Minnesota Twins: 2015 Season Preview, Predictions and More

Mar 13, 2015; Bradenton, FL, USA; Minnesota Twins designated hitter

(19) hits a solo home run during the first inning against the Pittsburgh Pirates at McKechnie Field. Mandatory Credit: Tommy Gilligan-USA TODAY Sports

The Line-up

Despite everything feeling terrible in 2014, the team did have some bright spots up and down the batting order in 2014. Danny Santana hit well despite playing out of position in center field for much of the year last year. Kennys Vargas was called up directly from AA in August and added some immediate pop to the order. The Twins ranked 7th in the Majors in runs scored, so the offense was not to blame for the team’s awful record.

The key will be to maintain success at the plate while improving the rotation. Despite the overall strong production, Joe Mauer had one of his worst seasons. His .277 average was the worst of his career. He also only managed 4 home runs. While he is certainly not expected to hit for a lot of power, that is still too low. Combined, he only managed an OPS of .732, the second-lowest mark of his career. If Mauer can be closer to the hitter he was when he earned his contract extension, an already productive line-up could be even better.

Torii Hunter is also back in town. I looked at what he has left when the Twins signed him, but the gist of it is he can still hit despite not having the wheels he used to in the outfield. The other reason he was brought aboard is to help coach up the many young, talented guys on the Twins roster. Hopefully he brings his bat along with his intangibles. The corner outfield of Hunter and Oswaldo Arcia may leave much to be desired with their gloves but should be able to make up for it at the plate.

Center field is the last real question mark. Aaron Hicks has been sent back down to AAA once more, so Eddie Rosario, Jordan Schafer and Shane Robinson are battling for playing time. Rosario has the most upside but Molitor has said that he would need to earn regular playing time to stick with the Major League club to start the season. Stay tuned.

Next: The Rotation