are. 🔥: The trio of Michael Helman, Dalton Shuffield and Jorel Ortega was overshadowed by Andrew Cossetti, but they all had excellent weeks. Helmen (.421/.542/.684 (1.226 OPS)) is headed back to the Saints. Shuffield (.375/.412/.750 (1.162 OPS))) shouldn't be in Fort Myers to begin with. Ortega's pro debut was derailed by an injury but his 8:1 BB:K ratio was quite impressive. 🥶: Rubel Cespedes didn't offer much power, but batted nearly .290 in low-A in 2022. It hasn't been a great encore for the young infielder. This week, Cespedes went 2-18 with a double, two RBIs, a run, two walks and six strikeouts. His current .584 OPS is significantly lower than last year's .737. What's Next: Heading to Daytona (6-9) in hopes of making up some ground on Bradenton. PROSPECT SUMMARY This Prospect Summary shows our current Twins Top 20 Prospect Rankings and how they performed last week. The Prospect Tracker will be updated on the first of each month throughout the season. Notice that these pages now include stats and splits, as well as past article links, video and more. (Season-long stats will be in parenthesis.) 20. Misael Urbina, OF, Cedar Rapids: 1-17, 2B, 3 BB, 5 K, SB, CS. (.114/.235/.205. .440 OPS) 19. Jose Rodriguez, OF: Extended Spring Training 18. Tanner Schobel, 2B, Cedar Rapids: 2-20, 3 RBI, R, 2 BB, 10 K, SB. (.200/.245/.320. .565 OPS), played four games at second base (eight total) and committed no errors in 9 chances (one in 32 chances total); has not committed any errors (four chances) at third base this season (three games). 17. Ronny Henriquez, RHP: On Minnesota’s injured list with elbow inflammation. 16. Jordan Balazovic, RHP, St. Paul: 0-0 (0.00 ERA), 2 IP, H, 3 K. (1.41 WHIP, .167 BAA) 15. Matt Canterino, RHP: Still recovering from Tommy John surgery. 14. Noah Miller, SS, Cedar Rapids: 6-21, 4 RBI, 2B, HR, 6 R, 2 BB, 5 K, SB. (.306/.397/.408. .805 OPS), played shortstop in four games (ten total) and committed one error in 13 chances (one error in 38 total chances); played one game (two total) at second base and committed no errors in six chances (nine total). 13. David Festa, RHP, Wichita: 0-1, 4.15 ERA, 4.1 IP, 3 H, 2 ER, 3 BB, 6 K. (0.89 WHIP, .180 BAA) 12. Yasser Mercedes, OF: Extended Spring Training 11. Matt Wallner, OF, St. Paul: 5-17, 2 2B, HR, 4 RBI, 9 BB, 5 K, 5 R. (.295/.466/.591. 1.057 OPS); Minnesota: (.000/.273/.000. .273 OPS) 10. Austin Martin, SS: Martin is still recovering from an arm injury. 9. Louie Varland, RHP, St. Paul: 0-0, 9.64 ERA, 4.2 IP, 7 H, 5 ER, HR, BB, 8 K. (1.34 WHIP, .297 BAA); Minnesota: (1.17 WHIP, .250 BAA) 8. Jose Salas, INF: 2-17, 2 R, 2 BB, 5 K, 2 SB, CS (.122/.200/.122. .322 OPS), played two games at shortstop and had one error in 11 chances (one error in 15 chances in four games total) and two games (four total) at third base with no errors (one total) in two chances (nine total). He played two games (three total) at second base with no errors in five chances (no errors in nine total chances). 7. Connor Prielipp, LHP, Cedar Rapids: Prielipp was placed on the injured list last week. (1.75 WHIP, .294 BAA) 6. Simeon Woods Richardson, RHP, St. Paul: (2.43 WHIP, .412 BAA); Minnesota: 0-0, 4.2 IP, 7 H, 5 ER, HR, 3 BB. (2.14 WHIP, .350 BAA) 5. Edouard Julien, 2B, St. Paul: 1-10, 2B, 3 R, 5 BB 3 K, HBP. (.244/.426/.463. .889 OPS); Minnesota: 4-13, HR, 3 RBI, R, 6 K (.222/.276/.444. .720 OPS) 4. Marco Raya, RHP, Cedar Rapids: 0-0, 6.75 ERA, 2.2 IP, H, 2 ER, 3 BB, 4 K. (1.50 WHIP, .125 BAA) 3. Emmanuel Rodriguez, OF, Cedar Rapids: Rodriguez was placed on the injured list with an abdomen strain. 2. Royce Lewis, SS: Lewis is still recovering from his second ACL surgery. 1. Brooks Lee, SS, Wichita: 5-26, 2B, HR, RBI, 2 R, 2 BB, 8 K, SB. (.263/.323/.439. .762 OPS), played all six games (14 total) at shortstop and committed two errors in 27 chances (64 total). PLAYERS OF THE WEEK (as voted on by fans on Twitter) PITCHER - Randy Dobnak, St. Paul. Dobnak gets a 4.99 out of 5 rating for his performance in St. Paul this week. In a six-inning start, Dobnak struck out four and allowed only one run on three hits and a walk. It's been a long and windy road for Dobnak since bursting onto the big-league scene in 2019, but hopefully the next twists and turns will lead back to Target Field. (Dobnak 56%, Aria 28%, Ohl 11%, Luna 5%) HITTER - Andrew Cossetti, Fort Myers. There wasn't a lot of competition for this award, but even if there was Cossetti would have won. Cossetti had organizational-highs in hits (10), total bases (21), home runs (3), average (.556), sluggling (1.167) and OPS (1.792) and tied in runs (7) and OBP (.625). Coming into this week, Cossetti was batting .200 with a .696 OPS but if he hits even half as well as he did this past week, the 11th round pick from last year can put himself on the prospect radar. (Cossetti 75%, Wallner 13%, Rosario 10%, Jake Rucker 2%) Who would have been your picks? Any early season surprises or disappointments? Ask questions and discuss the Twins prospects in the COMMENTS below. View full article

With Alex Kirilloff heating up, Kyle Farmer continuing baseball activities soon and Royce Lewis getting closer each day, how will the Twins fill the 13 spots on their roster for hitters? View full video

