Minnesota Twins Hitters: 2015 Team Preview

Sep 27, 2014; Detroit, MI, USA; Minnesota Twins second baseman Brian Dozier (2) slides in safely at home ahead of the throw to Detroit Tigers catcher Alex Avila (13) in the fifth inning at Comerica Park. Mandatory Credit: Rick Osentoski-USA TODAY Sports

[table id=1338 /]

The top of the lineup begins with Danny Santana who was a pleasant surprise in 2014. The shortstop of the Twins slashed .319/.353/.472 to go along with 7 homers, 20 steals, and 70 runs in only 430 plate appearances. However, Santana was buoyed by a .405 BABIP and his .19 BB/K also spells regression. I would expect similar counting stats as 2014 even with a full year and a .050 drop in BA.

Santana’s middle infield partner is one of my top targets in 2015. Brian Dozier’s 112/23/71/21/.242 line made him one of fantasy baseball’s best players. He also put up those numbers as a 2B, yet he will still be drafted 50-60 picks after Robinson Cano. There may a touch of regression, but I feel confident he will be a top 50 player at worst in 2015.

Do not draft Joe Mauer in 2015. He only has first base eligibility now and no power. There are literally two dozen better options at his position. You can read more here if you do not believe me.

Oswaldo Arcia is considered as a bit of a sleeper due to the fact that he quietly hit 20 home runs in 103 games for the Twins. The only issue is that Arcia swings and misses a lot. Since Oswaldo Arcia is still only 23 years old, I am optimistic that he will improve his plate discipline next season. His .220 ISO in 2014 was one of the best in the Majors. Signs are pointing to the fact that Arcia could surpass Brian Dozier and Kennys Vargas as the Twins’ top power hitter.

Tanner Bell of Smart Fantasy Baseball has created all of the projections seen in this post. You can read about how he develops his projections here. His projections are invaluable to this site. You can also visit his site at www.smartfantasybaseball.com.