Report From The Fort: Eight Guys, Three Spots, and Roster Math
FORT MYERS—Barring injuries, 10 of the 13 position-player spots on the Twins' projected roster are already locked in, leaving three bench spots to be filled. Let's dive into the candidates and their chances of making the Opening Day roster, along with some thought-provoking questions to spark discussion.
1. Backup Shortstop
The Twins' starting infield is set, but who will step in when Brooks Lee needs a break? One of these three players will take the lead role, and it's anyone's guess who it will be.
Tristan Gray (30%): A versatile player with offensive upside, Gray has the flexibility to play all over the infield. His underlying metrics suggest he has the most potential among the three. However, his MLB experience is limited, with only 122 plate appearances and a .634 OPS.
Ryan Kreidler (30%): Known for his excellent glove, Kreidler can also play center field. His Triple-A numbers suggest he's better than his career .383 OPS over four years. But can he prove he's better than Gray and Arcia?
Orlando Arcia (40%): A 10-year veteran and former All-Star, Arcia has a .599 OPS over his last two years. Can he use spring training to show he's back to his old self? The veteran edge might give him a slight advantage, but he could opt out if he doesn't make the roster.
2. Backup Center Fielder
Byron Buxton's impact is irreplaceable, but the Twins need an insurance policy for when he's out. One of these two players will likely make the roster, even if Kreidler is already on the team.
James Outman (50%): Acquired at the trade deadline, Outman didn't perform better with the Twins than with the Dodgers. His defensive struggles in center and left field are a concern, but he's out of minor-league options, giving the Twins leverage.
Austin Martin (90%): A 26-year-old former top prospect, Martin can play center field, is right-handed, and can steal bases. The Twins need all these skills, and it's too good to pass up.
3. Offensive Help
The Twins' offense ranked 23rd in runs scored last year, so adding some right-handed bats could be key. The last spot will focus on offensive help.
Eric Wagaman (25%): A right-handed hitter with a .783 OPS against left-handed pitching, Wagaman could be a high-leverage bat against left-handed relievers. However, his struggles against right-handed pitching limit his role.
Alan Roden (20%): Traded last year, Roden played left field for the Twins. If the Twins prefer Trevor Larnach at designated hitter, Roden could start in left field, adding another left-handed corner outfield bat to the mix.
Gio Urshela (15%): A veteran right-handed bat with less defensive flexibility than Wagaman, Urshela could still win the job. But it seems like he's on the outside looking in, unless there's an injury or Wagaman underperforms.
Thought-Provoking Questions:
Who do you think will take the lead role as backup shortstop? Gray, Kreidler, or Arcia? Why?
Will the Twins prioritize offensive help or defensive versatility in their final roster spot? What do you think is the most important factor?
Which player do you think will surprise everyone and make the roster? And why?
