Jeremy Nygaard

We shouldn't forget that not only did Revere spend almost all of what should have been his AAA season with the Twins, but also had his 2010 AA season cut short with a face injury. After he returned, he was called up and didn't play much. If Plouffe wins a job (which would be great, in my opinion) that would allow Revere to get those much needed AAA ABs. (He's only had 132.) He could try his hand at "Twins Small Ball" at Rochester and would be ready for a call up if Plouffe falters. There are other guys on the roster better suited to be 4th OFs than Ben Revere. He needs to play everyday.

I just figured he was signed to help make Jorge Soler's transition to the organization easier....

I have BA and Insider. As a fan of all sports, I couldn't imagine not having Insider. This is my first year with BA and is at least twice the cost of ESPN. The content of the subscriber-only BA and the magazines is pretty similar, so if you can handle seeing the headline and knowing you might have to wait a couple of weeks to read the story, you may be able to get away with only having the mag subscription which is cheaper (not sure how much). There is some stuff that you can only find on the website (advanced draft database and state-by-state draft previews).

Not that it matters right now, but… It’s always nice to know what you’re going to be dealing with going into next offseason. And although teams might say the service clock doesn’t matter… we all know that it does. The Twins have 5 pending Free Agents: C Ryan Doumit, SP Carl Pavano, LSP Francisco Liriano, SP Jason Marquis and recently injured RP Joel Zumaya. The Twins have options on 2 players next offseason: SP Scott Baker ($9.25m team option or free agency) and RP Matt Capps ($6m team option or $250,000 buyout, free agency and no draft pick compensation). As of today, the Twins will have 4 players arbitration eligible: 2B Alexi Casilla (3rd and final time), LRP Glen Perkins (3rd and final time), LP Brian Duensing (1st time), C Drew Butera (1st time*) With the new CBA, it’s is possible that 3B Danny Valencia reaches Super-2 status. While the team control wouldn’t change, it would allow Valencia to go through the arbitration process four times. RP Alex Burnett will likely be a Super-2 if he spends all year in the majors. However, if he spends less than 46 days in the majors, the team would gain an additional year of control (through 2017). *Butera is in an interesting position. He has exactly 2 years of service time. He is under team control through the 2015 season. If he were to spend 10 or more days in the minor leagues, it would give the team another year of control. If that were to happen, he would have less than 3 years of service time, but would still be a Super-2. SP Nick Blackburn – the only starting pitcher under contract and team control through 2013 – could be under team control for an additional year if he spends 27 days in the minor leagues this season. Blackburn could be optioned at any point before September 7th. After that, he could refuse the assignment. (This would make for an interesting case because the Twins would then have the choice of paying him the $8m for 2014 or taking him to arbitration.) OF Joe Benson and 1B Chris Parmelee are both under team control through 2018. However, if either are brought up on May 10th or before and never get sent back down, the team would lose a year of control. Minor leaguers who would need to be added to the 40-man in November to avoid the Rule V draft: INF Brian Dozier, C/OF Chris Herrmann, OF Aaron Hicks, SP Kyle Gibson, SP Adrian Salcedo as well as TwinsDaily’s own registered users/contributors LRP Tony Davis and RP Dakota Watts among others.

Not that it matters right now, but… It’s always nice to know what you’re going to be dealing with going into next offseason. And although teams might say the service clock doesn’t matter… we all know that it does. The Twins have 5 pending Free Agents: C Ryan Doumit, SP Carl Pavano, LSP Francisco Liriano, SP Jason Marquis and recently injured RP Joel Zumaya. The Twins have options on 2 players next offseason: SP Scott Baker ($9.25m team option or free agency) and RP Matt Capps ($6m team option or $250,000 buyout, free agency and no draft pick compensation). As of today, the Twins will have 4 players arbitration eligible: 2B Alexi Casilla (3rd and final time), LRP Glen Perkins (3rd and final time), LP Brian Duensing (1st time), C Drew Butera (1st time*) With the new CBA, it’s is possible that 3B Danny Valencia reaches Super-2 status. While the team control wouldn’t change, it would allow Valencia to go through the arbitration process four times. RP Alex Burnett will likely be a Super-2 if he spends all year in the majors. However, if he spends less than 46 days in the majors, the team would gain an additional year of control (through 2017). *Butera is in an interesting position. He has exactly 2 years of service time. He is under team control through the 2015 season. If he were to spend 10 or more days in the minor leagues, it would give the team another year of control. If that were to happen, he would have less than 3 years of service time, but would still be a Super-2. SP Nick Blackburn – the only starting pitcher under contract and team control through 2013 – could be under team control for an additional year if he spends 27 days in the minor leagues this season. Blackburn could be optioned at any point before September 7th. After that, he could refuse the assignment. (This would make for an interesting case because the Twins would then have the choice of paying him the $8m for 2014 or taking him to arbitration.) OF Joe Benson and 1B Chris Parmelee are both under team control through 2018. However, if either are brought up on May 10th or before and never get sent back down, the team would lose a year of control. Minor leaguers who would need to be added to the 40-man in November to avoid the Rule V draft: INF Brian Dozier, C/OF Chris Herrmann, OF Aaron Hicks, SP Kyle Gibson, SP Adrian Salcedo as well as TwinsDaily’s own registered users/contributors LRP Tony Davis and RP Dakota Watts among others.

