- Jose Mijares could be getting a shot at closer
- Pat Neshek could start the season at AAA-Rochester to get some more confidence before pitching against MLB hitters
- Even though the Twins are going to have Francisco Liriano start they are still considering him as closer
- They have not been satisfied with Clay Condrey this spring and he will have a short leash to start the year.
- The Twins can use another bullpen pitcher now as leverage in a potential trade for a closer
- Or he simply could be here as a back up in case someone gets injured
Thursday, March 25, 2010
Twins Spring Blog-Mahay returns
Yesterday the Twins announced they have signed left handed reliever Ron Mahay to a minor league deal. Mahay was a late season acquisition for the Twins in 2009 and was another key left handed specialist out of the bullpen. But I wondered why the Twins brought in another reliever when they have an already jammed packed bullpen. But as I pondered more I had more ideas pop into my head. So here are some of those moves I wondered:
Monday, March 22, 2010
Twins Spring Blog-Mauer Deal
Today if you are a Twins fan, there was a late Christmas present unwrapped today. Behind that gold wrapping was a 8 year contract extension for catcher Joe Mauer. His deal will pay $184 million from 2011-2018 and comes with a full no-trade clause, ensuring he will stay in a Twins uniform. At the end of that contract he will have played 15 seasons in a Twins uniform, the most by any player since the team moved to Minnesota in 1961.For me, its exciting knowing that Joe Mauer will fall in line behind Harmon Killebrew, Rod Carew, Kent Hrbek, and Kirby Puckett as the faces of this franchise. I dont feel this deal will handicap this team. I think as long as the fans continue to come out and watch, the front office will put a competitive team on the field. And that's one of the reasons Joe stayed here was his confidence in the front office to keep putting competitive teams on the field. And in my opinion as long as he is here there will be good players around him so they can win. And dont forget the Twins have a minor league system that continues to produce major league quality talent seemingly every season, which has been huge for them in the 50 seasons they have been in Minnesota. Also, with the amount of money the Pohlad family has put out this offseason in free agents and contract extensions, it shows they are willing to spend the money and shows how much the Metrodome handicapped this team. This deal is not only good for the Twins, its good for baseball. Its good that the middle to small market teams do have a chance of keeping their best player and not let them walk away to the big markets of New York, Boston, or Los Angeles. Baseball needs teams like the Twins stepping up against those big market teams so they can't win it every year. The Twins have become the model franchise in MLB, and again today they continued to set the bar. So my bottom line is the deal is good with me and it secures the future of the Twins for the next decade.
Tuesday, March 9, 2010
Twins Spring Blog-Closer Options
Well, i'm sure you've heard by now the closer Joe Nathan's season is in serious jeopardy with a torn ligament in his right elbow. He will rest for two weeks and see if he can tough it out and pitch this season, but if he cannot, he will have surgery and will miss the entire 2010 season. And from what i've heard there is a 90% probability that he will require surgery. So the question now is who will shut the door for the Twins? I will look at some in-house options and some players the Twins could possibly go after.
Matt Guerrier-Right Matty G is the clubhouse leader to assume the role of closer. Last year he had 79 appearances (Most in MLB) and had a 2.36 ERA with a 0.97 WHIP. Guerrier was a closer in the minor leagues before the Twins kept him as a middle reliever. He did have a 5 out save last year on a day where Joe Nathan was unavailable due to throwing 50+ pitches the night before. He looked a bit shaky in that outing giving up two hits and a run to Kansas City. But none the less Ron Gardenhire has a lot of confidence in Guerrier so this job is his to lose.
Jon Rauch-Rauch is the other leading canidate to become the closer in 2010. He does have MLB closing experience with 24 career saves, 18 coming in 2008 with Washington and Arizona. He did have 6 blown saves in the same year while posting a 4.14 ERA. At 6'10" he brings an intimidation factor to the mound that you might not find with Matty Guerrier. Rauch was a late season acquisition for the Twins in 2009 going 5-1 with a 1.72 ERA and 1.21 WHIP in his 17 games in Minnesota.
Pat Neshek-For those thinking that Neshek should be the closer in Nathan's absense, you can dream on. I can't see Gardy and his staff putting Neshek in the closer's role right off the bat after coming off Tommy John Surgery in the winter of 2008/2009. If he pitches very well you might see him in the role, if Guerrier or Rauch falter. But don't take that to the bank. Even though Neshek has a career 2.91 ERA and 0.96 career WHIP, I can't see him coming out in the ninth.The Twins will just keep him as a middle relief/setup man to get his confidence back.
Jose Mijares-A lot has to happen for this job to fall on the left arm of Mijares. In the past season and a half the Twins have used him as a left handed specialist. He has done well with the job posting a 2.12 ERA and 1.05 WHIP in that time. He's just 26 years old and entering his second full season in the big leagues. And his performance in last years playoffs show he might need another year or two before you can seriously talk about him as a closer.
