Johnson gets another shot

Righthander Adam Johnson is getting another chance to start.

The former first-round draft pick has been moved into the rotation at Class AAA Rochester after spending most of the season as a setup man. The Twins did it because they didn't have any other options, but a chance is a chance.

"It gives him a chance to use all of his pitches and see where he goes from there," said Jim Rantz, the Twins' director of minor leagues. "We've tried him as a setup man, we've tried him as a closer. I thought his best role would be as a set-up guy, but we needed a starter."

Starting didn't go so well Friday, Johnson, 3-2 with a 4.68 ERA at Rochester, gave up six runs in six innings against Richmond. He doesn't have jaw-dropping stuff and must rely on location. The reason his career has stalled in the minors is because he has trouble keeping the ball down in the strike zone.

Johnson, who recently turned 25, was the second overall pick in 2000 and showed early promise. His career sputtered as questions arose about his dedication. He balled up his assignment papers in front of manager Ron Gardenhire when Johnson was cut from camp one year.

Johnson pitched better in camp this year, and the Twins have not totally given up on him.

Impressive rookies

Waldrop, the 25th overall pick, is 2-1 with a 1.35 ERA and has walked just two batters in 20 innings for the Twins' rookie league team in Fort Myers. Fla.

"I'm looking forward to seeing him pitch," said Rantz, who plans to visit Fort Myers soon.

Rainville, the 39th overall pick, is 1-1, 1.17 but has pitched only 7 2/3 innings at Fort Myers.

It's over