You can view the page at http://www.twinsdaily.com/content.php?248-Twins-Draft-Preview-II-Northeast-Names-to-Know

If you're at all looking forward to the June Rule IV baseball draft as a Twins fans, there is no doubt that you're already familiar with a handful of names: Appel, Giolito, Buxton, Zunino, and most recently, Zimmer. If you're a fan of following the Twins draft at all, there are some terms you're probably familiar with: "strike-thrower", "long and lean", "wiry/athletic" or (my personal favorite Gardyism) "a grinder". You're always going to find draft picks that are breaks from the normal "that's-what-I'd-expect-from-the-Twins"-type draft picks. But there is always going to be a lot of draft picks where you read a scouting report and think, "Wow, he sounds like someone the Twins would draft." Or the one I think the most, "Isn't there enough 'toolsy outfielders' in the system." The Twins are also bound to draft that guy that "profiles similar to Glen Perkins." Why? Because these are "Twins-type guys". Let's get started with a quick run through the Northeast part of the United States. I'm starting here because in 2009 I became enamored with a "toolsy outfielder" from a little town in New Jersey who had his senior season basically wiped out because of rain. He was a guy I liked more and more every time I read anything about him, yet someone that wasn't gaining a lot of helium because he wasn't playing as much as your typical prospect. The Twins passed on him at 22 to take Kyle Gibson (which I was thrilled about) and the Angels ended up taking him at 25. Him being Mike Trout. And the Angels being more thrilled than anyone. I believed at the time - and still do - that the Northeast, while not a hotbed for talent, is a great place for the Twins to look for it, simply because there is no "how he's going to adjust to playing in the cold?" projection. The other thing that stands out to me is that the scouting for this area is handled by John Wilson. With 2011 serving as an exception, the last handful of years have been heavy with picks from this region - high picks, late signs - which shows how much Wilson's opinion is valued. Five college names to watch: “The Re-draft” Pat Light, P, Monmouth. Light was discussed more at length a couple of weeks ago. We know the Twins like him because they drafted him out of high school. “The Stony Brook Guys” If you’re asking, “Why Stony Brook?” you must not know its Joe Nathan’s alma mater. And although they didn’t draft him, the fact that he was so good for the Twins doesn’t hurt. Travis Jankowski, OF, Stony Brook: I was extremely high on Brandon Nimmo last June. Jankowski is this year’s college version of Nimmo. “Long and lean”, “athletic”, “football background” are all “Twins ways” to describe this true center fielder. Jankowski has four solid tools (only missing power), but all the tools the Twins typically look for. Another thing the Twins would love – he led the wood-bat Cape Cod League in triples last summer. He’d be a perfect fit in the sandwich round for a team looking for a “toolsy outfielder.” Pat Cantwell, C, Stony Brook: Look at this picture and tell me he doesn’t look like somebody the Twins would like. Cantwell was drafted by the Orioles in the 39th round last year, but elected to return for his senior season. So the Twins could get a “grinder” on the cheap. Sign this guy up. Seeing the one picture was enough for me. Other names to remember Mike LeBel, SS/P, Rhode Island: Another senior, but this one went undrafted last year. LeBel, who’s been a really good shortstop at URI, is coming off a solid showing in the Cape where he was clocked at 93mph off the mound. He’s yet to pitch in a game – where he’s expected to close – but he has been swinging a hot bat and blogging, of course. Pavano could help him with the ‘stache too. Kyle Hansen, P, St. John's: A big righty (6’ 8”) who has that “workhorse” body. Although he currently struggles with command, he could still fill out, add velocity and become a innings-eater. If not, he could prove to be a valuable bullpen asset with a mid-90mph fastball. Next up on the tour will be the Midwest. Jeremy Nygaard is the co-founder of ManCenter.com.

