Jordan Schafer and the Twins Speed Game
The Minnesota Twins have worked some waiver wire magic this year, and while it hasn’t been huge names, it’s been serviceable. Turning Sam Fuld, a cast off Athletics player, into Tommy Milone in sending him back to Oakland at the deadline was big. A second move, in the form of Jordan Schafer, brought some significant speed to Twins Territory.
While Jordan Schafer is never going to blow anyone away with his abilities at the plate, he is definitely worthy of being a major league level contributor. A guy who can play all three outfield spots, Schafer brings one of the few things you can’t teach to the Twins, speed.
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The speedy lefty was brought in by the Twins at the beginning of August, playing his first game on the 5th of the month. In 11 games, he has batted .281 with four runs scored and three RBIs. Most importantly however, he has swiped six bases.
Schafer currently is fifth on the team in steals, still counting Fuld’s 12 although he is no longer here. Schafer will likely finish near 20 steals and in second place in the category for the Twins. He has been incredibly efficient as well, stealing all six bases having yet to be thrown out.
Jordan Schafer doesn’t project as a starting outfielder for the Twins in 2015 if some of the minor league talent works out. Aaron Hicks will likely be his competition for the opening day center field job, with Byron Buxton breathing down both of their neck. That being said, Schafer is an above average bench player in the versatility he brings along with his blazing speed.
As the Twins return to relevancy in 2015, the luxury of a guy who can get himself into scoring position is unquantifiable. With 2015 evaluation well underway, Jordan Schafer is doing a good job of making himself a necessary asset.