Jesse Crain-Right now, Crain lacks the consistency to be put in the closer conversation. In the past four seasons his ERA has gone from 3.52 to 5.51 to 3.59 and finally up to 4.70 in 2009. It's very unlikely the Twins would trust Crain in the ninth with the way his career has gone so far. All we can hope for is he remains effective as a middle reliever.
Anthony Slama-Slama is not on the 40-man roster so no i do not think he will be in the big leagues to start the season. But he could find his way up here during the season. If he hasn't been dubbed the closer of the future yet, he should be. Last season he posted a 25 save 2.48 ERA season with AA-New Britain before getting called up to AAA-Rochester where he got 4 saves before the season ended. His career ERA in the minors is 1.86 with a career 1.04 WHIP. At this rate, he should be in Twins pinstripes full time by 2012.
In-House Options
Matt Guerrier-Right Matty G is the clubhouse leader to assume the role of closer. Last year he had 79 appearances (Most in MLB) and had a 2.36 ERA with a 0.97 WHIP. Guerrier was a closer in the minor leagues before the Twins kept him as a middle reliever. He did have a 5 out save last year on a day where Joe Nathan was unavailable due to throwing 50+ pitches the night before. He looked a bit shaky in that outing giving up two hits and a run to Kansas City. But none the less Ron Gardenhire has a lot of confidence in Guerrier so this job is his to lose.
Jon Rauch-Rauch is the other leading canidate to become the closer in 2010. He does have MLB closing experience with 24 career saves, 18 coming in 2008 with Washington and Arizona. He did have 6 blown saves in the same year while posting a 4.14 ERA. At 6'10" he brings an intimidation factor to the mound that you might not find with Matty Guerrier. Rauch was a late season acquisition for the Twins in 2009 going 5-1 with a 1.72 ERA and 1.21 WHIP in his 17 games in Minnesota.
Pat Neshek-For those thinking that Neshek should be the closer in Nathan's absense, you can dream on. I can't see Gardy and his staff putting Neshek in the closer's role right off the bat after coming off Tommy John Surgery in the winter of 2008/2009. If he pitches very well you might see him in the role, if Guerrier or Rauch falter. But don't take that to the bank. Even though Neshek has a career 2.91 ERA and 0.96 career WHIP, I can't see him coming out in the ninth.The Twins will just keep him as a middle relief/setup man to get his confidence back.
Jose Mijares-A lot has to happen for this job to fall on the left arm of Mijares. In the past season and a half the Twins have used him as a left handed specialist. He has done well with the job posting a 2.12 ERA and 1.05 WHIP in that time. He's just 26 years old and entering his second full season in the big leagues. And his performance in last years playoffs show he might need another year or two before you can seriously talk about him as a closer.
Jesse Crain-Right now, Crain lacks the consistency to be put in the closer conversation. In the past four seasons his ERA has gone from 3.52 to 5.51 to 3.59 and finally up to 4.70 in 2009. It's very unlikely the Twins would trust Crain in the ninth with the way his career has gone so far. All we can hope for is he remains effective as a middle reliever.
Anthony Slama-Slama is not on the 40-man roster so no i do not think he will be in the big leagues to start the season. But he could find his way up here during the season. If he hasn't been dubbed the closer of the future yet, he should be. Last season he posted a 25 save 2.48 ERA season with AA-New Britain before getting called up to AAA-Rochester where he got 4 saves before the season ended. His career ERA in the minors is 1.86 with a career 1.04 WHIP. At this rate, he should be in Twins pinstripes full time by 2012.
Possible Acquistions
Heath Bell (SD)-Last year no one knew if Bell could close games for the Padres. Now everyone knows he can. He notched 42 saves while posting a 2.71 ERA in 2009 after the departure of Trevor Hoffman. In the offseason he signed a 1 year $4 million deal to avoid arbitration, and if he can continue to perform like he did the Padres might move him to save some money as he will earn a big contract in the upcoming offseason. And if the offer is right, the Friars will move him. You may recall the Twins and Padres had discussions in the offseason regarding 3B kevin Kouzmanoff so there would be some familiarity with the two sides. The Pads were very high on pitcher Glen Perkins and if he is still with the Twins he would be an almost certain part of a potential deal. But the Twins will have to throw in a high prized prospect or two to get the Padres attention if they choose to go after Bell. But are they willing to give into the high price?
George Sherrill (LAD)-If the Twins were looking for a possibly cheaper option, former Oriole closer George Sherrill could be available. Sherrill was a 2008 all star with Baltimore, while notching 82 Saves in his one and a half seasons there. He did carry a 3.67 ERA and 1.34 WHIP with the O's, but you gotta give the guy props for having decent numbers while closing games in the AL East. He is now the setup man for the Dodgers and with the ownership struggles, the Dodgers might be looking to cut some payroll during the year, and Sherrill would be a likely canidate with a shortage on good closers out there. The question arises again would the Twins be willing to give up higher profile prospects to get this guy to fill their hole at closer?
