2015 Twins: Who Leads The Longballs?

Sep 5, 2014; Minneapolis, MN, USA; Minnesota Twins catcher Josmil Pinto (43) at bat against the Los Angeles Angels at Target Field. Mandatory Credit: Brad Rempel-USA TODAY Sports

5. Josmil Pinto

Last season, Pinto saw limited time with the Twins due to struggling to brandish catching ability behind the plate. With Kurt Suzuki having one of the best offensive seasons of his career, there was little room for a guy who was a significant downgrade behind the plate.

Now with another season of development under his belt, Pinto is ready to push for regular playing time. He will open the year as the backup catcher, and lone option behind Suzuki, on the 25 man roster. Although Pinto still leaves plenty to be desired behind the plate, a season of offensive regression from Suzuki, should provide plenty of opportunities for the young slugger.

In 2014, Pinto mashed seven home runs over just 57 games and hit only .219. He was never able to find regular time to get into a rhythm however. Expect both the batting average and home run total to rise. Somewhere around 15 long balls is realistic.