Hot Takes: Five Bold AL Central Predictions

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Sep 21, 2014; Minneapolis, MN, USA; Minnesota Twins first baseman Joe Mauer (7) at bat against the Cleveland Indians at Target Field. Mandatory Credit: Brad Rempel-USA TODAY Sports

Joe Mauer Returns To Form

Starting on the Twins front, Joe Mauer should provide plenty of excitement for the AL Central team from Minnesota this offseason. Whether you deem excuses and distractions as one in the same, there were plenty of obstacles for the former catcher in 2014. The birth of twin girls, the move to first base, and once again injuries, Joe Mauer had little chance to get off the ground a year ago.

Now, with a season under his belt, he should be better prepared to adjust at the plate. Having to understand the strike zone without the ability to view it first hand prior to stepping in the batters box was a definite disadvantage for Mauer a season ago. His career slash line is .319/.401/.459, expect for those numbers to reappear this season.

Prediction: Mauer hits .310/.410/.447 in 2015

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