The SKOR North Twins Show - A Minnesota Twins Podcast

The Twins pitching flat-out needs to improve for the team to win more games this year. But somehow Derek Wetmore left Jose Berrios out of his 25-man roster projection. Wetmore stops by The Mackey & Judd Show to share his thoughts on Minnesotas starting rotation. Who makes it? Who improves it? Who gets left out? Who could have trade value?Bonus Touch Em All podcast coverage on 1500ESPN.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

The Twins lost 103 games last year. And now their projected opening day lineup looks about the same. It feels stale. Whats up with that? Phil Mackey and Derek Wetmore ask whether the Twins should have gone with more sweeping changes after a disastrous 2016 season. Should they have overhauled the roster? Did they need more changes in the front office?Does marketing matter? Whats the goal short term and long term?See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

The Twins and Dodgers have been talking about a possible Brian Dozier trade for a while, but those trade conversations reportedly have stalled. Why is that? Derek Wetmore joins Phil Mackey & Judd Zulgad on 1500ESPN to discuss some of the possibilities here.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Would you consider signing Jose Bautista if you're the Twins? Phil Mackey and Derek Wetmore dove into that hypotehtical question in the latest episode of the Touch 'Em All podcast. Would he fit the plan? Does it matter that the Twins already have plenty of first base/DH types? On what should we make of Joe Mauer after that 2016 season? He might be a part-time player for rest of his career, and there's one stat that suggests it needs to happen this year.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

If youre the Dodgers, can you afford to not trade for Brian Dozier? Are the Twins going to deal their popular and powerful second basemen? Or are they content to go to spring training without a deal. Phil Mackey and Derek Wetmore take questions on Facebook Live for this episode of the Touch Em All podcast. Is it a risk for the Twins to go into the year with Dozier? Fans seem to be exactly 50-50 split on whether or not theyll make a deal.Other questions include how to build a better bullpen for the Twins.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

If you had to pick one young player around which to build the Minnesota Twins, Byron Buxton or Miguel Sano, which would you take?Phil Mackey and Derek Wetmore dive into a nuanced discussion on which they'd prefer now and over the long term. Byron Buxton flashed superstar potential in September. Miguel Sano had a "down" year in his second season and is still a great home run hitter. Where will he play defensively?Do you want more of a sure thing? Or are you willing to gamble on higher upside? Which one is the safer bet? Does 'safe bet' matter in this conversation? How does defensive position play into it? Fun baseball and MLB discussion in this episode.Subscribe to the podcast on iTunes and PodcastOne, and leave us a rating and a review!See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

What would you want if you got 5 wishes from Baseball Santa? Phil Mackey and Derek Wetmore give their 5 asks on the latest episode of the Touch 'Em All podcast!Some things are practical, some are a little more farfetched. And for the record, we're not here to debate whether or not Baseball Santa actually exists...You want an ace? You want a repeat of the 2016 World Series? You want better health for your ball club in 2017? Ask Baseball Santa!See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

What if the Twins trade Brian Dozier? As the rumors continue to swirl, we talk about what the fallout of that trade could look like for the Minnesota Twins. Who would play second base? If that's Jorge Polanco moving from shortstop, would would become the Twins' new shortstop? If you want a defense-first shortstop in the short term, who would that be for the Twins?Phil Mackey and Derek Wetmore discuss all that and more on the latest episode of the Touch 'Em All podcast.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

The Nationals gave up A LOT to get Adam Eaton and they're legitimate World Series contenders this year. What does that say about the way they value prospects like Lucas Giolito and others? Should this change the Twins thinking? Phil Mackey and Derek Wetmore discuss that and much more on this episode of the Touch 'Em All podcast.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

A few observations about the Twins front office from the MLB Winter Meetings, including a moderately funny story about GM Thad Levine that shows he gets the bigger picture. And the White Sox are going for broke in their rebuilding project. Plus, should Twins fans be excited about the next few years? Phil Mackey and Derek Wetmore discuss that and more on the latest episode of the Touch 'Em All podcast.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Derek Wetmore is embedded in Washington D.C. at the MLB Winter Meetings, and he and Phil Mackey discuss the latest Minnesota Twins (and Brian Dozier) trade rumors. Would you trade him to the Dodgers for stud pitching prospect Jose De Leon? What are Derek Falvey and Thad Levine saying about the rumors? And how much do Dozier's home runs matter? Plus, the Red Sox cranked the hot stove up to max heat by trading for Chris Sale.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Brian Dozier trade rumors have been around for a while now, and we're discussing those on this episode of the Touch 'Em All podcast, just before the MLB winter meetings. Also, what would it take to get you to trade Ervin Santana if you were in the position of the Minnesota Twins?Phil Mackey and Derek Wetmore discuss.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

