The Twins pitching staff is well ahead of last year’s pace, but the starting pitching has still been inconsistent in 2017.
Ervin Santana and Hector Santiago have been lights out, while the others have struggled along. Phil Hughes has been up-and-down and Kyle Gibson has allowed as many earned runs (17) as innings pitched.
After Saturday’s loss to the Tigers, the club optioned their fifth starter Adalberto Mejia to Rochester, but neglected to call up another one because they don’t need one at the moment.
Over the next 11 days, the Twins have two off-days so they technically don’t need a fifth starter.
“Given the schedule the way it shapes up, with the off-days, we can get by with four starters, at least until May 6.” said Manager Paul Molitor following Saturday’s loss.
The team could very well recall Mejia or elect for Jose Berrios or Alex Wimmers. Berrios has been one of the team’s best pitching prospects in recent years, but has struggled in his limited time at the major league level.
So far he’s pitched well at Triple-A Rochester this season, allowing just 3 earned runs in 19 innings, while striking out 19 batters and issuing just 3 walks.