If you're at all looking forward to the June Rule IV baseball draft as a Twins fans, there is no doubt that you're already familiar with a handful of names: Appel, Giolito, Buxton, Zunino, and most recently, Zimmer. If you're a fan of following the Twins draft at all, there are some terms you're probably familiar with: "strike-thrower", "long and lean", "wiry/athletic" or (my personal favorite Gardyism) "a grinder". You're always going to find draft picks that are breaks from the normal "that's-what-I'd-expect-from-the-Twins"-type draft picks. But there is always going to be a lot of draft picks where you read a scouting report and think, "Wow, he sounds like someone the Twins would draft." Or the one I think the most, "Isn't there enough 'toolsy outfielders' in the system." The Twins are also bound to draft that guy that "profiles similar to Glen Perkins." Why? Because these are "Twins-type guys". Let's get started with a quick run through the Northeast part of the United States. I'm starting here because in 2009 I became enamored with a "toolsy outfielder" from a little town in New Jersey who had his senior season basically wiped out because of rain. He was a guy I liked more and more every time I read anything about him, yet someone that wasn't gaining a lot of helium because he wasn't playing as much as your typical prospect. The Twins passed on him at 22 to take Kyle Gibson (which I was thrilled about) and the Angels ended up taking him at 25. Him being Mike Trout. And the Angels being more thrilled than anyone. I believed at the time - and still do - that the Northeast, while not a hotbed for talent, is a great place for the Twins to look for it, simply because there is no "how he's going to adjust to playing in the cold?" projection. The other thing that stands out to me is that the scouting for this area is handled by John Wilson. With 2011 serving as an exception, the last handful of years have been heavy with picks from this region - high picks, late signs - which shows how much Wilson's opinion is valued. Five college names to watch: “The Re-draft” Pat Light, P, Monmouth. Light was discussed more at length a couple of weeks ago. We know the Twins like him because they drafted him out of high school. “The Stony Brook Guys” If you’re asking, “Why Stony Brook?” you must not know its Joe Nathan’s alma mater. And although they didn’t draft him, the fact that he was so good for the Twins doesn’t hurt. Travis Jankowski, OF, Stony Brook: I was extremely high on Brandon Nimmo last June. Jankowski is this year’s college version of Nimmo. “Long and lean”, “athletic”, “football background” are all “Twins ways” to describe this true center fielder. Jankowski has four solid tools (only missing power), but all the tools the Twins typically look for. Another thing the Twins would love – he led the wood-bat Cape Cod League in triples last summer. He’d be a perfect fit in the sandwich round for a team looking for a “toolsy outfielder.” Pat Cantwell, C, Stony Brook: Look at this picture and tell me he doesn’t look like somebody the Twins would like. Cantwell was drafted by the Orioles in the 39th round last year, but elected to return for his senior season. So the Twins could get a “grinder” on the cheap. Sign this guy up. Seeing the one picture was enough for me. Other names to remember Mike LeBel, SS/P, Rhode Island: Another senior, but this one went undrafted last year. LeBel, who’s been a really good shortstop at URI, is coming off a solid showing in the Cape where he was clocked at 93mph off the mound. He’s yet to pitch in a game – where he’s expected to close – but he has been swinging a hot bat and blogging, of course. Pavano could help him with the ‘stache too. Kyle Hansen, P, St. John's: A big righty (6’ 8”) who has that “workhorse” body. Although he currently struggles with command, he could still fill out, add velocity and become a innings-eater. If not, he could prove to be a valuable bullpen asset with a mid-90mph fastball. Next up on the tour will be the Midwest. Jeremy Nygaard is the co-founder of ManCenter.com.

Especially in batting practice to the guy with the concussion problems... Could you have imagined... he lets it fly, the arms snaps, the ball comes in high and inside. Two birds. One stone.

Eddie Guardado is already in camp. And from what I remember he's ready Everyday.

Zumaya won't be speaking to the media. Terry Ryan, however, will be providing an update (per Twitter).

Geez, I don't know if I'd go that far. He did help break in Herrmann's catcher's mitt a little before walking off the field, right?

I hope so. I know the chances are slim to none that he'll be healthy all year, but he's one of those guys that I've always enjoyed watching play. It will be nice to finally see him in Twins jersey (hopefully), like Thome was, like Buehrle would have been, and like I dream Verlander someday will be.

