The Twins announced today that they have claimed outfielder Darin Mastroianni off waivers from the Toronto Blue Jays who had to make roster space for recent free agent signee pitcher Francisco Cordero. The 26 year right-handed batter and thrower is 5′ 11” and 190 and was the Blue Jays 16th round pick in 2007. The fleet-footed Mastroianni has played all three outfield positions but is primarily a center fielder. Mastroianni has worked his way up through the Blue Jays minor league system and made his major league debut this past August going 0 for 2 and to date that remains his only big league experience.
In a little over 2,000 minor league at bats Mastroianni has hit .279 with a .370 OBP to go along with his 200 stolen bases, getting caught just 46 times. Originally a 2B, Mastroianni became a full-time outfielder in 2009 and Baseball America rated him as having the best strike-zone judgment in the Florida State League. The Twins will have to make a roster move to find room on the 40 man roster for their newest acquisition.
UPDATE – The Twins have designated pitcher Esmerling Vasquez for assignment.