Twins minor league report: Prospect's control problems intensify

By LA VELLE E. NEAL III, Star Tribune

Last update: August 8, 2009 - 9:00 AM

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Not every prospect is going to take a smooth path to the majors. And some will have it much harder than others.

The Twins have a challenge on their hands with righthander Shooter Hunt, the 31st overall pick in 2008.

Hunt couldn't throw strikes at Class A Beloit and took some time off, but he saw his control problems intensify while pitching for the Twins' rookie league team in Fort Myers, Fla.

In 32 2/3 innings at both levels, Hunt walked 58 batters and struck out 26. During outings on July 19 and July 24, he walked all six, then all four batters he faced before being relieved.

With his confidence shaken, Hunt has been shut down.

"He's working out and doing some things,'' said Jim Rantz, Twins director of minor leagues. "Just laying low.''

Rantz said Hunt is seeing a sports psychologist as he tries to get on the right track.

Watkins to coach

Infielder Tommy Watkins has left Class AAA Rochester and is back in Fort Myers as he transitions into a new career as a coach.

Watkins, who played in nine games with the Twins in 2007, was batting .254 at Rochester. At age 29, he probably wasn't going to get another big league shot.

Watkins will help coach the rookie league team, managed by Jake Mauer, and will also help out with Class A Fort Myers during home games.

Minor details

• Rochester righthander Jose Lugo has been placed on the disabled list because of an oblique muscle strain. Lefthander Sean Henn is expected to be activated from the DL and replace Lugo.

• Class AA New Britain righthander Alex Burnett is out indefinitely because of a broken left hand.

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