James

Baldwin

Apparently, the Twins want to trade Tom Prince to free up a roster spot, although why they think anyone else would want him is a mystery. Baldwin can become a free agent if he’s not brought to the majors by Friday.

Baldwin is 1-1 with a 5.48 ERA in five starts at Triple-A Omaha, but he has allowed just four runs in 12 1/3 innings in his last two starts. ''James Baldwin has added a split-finger (pitch) to his repetitoire,’' GM Allard Baird said. ''We have talked to him about the possibility of him being a reliever.’'

Baldwin had been pitching for the Royals’ Triple-A team in Omaha, compiling a 3-2 record with a 4.08 ERA before he asked for his release. If the Royals couldn’t use him, it’s hard to see the Twins doing so.

After that, Baldwin is expected, for now anyway, to take over Tyler Yates’ spot in the rotation. Baldwin was 3-2 with a 2.90 ERA at Triple-A Norfolk, but we wouldn’t be in a rush to grab him just yet.

Baldwin will compete for the fifth spot in the rotation, but he’s very unlikely to claim the job. Bottalico is more likely to make the team out of spring training.

“There is not a deal in place today,” agent Rex Gary said Sunday. “I’m hopeful. I think it’s very possible, but nothing has changed since [Saturday].” Baldwin will compete for a rotation spot once he’s signed. As for Ricky Bottalico, his deal is expected to become official today.

Baldwin should soon make his first appearance since allowing four runs in four innings in a start for the Mets on May 15. He was designated for assignment the following day.

That is of course if he doesn’t need to be used out of the pen in the next couple of days. John ''Way Back’’ Wasdin or another minor leaguer would get the call if that were to happen.

Baldwin had a 5.19 ERA in 17 1/3 innings for the Rangers, seemingly making him one of the better pitchers in the pen. Then again, with the team out of the race, there wasn’t a reason to carry him any longer.

Baldwin, who had a 2.43 ERA in five starts for Rochester, will pitch in middle relief for now, but he could join the rotation if Kyle Lohse continues to struggle. We’d prefer to see Grant Balfour get the spot.