Positional Battles: Who Fields The Hot Corner For Twins?

March 21, 2013; Tampa, FL, USA; Minnesota Twins infielder Miguel Sano (97) on third base during the second inning against the New York Yankees at George M. Steinbrenner Field. Mandatory Credit: Kim Klement-USA TODAY Sports

Miguel Sano

Last season, Sano’s season ended before it began thanks to Tommy John surgery. Although not nearly as detrimental to a position player as a pitcher, Sano needs to prove he’s ready to go. Having shown some inability to field the third base position at the minor league level, that will be a focus this spring.

Just 21 years old, Sano still has time on his side. Having hit to the tune of a .279/.373/.567 line in four minor league seasons, his bat will play just fine at the major league level. The towering home runs will find their way out of Target Field as well. For Sano, it will be the other half of his game that determines when he is ready for the major leagues.

Likely starting out in Double-A Chattanooga with Doug Mientkiewicz, look for Sano to lay the groundwork during Spring Training. A strong spring backed by a quick start in the minors could put pressure on Plouffe. Should Trevor continue to hold down the position, options at the designated hitter spot may present themselves depending on Kennys Vargas‘ output.