The most notable factor in the Twins remarkable first half of 2015 has been their starting pitching. Through the All-Star break, the Minnesota rotation has put up an MLB 11th best 3.86 ERA, over a full run better than their 2014 iteration (5.06). While the Twins starters are still subject to similar strengths (few walks – 5th best in MLB) and shortcomings (few strikeouts – 4th worst in MLB) undeniably, there has been a remarkable improvement.
This progress has been punctuated by an almost-All-Star caliber first half from 2009 1st round pick Kyle Gibson – who serves as a microcosm for the Twins’ pitching development.