I just got a text saying that Zumaya just walked off the mound with the trainer. Uh oh.

The reports I've read on Appel, and probably the reason that people are "down" on him, is that his results don't match up with his stuff. If last night is any indication, it looks like the results are starting to catch up - took a shutout into the eighth, scattered three hits and three walks, struckout a career-high 10 batters. If he keeps it up, I think there will be very little debate about who goes 1-1. At that point are the Twins left choosing between a high school arm (been burned by that at this spot before) and a toolsy high-school outfielder? Or do they take another highly rated college pitcher like Gausman? It's not that I don't like the thought of having an "Upton-type" in the outfield. I just like the thought of having a "Verlander-type" on the mound every fifth day.

The Twins just have to take an arm. Whoever the Astros don't take has to be the guy. If the Astros mess up and don't take a pitcher... well, then I'm not sure who I like more...

"If you think this ball makes my hands looks big, you should see them next to Barry Bonds's."

They only realized jetbluepark.com was unavailable after learning their first choice, drinkingintheclubhouse.com, was already taken.

Last week, I examined some trends the team has exhibited while drafting. This week, I’m going to look at the construction of both the MLB and AAA rosters. Many people like to “project” what they think the Opening Day roster will look like. I’m no different. However, I’m also going to consider how past rosters have been put together coming out of the spring – at least at the highest two levels – to make an educated guess at what players, especially those currently in big league camp, will need to have a good spring to stick around in the Twins organization. Every fall, at the conclusion of the season, I try to project where I think guys will start the next year. It is pretty typical to for the organization to have around 225 total players. Or if you’d prefer to look at it as 200 minor leaguers, that works too. Last year, the Twins released between 15-20 players in the spring. This year, I think it’s a fair belief to think that number inflates to the 25-30 player range. Currently, I have the organization at 250 players, but by no means do I believe that to absolutely accurate. I do think its pretty close though. We’re going to take a position-by-position look and see which players are fighting for their organizational lives – not only at the higher levels, but also some of the lower level guys on the “organizational roster bubble”. We’re going to try and fit these guys on the MLB (25-man) and AAA (24-man) rosters, but the disabled list provides for a little bit of wiggle room. So while the target is 49, we’re going to end up with a number a little bit more than that. CATCHERS Background: I was actually very shocked when I realized the Twins have released or not brought back seven catchers from this time last season. They’ve also converted a few (now pitchers) while only adding one through the draft and two through free agency. They still have 18 from Rookie ball up, so there will be some competition to stay on the roster, though the pre-season exodus of the four catchers we saw last year will not be repeated. MLB: Joe Mauer, Ryan Doumit and Drew Butera. I don’t think there is a lot of mystery here. Butera, having two options left, provides the club with some flexibility if they choose to use it. That still leaves five catchers in camp and I believe they will be split between AA and AAA. AAA: Danny Lehmann, J.R. Towles and Rene Rivera. Chris Herrmann, and his ability to catch and play outfield, could play his way into the AAA conversation, but I believe he starts in New Britain. Dan Rohlfing, who has half a season of AA experience, will likely join him there. Roster Bubble: If Herrmann starts the season at AAA (which is possible), either Rivera or Towles will have to go. Towles is expected to push Butera for the 3rd catching spot in Minnesota, so I think that puts Rene Rivera on the organization roster bubble. That would leave two catchers per level, but also six in Extended Spring, which may be too many (especially after adding a few in the draft) once the short seasons start. I think that leaves players such as Jairo Rodriguez and Matt Parker on the roster bubble as well. FIRST BASEMEN Background: As recently as 2009, it appeared that there wouldn’t be a need at first base for the foreseeable future. Well, a few blows to the head of the MVP first baseman plus an avoidance to the position in the draft equals an organizational weakness. MLB: Justin Morneau. I really believe that when Morneau isn’t the first baseman, Joe Mauer will be. Rotate the M&M boys and Doumit through the C, 1B and DH positions, pray for no injuries (would that be a miracle?!) and hope for the best. I actually really like the depth at this position with what remains in camp. AAA: Chris Parmelee, Aaron Bates and Steve Pearce. In an ideal world, there would be no need to keep three first basemen on the AAA roster when one is a prospect who will need to play every day. The fact that Parmelee and Pearce could both steal some innings in the OF allows for a little flexibility; however, the long and the short of it is that the Twins need to have backup options lined up in case there is an big-time, big-league emergency. Roster Bubble: Adding Indi-baller Chris Colabello to the mix likely means a Collabello vs Nate Hanson roster battle in AA. There is also a Kennys Vargas-sized hole in the lower levels while he finishes up his suspension. That will force the Twins to get creative in their roster shaping in Beloit when the team breaks camp. MIDDLE INFIELDERS Background: These positions are dysfunctional enough that they have to be lumped together. I think that sums it up nicely. MLB: Jamey Carroll, Alexi Casilla, Luke Hughes and Tsuyoshi Nishioka. Hughes will probably see time at every infield spot besides shortstop. Nishioka could be sent down, but that would inhibit the ability to get good looks at guys that might actual be able to help. AAA: Brian Dozier, Pedro