2015 Twins: Who Paces The Lineup?

Aug 21, 2014; Minneapolis, MN, USA; Minnesota Twins first baseman Joe Mauer (7) in the on deck circle in the fourth inning against the Cleveland Indians at Target Field. The Minnesota Twins win 4-1. Mandatory Credit: Brad Rempel-USA TODAY Sports

2. Joe Mauer (2014 total: 126)

Once again in 2014, Joe Mauer missed time due to a significant oblique injury. He was only able to play in 120 games, but was noticeably different when returning from the ailment. In his time at the plate in 2014, Mauer compiled 126 hits, which was good enough for 5th on the team.

Expecting Mauer to have a much more clean bill of health heading into 2015 seems to be a relatively good bet. In his second season at first base, it should also be assumed that Mauer will have a much better idea how to attack the strike zone.

With a career average of .319, Twins fans should expect Mauer to return to hitting over .300 in 2015. The last time he finished a season with a sub-.300 average, Mauer rebounded to with a .319 season. Although I don’t know if we see something that drastic, expecting 150 hits is very realistic.