The Minnesota Twins have held on to relief pitcher Matt Guerrier since his debut in 2004 due to his reliable arm, but he might be wearing a different jersey come spring training.
According to a major league source, the Red Sox have shown interest in the 32-year-old right-hander.
Guerrier has gone 19-25 with a 3.38 ERA in seven seasons with the Twins. In 2010, he pitched in 74 games, producing a 5-7 record with a 3.17 ERA. In his previous two seasons, Guerrier led the American League in appearances by pitching in 76 and 79 games. He had an impressive season in 2009 with a 2.36 ERA.
The Red Sox could make out like bandits if they pick up the righty. Guerrier is considered a Type A free agent, meaning Boston would have to surrender a first-round pick to the Twins if they signed him — that is, if Minnesota offered the reliever arbitration. Because they didn't, Boston, or any other team that signs Guerrier, would not have to give up a draft pick.
The reason why Guerrier would make a good fit in Boston is that he is a versatile option. He has started a few games for the Twins but is mainly used as a relief pitcher.
With four quality pitches – a 94 mph fastball, a slider which sits mainly at 80 mph, two types of curveballs (one which is a big breaker in the low 70s and a faster one which has a quick hook that comes in around the high 70s) and a changeup — Guerrier has what it takes to keep batters guessing.
Guerrier earned $3.15 million in 2010.
