In January, I
posted a long-range prediction for the next four Twins’ seasons.
The 2014 predicted Opening Day roster was fairly similar, with a few noted exeptions:
1.) Alex Presley
claimed off waivers from the Astros.
While Presley’s
spring training was not what anyone would have hoped, batting .189 with no
extra base hits and one stolen base in four attempts, he has a career .292
minor league average and was one of the team’s only lead-off and backup outfield options. It’s a
sure indiction of his talent that the Astros, the first team in the waiver-wire
line, dropped a pitcher to adapt their roster for Presley.
2.) Chris
Parmelee and Scott Diamond pass through waivers
All winter the
Twins were sweating the possibility of losing several “talented” players that
were out-of-options. Thus, it’s a telling sign that Diamond, a 27-year-old
lefthander that entered the 2013 season as the projected staff “Ace,” and
Parmelee, a former 1st round draft pick and opening day starter in
2012 and 2013, both slipped through waivers by all major league teams.
3.) Jason
Bartlett makes the 25-man roster
Picking the
34-year-old Bartlett over Presley was definitely the surprise of the spring,
especially as Bartlett could be sent to the minor leagues without any penalty.
Apparently, the Twins feel that the former starting shortstop has the athletic
ability to play all positions, and that he can add some needed life and winning
attitude to the clubhouse.
Don’t be
surprised, however, to see natural outfielder and leadoff-man, Darin
Mastroianni, called up from AAA at some point if Bartlett falters. Another
interesting option could be catcher/outfielder, Chris Hermann, who would give
the Twins the option to DH the bat of catcher Josmil Pinto.
4.) Kyle Gibson
as #5 starter
Gibson earned
the job in spring training, with a 2.20 ERA in 16.1 innings. It’s only a
surprise in that the Twins risked losing Vance Worley and Scott Diamond,
although it became apparent that Gibson deserved the spot. Sam Deduno will also
transition to the bullpen, after a stellar spring ERA of 1.76 with 17
strikeouts in 16.1 innings.
Given his
potential, Gibson could emerge as a solid #3 starter or better as the season
progresses. His sinker looked filthy this spring, according to reports.
