Twins Breakdown: Grading Offseason Acquisitions

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Feb 24, 2014; Lake Buena Vistas, FL, USA; Atlanta Braves pitcher J.R. Graham (72) poses for a picture at ESPN Wide World of Sports. Mandatory Credit: Kim Klement-USA TODAY Sports

J.R. Graham (Rule 5 Draft Pick)

The Twins selected Graham with the 5th pick in the Rule 5 Draft from the Atlanta Braves. After being selected in the 4th round of the 2011 MLB Draft by the Braves, Graham was highly regarded as a prospect. A hard thrower that could get batters out, injuries derailed Graham’s career.

Now 25, Graham has pitched in just 35 games over the past two season. Although his 5.58 ERA in 27 games in 2014 was not impressive, the belief is that the high upside could make him an asset out of the bullpen.

For the Twins, Graham heads into Spring Training with an inside shot at making the Opening Day roster. Should he not be on the 25 man, he would be returned to the Braves. With the Twins selecting him so high in the Rule 5 Draft, the expectation would be that he sticks. Minnesota will be hoping that Graham can return to the 2.26 ERA that he compiled over his first two professional seasons.

Grade: C+

Although the big splash came in the form of two players, the Twins addressed their biggest needs this offseason. With a handful of prospects looking to spill over into the major leagues, it appears that the Twins are in the best position they have been in years.

Next: Twins Highlight MLB Top Prospects Lists

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