Minnesota Twins: Six players poised for breakout seasons

2. Trevor Hildenberger

Like Busenitz, the 26-year-old sidewinder was a key bullpen arm at the end of last season. In 2018, he has the opportunity to put together a full season for the Twins and break out as one of the top young relievers in the game.

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Sure, he may be in the conversation right now. I mean, he was 3-3 with a 3.21 ERA and 1.05 WHIP in 37 appearances, very respectable numbers in his first taste of MLB action. Even so, an opportunity to play a full season should show what he’s truly made of. Furthermore, the whole team has a better chance of improving with a full year of Hildenberger, considering he picks up where he left off. In other words, he can be even more of a difference maker next season.

In reality, Hildenberger likely ends up as one of the Twins’ setup men in 2018 after recording 12 holds last season. Therefore, he should receive plenty of opportunities to prove himself over the course of the year. If he finishes with a similar or better stat line than 2017, he’s a clear-cut breakout player for this team.