Aug 11, 2014; Houston, TX, USA; Minnesota Twins second baseman
Brian Dozier(2) hits a double during the first inning against the Houston Astros at Minute Maid Park. Mandatory Credit: Troy Taormina-USA TODAY Sports
Brian Dozier Home Runs: 17
Last season, not only did Brian Dozier lead the Twins in home runs with 23 long balls, but he also represented the club in the Home Run Derby. His swing was never one that looked to launch balls onto the Target Field Plaza, but his compact swing provided plenty of power to all fields. While the 23 home runs is very impressive, Dozier showed some signs for concern.
In 2014, 18 of the 23 home runs Dozier hit came before the All-Star break. Following his debut in the Home Run Derby, Dozier hit only five more home runs the rest of the season. Slugging .436 up until the All-Star break, Dozier slugged only .387 in the second half. His average remained the same (actually increasing from .242 to .244), but the power had waned.
Heading into 2015, it can be expected that Dozier will once again be amongst the Twins best home run hitters. That being said, 2014 may have been more of the outlier rather than the norm. Expect double-digit home runs to be easily reached, but getting into the high teens should prove elusive.
Prediction: Under 17 Home Runs