The Minnesota Twins optioned top prospect Royce Lewis to Triple-A St. Paul to make room on the Twins roster for Carlos Correa. Correa is returning from a finger injury and Lewis was originally called up as a replacement. However, the move to demote him comes as a surprise given his strong performance on the big league club.

Minnesota had two realistic options in regards to Royce Lewis with Correa set to return. They could have sent him to the minors, or kept him on the active roster as a utility type of player. But Minnesota wants him getting everyday at-bats and focusing on playing shortstop. That obviously would not be a realistic possibility for Lewis on the Twins right now.

However, it does spark curiosity for the future of the ball club. Lewis is expected to receive consistent reps at shortstop in the minor leagues. Meanwhile, Carlos Correa has an opt-out clause following the conclusion of the 2022 season. So it is possible that the Twins are preparing for a future without Correa in the mix.

There are good odds that Lewis would begin learning a new position if Correa's current three-year contract did not include any opt-outs. According to CBS Sports, Minnesota is planning on having him take occasional reps at different positions. But the fact that Lewis's primary position is still expected to be shortstop is noteworthy.

Royce Lewis is clearly ready for big league action and just needs the opportunity to present itself. Carlos Correa's decision to opt in or out this offseason will likely determine if Lewis ends up playing shortstop or second/third base for the Twins down the road.