I mentioned in the Roto Roundup that a few top prospects-Stephen Strasburg, Drew Storen and Michael Stanton-could find their way up to the big leagues in the next month or so. This morning we hear that the Twins may put catcher Joe Mauer on the DL with a bruised heel. The move is not official yet, but they have called up catching prospect Wilson Ramos to start at catcher today vs the Indians.
Yesterday also brought news that Giants catcher Bengie Molina will retire at the end of the season. I am curious if his announcement will spur the Giants to bring up Buster Posey sooner rather than later to get him as much experience at the big league level. Recent media reports state that the Giants are considering bringing up the AAA catcher to catch and play 1B with Aubrey Huff struggling at the plate.
Finally, we received news yesterday that Billy Wagner will also retire at the end of the 2010 season. I am curious how soon the Braves call up minor league closer Craig Kimbrel to audition for the 2011 job. In 12.2 innings of relief at AAA Gwinnett, Kimbrel as a 17/5 K/BB ratio, with 5 saves, a 1.42 ERA and a 0.79 WHIP. Kimbrel appears to be the favorite to save games should the Braves look to deal Wagner if they fall out of the wildcard race.