Florimon, Ray Chang and Michael Holliman. Dozier has 350 plate appearances above A-ball, but will be given every shot to be the everyday SS in Rochester. Roster Bubble: Is there room on the Rochester roster for Ray Chang and Mike Holliman? I think Chang will stick, but Holliman, who would have never made it through the year last year if not for all the injuries, is definitely on the roster bubble. Chris Cates, the shortest player in professional baseball, also will need a good spring. THIRD BASEMEN Background: The future of 3B will be debuting in Beloit this year. MLB: Danny Valencia. Last year, there was no disputing that Valencia would be the starting 3B. But after the sophomore slump, there may be a little doubt. Luke Hughes will probably get some starts and don’t sleep on Sean Burroughs. I think the best thing for Valencia is to know that he’s being pushed. That will keep Burroughs in AAA and a phone call away. AAA: Burroughs. Ray Chang also brings some experience at 3B to the roster. Roster Bubble: While there isn’t anyone high on the prospect radar until you get to Miguel Sano, there still are a number of third basemen on the roster. I would think it’s fair to say that Reggie Williams, Andrew Leer and Roy Larson are on the roster bubble. OUTFIELDERS Background: Even with the loss of Kubel and Cuddy, this is still the deepest position in the organization. There are eleven in big league camp and another that is in the mix for Rochester’s roster. MLB: Denard Span, Josh Willingham, Ben Revere and Trevor Plouffe. As much as I would like to see Revere get some substantial time at AAA, it appears he’ll be the almost-everyday left fielder. Plouffe will be the 4th OF and potential corner infielder. In my opinion, the AAA (and AA) outfield is going to be the most interesting storyline in the shaping of the rosters this spring. AAA: Rene Tosoni, Dustin Martin, Brian Dinkelman. Darrin Mastroianni, Matt Carson, Wilkin Ramirez are all in the mix, as is Joe Benson, who for now, I project to start at AA. Oswaldo Arcia will be a future starter, but will probably start the year in Fort Myers. Roster Bubble: I really consider Martin, Dinkelman, Mastroianni, Carson and Ramirez all on the bubble. There are two (maybe three) spots for these five guys. If Benson starts at Rochester, now you’re talking about one spot. I like Dinkleman because of his versatility. I am also intrigued by Ramirez, who is still relatively young. Further down the line guys like Mark Dolenc, Wang-Wei Lin, Jonathan Goncalves, Kelvin Mention and Drew Leachman could all find themselves in the roster crunch. We’re going to look at pitchers a little bit differently… STARTING PITCHERS Background: Last year was a terrible year for the starting pitchers and right now, 80% of the projected rotation is coming into a contract year (three FAs and an option). To make matters worse, there isn’t a lot of help on the horizon. MLB: Carl Pavano, Francisco Liriano, Scott Baker, Jason Marquis, Nick Blackburn. Brian Duensing and Anthony Swarzak could be stretched out, if needed. AAA: Liam Hendriks and Scott Diamond are the only two I’m ready to pencil in right now. RELIEF PITCHERS Background: The Twins literally brought in a boat load of guys to see if they can help contribute to a bullpen that isn’t considered the worst in the league. MLB: Duensing, Swarzak, Matt Capps, Glen Perkins, Joel Zumaya. That leaves two spots. AAA: Carlos Gutierrez, Deolis Guerra, Kyle Waldrop, Lester Oliveros, Jeff Manship, Tyler Robertson can also be penciled into the AAA bullpen. Doing some quick math, that leaves two major league spots and two to three AAA spots. Counting up the pitchers competing for these spots are 15 in big-league camp and up to nine guys in minor league camp. It doesn’t take a mathematician to know that getting from 24 to five will require some deep cutting. Chances are the Twins will stash a handful of guys on the disabled list, but we’ll still need to get rid of close to 15 guys. Alex Burnett will most likely make the big club. Terry Doyle, a Rule V acquisition remains likely to make a team. Daryl Thompson will likely have a spot in Rochester’s rotation. Roster Bubble: Everybody else is on the roster bubble, here’s my list in order of sticking in the organization: Phil Dumatrait – a familiar name, one of the few lefty options for the AAA bullpen. Jeff Gray – on the 40 and out of options, could be a good guy to have around. Jared Burton – has a shot to break camp with the big club. Jason Bulger – has a shot to break camp with the big club. Luke French – starter who will compete for a chance in Rochester’s rotation. Steven Hirschfield – will remain in the organization in AA. Brett Jacobson – will remain in the organization in AA. Cole Devries – will compete for a Rochester ‘pen spot; New Britain likely. On the outside looking in: Matt Maloney – on the 40 and out of options, could be a back of the bullpen-type guy. P.J. Walters – starter who will compete for a chance in Rochester’s rotation. Esmerling Vazquez – recently passed through waivers, doesn’t look good. Anthony Slama – fighting for a chance to make the Rochester bullpen. Sam Deduno – fighting for a chance to make the Rochester bullpen. Casey Fien – fighting for a chance to make the Rochester bullpen. Luis Perdomo – fighting for a chance to make the Rochester bullpen. Aaron Thompson – fighting for a chance to make the Rochester bullpen. Brendan Wise – fighting for a chance to make the Rochester bullpen. Brad Thompson – fighting for a chance to make the Rochester bullpen. Some other guys fighting the number squeeze: Spencer Steedley, Blake Martin, Michael Tarsi, Edgar Ibarra, Tobias Streich (converted C) and Jhonathan Arias (converted C) Summary: If you do that math, you’ll notice that we have 48 players on the MLB or AAA rosters before the list of eight pitchers I think will stick around. Take the three pitchers away I think will be at AA and we’re at 53. That allows for a little wiggle room. But overall I think it’s a pretty good snapshot. Next week we’re going to take a look at some college players who appear to be Twin-type guys. Jeremy Nygaard is the co-founder of ManCenter.com.

