Baldelli Jacked Up About Youngsters: Kirilloff and Larnach

If you’re hoping the Minnesota Twins will make a splash free agent signing to replace Eddie Rosario in left field, you’ll be left disappointed. That’s ok though because they have two young corner outfielders, in Alex Kirilloff and Trevor Larnach, who are primed to bust out of their minor league shells.

Rocco Baldelli is excited about their futures as well, and thinks they are two of the best youngsters in all of baseball.

Who will replace Eddie Rosario in the outfield?#MNTwins manager Rocco Baldelli discusses options ⬇️ pic.twitter.com/CSeWUdpwrC

— FOX Sports North (@fsnorth) December 16, 2020

Alex Kirilloff is the clubhouse leader (pun intended) to takeover in left field. This after making his MLB debut in the final of two playoff games last season. He reportedly dominated every pitcher he faced on the taxi squad in St. Paul, too.

Don’t count out Larnach

But Larnach is probably the most underrated player in the Twins’ farm system and should not be ruled out of this competition. Since he arrived, Trevor’s been battling with Kirilloff and Brent Rooker for the outfield prospect spotlight.

He’s the only one out of the three who hasn’t made his MLB debut, but he also has the least amount of professional experience. Head coach Rocco Baldelli and the Twins front office, clearly see him though.

When you look at the stats, it’s hard to predict who will win this competition come Spring Training. One thing’s for sure, it’ll be fun to follow. Both Kirilloff and Larnach are 23 years old but Alex went straight to pro baseball and Trevor went the college route, where he helped Oregon State win a College World Series in 2018.

The Minnesota Twins still have plenty of money to spend and, just because they don’t have to spend it on another corner outfielder, doesn’t mean they shouldn’t spend it at all. Having Larnach and Kirilloff should push them to invest in another high-end starting pitcher.

No Rooker?

I mentioned Brent Rooker earlier and I am a bit surprised he wasn’t named by Rocco Baldelli, too. It’s not like Rocco to forget about someone so this probably means something.

I wouldn’t be surprised to see the Twins move Rooker to 1st base or designated hitter full-time, but it wouldn’t surprise me if he’s dealt in a trade before the season starts, either. There isn’t room for everyone. I’ve been saying that for years and the front office has already proved me right by letting Rosario walk.

Eric Strack | Minnesota Sports Fan