Tuesday, May 29, 2018

The meaning of Taylor Motter




Uh, who what?

The Twins created an opening on their 40-man roster last week by designating Phil Hughes for assignment (and later trading him to San Diego). It was presumed that they created that opening so they could activate Trevor May or Ervin Santana around about now as they become eligible to come off the 60-day disabled list.

And they fill the roster spot with organizational depth for Triple A?

Taylor Motter (not Tyler) is 28 and has 390 major league plate appearances over three seasons for two teams on his Baseball Reference page, with a batting average of .198. He has played every position in the majors except catcher and center field. In 2017 he stole 12 bases in 13 attempts, so he probably has some speed. He appears to have played considerable shortstop in the minors.

I don't really see the purpose in having him on the 40, but he may not have that roster spot long. I suspect the Twins will waive him themselves in hopes he can clear waivers for them and they can stash him at Rochester.

Remember: Jorge Polanco comes off his steroid suspension in 31 games. Presumably either Ehrie Adrianza or Gregorio Petit would be waived to make room for Polanco. Motter could be viewed as insurance against losing one of those utility men.

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