I'd certainly put him on the radar. Obviously so much will have to play out with both the first four picks and each players' price tags. But I'd believe there could be a path to the Twins having similarly ranked players at the top of their board at #5 and Teel having a price tag that gets it done. And that could open up lots of possibilities with the extra pick/money as well. For all we know, that could have been the Twins plan last year with Pareda and it was foiled when Lee thankfully fell into their laps.

Our draft coverage here at Twins Daily rolls on. This week’s installment of #PersonalCheeseballs will feature looking at the catcher position. Catching prospects are always hard to peg down because potential catchers who have great bats often get moved to other positions. From time to time, you’ll watch an elite-hitting catching prospect stay behind the dish. Joe Mauer in the early 2000s. Adley Rutschman now. Bryce Harper was going to be the next big thing - and he’s mostly lived up to the hype - but many forget that he was a catcher until the moment he was drafted and the Nationals called him an outfielder. Teams want impact bats in the lineup. Teams also don’t want impact bats being drilled by foul tips and taking a beating while squatting behind a plate. It makes sense. Stepping down from my soapbox… The term “personal cheeseball” (better represented by #personalcheeseball) orginated over twenty years ago in the Baseball America offices when former writer and current Twins scout John Manuel started using it as “shorthand for a personal favorite that does not reflect the popular consensus.” And that’s what you’ll see here. The first installment we covered players from the Midwest. Today’s list will look at catchers. It’s entirely possible some of these players will not be catchers forever or at all professionally. And, finally, my radar isn’t reflective of any single team’s preferences or draft board. I think you’ll see it reflects some of my own preferences when it comes to drafting a backstop: young, versatile, athletic and left-handed hitters. Kyle Teel, Virginia: Teel has the combination of offensive and defensive skills that should have him under consideration to come off the board in the top half of the first round. Though he wasn’t drafted out of high school, it was by choice. Teel let teams know he was going to play at Virginia. The left-handed hitting catcher has improved his stock this year by striking out less and hitting for more power. Despite not performing very well with Team USA’s Collegiate team (.676 OPS) in 2021 or in the Cape last summer (.212 OPS), there’s just too much to like between the bat, the premium athleticism and the arm. Teel has a slighter frame, so that may cause some concerns, but somebody is going to like the rest way too much to let him fall. Blake Mitchell, Texas HS (committed to LSU): Everything about Mitchell screams “going to college” but the profile is going to lead to lots of draft rooms debating about whether or not they should meet his sure-to-be-high price tag. Mitchell is everything you want in a catcher and if things don’t work out there - ala Kenley Jansen - you still have a pitching prospect. If he’s signable, he’s a first-rounder and more than likely his new team’s top catching prospect. Cole Carrigg, San Diego State. There’s always a bonus for versatility - hello, Daulton Varsho - and maybe Carrigg can be next in line. If you’re placing bets, catching is not the favorite to be Carrigg’s future home, but it’s an option. Anyone who can look the part at shortstop or centerfield can slot in at any defensive position and Carrigg has that ability. He has caught and has the arm and athleticism to do so. There is less certainty that his offensive profile will develop enough to play a corner position, but with many teams valuing versatility, Carrigg is sure to climb some boards. Campbell Smithwick, Mississippi HS (committed to Ole Miss): Some guys get noticed on name alone. Like a Holliday or a Jones last year, for example. But Smithwick gets noticed because he has a name that sounds like he should be a movie star. Young and swinging from the left side, teams may have a hard time convincing Smithwick from leaving Oxford (where he goes to high school and plans to attend college), but the sweet swing and projectable defensive ability will give Smithwick two very good options. Jandaniel Gonzalez, Puerto Rico HS (committed to Indiana State): While it’s entirely conceivable the two aforementioned high school catchers end up in the SEC, Gonzalez is much more likely to turn pro. There’s a long way to go offensively with Gonzalez, so you’re talking very low floor despite his defensive package. Gonzalez is only 17, so there is definitely time to work the swing issues out. Next week, we will take a closer look at shorstops. There are plenty of others that could have been listed here. This isn’t to say anyone is or isn’t going to be a good draft or baseball prospect. If you have your own local #personalcheeseball, leave in the comments! View full article

Despite having more service time than six other players on the Opening Day roster, Jhoan Duran is making less than each one of them. What the heck is that all about? View full video

Appreciate it guys! I'm all for new ideas. If there's something you all would like to see and I have access to it, let me know!

