FORT MYERS, Fla. -- Hard-throwing right-hander J.T. Chargois, competing for a spot in the Twins' bullpen, was optioned to Triple-A Rochester on Friday after struggling in recent outings.
Chargois, ranked as Minnesota's No. 11 prospect, was a top candidate to make the bullpen but posted an 8.64 ERA in eight outings, allowing two home runs and walking three.
Chargois, 26, made his debut last year, posting a 4.70 ERA with 17 strikeouts and 12 walks in 23 innings. He pitched better after a rocky debut on June 11, posting a 2.82 ERA with 17 strikeouts in 22 1/3 innings after being called up again in mid-August.
Chargois is expected to close at Rochester, and the Twins want him to refine his command, as he has plus-stuff, including a fastball that averaged 96.2 mph last year.
With Chargois optioned, the bullpen is starting to take shape. Closer Brandon Kintzler, Thomas Pressly, Matt Belisle, Craig Breslow and Taylor Rogers are locks, leaving two open spots. Rule 5 Draft pick Justin Haley could make the team as a long reliever, and Michael Tonkin is out of Minor League options. Lefty Player Page for Buddy Boshers remains in the mix, and there's still a chance Tyler Duffey could be moved to bullpen.