Twins Opening Day outfield
Logic would suggest that the Twins will use all three open roster spots on pitchers, but there's a wild card scenario to consider. Austin Martin was once in line to make his debut on Opening Day, but plans changed when Minnesota acquired Manuel Margot to serve as insurance behind Byron Buxton.
That policy is already being tested, as Buxton was scratched from the lineup on Monday with lower back tightness which means we're already dealing with an injury scare before the season has even started. The team deemed it a 'minor' injury, but the fact remains that he'll need as much support in working his way back as possible.
Using one of the roster spots on Martin could add even more depth behind Buxton but also give the Twins another platoon option at multiple positions. Martin can play second base, allowing Edouard Julien to either move over to first or DH, which gives him a role even if Buxton or Margot are in center.
Player | Position |
|---|---|
Byron Buxton | CF |
Matt Wallner | LF |
Max Kepler | RF |
Manuel Margot | OF |
Willi Castro | INF/OF |
Just Missed The Cut:
- Austin Martin, OF/INF
It would mean carrying only seven relievers, which might not be an even trade off, but doing so to allow for Martin to make the roster and provide positional depth might be worth it. The situation is a long shot, and a bit of a stretch, but there is at least a sliver of light coming through a barely cracked open door that leads to Martin making the Opening Day roster after all.