Minnesota Twins: Who Starts in the Wild Card One Game Playoff?

Is Kyle Gibson finally the starter the Twins hoped he could be?

Sep 13, 2015; Chicago, IL, USA; Minnesota Twins starting pitcher Kyle Gibson (44) delivers a pitch during the game against the Chicago White Sox at U.S Cellular Field. Mandatory Credit: Caylor Arnold-USA TODAY Sports

Kyle Gibson could be the most consistent pitcher in the rotation. From May 1 through July 26, Gibson made 16 starts going 7-6 with an ERA of 3.10. He gave up four or fewer runs in 13 of those 16 starts. Hard to believe it is only his third year in the majors but Gibson continues to progress. This season he already has career bests in ERA, innings pitched, strikeouts and SO/BB. He is having the best season of his career and at 27 could be entering his prime.

However, in the past month, he has not pitched very well. Since August 1, Gibson has a 4.73 ERA. He has given up three or more runs in half of his starts. He has also been walking more batters. Gibson has walked three or more batters in a game 10 times this season, four of those games have come since August 1. Gibson will have to lower the walks per game in order to lower his ERA.

When it comes down to the wild card playoff game, it is a case of what have you done for me lately. Gibson has not been nearly as effective lately as he was earlier in the season. If he pitches like he did mid-season then he could start in the wild card game. It seems unlikely that he will. There are more experienced options available.

Next: Mike Pelfrey