We're back into it - walk-offs, injuries, promotions - with all minor league affiliates playing a full week of baseball. There are guys performing well who we've never heard of. There are guys who are supposed to be performing who are really struggling. If you need to catch up on the entire week of minor league baseball in the Twins organization, you've come to the right place. Image courtesy of Jean Pfiefer (aka, go4twinkies on Instagram) If you missed it, read Nick's Twins Week in Review after you've read about the minor leagues. TRANSACTIONS On Monday afternoon, the Kernels activated RHPs Marco Raya and Mike Paredes. They made no other corresponding moves. RESULTS Tuesday (4/11): E-Rod Walks it Off in Grand Fashion Wednesday (4/12): Ober Dominates, Lee and Rodriguez Homer Thursday (4/13): A Surprise Promotion and Olivar Goes Off Friday (4/14): Wichita Power Surge Leads to Win Saturday (4/15): Ben Ross and Emmanuel Rodriguez Rake in a Dismal Minor-League Day Sunday (4/16): Fort Myers Shines Brightest MORE TWINS DAILY MINOR LEAGUE CONTENT Prospect Retrospective: Brent Headrick The Twins Most and Least Aggressive Prospect Assignments Prospect Retrospective: Edouard Julien TUESDAY’S PROBABLE STARTERS Scranton/WB @ St. Paul (6:37PM CST) - TBD Wichita @ Tulsa (6:05PM CST) - TBD Cedar Rapids @ Beloit (6:35PM CST) - RHP Jaylen Nowlin (0-0, 4-91 ERA) Jupiter @ Fort Myers (6:00PM CST) - TBD WEEK IN REVIEW Triple-A: St. Paul Saints (Week: 4-2) Overall: 8-6, 1.5 games back in the International League West. Overview: Despite losing Louie Varland, Edouard Julien and Matt Wallner to the Twins, the Saints put together a winning week. They started off by winning the first four games against Indianapolis before dropping the final two. 🔥: Andrew Stevenson led the offensive charge with 10 hits, three stolen bases and a home run while playing in all six games. 🔥: Andrew Bechtold also played in every game and totaled six hits which included three doubles and a home run. 🔥: Brent Headrick shoved in his one start before promotion. He struck out eight in five innings, allowing a single run on four hits and a walk. 🔥: Mark Contreras stuff the stat sheet to the tune of eight hits in 25 at-bats, eight hits, five runs, two doubles, five walks and three stolen bases for a slash line of .421/.560/.526 (1.086). 🥶: Kyle Garlick was brought back to the Twins after striking out three times and failing to get a hit in 10 at-bats He didn't earn it with his recent performance, but the Twins needed an outfielder. What's Next: Home cooking against Scranton/WB (7-8). While the forecast may not be great, there are plenty of fun ballpark activities including fireworks on Friday night. Double-A: Wichita Wind Surge (Week: 3-3) Overall: 5-4, 2.0 games back in the Texas League North. Overview: Yoyner Fajardo continues to be an early-season surprise as he leads the team with 12 hits, four stolen bases and a .333 batting average while playing solid left field. Brooks Lee will be the draw (as long as he is on the team), you can see his week below. David Festa wasn't as great as his debut, but there's no reason to believe the Twins won't be able to use him in their future. 🔥: Yunior Severino only played three games, but got four hits in 12 at-bats and hit two home runs. He struck out in six of the at-bats he didn't get a hit, so there's still improvement needed, but you appreciate the at-bats that turn out well. 🤔: Carlos Luna is new to the organization, so when you strike out 10 in 5 2/3 innings in your organizational debut, you need to be recognized. But when you turn around and allow four hits and two runs while only recording two outs in your next outing, you don't get the fire emoji. 🥶: Will Holland got his first hit of the season but went 0-for-12 for the week (and is 1-for-20 on the season). He has game-changing speed... but it's really tough to use on the bath paths if you can't get on base. Holland was the college teammate of Edouard Julien (and Holland was the higher-regarded prospect.) What's Next: A trip to Tulsa (6-3). Only one game separates the two teams. Arkansas is currently in first place at 7-2. High-A: Cedar Rapids Kernels (Week: 2-3) Overall: 5-3, 0.5 games back in the Midwest League West. Overview: This is going to be the easiest team to follow because it has so many prospects. If you don't see their names here, it's because you can see how they did for the week down in the Prospect Summary. 