John Smoltz (FA)-Smoltz has a Dennis Eckersley type of career. Starter, closer, Starter. He is a 6 time all star as a starter and a two time all star as a closer. But, his success has come in the National League. He gave the American League a try last year with Boston and posted a 8.32 ERA in 8 games before being waived and claimed by St. Louis where he had a 4.32 ERA. Rumors has Smoltz signing with a National League team at some point this year, but if the price is right the Twins could come calling with a tryout for the ninth inning role. And Smoltz could go for it at this point in his career where he could be more effective pitching in just one inning. And he would also bring some great experience to a pitching staff that does not have much in postseason play. But again, Smoltz has to be open to trying the American League again, has to be open to closing, and needs to come at a bargain price which wouldn't be until mid-season. He would probably be conisdered a last resort.
George Sherrill (LAD)-If the Twins were looking for a possibly cheaper option, former Oriole closer George Sherrill could be available. Sherrill was a 2008 all star with Baltimore, while notching 82 Saves in his one and a half seasons there. He did carry a 3.67 ERA and 1.34 WHIP with the O's, but you gotta give the guy props for having decent numbers while closing games in the AL East. He is now the setup man for the Dodgers and with the ownership struggles, the Dodgers might be looking to cut some payroll during the year, and Sherrill would be a likely canidate with a shortage on good closers out there. The question arises again would the Twins be willing to give up higher profile prospects to get this guy to fill their hole at closer?
John Smoltz (FA)-Smoltz has a Dennis Eckersley type of career. Starter, closer, Starter. He is a 6 time all star as a starter and a two time all star as a closer. But, his success has come in the National League. He gave the American League a try last year with Boston and posted a 8.32 ERA in 8 games before being waived and claimed by St. Louis where he had a 4.32 ERA. Rumors has Smoltz signing with a National League team at some point this year, but if the price is right the Twins could come calling with a tryout for the ninth inning role. And Smoltz could go for it at this point in his career where he could be more effective pitching in just one inning. And he would also bring some great experience to a pitching staff that does not have much in postseason play. But again, Smoltz has to be open to trying the American League again, has to be open to closing, and needs to come at a bargain price which wouldn't be until mid-season. He would probably be conisdered a last resort.
Monday, March 1, 2010
In the Beginning...
From time to time I get asked the question,"How did you get so into sports?" And the answer is not a quick one. I have tried to condense my answer when asked but I cut a part or two and the story does not make much sense. So today since I have some time to kill, I will share my story....
It all begins in the year 1999. I was in the fourth grade. My mother had just gotten a new job and this new job required her to start at 4 am now. And since my dad had to be at his work by 6 am and since we lived far away from my school there was a problem. How do we get me to school. So they did a trial run of taking me to my grandparents at 3:30 am and I would sleep on their couch until it was time to rise and shine. The trial went well so the move was made permanent. But there was an occasional morning where getting back to sleep was not easy. So I laid on the couch I decided to watch some tv to put me to sleep. But at 4 am, you have the option of either paid programming shows, the nanny reruns (those cause migranes), or SportsCenter. Since I had some interest in sports, I turned on the SportsCenter morning reruns. Then eventually the eyes would shut and I would sleep until 8. Upon waking up you would make the walk to the breakfast table and the newspaper would be out on the table. And there were some days i wouldn't read it at first and so my grandfather (I refer to him as my predecessor) would take the sports page and put it in front of me and go, "Here, read this. You'll find it interesting." He was the third element to my madness. He had a great mind for sports. He would sit in his usual chair at the table with talk radio on and his glass of coffe drunk and bowl of wheaties ate. His opinions were out there at some points, but he always seemed to be right. He would take me to school and we would chat on the hot topics of the sports page. And as time went on I got wiser and the conversations got better. But we never agreed on everything. There would be an occasional argument, which most times I lost. You would keep thinking how does he get it right on the nose everytime? I wish I had one last question to ask him, it would go, "How do you get it right everytime?" He made me much wiser and he got me hooked on his opinions so we believed in the same principles of sports. He. like me, was a hockey nut. He was great at teaching the game. He did it for so many years at the local rec center. He taught me the game with a remote and a bowl of ice cream. It worked pretty damn well. Anyway there it was the three phases that made me the sports maniac I am. The 4 am SportsCenter, the daily sports page columns, and my predecessor himself. It was the right combination for me. It still is, except my predecessor is no longer here with us. So to keep up with his traditions I am starting a new blog post that I will publish once a week titled, "The view from the recliner". This post will state what he thought of what was going on and how he thought things should of been handled. Be sure to check for that coming soon. So there ya go. There is my story. I cherished those days. I still cherish those days. I always will. It was in the beginning...
