Starters

Fans have been discussing an opening day starter for the Twins. Though it SEEMS like a big deal, it really isn't. The Twins are hoping each of their staters will stay healthy and pitch 30-35 good games each this season. A sixth guy coming out of the bullpen once in a while to give them all a little more rest would be great.

As luck would have it, the Twins HAVE six starters on the roster right now. Though none are Cy Young award candidates at this point, there is reason for increased optimism this year.

Kyle Gibson was great last year. He led the starters with innings pitched and ERA. As a bonus, his strikeout rate was also better last season. Most are hoping for a breakout year from him.

Phil Hughes two seasons ago had the best strikeouts to walk ratio in baseball history. Last year? Let's just say it was an off year. There's no talk of injuries or sore arms for him this spring and all reports are that he came to camp in far better shape than last season. If he could look anywhere near as good as two seasons ago, Twins fans will be happy.

Ervin Santana sat out the first half of last season with a PED suspension, BUT in his last seven starts last year he put up an ERA of 1.62. As the highest paid pitcher in team history, many would like him to see him at that kind of level the entire season this year.

Those three are the best guess for opening day starters. My guess? If all are equally healthy, Santana will get the nod. The Twins will want their money's worth from him.

What about the other three potential starters you may ask?

Tyler Duffy was excellant in his half season last year with the Twins and veteran Tommy Milone was looking better after his arm trouble went away from the previous season.

That leaves Ricky Nolasco who has had two lousy seasons in a row. I think he'll be that sixth starter stuck in the bullpen. He's going to have to pitch his way into the starting rotation.

Of course we're talking baseball here. At least one of these guys will go down to an injury, and we'll be looking for starting help before you know it. Spring training should show us our top minor league prospects for that help.