CLEARWATER, FLA. – Twins manager Ron Gardenhire said there are plenty of "moving parts" as the final roster decisions take place with Opening Day a week away.
And some decisions will be about parts that Gardenhire can move around the infield. Citing the Tampa Bay Rays as an example, Gardenhire said he wants as much flexibility with his bench as possible.
"What we need is an interchangeable bench," he said. "We need people who can play all over the place."
That's why Jason Bartlett and Eduardo Escobar have played in the outfield and Chris Parmelee recently made a brief appearance in center. The one player who could land a roster spot because of his flexibility is Chris Herrmann, who is batting .412 this spring. Herrmann can play the outfield, first base and catcher.
"Everyone forgets about his name," Gardenhire said. "He's pretty good. He's an interchangeable part that we're discussing. His swing is better. He's gotten better all the way around."
With Herrmann on the team, Gardenhire said he could use Josmil Pinto as a designated hitter at times.
"Would you like to see Pinto hit more?" Gardenhire asked.
Bartlett not back?
Bartlett's comeback bid with the Twins could be over this week. Their former starting shortstop could exercise an opt-out clause in his contract and become a free agent if it looks like he is not going to be on the Twins' Opening Day roster.