It all begins in the year 1999. I was in the fourth grade. My mother had just gotten a new job and this new job required her to start at 4 am now. And since my dad had to be at his work by 6 am and since we lived far away from my school there was a problem. How do we get me to school. So they did a trial run of taking me to my grandparents at 3:30 am and I would sleep on their couch until it was time to rise and shine. The trial went well so the move was made permanent. But there was an occasional morning where getting back to sleep was not easy. So I laid on the couch I decided to watch some tv to put me to sleep. But at 4 am, you have the option of either paid programming shows, the nanny reruns (those cause migranes), or SportsCenter. Since I had some interest in sports, I turned on the SportsCenter morning reruns. Then eventually the eyes would shut and I would sleep until 8. Upon waking up you would make the walk to the breakfast table and the newspaper would be out on the table. And there were some days i wouldn't read it at first and so my grandfather (I refer to him as my predecessor) would take the sports page and put it in front of me and go, "Here, read this. You'll find it interesting." He was the third element to my madness. He had a great mind for sports. He would sit in his usual chair at the table with talk radio on and his glass of coffe drunk and bowl of wheaties ate. His opinions were out there at some points, but he always seemed to be right. He would take me to school and we would chat on the hot topics of the sports page. And as time went on I got wiser and the conversations got better. But we never agreed on everything. There would be an occasional argument, which most times I lost. You would keep thinking how does he get it right on the nose everytime? I wish I had one last question to ask him, it would go, "How do you get it right everytime?" He made me much wiser and he got me hooked on his opinions so we believed in the same principles of sports. He. like me, was a hockey nut. He was great at teaching the game. He did it for so many years at the local rec center. He taught me the game with a remote and a bowl of ice cream. It worked pretty damn well. Anyway there it was the three phases that made me the sports maniac I am. The 4 am SportsCenter, the daily sports page columns, and my predecessor himself. It was the right combination for me. It still is, except my predecessor is no longer here with us. So to keep up with his traditions I am starting a new blog post that I will publish once a week titled, "The view from the recliner". This post will state what he thought of what was going on and how he thought things should of been handled. Be sure to check for that coming soon. So there ya go. There is my story. I cherished those days. I still cherish those days. I always will. It was in the beginning...
Friday, February 26, 2010
Twins Spring Blog-Position Players
Today The position players for the Twins report to camp so i'll breakdown each player that has a chance to make the team.
INFIELDERS
Alexi Casilla 2B (.202 AVG, 0 HR, 17 RBI in 2009): Last year it looked like Casilla was going to be the starting second baseman. But after a poor start and a minor league stint, Casilla was unable to turn his 09 season around and earn his spot. His up and down play cost him the second baseman job this year and he will have to work hard to earn a spot on the bench.
J.J. Hardy SS (.247 AVG, 9 HR, 50 RBI w/MIL): Hardy was another player with a tough 09, and now the has changed addresses he looks to bounce back with no pressure on him. Before 09 he was averaging 25 home runs and 77 runs batted in and the Twins are hoping he can refind that all star form from the bottom of the order.
Brendan Harris 2B/SS/3B (.261 AVG, 6 HR, 27 RBI): After two seasons of filling the role of utility player, Harris is expected to do the same in 2010. He will platoon with Nick Punto for the third baseman role that might be eventually taken up by prospect Danny Valencia. Harris has shown he can hit better than Punto, but Ron Gardenhire has given Punto the nod because of his defense. If Harris can do great things offensively he would get the nod over Punto.
Orlando Hudson 2B (.283 AVG, 9 HR, 62 RBI w/LAD): The Twins turned some heads with the signing of Orlando Hudson. They filled a hole at second base and a hole in the two spot in their order left vacated by Orlando Cabrera. Hudson is a career .282 hitter and has a .348 lifetime OBP. He also has four gold gloves which fits the Twins style of play. The Twins made a smart move signing Hudson and solidifies a spectacular lineup.
Justin Morneau 1B (.274 AVG, 30 HR, 100 RBI): In the past three seasons the Twins have seen Morneau struggle or get injured in the second half. This season Morneau is not going pedal to the medal in spring training to stay rested for the season, and rightfully so because I dont think Michael Cuddyer can fill his shoes every year. For the Twins to make that deep postseason run they will need Morneau on the field, healthy, and rested or else the lineup starts to get a bit shallow.
Nick Punto 2B/SS/3B (.228 AVG, 1 HR, 38 RBI): Nick Punto had his choice of where he got to play in 2009. With holes all around the infield Punto played in almost 30 more games from 2008. But Punto's problem was his average dropped from .284 to .228. In 2010 he will be competing for the third base job with Brendan Harris and prospect Danny Valencia. For him to see good playing time he will have to raise his average next to his gold glove caliber defense. Punto usually gets the nod over Harris due to his stellar defense and with the solid lineup the Twins have 2010 should be no different.
Jim Thome 1B/DH (.249 AVG, 23 HR, 77 RBI w/CHW & LAD): Jim Thome fell into the Twins lap as a bargain deal this offseason. For a one year $1.5 million deal, the Twins got a significant bat off their bench and he can fill in at DH on days when Jason Kubel either needs a rest or plays in the outfield. He bats lefthanded and with the short porch in right field at Target Field look for Thome to put up good numbers coming off the bench for the Twins in 2010.
