2015 Twins: Who Burns The Basepaths?

Aug 20, 2013; Ft Myers, FL, USA; Fort Myers Miracle center fielder Byron Buxton (7) runs to second to steal the base during the sixth inning against the Charlotte Stone Crabs at Hammond Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kim Klement-USA TODAY Sports

5. Byron Buxton

This may be a bit of a reach, but I think it’s a logical prediction. Note that last season, the Twins 5th highest stolen base total was owned by Eduardo Nunez who stole nine bases across 72 games. I believe this season, he will be competing for time with better players, and will be used more in a rotational role.

Should Buxton be called up prior to September as I believe he will be, he should pose an immediate base stealing threat at the major league level. Having already flashed the ability and plus speed down on the farm, Buxton should torment pitchers every time he is on base.

Whether it’s only the month of September or a bit more that he plays with the Twins, Buxton should rack up a few stolen bases. Needing to finish fifth in terms of swipes for the Twins should only command around 10 steals, and that’s a mark I could see Buxton getting to with a month and a half of playing time.