The Minnesota Twins have re-hired Torii Hunter, LaTroy Hawkins and Michael Cuddyer as special assistants in their front office. It would be easy to be cynical about the "country club" optics of the move for the Twins, but Phil Mackey and Derek Wetmore argue in this episode of Touch 'Em All that it's a smart play for an organization looking to catch up.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

The Twins need an upgrade behind the plate, and Derek Wetmore and Phil Mackey disagree on how they should go about solving that problem. On this episode of the Touch 'Em All podcast, Wetmore suggests that the top free agent catcher on the market is Wilson Ramos. (Matt Wieters is second on his list.) Mackey says he could see the Twins going in a different route, and forgoing the free agent pool altogether. They also talk about Jason Castro, Mitch Garver, John Ryan Murphy, and the Matt Capps trade that was a big failure and hurt the franchise for years.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

The Twins need to boost their payroll -- and not where you might be thinking. Phil Mackey and Derek Wetmore discuss on this episode of the Touch 'Em All podcast the idea that building out the front office is a more important long-term investment than buying the latest free agent.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

SPECIAL EPISODE. This podcast is the latest episode of the Sports Analytics Department podcast, with host Matthew Coller. Check out his podcast on PodcastOne or iTunes. Matthew Coller and 1500ESPN Twins reporter Derek Wetmore discuss how new Twins management has a long way to go to catch up with the top teams in analytics. What areas of the game can they use to gain an advantage over teams that have been using stats for years? How can they use things like pitcher health, defensive metrics and swings at long-shot players to get there? Have a listen and find out...See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

The Twins have a pitching problem. It's OK to admit it. The first step to recovery is acknowledging that it's an issue. Phil Mackey and Derek Wetmore discuss 5 pitchers that could help the Twins solve their awful starting rotation. Mostly, Mackey laughs at Wetmore for 3/5 of his list as Wetmore spars to defend himself. Rich Hill, Jeremy Hellickson, Ivan Nova, Trevor May and Chris Sale.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Chief Baseball Officer Derek Falvey and General Manager Thad Levine have taken office with the Twins. Phil Mackey says it's the smartest hire the Twins have made in his lifetime. He and Derek Wetmore discuss.Plus, a behind-the-scenes observation on Levine. The Uber analogy. And two Sid Hartman stories worth sharing. Oh, and lots of Twins stuff. Buckle up for the offseason!See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

The Cubs have won the World Series! And the Cleveland Indians had a terrific season as well, and came up just short of the top prize. What can the Twins learn from the success of those teams?Phil Mackey and Derek Wetmore discuss that in the latest Touch 'Em All podcast.5 trades that shaped the 2016 World Series.The impact of luck.The importance of patience.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

We're World Series obsessed on this episode of Touch 'Em All. Phil Mackey and Derek Wetmore discuss the ultimate sports movie -- will the Cubs win the World Series? Are you willing to admit you teared up when they clinched the N.L. pennant after waiting since 1945? Where's Steve Bartman at? And what is a realistic timeline for the Twins to compete for the top prize in baseball? Two years? Three years? More?See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Would you keep the Twins' coaching staff and manager around for next year?Phil Mackey and Derek Wetmore speculate on what might happen to the team once new baseball boss Derek Falvey takes over. Is Paul Molitor back next year?Is Rob Antony back in some capacity next year?Would you be concerned about the Indians' deep postseason run if you were with the Twins?See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

The Indians have already done something this season that should encourage you if you're a Twins fan. Phil Mackey and Derek Wetmore debate whether Andrew Miller's usage represents a good blueprint for the Twins to fix their leaky bullpen. Plus, some love for Big Papi and and a few unwarranted cheap shots.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

The starting pitching is the first on a long list of priorities for new baseball boss Derek Falvey -- or it should be, anyway. Phil Mackey and Derek Wetmore discuss other things that need to improve with the Twins for the team to avoid another 100-loss season next year. Starting pitching, a better plan in the bullpen, plus an interesting idea suggested by FSN analyst Bert Blyleven.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

