Casilla Likely To Win Final Roster Spot

The Minnesota Twins’ positional roster looks to be set, with exception to a utility role being “battled-out” for by infielder’s Alexi Casilla and Matt Tolbert.

Manager Ron Gardenhire told reporters that Casilla and Tolbert were “neck-and-neck” for the final roster spot.  Both players are batting an unimpressive under-.150 batting average so far in Spring Training games.

Technically, outfielder Jacque Jones is a candidate as well, but he appears to be a long-shot despite his impressive .360 batting average this spring.  Jones would be limited as a reserve corner-outfielder (possible center fielder — a stretch), whereas Casilla and Tolbert could play various positions.

Both Casilla and Tolbert got work in multiple positions this spring, with both even appearing at center field in games.  But before camp even started, Tolbert appeared to be a favorite because Casilla was viewed mainly as a second baseman.

While Casilla played basically all of his major league career at second base, Tolbert has seen plenty of major league action at third, short, and second.  Casilla has done a decent job playing at different positions this spring, but Tolbert should still be considered the better utility player.

Even though Tolbert is the better utility player, the “edge” appears to be in Casilla’s favor because Casilla is out of minor-league options, whereas Tolbert still has one remaining.  Not forgetting about Jones; the veteran outfielder already agreed to play in the Twins’ minor-league system if he doesn’t make the team out of camp.

Kelsie Smith of the Pioneer Press believes Casilla has the edge.  According to her report, Gardenhire is well aware of Casilla’s situation of not having any more options.

“We’re not going to run him through waivers and just give him away, Gardenhire said.  “He’s a really good baseball player with a lot of talent.  He gives us a lot of depth, so we’re not going to just lose this guy.  It’s not going to happen.”

Shortlink: