Twins pitching should be improved

Hitting vs. pitching

A quick look at three statistical categories comparing American League teams that show the Twins were just fine as hitters in 2017, but a bit lacking on the mound.

Twins have more stability on pitching staff

In total, 755 pitchers were used last year in the MLB. The Twins needed a team-record 36 pitchers last season. Injuries were partly to blame, but ineffectiveness of relievers had the shuttle from Class AAA Rochester in constant use. Key offseason acquisitions should cut that number in half in 2018.

New starters

The Twins signed free agent Lance Lynn and traded for Tampa Bay’s Jake Odorizzi to solidify the starting rotation. All-Star Ervin Santana will be out until May because of finger surgery, but the Twins shouldn’t need to sign a 44-year-old, as they did last season with Bartolo Colon.

New relievers

Of the 36 pitchers used last season, nine were used in only two or one games. Some youngsters, like Trevor Hildenberger, proved themselves as major leaguers. This year, the addition of free agents Addison Reed, Fernando Rodney and Zach Duke should give manager Paul Molitor a group that has defined roles.