Eventually, the Twins will have to address Michael Pineda's workload.
Pitchers who are in their first season following Tommy John surgery are watched carefully and their innings are monitored closely. Pitchers have been shut down. Pitchers have been moved into the bullpen. It's reasonable to assume the Twins will reach a similar point with Pineda.
I've only brought up the issue with Twins officials during casual conversations, so we really don't know what their plans are. And, based on early dealings with Rocco Baldelli, he prefers to keep things close to the vest until it's absolutely safe to share. (for instance, Byron Buxton should be good to go Tuesday when the Twins open a series against the Rays, but he won't admit that yet. That's fine. That's Rocco.)
The Twins appear to be in the market for two pitchers, based on conversations I've had with officials. That could be either two relievers or one starter and one reliever. If they add a starter (and I don't know who that could be because the market doesn't look that strong) someone in the current rotation would have to move to the bullpen.
So it would make sense that Pineda would be that guy. His innings will eventually become an issue, so that would be the logical move.
Over his last seven starts, Pineda is 2-0 with a 3.67 ERA. Over his last two outings, Pineda has a 1.54 ERA while holding opponents to a .179. He has been on a season-long quest to perfect his slider, and it seems to have finally come around.
So Pineda looks to be in a good spot as the Twins look to take three of four in Kansas City.
It's a very soggy morning in KC. It rained most of the night is still raining and will rain up until noon. There is a window to play the game, with more storms due in around 5 p.m. Any scattered showers that pop up unexpectedly could be a challenge.