🔥: Kyle Jones might have taken the loss, but that's why "pitcher wins" are a silly stat. More on Jones below... way below. 🔥: Ben Ross was drafted with a reputation as a hitter. And that's what he's done. Nine hits in 20 at-bats this past week including two doubles and a home run. He strikes out too much, but you'll take the bad with the good, if the good is a 1.155 OPS. Drafted as a shortstop, his time there is going to be limited on this team as he's already been pushed to the infield corners. (Three times at third base; once at first base.) 🥶: The Twins acquired Alejandro Hidalgo for Gio Urshela and aggressively assigned the 19-year-old to High-A where he is the youngest pitcher on the staff. Hidalgo struggled in his start this week. He walked six and hit a batter while only recording five outs. He's always struggled with walks, but not that much. Maybe it was just too cold... yeah, that's what we're going with. 🥶: Kala'i Rosario was impressive in his changes with the Twins this spring training, but this week was not good. Only one hit in 17 at-bats. No walks, four strikeouts. The hit went for a double, so it wasn't a complete waste of a week. There are better days ahead for the young outfielder. 😭: Connor Prielipp didn't pitch this week. It's been reported that he's seeking a doctor's opinion on his surgically repaired left elbow after feeling discomfort during his debut. He will have more testing and evaluation over the next few weeks. What's Next: A home series against West Michigan (6-3) who sits in a tie atop the East Division. Low-A: Ft. Myers Mighty Mussels (Week: 3-3) Overall: 5-4, three-way tie for first in the Florida State League West. Overview: There will likely always be a storyline here because even though the Mighty Mussels don't have top prospects, they have the newest guys in the organization and some are sure to impress. Oh, and rehab guys. There was plenty going on this week. 🔥: After struggling his debut, Cory Lewis got back on track with a eight-strikeout performance. A home run and a walk were blemishes, but a huge improvement over the week before. 🔥: Zebby Matthews has been a dude so far. It's not often you can outperform a five-inning, three-hit, seven-strikeout scoreless debut, but Zebby outdid himself by missing working five perfect innings with only a walk. Definitely a candidate for Pitcher of the Week, Matthews probably will move from Florida to hea.. er, Iowa if he keeps this up. 🔥: Carlos Aguiar has been lost in the mix of big-name international prospects over the last handful of years, but maybe this can be his breakout year. The all-around numbers aren't great, but he's already hit two home runs. You'd like to see him improve his eye and selectivity at the plate (he struck out 66 times versus only nine walks in low-A last year), so the ten strikeouts so far this year aren't great, but the three walks has his OBP over .300. 🥶: After Dalton Shuffield was drafted in the 10th round last year, he was aggressively moved from Fort Myers to Cedar Rapids to St. Paul and performed admirably, posting a .917 OPS. He hasn't been bad by any means, but a 2-for-12 stretch with six strikeouts in his first full week in low-A this year isn't going to get him quickly promoted. He's been pounding the ball into the ground, which is unlike him... so things should straighten out with him eventually. 😏: Jorge Polanco has been a giant question mark, but now he's finally getting back around to playing in full games. Three hits in 13 at-bats isn't great for a big-leaguer at low-A, but it's about getting reps and being healthy. The offense in Minnesota needs a jolt... and Polanco may be able to provide that eventually... 😏: ...and if he can't, maybe Alex Kirilloff can. Kirilloff also has only three hits in 12 at-bats. But he's hit a home run and has drawn three walks to go with his three strikeouts. 😏: I've long felt that Josh Winder and Jhoan Duran would make a nasty back of the bullpen. Is that the path the Twins will go with the rehabbing Winder, who pitched 2 2/3 innings over two appearances? He struck out four and allowed three hits. What's Next: A home series against Jupiter (5-4) might help alleviate the logjam that is the FSL. Six of the 10 teams are currently 5-4. PROSPECT SUMMARY This Prospect Summary shows our current Twins Top 20 Prospect Rankings and how they performed last week. The Prospect Tracker will be updated on the first of each month throughout the season. Notice that these pages now include stats and splits, as well as past article links, video and more. (Season-long stats will be in parenthesis.) 