Sep 15, 2014; Minneapolis, MN, USA; Detroit Tigers right fielder Torii Hunter (48) hits a home run in the ninth inning against the Minnesota Twins at Target Field. The Tigers won 8-6. Mandatory Credit: Jesse Johnson-USA TODAY Sports
Torii Hunter (1 year/$10.5 million)
After a two-year stint with the AL Central rival Detroit Tigers, Torii Hunter heads back to his roots in Minnesota. Looking to finish his career with the Twins, Hunter signed a one-year deal but left the door open depending on production.
For the Twins, Minnesota was thought to be looking for defensive help in left field. The large outfield at Target Field proved to be a detriment to fly ball pitchers, especially with lackluster fielding behind them. Hunter slots into right field, moving Oswaldo Arcia to left field. His defensive ability has since waned as he has aged, and the Twins outfield as a whole may have gotten worse with the signing.
On the flip side, Hunter’s bat is an obvious addition to an already capable lineup. The fact that Torii brings a veteran leadership to a clubhouse so badly desiring that, is another plus as well. Look for Byron Buxton to latch himself to Hunter’s routine. The Twins probably got a bit teary-eyed in Hunter, and potentially paid more than market value, but he still should benefit the club in certain aspects.
Grade: B-