Nov 2, 2013; Surprise, AZ, USA; Minnesota Twins second baseman Eddie Rosario against the East during the Fall Stars Game at Surprise Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-USA TODAY Sports
Playing Time Deductions
It really is hard, and maybe even unfair to deduce much from early playing time in Spring Training. With that being said, there’s plenty to analyze looking at the early lineups that Paul Molitor has employed at the ballpark. A great starting point is prospect Eddie Rosario.
Having been delayed a season ago by a 50 game suspension, the Twins could be giving significant thought towards an early promotion. Rosario has played at the Double-A level for 70 games in 2013, he likely wouldn’t have repeated it had it not been for the suspension. His Arizona Fall League performance was stellar, and the move to left field removes the block that was Dozier at second base.
Once a highly touted prospect for the Twins, it’s probably safe to bet that Rosario could be this season’s Danny Santana. Getting an early callup to help out in the outfield, Rosario could make an immediate impact for the Twins. Without the worry of a Super 2 situation, the Twins could give Rosario a look as early as June.
Miguel Sano also falls into the category of a young guy who has gotten a significant amount of run. Whether it be at the designated hitter spot, or playing third base, Molitor has wanted to see Sano plenty early on. Coming off of injury, he likely will be slow played to start out the year, but there should be next to no reason he doesn’t surface with the Twins in 2015.
There’s probably not going to be a reason the Twins need Sano prior to June, despite the Super 2 situation. Regardless, expecting him to be up with the Twins for good sometime in August is probably a pretty real possibility.