2015 Twins: 5 Reasons The AL Should Be On The Lookout

May 17, 2014; Minneapolis, MN, USA; Minnesota Twins coach Paul Molitor looks on from the dug out in the first inning against the Seattle Mariners at Target Field. Mandatory Credit: Jesse Johnson-USA TODAY Sports

1. Paul Molitor

In general, managers have little effect on the game of baseball. A lot of what takes place in between the lines is a culmination of multiple influences, as well as players executing on their own abilities. Although Ron Gardenhire‘s teams struggled in recent years, it was more a product of the situation, rather than an indication of his ability as a manager. That being said, a change needed to be made.

As Paul Molitor comes into the fold, the Twins now have a fresh new voice, and one the brings some different thoughts and principles with him. Outside of the heightened level of discipline and accountability Molitor appears to posses, the Twins should utilize more advanced metrics in today’s game. I would expect more running on the basepaths, some heightened aggression, and a continued focus on defensive positioning.

Molitor isn’t going to be in the field for the Twins obviously, but his presence and knowledge should be very apparent throughout the ballclub.