The Twins on Tuesday optioned five pitchers to the minor league camp, including a few of their top prospects.
Lefthanders Stephen Gonsalves (pictured) and Adalberto Mejia, along with righthanders John Curtiss and Aaron Slegers, have been optioned to Class AAA Rochester.
Mejia threw two scoreless innings on Monday during the Twins' 2-1 win over the Yankees.
Righthander Fernando Romero was optioned to Class AA Chattanooga. That might appear surprising, considering that Romero tossed eight hitless innings at camp with one walk and 10 strikeouts. It's likely to ensure that he gets the innings he needs to build his endurance.
But, given the additions of Jake Odorizzi and Lance Lynn, pitchers have been bumped down a couple spots. And Romero might have to start the season with the Lookouts. That's not a bad thing, as he will have no restrictions as he is another year removed from Tommy John surgery.
The cuts also indicate the Twins might be comfortable with Phil Hughes as a starter, after his strong performance Monday.
The Twins have 48 players in camp, including 21 pitchers. Camp breaks in 13 days.
Here is today's lineup against the Orioles:
