opening day pitching staff

Starters

Name2014 stats

Phil Hughes, RH16-10, 3.52 ERA

Ervin Santana, RH14-10, 3.95 ERA (Atlanta)

Ricky Nolasco, RH6-12, 5.38 ERA

Kyle Gibson, RH13-12, 4.47 ERA

Tommy Milone, LH6-4, 4.18 ERA (Oakland, Twins)

J.R. Graham is the latest Rule 5 pick given a chance to stick with the Twins.

Relievers

Name2014 stats

Mike Pelfrey, RH0-3, 7.99 ERA (elbow surgery June 10)

Former starter could pitch in long relief, or a shorter role if he acclimates to the bullpen.

Tim Stauffer, RH6-2, 3.50 ERA (San Diego)

Competed for starting job in spring, likely will join Pelfrey in long relief to start season.

Blaine Boyer, RH0-1, 3.57 ERA (San Diego)

His sinking fastball and changeup combination could be effective against lefties and righties.

J.R. Graham, RH1-5, 5.55 ERA (Class AA Mississippi)

A Rule 5 pick from Atlanta, his lack of experience will keep him out of late situations, but he does have a 95-mph fastball.

Brian Duensing, LH3-3, 3.31 ERA

The only bullpen lefty aside from Perkins could be a specialist or go longer when needed.

Casey Fien, RH5-6, 3.98 ERA

A workhorse — 146 games the past two seasons — who will again be the primary setup man when season starts.

Glen Perkins, LH34 saves, 3.65 ERA

Slowed by oblique injury in spring, but the All-Star closer should be ready for Opening Day.

Dennis Brackin