Jose Berrios
It’s an exciting time for young players in Minnesota. Aside from the aforementioned Byron Buxton and last year’s breakout slugger Miguel Sano, the Twins also have a pitching gem in their farm system in Jose Berrios.
The 21-year-old right-hander put on a fine display last season in the minor leagues. He posted a 3.08 ERA over 15 starts at Double-A Chattanooga before being promoted to Triple-A Rochester. There he was even better, working a 2.62 ERA over 12 outings.
The Twins rotation could use an infusion of talent, so Berrios should see a legitimate opportunity in 2016. In an MLB.com scouting report, Bernie Pleskoff notes that Berrios throws hard (94-96 mph fastball) despite his unremarkable size (listed at 6’0″, 185 lbs). He also utilizes a sinking changeup and curve ball, and he changes speeds well to keep hitters off balance.
It’s not difficult to imagine the former first round draft pick flourishing at pitcher-friendly Target Field, so Berrios is definitely worth keeping in mind in the early stages of the AL Rookie of the Year race.