The Minnesota Twins are facing some intriguing roster decisions as the season approaches. Alex Jackson, a catcher on the 40-man roster, is at a crossroads. With a $1.35 million salary and no minor league options left, the Twins must decide whether to carry three catchers or risk losing him on waivers, especially given their thin catching depth at the upper minor league levels.
Infield Dynamics
The infield lineup includes Josh Bell, Luke Keaschall, Brooks Lee, Royce Lewis, Kody Clemens, and Ryan Kreidler. The Twins' offensive potential looks promising if Keaschall can mirror his impressive rookie season and Bell continues his second-half surge.
Keaschall hit an impressive .302, reaching base in 43 of his 49 games, despite a broken forearm sidelining him for a few months. Meanwhile, Bell batted .272 with an .857 OPS post-All-Star break.
Kreidler and Orlando Arcia are the main contenders for the backup shortstop role. Kreidler's defensive versatility, including his ability to cover center field, might give him an advantage. Plus, being on the 40-man roster already gives him a leg up over Arcia, who was a non-roster invitee.
Outfield Considerations
The outfield features Byron Buxton, Matt Wallner, Trevor Larnach, Alan Roden, and Austin Martin. Larnach's retention over the winter raised some eyebrows due to the abundance of left-handed corner outfielders.
However, his potential to hit 20 homers as a designated hitter cannot be overlooked. James Outman, another lefty, is also out of minor league options.
Despite his defensive prowess, his 43% strikeout rate last season is a concern.
Roden and Martin might share duties in left field, with one stepping in for center field when Buxton isn't playing. Roden impressed in the minors with his hitting and speed on the bases, while Martin's .374 on-base percentage and improved baserunning last year make him a strong candidate.
Prospect Watch
A key storyline this season will be how the Twins manage their outfield prospects. Emmanuel Rodriguez, a lefty with a knack for drawing walks, gained confidence in the Dominican Winter League and is a solid defender.
Walker Jenkins, starting the season in Class AAA, is a 21-year-old with star potential. Gabriel Gonzalez, a right-handed hitter, excels in making contact but needs to work on his defense.
The Twins have a blend of established talent and promising prospects, setting the stage for an exciting season ahead. How they navigate these roster choices could play a significant role in their success.