ESPN Insider Keith Law Big On Six Twins Prospects

Oct. 14, 2014; Scottsdale, AZ, USA; Minnesota Twins outfielder Byron Buxton plays for the Salt River Rafters during an Arizona Fall League game against the Surprise Saguaros at Salt River Field. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-USA TODAY Sports

#2 Byron Buxton

Slotting in right behind Kris Bryant, there’s not much to complain about here. Buxton spent most of the 2014 season on the disabled list, and Bryant’s season was absolutely unreal. Byron Buxton has all the talent in the world, and considering the time he spent shelved last season, his talent alone garners him this praise. The Twins are hoping Buxton debuts in 2015, but the developmental period for the exciting centerfielder was no doubt stalled in 2014.

Looking through Law’s analysis of Buxton, suggesting it’s anything but glowing doesn’t do the prospect justice. Law says, “At full strength and health, Buxton is an 80 runner with an 80 arm and is capable of playing at least grade-70 defense in center field. His bat is quick and his hands are strong enough to drive the ball out to the gaps. He’s more balanced than he was as an amateur, using his back leg more to generate power, which should end up above-average by the time he reaches his peak in his mid to late 20s. His pitch recognition turned out to be better than expected.”

There’s little reason to expect that Byron Buxton won’t be the exciting player Twins fans expect him to be. At what point that takes place is anyone’s guess, but signs indicate that later in 2015 is a good bet.