The starting pitching is the first on a long list of priorities for new baseball boss Derek Falvey -- or it should be, anyway. Phil Mackey and Derek Wetmore discuss other things that need to improve with the Twins for the team to avoid another 100-loss season next year. Starting pitching, a better plan in the bullpen, plus an interesting idea suggested by FSN analyst Bert Blyleven.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Is Derek Falvey the right person for the job running the Twins' front office? Phil Mackey and Derek Wetmore discuss that question on the latest episode of the Touch 'Em All podcast. Falvey's background, a key insight into his thought process, and his connection to Cleveland's superior pitching are all factors in the Twins' favor. Plus, highlights from the '100 things that have gone wrong for the Twins this year.'See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Is Joe Mauer worthy of baseball's Hall of Fame?Phil Mackey and Derek Wetmore sort out that thorny question on this episode of the Touch 'Em All podcast, with a heavy helping of analytics. What makes a Hall of Famer?What has happened to Joe Mauer in recent years?Does his dropoff in production since moving to first base hurt his chances? Should it matter?What would he have to do to be a sure bet for Cooperstown?See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Brian Dozier has hit 40 home runs (and counting) in a season in which the Twins might lose 100 games. Is that a wasted season? If so, where does it rank? Phil Mackey and Derek Wetmore discuss on the latest Touch 'Em All podcast. Plus, Byron buxton's dimmer switch is getting brighter. And some unsolicited advice for the Twins in the search for their next president and GM.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Brian Dozier is on a tear and would be making more MVP noise if he was on a better team, which is a flaw in the system. Alex Anthopoulos is reportedly a candidate to be the Twins' president of baseball operation. Phil Mackey and Derek Wetmore give 2 reasons he'd be an intriguing hire for Minnesota. Is the light bulb finally on for Byron Buxton?See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

This is just the newer version of the 1990's Twins, right? On this Touch 'Em All podcast, Phil Mackey tells Derek Wetmore that we'll absolutely look back on this era the same way we do the futility from the '90s.The Twins are on pace for 100 losses. How many managers keep their jobs after losing triple digits? What would get you excited abou the Twins this season? And could they contend in the near future?See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

How many people does it take to fix a top prospect? Phil Mackey and Derek Wetmore take explore the humorous and the serious side of the Twins' approach with Jose Berrios, in the latest episode of the Touch 'Em All podcast. Is it unfair to criticize the Twins' development process?Some fun with the 2012 MLB standings.Are you worried for the long-term about Berrios?How running a baseball organization is blending art and science. Plus, the Twins have hereby been awarded the gold AND silver medals in one category.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Should the Twins really go after Alex Rodriguez? Phil Mackey and Derek Wetmore discuss why it could make sense on this week's episode of the Touch 'Em All podcast - and why they probably wouldn't do it. That leads to some interesting Miguel Sano conversation. How the Twins and Sano both have some share of the blame in this situation. Also, an update on the search for the new leader of the Twins' baseball operations department. They finish with three rapid-fire questions about the Twins and one member of the Dodgers front office.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Should Twins fans start to worry about Byron Buxton? Is he a bust? Phil Mackey and Derek Wetmore discuss the reasons for and against worrying about the former top prospect Buxton.A Max Kepler story that shows confidence and maturity.Real and imagined concerns about Miguel Sano as a hard worker. Plus, Wetmore shares his list of his 8 favorite Performance Enhancers.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

How'd the Minnesota Twins do at this year's MLB non-waiver trade deadline? Phil Mackey and Derek Wetmore discuss on this episode of the Touch 'Em All podcast. Did you like their three trades?Which one was the best?Should or could they have done more?What does this mean for Rob Antony as Twins' GM?And Mackey and Wetmore settle their differences on young outfielder extraordinaire, Max Kepler.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

How is Rob Antony like a contestant on The Bachelorette. Phil Mackey tells Derek Wetmore exactly why, on the latest episode of the Touch 'Em All podcast. Why Antony needs to swing for the fences at this trade deadline. One trade he should make to make it known that he's a legitimate candidate for the full-time GM job.Would you trade big prospects for Chris Sale?Who won the Yankees-Cubs trade over Aroldis Chapman?One story that explains why Terry Ryan was not the perfect person to lead an entire baseball operations department.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

The Twins fired Terry Ryan and it's at once a shocking and totally unsurprising move. Phil Mackey and Derek Wetmore explain why on the latest episode of the Touch 'Em All podcast. What did we learn in the aftermath from team owner Jim Pohlad and team president Dave St. Peter?Will the Twins hire the next GM from outside the organization?Is it the right move?Why now?What's next for the Twins?See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

With the trade deadline fast approaching, Phil Mackey and Derek Wetmore throw out two names that may not be top of mind when it comes to Twins trade speculation. No, they don't have any official steam -- they're just recklessly speculating. That, and more, on this week's episode of Touch 'em All.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

The Twins had to send Byung Ho Park to the minor leagues even before they had his night at Target Field. In fact, they had to pull radio promotions off the air before they sent him down. Talk about awkward. Phil Mackey and Derek Wetmore discuss their long-term beliefs about Park, Miguel Sano and Trevor Plouffe, and question why the Twins created this problem for themselves in the first place. All that and more on the latest episode of the Touch 'Em All podcast.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

