2015 Twins: Who Paces The Lineup?

Sep 5, 2014; Minneapolis, MN, USA; Minnesota Twins shortstop Danny Santana (39) at bat against the Los Angeles Angels at Target Field. Mandatory Credit: Brad Rempel-USA TODAY Sports

5. Danny Santana (2014 total: 129)

Last season, Danny Santana came onto the scene and went nuts for the Twins. He played everywhere he was asked in the field, and hit a blistering .319 at the plate. His 129 hits was good enough for 5th overall on the club.

Entering 2015, Santana appears to be a prime candidate for some significant regression. His .405 batting average on balls in play is simply not sustainable, and his average should return more towards his career mark of around .290. With that being said, the Twins should still be plenty able to count on him to hit for them.

Danny Santana, despite the competition, should figure to be the Twins Opening Day shortstop. He played in only 101 games last season, and that number should rise. He will likely also serve as the Twins leadoff hitter. Although the average may dip, expect him to continue to get on base at a respectable clip, and for a majority of that to be by way of base hits.