Minnesota Twins: Bullpen
At this point, we almost have to consider the Minnesota Twins to be contenders. The leaders of the American League Central, they are not showing any signs of going away, as they have instead recaptured their 2015 form.
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That is not to say that the Twins are without holes. Minnesota has virtually no power aside from Miguel Sano and Brian Dozier. The starting rotation is essentially Ervin Santana, Jose Berrios, and praying for the best. Yet, for all of the problems in Minnesota, it is the bullpen that could use the most work.
In an era when bullpens are of extreme importance, the Twins relief corps has been a disaster. They rank last in the majors with a 5.28 bullpen ERA. Opponents have a .273/.344/.458 batting line against Minnesota relievers, again the worst in the game. It makes one wonder how they are still able to remain atop the division.
The Twins have had several bright spots in the bullpen this year. Brandon Kintzler has emerged as a competent option as their closer. Craig Breslow and Taylor Rogers have been solid as left handed options. But the Twins bullpen has been bad enough where backup catcher Chris Gimenez has made four appearances this year as a reliever. The Twins bullpen needs help.
Next: White Sox plummeting out of contention
One of the biggest surprises of the 2017 season, the Minnesota Twins are in position to make the postseason. Shoring up that bullpen could be a step in that direction.