Twins Sign Two Ex-Tiger Minor Leaguers

The Minnesota Twins obviously felt like keeping up with the Jones’ after the Tigers agreed to terms with Gerald Laird on Thursday, and made a couple signings of their own. Being a little bit handcuffed by an under-performing team with a couple of albatross contracts, their moves were of the minor league variety. The Twins signed minor league pitcher Brendan Wise and outfielder Wilkin Ramirez on Thursday. Given that they both have spent some significant time in the Tigers system, I thought I would forewarn you all that there is a good chance they will be wearing the enemies uniform at some point this summer.

Ramirez, who was always one of the most toolsy players in the Tigers system, and spent many a year on top Tigers prospects lists, has yet to live up to his talent level. He actually spent all of 2011 with the Atlanta Braves after leaving as a free agent before the season. He only has 37 career at bats, and has done alright in limited action, hitting .270 with an OPS of .808. His main issue is his contact rate, and more than likely that will prevent him from ever being an every day type player. Ramirez is still only 26 years old though, and if given a chance, the Twins might have some utility for him at some point. They are expected to lose both Jason Kubel and Michael Cuddyer to free agency, and could be heading into the season with an outfield of Denard Span, Ben Revere, and Joe Benson.

Brendan Wise is another guy that spent his entire career in the Tigers system, up until now. Wise, who turns 26 in January, is a strike throwing right-handed reliever, who at times looked like he was on the verge of getting an opportunity with the Tigers. He failed to impress in Spring Training this past season, at least enough to make the club at the start of the season, and spent the year in the minors. Wise features a low 90’s sinker with movement, and a breaking ball in the upper 70’s/low 80’s. For his career with the various Tiger minor league teams, Wise had an ERA of 3.37. Wise pitches to contact without having overwhelming stuff, but manages to limit damage generating ground balls and limiting walks. Pretty much a typical Minnesota Twin pitcher.

I would love to wish these guys luck, but well, I just can’t.

You all understand.