Twins manager Paul Molitor announced before the game that lefthander Adalberto Mejia will start on Saturday against Kansas City. The move was telegraphed on Tuesday when Mejia was pulled early from his start.
This, of course, means that righthander Kyle Gibson will remain at Class AAA Rochester for the time being. Gibson pitched well on Monday, giving up one run over 61/3 innings, but I sense the Twins want to see him have several strong outings before they bring him back.
It's a sound approach, but injuries, blowouts and doubleheaders can change plans. Because of today's doubleheader, the Twins need a starter for Monday in Baltimore. They could line Gibson up for that start by limiting him to 35 pitches or so on Saturday. The also have options on the major league staff, like lefthander Adam Wilk. The decision on Monday's starter might not be made until Saturday, as Molitor and pitching coach Neil Allen wait to see which relievers they need to get through the next few games.
Ervin Santana is on the mound in the first game while Jose Berrios will start the second game. It's a chance for Twins fans to see one of the best pitchers in the league at the moment and a prospect who might be the key to the future.
Too bad the weather isn't better. This would be a good day to spend at the ballpark.
Rockies
Charlie Blackmon, CF
DJ LeMahieu, 2B
Nolan Arenado, 3B
Mark Reynolds, DH
Carlos Gonzalez, RF
Ian Desmond, 1B
Gerardo Parra, LF
Alexi Amarista, SS
Tony Wolters, C
German Marquez, RHP
Twins
Brian Dozier, 2B
Joe Mauer, 1B
Miguel Sano, 3B
Max Kepler, RF
Kennys Vargas, DH
Jorge Polanco, SS
Chris Gimenez, C
Eddie Rosario, LF
Byron Buxton, CF
Ervin Santana, RHP