Last week, I examined some trends the team has exhibited while drafting. This week, I’m going to look at the construction of both the MLB and AAA rosters. Many people like to “project” what they think the Opening Day roster will look like. I’m no different. However, I’m also going to consider how past rosters have been put together coming out of the spring – at least at the highest two levels – to make an educated guess at what players, especially those currently in big league camp, will need to have a good spring to stick around in the Twins organization. Every fall, at the conclusion of the season, I try to project where I think guys will start the next year. It is pretty typical to for the organization to have around 225 total players. Or if you’d prefer to look at it as 200 minor leaguers, that works too. Last year, the Twins released between 15-20 players in the spring. This year, I think it’s a fair belief to think that number inflates to the 25-30 player range. Currently, I have the organization at 250 players, but by no means do I believe that to absolutely accurate. I do think its pretty close though. We’re going to take a position-by-position look and see which players are fighting for their organizational lives – not only at the higher levels, but also some of the lower level guys on the “organizational roster bubble”. We’re going to try and fit these guys on the MLB (25-man) and AAA (24-man) rosters, but the disabled list provides for a little bit of wiggle room. So while the target is 49, we’re going to end up with a number a little bit more than that. CATCHERS Background: I was actually very shocked when I realized the Twins have released or not brought back seven catchers from this time last season. They’ve also converted a few (now pitchers) while only adding one through the draft and two through free agency. They still have 18 from Rookie ball up, so there will be some competition to stay on the roster, though the pre-season exodus of the four catchers we saw last year will not be repeated. MLB: Joe Mauer, Ryan Doumit and Drew Butera. I don’t think there is a lot of mystery here. Butera, having two options left, provides the club with some flexibility if they choose to use it. That still leaves five catchers in camp and I believe they will be split between AA and AAA. AAA: Danny Lehmann, J.R. Towles and Rene Rivera. Chris Herrmann, and his ability to catch and play outfield, could play his way into the AAA conversation, but I believe he starts in New Britain. Dan Rohlfing, who has half a season of AA experience, will likely join him there. Roster Bubble: If Herrmann starts the season at AAA (which is possible), either Rivera or Towles will have to go. Towles is expected to push Butera for the 3rd catching spot in Minnesota, so I think that puts Rene Rivera on the organization roster bubble. That would leave two catchers per level, but also six in Extended Spring, which may be too many (especially after adding a few in the draft) once the short seasons start. I think that leaves players such as Jairo Rodriguez and Matt Parker on the roster bubble as well. FIRST BASEMEN Background: As recently as 2009, it appeared that there wouldn’t be a need at first base for the foreseeable future. Well, a few blows to the head of the MVP first baseman plus an avoidance to the position in the draft equals an organizational weakness. MLB: Justin Morneau. I really believe that when Morneau isn’t the first baseman, Joe Mauer will be. Rotate the M&M boys and Doumit through the C, 1B and DH positions, pray for no injuries (would that be a miracle?!) and hope for the best. I actually really like the depth at this position with what remains in camp. AAA: Chris Parmelee, Aaron Bates and Steve Pearce. In an ideal world, there would be no need to keep three first basemen on the AAA roster when one is a prospect who will need to play every day. The fact that Parmelee and Pearce could both steal some innings in the OF allows for a little flexibility; however, the long and the short of it is that the Twins need to have backup options lined up in case there is an big-time, big-league emergency. Roster Bubble: Adding Indi-baller Chris Colabello to the mix likely means a Collabello vs Nate Hanson roster battle in AA. There is also a Kennys Vargas-sized hole in the lower levels while he finishes up his suspension. That will force the Twins to get creative in their roster shaping in Beloit when the team breaks camp. MIDDLE INFIELDERS Background: These positions are dysfunctional enough that they have to be lumped together. I think that sums it up nicely. MLB: Jamey Carroll, Alexi Casilla, Luke Hughes and Tsuyoshi Nishioka. Hughes will probably see time at every infield spot besides shortstop. Nishioka could be sent down, but that would inhibit the ability to get good looks at guys that might actual be able to help. AAA: Brian Dozier, Pedro Florimon, Ray Chang and Michael Holliman. Dozier has 350 plate appearances above A-ball, but will be given every shot to be the everyday SS in Rochester. Roster Bubble: Is there room on the Rochester roster for Ray Chang and Mike Holliman? I think Chang will stick, but Holliman, who would have never made it through the year last year if not for all the injuries, is definitely on the roster bubble. Chris Cates, the shortest player in professional baseball, also will need a good spring. THIRD BASEMEN Background: The future of 3B will be debuting in Beloit this year. MLB: Danny Valencia. Last year, there was no disputing that Valencia would be the starting 3B. But after the sophomore slump, there may be a little doubt. Luke Hughes will probably get some starts and don’t sleep on Sean Burroughs. I think the best thing for Valencia is to know that he’s being pushed. That will keep Burroughs in AAA and a phone call away. AAA: Burroughs. Ray Chang also brings some experience at 3B to the roster. Roster Bubble: While there isn’t anyone high on the prospect radar until you get to Miguel Sano, there still are a number of third basemen on the roster. I would think it’s fair to say that Reggie Williams, Andrew Leer and Roy Larson are on the roster bubble. OUTFIELDERS Background: Even with the loss of Kubel and Cuddy, this is still the deepest position in the organization. There are eleven in big league camp and another that is in the mix for Rochester’s roster. MLB: Denard Span, Josh Willingham, Ben Revere and Trevor Plouffe. As much as I would like to see Revere get some substantial time at AAA, it appears he’ll be the almost-everyday left fielder. Plouffe will be the 4th OF and potential corner infielder. In my opinion, the AAA (and AA) outfield is going to be the most interesting storyline in the shaping of the rosters this spring. AAA: Rene Tosoni, Dustin Martin, Brian Dinkelman. Darrin Mastroianni, Matt Carson, Wilkin Ramirez are all in the mix, as is Joe Benson, who for now, I project to start at AA. Oswaldo Arcia will be a future starter, but will probably start the year in Fort Myers. Roster Bubble: I really consider Martin, Dinkelman, Mastroianni, Carson and Ramirez all on the bubble. There are two (maybe three) spots for these five guys. If Benson starts at Rochester, now you’re talking about one spot. I like Dinkleman because of his versatility. I am also intrigued by Ramirez, who is still relatively young. Further down the line guys like Mark Dolenc, Wang-Wei Lin, Jonathan Goncalves, Kelvin Mention and Drew Leachman could all find themselves in the roster crunch. We’re going to look at pitchers a little bit differently… STARTING PITCHERS Background: Last year was a terrible year for the starting pitchers and right now, 80% of the projected rotation is coming into a contract year (three FAs and an option). To make matters worse, there isn’t a lot of help on the horizon. MLB: Carl Pavano, Francisco Liriano, Scott Baker, Jason Marquis, Nick Blackburn. Brian Duensing and Anthony Swarzak could be stretched out, if needed. AAA: Liam Hendriks and Scott Diamond are the only two I’m ready to pencil in right now. RELIEF PITCHERS Background: The Twins literally brought in a boat load of guys to see if they can help contribute to a bullpen that isn’t considered the worst in the league. MLB: Duensing, Swarzak, Matt Capps, Glen