2015 Twins: Looking For A Spring Training Hero
Nov 2, 2013; Surprise, AZ, USA; Minnesota Twins pitcher Alex Meyer against the East during the Fall Stars Game at Surprise Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-USA TODAY Sports
At this point, it has to be assume that the Twins are going to have Meyer starting the season down in Triple-A Rochester. Rather than bring him up through the bullpen, and remove a typical relief option, it makes the most sense to keep Meyer in a starting role.
Right now, it would appear that Tommy Milone has the inside edge on the 5th rotation spot, with Meyer and Trevor May rounding out the real competition. However, Alex Meyer brings a strikeout ability that the Twins could so badly use in their starting rotation. Should the top prospect show that he has an increased handle on his command throughout Spring Training, it may be Milone on the outside looking in.
To break into the rotation leaving Fort Myers, Meyer will need to focus first and foremost on his command and limiting walks. If he is able to pound the zone, continue to strike batters out, and profile as a strong starting option, his upside alone could bump Milone. It is fair to reason that Meyer may be the player who Spring Training is most important for.