Matt Tolbert 2B/SS/3B (.232 AVG, 2 HR, 19 RBI): Matt Tolbert was a mid season call up for the Twins again in 2009. As the Twins made their stretch run, Tolbert was the main third baseman. He was not hitting all that well but his defense and hustle prompted Ron Gardenhire to put him in the lineup every day. Tolbert is not a lock to make the team out of camp but he could if theres an injury to a infielder or someone like Alexi Casilla has a terrible camp Tolbert could make the cut.
Danny Valencia 3B (.285 AVG, 14 HR, 70 RBI @ AA-New Britain & AAA-Rochester): Possibly by mid season Valencia could be the Twins starting third baseman. In just two seasons he has advanced all the way to AAA and if the Twins third baseman problems continue, his run will continue to the major leagues. Valencia has put up good offensive numbers in the minors but his defense still needs some work. Some in the Twins organization have said that he still needs time in the minors, so it will be interesting to see how the Twins use him in 2010.
J.J. Hardy SS (.247 AVG, 9 HR, 50 RBI w/MIL): Hardy was another player with a tough 09, and now the has changed addresses he looks to bounce back with no pressure on him. Before 09 he was averaging 25 home runs and 77 runs batted in and the Twins are hoping he can refind that all star form from the bottom of the order.
Brendan Harris 2B/SS/3B (.261 AVG, 6 HR, 27 RBI): After two seasons of filling the role of utility player, Harris is expected to do the same in 2010. He will platoon with Nick Punto for the third baseman role that might be eventually taken up by prospect Danny Valencia. Harris has shown he can hit better than Punto, but Ron Gardenhire has given Punto the nod because of his defense. If Harris can do great things offensively he would get the nod over Punto.
Orlando Hudson 2B (.283 AVG, 9 HR, 62 RBI w/LAD): The Twins turned some heads with the signing of Orlando Hudson. They filled a hole at second base and a hole in the two spot in their order left vacated by Orlando Cabrera. Hudson is a career .282 hitter and has a .348 lifetime OBP. He also has four gold gloves which fits the Twins style of play. The Twins made a smart move signing Hudson and solidifies a spectacular lineup.
Justin Morneau 1B (.274 AVG, 30 HR, 100 RBI): In the past three seasons the Twins have seen Morneau struggle or get injured in the second half. This season Morneau is not going pedal to the medal in spring training to stay rested for the season, and rightfully so because I dont think Michael Cuddyer can fill his shoes every year. For the Twins to make that deep postseason run they will need Morneau on the field, healthy, and rested or else the lineup starts to get a bit shallow.
Nick Punto 2B/SS/3B (.228 AVG, 1 HR, 38 RBI): Nick Punto had his choice of where he got to play in 2009. With holes all around the infield Punto played in almost 30 more games from 2008. But Punto's problem was his average dropped from .284 to .228. In 2010 he will be competing for the third base job with Brendan Harris and prospect Danny Valencia. For him to see good playing time he will have to raise his average next to his gold glove caliber defense. Punto usually gets the nod over Harris due to his stellar defense and with the solid lineup the Twins have 2010 should be no different.
Jim Thome 1B/DH (.249 AVG, 23 HR, 77 RBI w/CHW & LAD): Jim Thome fell into the Twins lap as a bargain deal this offseason. For a one year $1.5 million deal, the Twins got a significant bat off their bench and he can fill in at DH on days when Jason Kubel either needs a rest or plays in the outfield. He bats lefthanded and with the short porch in right field at Target Field look for Thome to put up good numbers coming off the bench for the Twins in 2010.
Matt Tolbert 2B/SS/3B (.232 AVG, 2 HR, 19 RBI): Matt Tolbert was a mid season call up for the Twins again in 2009. As the Twins made their stretch run, Tolbert was the main third baseman. He was not hitting all that well but his defense and hustle prompted Ron Gardenhire to put him in the lineup every day. Tolbert is not a lock to make the team out of camp but he could if theres an injury to a infielder or someone like Alexi Casilla has a terrible camp Tolbert could make the cut.
Danny Valencia 3B (.285 AVG, 14 HR, 70 RBI @ AA-New Britain & AAA-Rochester): Possibly by mid season Valencia could be the Twins starting third baseman. In just two seasons he has advanced all the way to AAA and if the Twins third baseman problems continue, his run will continue to the major leagues. Valencia has put up good offensive numbers in the minors but his defense still needs some work. Some in the Twins organization have said that he still needs time in the minors, so it will be interesting to see how the Twins use him in 2010.
OUTFIELDERS
Michael Cuddyer RF (.276 AVG, 32 HR, 94 RBI): Cuddyer's 09 season was defined in September filling in for the injured Justin Morneau when Cuddy hit .279 with 10 home runs and 29 runs batted in. Now that Morneau's back, Cuddyer will take his place in right field and will most likely bat sixth in the Twins lineup. With little depth in the Twins outfield Cuddyer will need to stay healthy or the Twins might be forced to make a in season trade to add another outfielder. Cuddyer is a very underrated outfielder who had lead MLB in outfield assists for two years and he should do just fine moving into Target Field.
