Aaron

Thompson

Thompson, the 22nd selection in the 2005 draft, is 4-2 with a 2.84 ERA, 51 H and 51/11 K/BB in 50 2/3 innings. He figures to move quickly for a high school pitcher, and it wouldn’t be a complete surprise to see him make his major league debut as a 20-year-old before the end of 2007.

Jeff Locke is likely the favorite, though Brian Burres and Aaron Thompson are also under consideration. None should be considered fantasy options even though the Brewers figure to field their “B” lineup.

The commissioner’s office has yet to make an official announcement on the suspension, but Twins’ general manager Terry Ryan said Saturday that he tested positive for recreational drug use, not performance-enhancing drugs. Thompson, 25, signed a minor league deal with the Twins this winter after spending last season in the Pirates’ organization.

He also receives an invite to spring training. Thompson, who was claimed off waivers by the Bucs from the Nationals last December, made four appearances with the big club in August and September. While his command improved in the minors this season, the 24-year-old southpaw is missing less bats than ever before. He likely won’t make an impact with the Twins, but Minnesota is making sure it improves a putrid Triple-A Rochester team from this past year.

Thompson, who was claimed off waivers from the Nationals last December, made four appearances with the big club in August and September. While his command improved in the minors this season, the 24-year-old southpaw is missing less bats than ever before.

Thompson has unremarkable stuff, but he’s a polished lefty with No. 3-starter potential and he shouldn’t be a very tough sign.

Thompson has struggled the last few weeks and holds a 5.01 ERA over 41 appearances this season. He’s replaced in the bullpen by Ryan O’Rourke.

Thompson pitched well this spring, with a 2.11 ERA in 8+ innings. He’ll serve as organizational depth for the Twins.

He’s replacing the suspended Ervin Santana on the roster. Thompson has pitched well for the Twins this spring with a 2.11 ERA. He’ll work in middle relief.

Thompson elected free agency after being removed from the Twins’ 40-man roster last month, but he’s now back with the club. The southpaw held a 5.01 ERA, 1.33 WHIP and 17/11 K/BB ratio across 32 1/3 innings in 2015.