May 26, 2014; Minneapolis, MN, USA; Minnesota Twins center fielder Aaron Hicks (32) fields a ball hit by the Texas Rangers in the 5th inning at Target Field. Mandatory Credit: Bruce Kluckhohn-USA TODAY Sports
Arguably the most likely of the bunch, Hicks will almost assuredly get the first crack to prove he belongs. After being demoted to Double-A following yet another horrid season at the major league level last year, Hicks really turned it on. He was able to find the stroke at the plate that had him amongst the Twins most intriguing prospects just a few years ago.
Athletically, it would appear that Aaron has all of the tools. Being a switch hitter and getting it done from both sides of the plate in the minor leagues is something that still needs to transfer to the next level. He is more than capable of fielding the position as well, providing plenty of excitement in center at Target Field. His work ethic and hustle have been called into question, and he will need to answer to that this season.
Long term, everyone knows center is Byron Buxton‘s spot. If Hicks wants to play himself into a position in left field however, it will start by locking down center until the arrival of the top prospect in baseball.