Jason Kubel LF/DH (.300 AVG, 28 HR, 103 RBI): Kubel had a break out season in 2009. He finally brings power to the DH, which hasnt seen a decent hitter since the likes of Paul Molitor. Kubel will bat fifth behind Mauer and Morneau and should bring just as much punch as they do. If Kubel keeps progressing like the way he has been the last four years, he could reach the 30 home run plateau. Kubel will be mostly DH, but he will have an occasional day in one of the corner outfield spots. We should be seeing another impressive season from Kubel in 2010.
Denard Span CF (.311 AVG, 8 HR, 68 RBI): If there was one player that went under the radar in 2009 for the Twins, it was Denard Span. Hitting from the leadoff position, Span hit .311, had a .392 on base percentage, and lead the Twins in runs with 97. Him getting on base in front of the big bats in the order along with his baserunning agression was a pain for opposing pitchers. Now that Carlos Gomez has departed, Span will be the everyday centerfielder as he was destined to when the Twins drafted him. In just two seasons we have seen Span's average jump from .294 to .311 and it should increase in 2010 with the addition of Orlando Hudson to hit behind him. Maybe look for Span to be a All Star Game darkhorse player.
Delmon Young LF (.284 AVG, 12 HR, 60 RBI): In his first two seasons with the Twins, the Twins have seen Delmon Young struggle in the first half then go on a tear in the second half. So in preperation for the 2010 season, Delmon has dropped nearly 30 pounds to hopefully have more success over a whole season. Hopefully that carries over to his defense as well as he takes the left fielders job on a everyday basis. If Young can prove he can be a consistent hitter throughout the season that would just be an added bonus for the Twins. But if he falters again, the Twins might look into moving Young for a more consistent outfielder.
Jason Kubel LF/DH (.300 AVG, 28 HR, 103 RBI): Kubel had a break out season in 2009. He finally brings power to the DH, which hasnt seen a decent hitter since the likes of Paul Molitor. Kubel will bat fifth behind Mauer and Morneau and should bring just as much punch as they do. If Kubel keeps progressing like the way he has been the last four years, he could reach the 30 home run plateau. Kubel will be mostly DH, but he will have an occasional day in one of the corner outfield spots. We should be seeing another impressive season from Kubel in 2010.
Denard Span CF (.311 AVG, 8 HR, 68 RBI): If there was one player that went under the radar in 2009 for the Twins, it was Denard Span. Hitting from the leadoff position, Span hit .311, had a .392 on base percentage, and lead the Twins in runs with 97. Him getting on base in front of the big bats in the order along with his baserunning agression was a pain for opposing pitchers. Now that Carlos Gomez has departed, Span will be the everyday centerfielder as he was destined to when the Twins drafted him. In just two seasons we have seen Span's average jump from .294 to .311 and it should increase in 2010 with the addition of Orlando Hudson to hit behind him. Maybe look for Span to be a All Star Game darkhorse player.
Delmon Young LF (.284 AVG, 12 HR, 60 RBI): In his first two seasons with the Twins, the Twins have seen Delmon Young struggle in the first half then go on a tear in the second half. So in preperation for the 2010 season, Delmon has dropped nearly 30 pounds to hopefully have more success over a whole season. Hopefully that carries over to his defense as well as he takes the left fielders job on a everyday basis. If Young can prove he can be a consistent hitter throughout the season that would just be an added bonus for the Twins. But if he falters again, the Twins might look into moving Young for a more consistent outfielder.
Saturday, February 20, 2010
Twins Spring Blog-Pitchers and Catchers
Today Pitchers and catchers report to camp and so i will break down each pitcher and catcher who has a chance on making the Twins roster this year.
PITCHERS
Scott Baker-RHP (15-9 4.37 ERA in 2009): Big spot Scott was more of a streaky pitcher in 2009. If things went bad, they went bad fast or if things were going good, he was lights out. The Twins are hoping Baker can minimize his damages in bad innings, during games, and put those behind him in the following frames. If he can do that he could solidify himself as the staff ace.
Nick Blackburn-RHP (11-11 4.03 ERA): Blackburn had a tale of two seasons last year. His first half he was the staff’s best pitcher going 8-4 with a 3.06 ERA. But the final three months saw Blackburn falter and went 3-7 with a 5.47 ERA. He is a primarily a contact pitcher so the ball will be put in play when he is on the mound, and hopefully they are hitting them right at the defense.
Carl Pavano-RHP (5-4 4.64 ERA): Pavano was a late season acquisition for the Twins in 09. He had 12 starts and averaged over 6 innings per start, which is why the Twins brought back the veteran right hander. They are hoping he can be that veteran presence again, pitching in the big games and eating up innings to give the bullpen a rest. Pavano should have some improved stats after 2010 with the Twins.
Kevin Slowey
Fransisco Liriano
Brian Duensing
Glen Perkins
Clay Condrey
Jon Rauch
Jesse Crain
Pat Neshek
Jose Mijares
Matt Guerrier
Joe Nathan-RHP (2-2 2.10 ERA 47 SV): Even though Joe Nathan's season might of been defined as his blown save in game 2 of the ALDS vs New York, he had another outstanding season. He set a club record in saves and had one of the leagues lowest ERA for closers. His blown save might drive him to an even better 2010 as one of the most underrated closers in all of baseball.
