Twins day at camp: Milone's strong day keeps rotation in flux

Lefthander Tommy Milone was pretty sharp Wednesday as he held Philadelphia to one run over three innings.

"I think Tommy threw the ball well," Twins manager Paul Molitor said. "A lot of these guys are working on using their off-speed better, and his changeup was good. [He threw] a couple nice curveballs."

Milone's only mistake was a fastball over the plate to Cameron Rupp in the third inning that he lined down the left field line for a home run. That was the only hit and run off Milone, who struck out three and didn't walk a batter.

As of now, it looks like one spot is open in the starting rotation, with Tommy Milone, Ricky Nolasco and Trevor May as options. May, however, could land in the bullpen, where he was effective last season. That leaves Milone and Nolasco. Milone is out of options, so he could land in the bullpen if he doesn't win the job or have to clear waivers to be sent down.

"Competition always brings out the best in everybody," Milone said. "But whether him or me, we have to both go out and do our job if we want to have that spot. Once we step between the lines, it is business."

Tony Clark, the executive director of the player's association, addressed Twins players Wednesday. It was his 15th stop as he visits with each team during spring training.

This year's meetings take on added importance since the collective bargaining agreement between players and owners expires this year. One issue that will be tackled by the two sides is the current draft-pick compensation for free agents who have rejected qualifying offers from their previous teams.

These free agents have lingered on the market as clubs are reluctant to lose a draft pick for signing them. Yovani Gallardo, Ian Desmond, Dexter Fowler and other free agents were on the market until February.

Players want to know where they are headed earlier, and teams want to have their rosters settled sooner.

"We have heard a lot about the topic," Clark said. "It is one of the issues we are going to look at and have looked at. On a very fundamental level, every time you have a system in place that creates a dynamic that is detrimental to a player or a club it's worthy of more conversation."

•With minor league camp beginning full-squad workouts this week, look for the Twins to make their first cuts of camp. No big names are expected, maybe a few minor league starters who need to get stretched out for the season.

•Infielder Eduardo Escobar is fine after taking a line drive off his right forearm on Tuesday while taking a lead off third base.

Righthander Ervin Santana will make his second start of spring training when he faces the Red Sox at JetBlue Park. Righthander Jose Berrios is scheduled to follow. Lefthander David Price will start for Boston.

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