Alan Roden: Everything you need to know

The Twins optioned Roden to Triple-A St. Paul on Sunday, Aaron Gleeman of The Athletic reports. The 26-year-old batted .302 with a double, a homer and two steals in 15 Grapefruit League games, but he'll still open the season in the minors in favor of James Outman. It's worth noting that Outman has no remaining minor-league options, which likely factored into Roden's demotion to begin the season. He shouldn't have to wait too long to get another look for the rebuilding Twins.

Roden went 2-for-5 in Friday's Grapefruit loss to Boston. Despite hitting .323 (10 for 31) with a home run this spring, both Matthew Leach of MLB.com and The Athletic project Roden to not make the Opening Day roster. James Outman is having a strong spring and is out of options, so it's thought the Twins will send Roden to the minors to begin the season. However, the Twins outfield situation is still in flux. The team has too many left-handed hitting outfielders and a trade late in spring training seems possible. Roden could still win a role as a strong-side platoon player in left field if he wins a spot over Outman.

Roden went 2-for-3 with a grand slam during Sunday's Grapefruit League game against Atlanta. Roden put his team in front during the top of the fifth inning by smacking a grand slam. It was evident he was seeing the ball well at the dish throughout the day, as he lined out to third base and singled to center in his other two at-bats. Roden's lack of power was a concern during his rookie campaign, so Sunday's showing is a promising start to the spring for the Creighton product.