CATCHERS
Joe Mauer (.365 AVG, 28 HR, 96 RBI): Despite missing the first month of the season, Mauer couldn't of done much better in 2009. His efforts won him the AL MVP award. The only thing he needs is a new contract from the Twins to keep him here for a long time. In 2010 you should expect his average to remain in the .350s but maybe see his home runs drop just a bit and his RBI total should go up with the addition of Orlando Hudson to fill the two hole. If he can stay on the field, he should do just fine.
Jose Morales (.311 AVG, 0 HR, 7 RBI): After waiting his turn, Jose Morales finally got his shot at the Major Leagues and despite only playing in 54 games he still hit .311. And the Twins have rewarded his play with giving him the backup job after Mike Redmond's departure. He had wrist surgery during the offseason which might delay his 2010 debut and give Drew Butera a little time in the majors.
Drew Butera (No MLB experience): Drew Butera is not expected to make the Twins out of camp, but after Jose Morales' wrist surgery this offseason he might be in a Twins uniform for a little time in April. His offense still needs work, but he has great defense that MLB scouts love. He should fit in just fine if he gets the call up.
Monday, February 8, 2010
Twins offseason blog-2/8
We are a couple of weeks away from spring training now so I thought I'd take a look at the Twins projected lineup and pitching staff for the upcoming season. I am pleased to see the Twins add Jim Thome as a bat off the bench and Orlando Hudson to play second and bat second. They have given Joe Mauer all the indications that they want to win the World Series. So here you go I now dive into the lineup...
Projected Batting Order with 2009 Stats
1. Denard Span-CF .311 AVG, 180 H, 68 RBI, 23 SB
2. Orlando Hudson-2B .283 AVG, 35 2B, 62 RBI
3. Joe Mauer-C .365 AVG, 28 HR, 96 RBI, .587 SLG
4. Justin Morneau-1B .274 AVG, 30 HR, 100 RBI, .516 SLG
5. Jason Kubel-DH .300 AVG, 28 HR, 103 RBI, .539 SLG
6. Michael Cuddyer-RF .276 AVG, 32 HR, 94 RBI, 520 SLG
7. Delmon Young-LF .284 AVG, 12 HR, 60 RBI (108 games)
8. J.J. Hardy-SS .229 AVG, 11 HR, 47 RBI (115 games)
9. Nick Punto-3B .228 AVG, .337 OBP, 16 SB
2. Orlando Hudson-2B .283 AVG, 35 2B, 62 RBI
3. Joe Mauer-C .365 AVG, 28 HR, 96 RBI, .587 SLG
4. Justin Morneau-1B .274 AVG, 30 HR, 100 RBI, .516 SLG
5. Jason Kubel-DH .300 AVG, 28 HR, 103 RBI, .539 SLG
6. Michael Cuddyer-RF .276 AVG, 32 HR, 94 RBI, 520 SLG
7. Delmon Young-LF .284 AVG, 12 HR, 60 RBI (108 games)
8. J.J. Hardy-SS .229 AVG, 11 HR, 47 RBI (115 games)
9. Nick Punto-3B .228 AVG, .337 OBP, 16 SB
Bench with 2009 stats
Brendan Harris-2B/SS/3B .261 AVG, 22 2B, 37 RBI (123 games)
Alexi Casilla-2B/SS .202 AVG, 46 H, 11 SB (80 games)*
Jim Thome-1B/DH .249 AVG, 23 HR, 77 RBI (124 games)
Jose Morales-C .311 AVG, 37 H, 7 RBI (54 games)
*I have put Casilla on the bench for now because he is out of Minor League options and Matt Tolbert does have some options left so I'm gonna assume that they are gonna give Casilla a shot off the bench to start the season.
This is the most potent lineup in quite sometime. The Twins are solid from 1-6 and the bottom three in the order appear they will have bounceback years in 2010. Orlando Hudson fills a position that the Twins ranked dead last in most major offensive categories for second base. The addition of Jim Thome adds a big bat off the bench and he can be used for days when Kubel needs a day off or he fills in for a corner outfielder. If Mauer, Morneau, and Cuddyer can stay healthy for a full season the Twins should be towards the top of every offensive category in baseball and now stacks up against anyone out there.
Alexi Casilla-2B/SS .202 AVG, 46 H, 11 SB (80 games)*
Jim Thome-1B/DH .249 AVG, 23 HR, 77 RBI (124 games)
Jose Morales-C .311 AVG, 37 H, 7 RBI (54 games)
*I have put Casilla on the bench for now because he is out of Minor League options and Matt Tolbert does have some options left so I'm gonna assume that they are gonna give Casilla a shot off the bench to start the season.
