Twins' offseason issues

Looking as areas of concern for the Twins as free agency begins.

CATCHER

With Kurt Suzuki a free agent, the Twins don't have a starting catcher on their 40-man roster.

Potential free agents

Wilson Ramos: The ex-Twin was looking to cash in on the market this offseason but tore an ACL in September and won't be ready to start the season.

Matt Wieters: Became a free agent when he was not given a qualifying offer by Baltimore on Monday. Coming off a down year but still is a switch hitter with some power.

Jason Castro: Doesn't hit much, but the Twins need someone who can call a good game and throw out a couple of runners. He can do that.

STARTING PITCHERS

The Twins expect Phil Hughes back from surgery and also have young arms in their formative years who need experience.

Potential free agents

Rich Hill, LHP: This would be a long, long shot, as Hill likely would look at contenders. Also, he's 36 years old.

Jeremy Hellickson, RHP: Former AL Rookie of the Year made the most of his exile to Philadelphia and now is in line for a solid payday.

Andrew Cashner, RHP: You swoon over his arm, but he has not been able to put it all together. Still worth a look, possibly like the Twins did with Hughes in 2014.

RELIEF PITCHERS

The Twins have a few young arms who took their lumps last year, and it's unclear if Glen Perkins will return to form after surgery. Won't even mention Aroldis Chapman or Kenley Jansen as options.

Potential free agents

Brett Cecil, LHP: Held opponents to a .269 average in 2016 and had a strikeout rate of 11 per nine innings. And the Twins need a lefty.

Travis Wood, LHP: Posted a 2.95 ERA last year and held lefties to a .128 batting average.

Neftali Feliz, RHP: Has been slowed by injuries but posted a 3.52 ERA for Pittsburgh while throwing the most innings since 2011.

La VELLE E. NEAL III