Twins Face Lineup Adjustments Amid Player Injuries
The Minnesota Twins are navigating a few bumps in the road as they gear up for the upcoming season. Trevor Larnach was a late scratch from Sunday’s lineup due to left side soreness.
The team has labeled him as day-to-day, and he's expected to sit out until after Wednesday’s rest day. This development comes as a bit of a surprise, but the Twins are hopeful for a quick recovery.
Meanwhile, outfielder Austin Martin is dealing with concussion symptoms following an unsuccessful diving catch attempt in Monday’s spring training game. Despite managing to stay in the game long enough to hit a single and score, Martin was removed as a precaution. Manager Derek Shelton noted that Martin will refrain from baseball activities for the next two days and will undergo further evaluation.
Martin was a strong contender for the Opening Day roster. However, if he starts the season on the injured list, it opens the door for Alan Roden, who's had an impressive spring. Yet, with the Twins’ depth in left-handed hitting outfielders, Roden's inclusion isn't guaranteed unless Martin is sidelined.
If the Twins opt for a right-handed bat to replace Martin, Eric Wagaman could be a viable option. Wagaman, who offers versatility with the ability to play left field, first, and third base, posted a solid .283/.321/.462 slash line against lefties last season with the Miami Marlins.
In other roster news, the Twins have reassigned pitchers Grant Hartwig and Julian Merryweather to minor-league camp. Hartwig, 28, struggled this spring with a 9.82 ERA over 7 1/3 innings.
After joining the Twins on a minor-league deal post-release from the Mets, he’s looking to refine his game. Despite a rocky spring, Hartwig could still see major league action if injuries deplete the bullpen.
Julian Merryweather, who had a standout 3.38 ERA over 72 innings with the Cubs in 2023, has been limited this spring due to a left hamstring strain. However, he's been making progress with bullpen sessions and remains a key pitching option for the Twins moving forward.
The Twins are managing these challenges with a strategic eye, ensuring they maintain depth and flexibility as they prepare for the season ahead.