This is the most potent lineup in quite sometime. The Twins are solid from 1-6 and the bottom three in the order appear they will have bounceback years in 2010. Orlando Hudson fills a position that the Twins ranked dead last in most major offensive categories for second base. The addition of Jim Thome adds a big bat off the bench and he can be used for days when Kubel needs a day off or he fills in for a corner outfielder. If Mauer, Morneau, and Cuddyer can stay healthy for a full season the Twins should be towards the top of every offensive category in baseball and now stacks up against anyone out there.
Projected Rotation with 2009 stats
1. Scott Baker-RHP 15-9, 4.37 ERA, 162 K, 200 IP
2. Nick Blackburn-RHP 11-11, 4.03 ERA, 205.2 IP, 41 BB
3. Carl Pavano-RHP 14-12, 5.10 ERA, 199.1 IP, 147 K, 39 BB
4. Kevin Slowey-RHP 10-3, 4.86 ERA, 90.2 IP, 75 K (16 Starts)
5. Francisco Liriano-LHP 5-13, 5.80 ERA, 136.2 IP, 122 K*
2. Nick Blackburn-RHP 11-11, 4.03 ERA, 205.2 IP, 41 BB
3. Carl Pavano-RHP 14-12, 5.10 ERA, 199.1 IP, 147 K, 39 BB
4. Kevin Slowey-RHP 10-3, 4.86 ERA, 90.2 IP, 75 K (16 Starts)
5. Francisco Liriano-LHP 5-13, 5.80 ERA, 136.2 IP, 122 K*
Bullpen with 2009 stats
Clay Condrey-RHP 45 G, 6-2 3.00 ERA, 42 IP, .233 OPP AVG (With PHI)
Jesse Crain-RHP 56 G, 7-4, 4.70 ERA, 51.2 IP, .250 OPP AVG
Jon Rauch-RHP 75 G, 7-3, 3.60 ERA, 70 IP, .262 OPP AVG
Pat Neshek-RHP DNP 2009 Season (Elbow)
Jose Mijares-LHP 71 G, 2-2, 2.34 ERA, 61.2 IP, .224 OPP AVG
Matt Guerrier-RHP 79 G, 5-1, 2.36 ERA, 76.1 IP, .207 OPP AVG
Joe Nathan-RHP 70 G, 2-2, 2.10 ERA, 47 SV/52 SVO, .171 OPP AVG
*I have projected Liriano in the starting rotation given the reports from his winter ball play, but he would be on a short leash considering the Twins depth in the minor leagues for pitching. Glen Perkins, Brian Duensing, Anthony Swarzak, and Jeff Manship are the options the Twins could go if Liriano falters again.
The Twins bullpen looks to be rock solid with the Twins mid '09 addition of Rauch, the offseason addition of Condrey, and Pat Neshek returning from Tommy John surgery. Add the reliable services of Crain, Mijares, Guerrier, and Nathan who all had exceptional years and the Twins should be in line foe the win if the rotation gets them the ball with the lead. The rotation is the question mark. The Twins lack a clear ace, but they have 4 young guys in there who anyone could step up in that role. They made the smart move and brought back Pavano the veteran who became very valuable down the stretch and in the postseason in 2009. My only concern is the starters going deep into the games which could wear the bullpen out. If they can go deep into games and hand the pen the lead the Twins should be in good shape.
This might be my last Twins blog until players have reported and I will be writing more frequently then.
WIN TWINS!
Jesse Crain-RHP 56 G, 7-4, 4.70 ERA, 51.2 IP, .250 OPP AVG
Jon Rauch-RHP 75 G, 7-3, 3.60 ERA, 70 IP, .262 OPP AVG
Pat Neshek-RHP DNP 2009 Season (Elbow)
Jose Mijares-LHP 71 G, 2-2, 2.34 ERA, 61.2 IP, .224 OPP AVG
Matt Guerrier-RHP 79 G, 5-1, 2.36 ERA, 76.1 IP, .207 OPP AVG
Joe Nathan-RHP 70 G, 2-2, 2.10 ERA, 47 SV/52 SVO, .171 OPP AVG
*I have projected Liriano in the starting rotation given the reports from his winter ball play, but he would be on a short leash considering the Twins depth in the minor leagues for pitching. Glen Perkins, Brian Duensing, Anthony Swarzak, and Jeff Manship are the options the Twins could go if Liriano falters again.
The Twins bullpen looks to be rock solid with the Twins mid '09 addition of Rauch, the offseason addition of Condrey, and Pat Neshek returning from Tommy John surgery. Add the reliable services of Crain, Mijares, Guerrier, and Nathan who all had exceptional years and the Twins should be in line foe the win if the rotation gets them the ball with the lead. The rotation is the question mark. The Twins lack a clear ace, but they have 4 young guys in there who anyone could step up in that role. They made the smart move and brought back Pavano the veteran who became very valuable down the stretch and in the postseason in 2009. My only concern is the starters going deep into the games which could wear the bullpen out. If they can go deep into games and hand the pen the lead the Twins should be in good shape.
This might be my last Twins blog until players have reported and I will be writing more frequently then.
WIN TWINS!
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