How would you fix the Twins' pitching staff? Phil Mackey and Derek Wetmore discuss that idea on the latest episode of the Touch 'Em All podcast, including an answer to the question: How is this kind of like the long overdue garage cleanup you've been putting off?Plus, two very important dynamics to watch to and through the MLB non-waiver trade deadline this year. One of us might be cheating on the Twins with the Cubs. Oswaldo Arcia is off to a hot start with the Tampa Bay Rays.Why does BABIP matter?Credit Brian Dozier and hitting coach Tom Brunansky for Dozier's great June.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Why would the Twins give up on a young slugger like Oswaldo Arcia? Especially in a lost season, Phil Mackey and Derek Wetmore discuss how they can't figure out why that move makes sense for this year's Twins. Plus, is it time to be concerned about Byron Buxton's strikeouts?What do we think of Max Kepler?Who will be closing for the 2017 Twins?The problem with this year's team starts with expensive and underperforming starting pitching.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Terry Ryan has been bad at one very important thing in his second stint as Twins GM - signing free agent starting pitchers. Phil Mackey and Derek Wetmore discuss that issue on the latest episode of the Touch 'Em All podcast. What is the thing that the Twins can hang their hat on right now? Is there even one? What are you watching for the rest of the season?See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Phil Mackey and Derek Wetmore argue about Kevin Jepsen and why he's still the Twins' closer despite a terrible two-month stretch. Plus, 6 depressing Twins statistics with an optimistic spin. And crediting Eduardo Nunez for his breakout season. Would you trade Nunez if you were the Twins?See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Phil Mackey and Derek Wetmore agree on Byron Buxton: He still has superstar potential. They talk on this episode of the Touch 'Em All podcast about how there's not a perfect time to call up podcasts, and that it makes perfect sense for the Twins to try it now. Also, Phil Hughes to the bullpen is yet another sign of how the starting pitching has severely hampered Minnesota's chances to compete this season. Those topics and more on the latest episode of the Touch 'Em All podcast from 1500 ESPN.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Phil Mackey and Derek Wetmore dive into the carnage of the Twins season. Do people need to be fired? What would the timing look like if you made huge changes? Do you think the Pohlad family will decide it's time to make those changes?Also, on Brian Dozier and tweaking his approach at the plate. Is it the right idea? Why hasn't this happened before? What happens if it doesn't work?See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

On this episode of the Touch 'Em All podcast, Phil Mackey and Derek Wetmore talk about the good and bad we saw from young starter Jose Berrios before he was optioned to the minor leagues.Plus, Joe Mauer is having a bad May after a terrific April. Are you buying or selling his stock?Do you think Robbie Grossman will play for the Twins this year?See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

On this episode of the Touch 'Em All podcast, Phil Mackey and Derek Wetmore are already planning for next year. With the Twins falling on their face to start the season, there's plenty of blame to go around. Why is Jim Pohlad tone-deaf with his public comments?Is Terry Ryan the right GM to get the Twins back to the World Series?Where did the Twins go wrong in their offseason planning?See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

On this episode of the Touch 'Em All podcast, Phil Mackey and Derek Wetmore discuss the ridiculousness of John Ryan Murphy getting ejected because a home plate umpire has an ego. We talk about the pitch that led to the ejection and J.O. Berrios' start. Also, do you care that Paul Molitor didn't get ejected immediately after John Ryan Murphy?How well-suited is Terry Ryan to being the Twins' GM right now?What could he do this summer to prove that he deserves the job?See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

On this episode of the Touch 'Em All podcast, Phil Mackey and Derek Wetmore discuss the call-up of top prospect J.O. Berrios. What he'll bring to the Twins.Why the timing makes sense for Minnesota. Also, the reason why Byron Buxton was demoted. And what to expect for Buxton's future. Lastly, one thing the Twins do that annoys us. Subscribe to the podcast on iTunes.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

On this episode of the Touch 'Em All podcast, Phil Mackey and Derek Wetmore discuss the Twins, who are back from the dead.Oswaldo Arcia bursting onto the scene. Should he play more?What's gone wrong with Eddie Rosario?What's gone right for Joe Mauer?A heavy dose of small-sample-size conclusions.Plus, Ron Gardenhire is back! Byung Ho Park hits bombs. And a Glen Perkins update.Subscribe to the podcast on iTunes.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

On this episode of the Touch 'Em All podcast, Phil Mackey and Derek Wetmore dissect the carnage from the first week of the season for the Twins. Could the 2016 Twins still make the postseason?What are the problems that led to an 0-7 start?Outlining some of the wishful thinking the Twins had this offseason.Plus, 5 positives to draw from a terrible start to the season. And plenty on Byron Buxton's future, Max Kepler, Oswaldo Arcia and Miguel Sano and umpires.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

On this episode of the Touch 'Em All podcast, Phil Mackey and Derek Wetmore dissect the carnage from the first week of the season for the Twins. Could the 2016 Twins still make the postseason?What are the problems that led to an 0-7 start?Outlining some of the wishful thinking the Twins had this offseason.Plus, 5 positives to draw from a terrible start to the season. And plenty on Byron Buxton's future, Max Kepler, Oswaldo Arcia and Miguel Sano and umpires.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.