Just one thought tonight.
How can they turn this thing around and go from worst to first?
Twins GM Terry Ryan is going to meet with members of the coaching staff starting tomorrow morning, and a couple of them might be told that they are being replaced. After two last-place finishes, the club might feel compelled to shake up the staff.
But bad management and coaching doesn't lead to 96-loss seasons. When you're that crummy, it's the talent.
We have harped on starting pitching, and it's crucial that they strengthen the rotation with two guys who can give them at least 180 innings, preferably 200, to go with Scott Diamond. That doesn't count Kyle Gibson or Scott Baker (if he's brought back as a reduced salary) because their innings will be restricted in their first full seasons back from Tommy John surgery. And the Twins can't be sure if Baker is going to be ready by Opening Day, given his track record.
The recovery doesn't begin until there's better starting pitching.
Now, tell me who will start at second, third and short? Trevor Plouffe, after one great run of power hitting this summer, has put doubt back in the minds of some folks. His homer rate slowed down considerably in the second half and people are not happy with his defense.
Pedro Florimon and Eduardo Escobar are good defensive players, but will they hit? There's room on the club for one all-glove player, not two. It will be interesting next season to see where the Twins play Brian Dozier. I was thinking second base but now I'm wondering about third base,
