Jay, though, missed the final month of the season with a neck strain. He had a 5.79 ERA in five appearances (two starts) at Double-A, but reached that level quickly in his first full year in the Minors.
The move is expected to allow Jay to get on a faster track to the big leagues, as the lefty has plus-stuff with a fastball that can reach the mid-90s and a wipeout slider. He's earned comparisons to Twins closer Glen Perkins.
"Nothing is permanent in the prospect development process but this is a collaborative decision to put Tyler in the best situation for success," Twins vice president of player personnel Mike Radcliff said.