A few Minnesota Twins pitchers are in a battle for a roster spot, as they are out of minor league options. In an article about players without options published by mlbtraderumors.com, they note that a “lack of minor league options is often a key reason a certain player will make the roster over another who had a superior spring performance.” This means teams would rather keep these players than put them on waivers and risk losing them. Brock Stewart and Michael Tonkin, both relief pitchers for the Twins, are vying for a roster spot to avoid waivers.
Brock Stewart
Stewart has six years of major league service, including the last two with the Twins. With 16 appearances in 2024, Stewart had a 5.17 ERA, 1.468 WHIP, and 20 strikeouts over 15.2 innings pitched with a -0.1 WAR. These stats were a step backward from Stewarts 2023 season, which is statistically the best of his career. In 2023, Stewart had a 0.65 ERA in 28 appearances with a 1.084 WHIP and 39 strikeouts in 27.2 innings pitched. Baseball-reference.com projects Stewart to have a 3.75 ERA, 1.250 WHIP, and 37 strikeouts over 36 innings pitched this season.
Stewart is certainly battling for a roster spot for a team whose strength is the bullpen. The Twins late off-season signing of Danny Coulombe only intensifies that competition. The Twins will stick to their precedent and focus on their younger players. As a 33-year-old reliever, Stewart must return to his 2023 form to stand out at spring training.
Michael Tonkin
Tonkin has spent seven seasons in the majors, including his first five with the Twins. Playing for three different teams in 2024 (Mets, Yankees, Twins), Tonkin posted a 3.63 ERA, 1.261 WHIP, and 85 strikeouts over 79.1 innings pitched. Despite bouncing around teams, Tonkin was able to see significant time in the majors. He is projected by baseball-reference.com to have a 3.95 ERA, 1.233 WHIP, and 71 strikeouts over 73 innings for this upcoming season.
Similar to Stewart, Tonkin is battling for a spot in a strong bullpen. Projected to have slightly stronger stats than Stewart, Tonkin may have the edge to earn a roster spot and avoid waivers. At 35 years old, Tonkin brings the experience and maturity needed in a bullpen with younger players.
Twins Bullpen Depth
For the Twins, having solid depth anywhere on their roster is important. With injuries hampering the team to close out the 2024 season, their bullpen became exhausted. Competition will ensure they have the best pitchers when the push for the playoffs ensues. Younger players like David Festa, Scott Blewett, and Kody Funderburk are in the mix to earn a spot in the Twins’ bullpen. Working with veteran players like Stewart and Tonkin will only benefit their careers. If it comes down to only a few spots to fill, the Twins will have to ask themselves if they want more veteran experience on their staff or invest in younger pitchers to develop for the future.
Stewart must regain his 2023 form. If he struggles, it would be no surprise if the Twins part ways with him in favor of younger arms. Tonkin’s experience and ability to eat up innings may make him a valuable asset to the Twins. Both pitchers must have strong performances in camp to avoid being put on waivers and hopefully picked up by another team.
Main Photo Credits: Jesse Johnson-Imagn Images
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