Perkins, Joel Zumaya. That leaves two spots. AAA: Carlos Gutierrez, Deolis Guerra, Kyle Waldrop, Lester Oliveros, Jeff Manship, Tyler Robertson can also be penciled into the AAA bullpen. Doing some quick math, that leaves two major league spots and two to three AAA spots. Counting up the pitchers competing for these spots are 15 in big-league camp and up to nine guys in minor league camp. It doesn’t take a mathematician to know that getting from 24 to five will require some deep cutting. Chances are the Twins will stash a handful of guys on the disabled list, but we’ll still need to get rid of close to 15 guys. Alex Burnett will most likely make the big club. Terry Doyle, a Rule V acquisition remains likely to make a team. Daryl Thompson will likely have a spot in Rochester’s rotation. Roster Bubble: Everybody else is on the roster bubble, here’s my list in order of sticking in the organization: Phil Dumatrait – a familiar name, one of the few lefty options for the AAA bullpen. Jeff Gray – on the 40 and out of options, could be a good guy to have around. Jared Burton – has a shot to break camp with the big club. Jason Bulger – has a shot to break camp with the big club. Luke French – starter who will compete for a chance in Rochester’s rotation. Steven Hirschfield – will remain in the organization in AA. Brett Jacobson – will remain in the organization in AA. Cole Devries – will compete for a Rochester ‘pen spot; New Britain likely. On the outside looking in: Matt Maloney – on the 40 and out of options, could be a back of the bullpen-type guy. P.J. Walters – starter who will compete for a chance in Rochester’s rotation. Esmerling Vazquez – recently passed through waivers, doesn’t look good. Anthony Slama – fighting for a chance to make the Rochester bullpen. Sam Deduno – fighting for a chance to make the Rochester bullpen. Casey Fien – fighting for a chance to make the Rochester bullpen. Luis Perdomo – fighting for a chance to make the Rochester bullpen. Aaron Thompson – fighting for a chance to make the Rochester bullpen. Brendan Wise – fighting for a chance to make the Rochester bullpen. Brad Thompson – fighting for a chance to make the Rochester bullpen. Some other guys fighting the number squeeze: Spencer Steedley, Blake Martin, Michael Tarsi, Edgar Ibarra, Tobias Streich (converted C) and Jhonathan Arias (converted C) Summary: If you do that math, you’ll notice that we have 48 players on the MLB or AAA rosters before the list of eight pitchers I think will stick around. Take the three pitchers away I think will be at AA and we’re at 53. That allows for a little wiggle room. But overall I think it’s a pretty good snapshot. Next week we’re going to take a look at some college players who appear to be Twin-type guys. Jeremy Nygaard is the co-founder of ManCenter.com.

One guy I really like is Tyler Grimes. He seems like a 'Gardy-type'. He didn't have a great debut, but he dealt with head and wrist issues. I was there when he hurt his wrist- diving for a pop up behind second base to the right field side coming from shortstop- and stayed in when he should have come out. He's a guy that will 'play his tail off' and when he walks off the field there will be some field on him and some of him on the field. I was not a Punto guy, but if Grimes can overcome the errors, it's a great comp.

I could be mistaken, but I think that for the Twins to trade for Diamond he had to be placed on waivers first and clear. Once he cleared, the Braves got him back and then the Twins traded for him. It would have been possible for another team to claim him and the Rule V rules still applied. Same deal with Doyle. If he doesn't break camp, he'll have to be placed on waivers before the team can work out a trade. I'd think he'd have a better chance to stick than either Gray or Maloney.

...add Terry Doyle to the list and suddenly someone will have to be exposed to waivers.

Ha, Seth. You're right. I'm still excited... it's just a different excitement. I'm more excited for what's going to happen about 4 hours to the southeast of the Cities though. I'll be taking my trip to Beloit the end of April.