Twins Manager Makes WAY Too Early Opening Day Starter Announcement

The Minnesota Twins have made a very early decision for their 2024 season, with manager Rocco Baldelli announcing Pablo López as their Opening Day starter.

The Twins, who acquired López via trade last offseason, have shown immense confidence in him, placing him at the forefront of their pitching lineup.

López's tenure with the Twins so far has been impressive.

Pablo Lopez becomes the first #MNTwins starter to get the ball for back-to-back #OpeningDay games since Jose Berrios.

The last pitcher to do it three times in a row for Minnesota was Brad Radke in 2005.

— Ted (@tlschwerz) January 18, 2024

He has showcased top-of-the-rotation qualities, evident in his remarkable performances including a two-hit, no-run outing and retiring 23 consecutive batters in a game against the Chicago White Sox.

Last year, he posted a 3.66 ERA, 1.12 WHIP, with 234 strikeouts across 194 innings and 32 starts.

Baldelli's decision to name him the Opening Day starter well ahead of the season reflects his belief in López's ability to anchor the team's pitching staff.

This decision, coming early in the pre-season, also highlights the Twins' strategy and optimism for the upcoming season.

Pablo Lopez's changeup had some of the biggest horizontal movement in the league last year. It has averaged about a 17.0 SwStr% for his entire career. pic.twitter.com/m1GeqspFy9

— Michael Simione (@SPStreamer) January 12, 2024

By setting a tone with a strong starting pitcher, Baldelli and the Twins organization are sending a clear message about their competitive intentions for 2024.

López's role will be crucial in setting the pace for the rest of the rotation and the team's overall performance.

Over his six-year career, Lopez holds a 3.86 ERA, 1.18 WHIP, with 723 strikeouts across 704 innings and 126 starts. Photo Credit: Ron Chenoy-USA TODAY Sports