20. Misael Urbina, OF, Cedar Rapids: 2-16, 3B, RBI, R, BB, 7 K, CS. (.148/.258/.259. .517 OPS) 19. Jose Rodriguez, OF: Extended Spring Training 18. Tanner Schobel, 2B, Cedar Rapids: 5-16, HR, 2 RBI, 2 R, BB, 5 K. (.313/.353/.500. .853 OPS), played four games at second base and committed no errors in 12 chances (one in 23 chances total). 17. Ronny Henriquez, RHP: On Minnesota’s injured list with elbow inflammation. 16. Jordan Balazovic, RHP, St. Paul: 0-0 (0.00 ERA), 2.1 IP, H, 3 BB, 4 K. (1.91 WHIP, .182 BAA) 15. Matt Canterino, RHP: Still recovering from Tommy John surgery. 14. Noah Miller, SS, Cedar Rapids: 4-13, RBI, 5 R, 6 BB, K, SB. (.321/.441/.357. .798 OPS), played shortstop in three games (six total) and committed no errors in 8 chances (25 total); played one game at second base and committed no errors in three chances. 13. David Festa, RHP, Wichita: 0-0 (5.06 ERA), 5.1 IP, 5 H, 3 ER, BB, 6 K. (0.68 WHIP, .167 BAA) 12. Yasser Mercedes, OF: Extended Spring Training 11. Matt Wallner, OF, St. Paul: 2-7, 2B, 2 BB, 3 K. (.286/.500/.429. .929 OPS); Minnesota: 0-8, BB, 4K, CS (.000/.273/.000. .273 OPS) 10. Austin Martin, SS: Martin is still recovering from an arm injury. 9. Louie Varland, RHP, St. Paul: DNP. (1.00 WHIP, .222 BAA); Minnesota: 0-0 (.450 ERA), 6.0 IP, 6 H, 3 ER, 3 HR, BB, 8 K (1.17 WHIP, .250 BAA) 8. Jose Salas, INF: 2-16, R, RBI, BB, 4 K, 3 SB, CS (.125/.160/.125. .285 OPS), played two games shortstop (no errors in six chances) and two games at third base (one error in two chances (seven total)). He previously played one game at second base (no errors in four chances) 7. Connor Prielipp, LHP, Cedar Rapids: Did not pitch. Was placed on IL with some elbow soreness. Hopefully, the next news will be good news. (1.75 WHIP, .294 BAA) 6. Simeon Woods Richardson, RHP, St. Paul: 0-1 (13.50 ERA), 3.1 IP, 10 H, 5 ER, HR, BB, 3 K. (2.43 WHIP, .412 BAA) 5. Edouard Julien, 2B, St. Paul: 1-2, 2B, RBI. (.290/.421/.548. .969 OPS); Minnesota: 2-17, HR, RBI, 2 R, BB, 5 K (.118/.167/.294. .461 OPS) 4. Marco Raya, RHP: Getting a late start to the season after some arm soreness. 3. Emmanuel Rodriguez, OF, Cedar Rapids: 4-16, 2B, 3 HR, 10 RBI, 3 R, 3 BB, 11 K. (.185/.324/.630. .954 OPS) 2. Royce Lewis, SS: Lewis is still recovering from his second ACL surgery. 1. Brooks Lee, SS, Wichita: 6-18, 2 2B, HR, 2 RBI, 5 R, 1 BB, 4 K. (.323/.382/.516. .898 OPS), played all five games (eight total) at shortstop and committed no errors in 25 chances (37 total). PLAYERS OF THE WEEK PITCHER - Kyle Jones, Cedar Rapids. Last year's 7th-round pick has had a great start to the season for the Kernels. With an aggressive placement at High-A. Jones has answered the bell. In his start against Quad Cities this week, Jones allowed only a single run on three hits and a walk in six innings. He struck out four. He was saddled with the loss, but the 23-year-old gets bonus points for being assigned to a harder environment than many of the other 2022 pitchers. HITTER - Emmanuel Rodriguez, Cedar Rapids. There is so much not going right for the 20-year-old - he's walking back to the dugout after striking out almost two and a half times per game - and he's not walking nearly as much as he did last year. But when E-Rod is touching the ball... well, touching is the wrong word. Because he's assaulting it. In four games, he hit three home runs (including a monster walk-off) and drove in ten runs. By the time teams see him for a second time, they're going to wish they didn't have to. Who would have been your picks? Any early season surprises or disappointments? Ask questions and discuss the Twins prospects in the COMMENTS below. View full article

Don't tell BF that I lifted it straight from the Cubs site first. 😉

There will be a lot of high schoolers who get drafted. Some will be college leans and sign. Some will be hard commits and sign. I love the story of Julien, who was at Auburn and announced he was returning to Auburn... and then signed. Money talks and sometimes "money now vs money in maybe three years" is enough to convince even the toughest signs to go pro.

