Twins Strike Gold With Bullock

The Minnesota Twins potentially found their successor to closer Joe Nathan in second round pick, pitcher Billy Bullock.  Bullock received a signing bonus of $522,000, and was immediately placed on the Elizabethton Twins in the Appalachian League (rookie league).  It did not take very long for the Twins to promote him to the Single-A ball club.

“After signing, Bullock was placed on the Elizabethton Twins in the Appalachian League, which is a Rookie League. Bullock had three saves and 10 strikeouts while allowing only three hits in 7.1 innings with an ERA of 1.23. The Twins liked what they saw and promoted Bullock last week to the Single-A Beloit Snappers of the Midwest League. He has pitched one inning with his new team, allowing two hits and no runs.”

The former Florida Gator has excellent control and a strong arm.  With Nathan turning 35 next year, the Twins will have plenty of time grooming Bullock into their next closer.  With the performance Bullock is showing the Twins organization, he won’t need all that time to make it to the big leagues.

We would no be surprised if we see Bullock at least as a middle-relief pitcher in a couple years for the Twins.  Possibly even setting up All-Star Nathan for a season or two.

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