As the Twins inch closer to finalizing their Opening Day bullpen, the team made some decisive moves by reassigning relievers Julian Merryweather and Grant Hartwig to minor league camp. Both were non-roster invitees, and their departure narrows down the competition as the team prepares for the season ahead.
Currently, the Twins have 45 players in camp, with 21 of them being pitchers. However, these numbers are a bit deceptive. Righthander David Festa is set to start the season on the 15-day injured list, while Travis Adams has been dealing with elbow inflammation, likely sidelining him for the start.
With Adams' availability in question, the Twins are left with 13 relievers vying for what appears to be eight bullpen spots. Merryweather, who showed promise early in camp, suffered a setback with a Grade 1 left hamstring strain during his first Grapefruit League outing. Despite completing three bullpen sessions, he hasn't made it back into game action.
Hartwig, on the other hand, had a rough go in his seven Grapefruit League appearances, allowing eight earned runs across 7⅓ innings, resulting in a 9.82 ERA. His struggles contributed to the decision to reassign him, as the Twins look to solidify a strong bullpen unit for the upcoming season.
As the Twins continue to evaluate their options, the competition remains fierce, with each pitcher looking to seize their opportunity and secure a spot on the Opening Day roster.