Absolutely... until everyone knows it. I exchanged messages with John Manuel yesterday. He said he loves when he still sees it on Twitter.

With just under three months left before the 2023 draft gets underway, you’ll see an increase in coverage. Over the next 10 weeks, we’ll be doing a series called “Personal Cheeseballs” which will take a closer look at groups of potential draftees. The term “personal cheeseball” (better represented by #personalcheeseball) originated over twenty years ago in the Baseball America offices when former writer and current Twins scout John Manuel started using it as “shorthand for a personal favorite that does not reflect the popular consensus.” And that’s what you’ll see here. The first installment will cover players from the Midwest. These aren’t necessarily the best draft prospects from the area, but players that are more solidly on my radar for one reason or another. My radar isn’t reflective of any single team’s preferences or draft board. Zion Rose, Catcher, IMG Academy (committed to Louisville): If you’re wondering how someone finishing his prep career in Florida counts as a local, it’s because Rose spent his first three years of high school at Brother Rice in Chicago. Catching prospects often seem like the hardest to find and Rose rises to the top with his athleticism and speed. Louisville has had three catchers drafted in the top five rounds over the last three years (including Henry Davis going first overall in 2021), so it’s entirely possible that Rose will make it to campus next fall but all it takes is one team to have enough conviction to draft Rose high enough to get him to turn pro. Mac Horvath, 3B, North Carolina: Horvath was a Minnesota prep before spending a year at IMG Academy en route to Chapel Hill. Horvath followed up a good sophomore campaign with a solid showing in the Cape Cod League and has been tearing the cover off the ball as a junior. Averaging a home run every 10 at-bats, Horvath has posted an OPS of nearly 1100 through 33 games and is quieting those who questioned his hitting ability. He’s definitely working his way in to top 100 draft prospect status. George Klassen, RHP, Minnesota: There are a few traits that work in your favor if you’re looking to achieve #personalcheeseball status. Being a pitcher that throws over 100 mph is one of those traits. There’s still work to do (23 walks in 30 ⅔ innings) with that fastball and Klassen has a delivery that portends a move to the bullpen, but who doesn’t love it when a manager turns to his bullpen and calls for the flamethrower? Exactly. Oh, and Klassen is a Wisconsin prep who hails from the same hometown (Port Washington) as the late Dustin Diamond aka Screech. Klassen may be an interesting case as he took a redshirt year after Tommy John surgery and has more leverage to return to school as he can reenter the draft two more times. Myles Naylor, SS, Canada prep (committed to Texas Tech): Ok, this might be a stretch because Ontario is far from local, but there’s a couple things to really like here and I didn’t want to wait until covering the shortstops. Naylor is the younger brother of Josh and Bo, so he’s got a built-in advantage of how to “become a pro baseball player.” And he’s young too, turning 18 this month. Analytically-driven teams love the “yeah, but he’s young” model. The other thing that is easy to like - and the most important - is that he’s going to hit and that even if he grows off shortstop, he should hit well enough to find a home in a corner. Dylan Questad, RHP, Wisconsin prep (committed to Arkansas): Always a fan of midwest kids, who sometimes lack exposure, potentially heading to the SEC and that’s Questad. Not big at only 6’0”, Questand probably isn’t going to get much bigger, but has a big fastball and a solid mix of pitches. George Wolkow, OF, Illinois prep (committed to South Carolina): Wolkow is a big dude (6’7”, 220) and because of reclassifying from the 2024 class is likely to be one of the youngest players drafted. His profile is going to be all about his left-handed power. The ceiling is very high, and the floor is very low. But if you’re going to dream, dream big. Easton Breyfogle, OF, Minnesota prep (comitted to Arizona): Breyfogle is arguably the best prep prospect in the state of Minnesota and the left-handed hitting outfielder should have the opportunity to go pro if he chooses. Next week, we will take a closer look at catchers. There are plenty of others that could have been listed here. This isn’t to say anyone is or isn’t going to be a good draft or baseball prospect. If you have your own local #personalcheeseball, leave in the comments! View full article

