First Pitch: 6:07 PM CDT
TV: FSN
Radio: Twins Radio Network
Know Thine Enemy: Bluebird Banter
The 24-year old is putting together a solid if unspectacular view. He's got a low-90s fastball that isn't too bad, but it's his breaking and off-speed pitches that have been the most effective for him this year.
If he's had a weakness this season, it's that he does a below par job of getting ahead of hitters early in the count. He's dangerous, though, because that hasn't stopped him from turning those situations into outs. Four out of five two-strike counts become outs as well.
So Cecil's a bit of a mixed bag. The key will be to be patient, and let himself get into trouble...and when he does, the key will be to not bail him out. But he's a fighter and can throw any of his offerings for strikes. It could be an interesting night.
Right, so, our Baker. He grades out exceptionally well, particularly in working ahead of hitters, command and efficiency. For his lowest grades, he gets a straight B in offspeed effectiveness and battle tendencies, where for the most part he still does a pretty good job.
The problem has been the occasional big inning. Strikeout rates are pretty good, walk rates are great, and he's inducing a lot more swings outside of the strike zone...he just gives up a lot of hits. To be effective against the Jays, he just needs to be himself by staying aggressive. Just try not to throw fastballs 89% of the time.