Twins' Phil Hughes: Struggles in Wednesday's spring start

Hughes gave up six runs (five earned) on nine hits and two home runs over two innings in Wednesday's loss to Houston.

Analysis:

Hughes struggled at the start of spring training but was coming off a good outing before this clunker. His spring ERA rose to 6.75. However, his numbers may not be that important since he's a veteran with a set spot in the rotation as the No. 2 or No. 3 starter. It's more important that Hughes is healthy at this point in the spring after an injury-plagued 2016 season. Hughes is returning from season-ending surgery in July to relieve thoracic outlet syndrome where part of his rib was removed to relieve nerve pressure on his shoulder.