The Twins top four affiliates have all been in action over the last week. The Saints were the first teams to get started and the rest just wrapped up their first series on Saturday (and had the day off on Sunday). All will be back in action on Tuesday. Image courtesy of © Dave Nelson-USA TODAY Sports (Brooks Lee and Edouard Julien) If you missed it, read Nick's Twins Week in Review after you've read about the minor league week. TRANSACTIONS With no Monday Minor League Report, we will include all transactions that we've missed. But with the lack of games on Sunday, there haven't been any moves. RESULTS Friday (3/31): Saints Battle, but Fall Short in Season Opener Saturday (4/1): Four Homers Lead St. Paul to First 2023 Victory Sunday (4/2): Saints Take Series One Thursday (4/6): Affiliates Get Underway Friday (4/7): Everyone Gets a Win! Saturday (4/8): Connor Prielipp Debuts in Twins' System; Zebby Matthews Silences for Fort Myers Sunday (4/9): Saints Bested on Easter MORE TWINS DAILY MINOR LEAGUE CONTENT Wind Surge Roster Preview Kernels Roster Preview Mighty Mussels Roster Preview TUESDAY’S PROBABLE STARTERS St. Paul @ Indianapolis (5:05PM CST) - LHP Brent Headrick (0-0, 11.25 ERA) NW Arkansas @ Wichita (7:05PM CST) - TBD Quad Cities @ Cedar Rapids (6:35PM CST) - RHP Pierson Ohl (season debut) Fort Myers @ Clearwater (5:30PM CST) - RHP Tomas Cleto (season debut) WEEK IN REVIEW Triple-A: St. Paul Saints (Week: 4-4) Overall: 4-4, 2.0 games back in the International League West. Overview: After dropping the season opener, the Saints were able to get back on track with two wins before Minnesota weather pushed the home opener back and forced the team to play five games in four days, alternating between losing and winning. Hitters: The veteran outfield of Mark Contreras, Kyle Garlick and Ryan LaMarre have led the offense. But all eyes will be on newly-minted Top 100 prospect Edouard Julien, who already has two home runs and an OBP of .417. Matt Wallner was recalled to Minnesota to replace the injured Max Kepler. Pitchers: Bailey Ober has not been as sharp as he was this spring, already walking five in 6 2/3 innings. But aside from Louie Varland, pretty much everyone has struggled. We're going to chalk this up to early-season cold weather and just assume that since Varland is "one of us" that weather will never effect him. What's Next: a trip to Indianapolis (5-4), including a 10:05 am start time on Wednesday morning, if you're into that sort of thing. Double-A: Wichita Wind Surge (Week: 2-1) Overall: 2-1, 1.0 game back in the Texas League North. Overview: Hard to complain about starting your season with a series win, especially when you don't hit very well (.204/.286/.245), Hitters: Newcomer Yoyner Fajardo has been Wichita's best hitter through the first series. Fajardo joined the Twins after previously being in the Pirates organization. Last season, Fajardo tore up high-A ball (1.059 OPS) while primarily playing second base and right field. He's logged all of his innings for the Wind Surge in left field so far. Having just turned 24, Fajardo is still young enough to catch some prospect-watchers' attention... but we are talking about only three games. Brooks Lee is name to watch for this team and you'll be able to follow his progress in each one of these reports. Pitchers: The Twins traded away so many prospect that would be at this level (or higher), but managed to hold on to David Festa, who was nearly perfect in his debut. Blayne Enlow also had a nice performance (six strikeouts in five innings) in his second go-around at AA. What's Next: The Wind Surge will welcome Northwest Arkansas (1-2) to Wichita for a six-game set that begins on Tuesday. High-A: Cedar Rapids Kernels (Week: 3-0) Overall: 3-0, tied for first in the Midwest League West Overview: A sweep on the road over Peoria is a great way to start a season: two one-run wins before finishing it out in a convincing four-run win. Hitters: Slow starts for big names like Emmanuel Rodriguez (.093) and Misael Urbina (.182), but others - like Keoni Cavaco, Noah Cardenas and Noah Miller - stepped up. Despite striking out 41 