As the Twins wrapped up their weekend, the highs and lows of spring training were on full display. After a solid 8-5 win over the Red Sox on Thursday, the team hit a rough patch, dropping three straight to the Blue Jays, Rays, and Red Sox. But remember, spring training is less about wins and more about individual progress as players gear up for Opening Day.
Let’s dive into who’s shining and who’s still finding their footing.
Heating Up
Luke Keaschall: Keaschall continues to impress with his bat. Going 3-for-7 with two doubles and no strikeouts, he's proving to be a reliable presence at the plate.
His average exit velocity of 88.9 MPH may not scream power, but it’s a notable improvement from last season. With a 90th-percentile exit velocity now at 102.4 MPH, Keaschall is showing signs of adding some pop to his game.
If he can maintain this trend, his offensive potential could see a significant boost.
Mick Abel: Abel’s latest outing was a mixed bag, but there’s plenty to be optimistic about. Over 3 1/3 innings, he allowed two earned runs, but his ability to settle down and rack up four strikeouts is promising.
His slider, earning a 127 Stuff+ grade, is becoming a standout weapon in his arsenal. While his fastball velocity dipped slightly, the composure he showed after a rocky start is a great sign for the Twins.
Matt Wallner: Wallner is finding his groove, going 3-for-6 over the weekend and smashing a 420-foot homer. With a .294 average and a .415 on-base percentage, his consistency is improving. If Wallner can keep up this level of play, he’s poised to be a key player in the lineup.
Needing a Boost
Royce Lewis: It’s been a tough spell for Lewis, who’s gone 0-for-10 with three strikeouts recently. His contact hasn’t been sharp, with only two balls hit over 80 MPH.
Despite a .111 average this spring, there’s no need for alarm bells just yet. Lewis is working through adjustments, and it’s crucial he finds his rhythm before the season kicks off.
Eric Orze: Orze has hit a rough patch, allowing runs in consecutive outings. His control has been shaky, with six walks in 5 2/3 innings, and hitters are making solid contact against him.
With a 6.35 ERA, Orze’s spot in the bullpen mix is less secure than it once seemed. He’ll need to tighten things up to regain his footing.
Victor Caratini: Caratini’s struggles at the plate continued, going hitless in seven at-bats over the weekend. While he’s making contact, the quality isn’t there yet. It’s unlikely to impact his roster spot, but a few solid hits before Opening Day would certainly boost confidence.
Spring training is all about building momentum and ironing out the kinks. As the Twins inch closer to the regular season, these performances will help shape the final roster decisions. Keep an eye on these players as they look to make their mark and carry some positive energy into Opening Day.