Francisco Liriano had his best outing of the spring today only to be optioned to Single-A Fort Myers after the game. Liriano pitched five solid innings, allowing just three hits and a run. More impressive, Liriano struck out seven Pirates in the outing.

Even with the two solid consecutive starts in which Liriano upped his pitch count, showed better control and let go of his slider, it wasn’t enough to make the Opening Day roster. Ron Gardenhire and company made the decision that he should have more time.

The plan now is for Liriano to stay in Fort Myers and start the club’s opening game next Thursday. At that point, the Twins will send him to Rochester for one final tune-up and then to Minnesota to join the rotation.

The news seemed to be accepted pretty well by The Franchise. He noted that while he does feel fine and ready to start with the big league team, if the Twins feel that he needs two more starts, then he’ll make two more starts.

"I think I'm ready to start in Minnesota. If they want me to start here, I will start here. If they feel it's better for me, I don't mind starting here."

After giving the move a lot of thought, I’m still not sure what to think. I must say that I’m disappointed that he won’t be with the team on Opening Day. But seeing him get two more outings, and the fact that he really won’t miss very much of the major league season, I’m starting to accept that these two extra outings are worth it.

What do you think?