times in three games, the Kernels put together 16 runs on 25 hits (with only two home runs). A strikeout ended exactly one-third of the team's at-bats, so that's something to keep an eye on. Pitchers: A mixed bag of results for the three starters. Jaylen Nowlin didn't give up any runs, but walked three in four innings. Kyle Jones struck out six and walked none in 5.1 innings. Connor Prielipp was up-and-down in his long-awaited professional debut. What's Next: Six games of home-cooking against Quad Cities (0-3). Book your trip to Cedar Rapids soon while they have all the prospects. Low-A: Ft. Myers Mighty Mussels (Week: 2-1) Overall: Season: 2-1, tied for first in the Florida State League West Overview: After dropping the opener to Dunedin on Thursday, the Mighty Mussels came back to win the series with victories on Friday and Saturday. The team got help from appearances from Jorge Polanco and Josh Winder. Hitters: 2022-draftee Dalton Shuffield kept the power going by hitting his first home run - and Fort Myers only home run - this season after swatting four last year in 25 games. Shuffield was one of hit hitters with multiple hits in the opening series. Jorel Ortega had two doubles. The team was also successful in all six of their steal attempts. Pitchers: A trio of last year's draft picks made the starts for the Mighty Mussels. Zebby Matthews (8th round) struck out seven in five scoreless innings. Andrew Morris (4th round) also struck out seven, but allowed three runs on eight hits in 4 1/3 innings. Cory Lewis (9th round) had a rough pro debut. What's Next: A trip north up the coast to Clearwater (2-1) to begin a six-game series on Tuesday. PROSPECT SUMMARY This Prospect Summary shows our current Twins Top 20 Prospect Rankings and how they performed last week. The Prospect Tracker will be updated on the first of each month throughout the season. Notice that these pages now include stats and splits, as well as past article links, video and more. (Season-long stats will be in parenthesis.) 20. Misael Urbina, OF, Cedar Rapids: 2-11, 2B, 2 RBI, 2 R, 3 BB, 3 K. (.182/.357/.273. .630 OPS) 19. Jose Rodriguez, OF: Extended Spring Training 18. Tanner Schobel, 2B, Cedar Rapids: 3-14, HR, 3 RBI, 2 R, 4 K. (.214/.214/.429. .643 OPS), played two games at second base (one error in 11 chances) and one game at third base (no errors in no chances). 17. Ronny Henriquez, RHP: On Minnesota’s injured list with elbow inflammation. 16. Jordan Balazovic, RHP, St. Paul: 0-0 (6.75 ERA), 1.1 IP, H, ER, 2 BB. (2.25 WHIP, .250 BAA) 15. Matt Canterino, RHP: Still recovering from Tommy John surgery. 14. Noah Miller, SS: 5-15, 2B, RBI, 2 R, 5 K. (.333/.333.400. .733 OPS), played shortstop in all three games and committed no errors in 17 chances. 13. David Festa, RHP, Wichita: 1-0 (0.00 ERA), 5.0 IP, H, 8 K. (0.20 WHIP, .067 BAA) 12. Yasser Mercedes, OF: Extended Spring Training 11. Matt Wallner, OF, St. Paul: 5-20, 2 2B, 3B, HR, 6 RBI, 4 R, 2 BB, 9 K. (.300/.364/.650. 1.014 OPS) Recalled to Minnesota 10. Austin Martin, SS: Martin is still recovering from an arm injury. 9. Louie Varland, RHP, St. Paul: 1-0 (1.80 ERA), 5.0 IP, 4 H, ER, BB, 9 K. (1.00 WHIP, .222 BAA) 8. Jose Salas, INF: 1-8, R, BB, 3 K (.125/.222/.125. .347 OPS), played one game at second base (no errors in four chances) and one game at third base (no errors in five chances). 7. Connor Prielipp, LHP, Cedar Rapids: 0-0 (6.75 ERA), 4.0 IP, 5 H, 3 ER, 2 BB, 3 K. (1.75 WHIP, .294 BAA) 6. Simeon Woods Richardson, RHP, St. Paul: 0-1 (4.91 ERA), 3.2 IP, 4 H, 2 ER, HR, 2 BB, 6 K. (1.64 WHIP, .267 BAA) 5. Edouard Julien, 2B, St. Paul: 8-29, 2B, 2 HR, 3 RBI, 9 R, 7 BB, 12 K, 1/1 SB. (.276/.417/.517. .934 OPS), played two of three games at second base and committed one error in 28 chances. (DH in the other game.) 4. Marco Raya, RHP: Getting a late start to the season after some arm soreness. 3. Emmanuel Rodriguez, OF, Cedar Rapids: 1-11, 3B, 2 RBI, 2 R, 2 BB, 6 K. (091/.267/.273. .540 OPS) 2. Royce Lewis, SS: Lewis is still recovering from his second ACL surgery. 1. Brooks Lee, SS, Wichita: 4-13, 2B, RBI, 4 R, BB, 2 K. (.308/.357/.385. .742 OPS), played all three games at shortstop and committed no errors in 12 chances. PLAYERS OF THE WEEK will return next week when all teams have a full week of action. Please feel free to ask questions and discuss the players and the teams in the COMMENTS below. View full article