The Twins took another big step towards finalizing their opening day roster today, cutting five more players from camp.

The players cut from camp today include Randy Keisler, Ricky Barrett, Tommy Watkins, Garrett Jones and Randy Ruiz.

Garrett Jones was on the 40-man roster, so he needed to be out-righted to AAA Rochester. In addition, he was out of options, so he also needed to clear waivers. To my surprise, Jones was not claimed, and will remain with the organization.

With the cutting of Jones and Ruiz, it looks as if the Twins have made their decision on the final bench spot. Assuming the Twins don't want an additional outfielder, Brian Buscher looks to be the twenty-fifth man.

With the cuts, the Twins now have 35 players remaining in camp.

Comments (7)

Knott
written by MorneauMVP, March 21, 2008

I wonder why they didnt cut Knott...I am assuming that is what you refered to when you said, "Assuming the Twins don't want an additional outfielder, Brian Buscher looks to be the twenty-fifth man."

That came as a surprise to me as he is the extra outfielder and is a very long shot to make it. Tolbert is also still up with us so it will come down to Buscher and Tolbert. I hope it is Buscher to start the season then Tolbert gets called up when they realize the Punto is replaceable...

Knott
written by Twins Territory, March 21, 2008

Oh, I didn't even think of him. I was reffering to Pridie actually.

I hope the Twins continue to surprise us and cut Punto to keep both Tolbert and Buscher. Its a longshot, but one can dream

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written by mmaland, March 21, 2008

I just noticed that Buscher has the lowest batting average in spring training. Does this make sense?

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written by Twins Territory, March 21, 2008

While that may be true, word is that he has looked very good at the plate. He has been more patient and hit the ball hard. I know I personally have seen him robbed of two hits.

Plus, I think the Twins really want him in the majors because they have taught him to play both 2B and 1B this spring.

I'd love to have both him and Tolbert and will be happy either way.

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written by USAFChief, March 21, 2008

Couple points:

1) I'm pretty sure Jones is not on the 40 man roster.

2) I really don't think Buscher can play middle infield and I'd be surprised if the Twins came north with only one bench player capable of playing SS/2B (Punto). I don't think you can learn to play SS/2B in one spring training. That's why I think Tolbert will get the last bench position. Buscher is also pretty redundant to Lamb (both LH hitters, both confined to primarly corner infield.)

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written by Twins Territory, March 21, 2008

Jones was on the 40-man roster before, but got out-righted off of it I believe...

I'm not sure what the Twins will do with that bench spot. I'll be happy with either one of them.

My main concern right now is with Baker, I hope he's ready to go on Opening Day.

Harris
written by MorneauMVP, March 21, 2008

reply to USAFChief:

Harris has the ability to play SS and 2B so in the games that Punto is in, Harris could spell Everett....this is why I think Buscher will come north plus more pop in his bat then in Tolbert's but if Punto should get cut (wishful thinking) Tolbert should take his spot.

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