2015 Twins: Who Burns The Basepaths?
Sep 17, 2014; Minneapolis, MN, USA; Minnesota Twins left fielder Jordan Schafer (1) steals second base before Detroit Tigers shortstop Eugenio Suarez (30) can make a tag in the eighth inning at Target Field. The Twins won 8-4. Mandatory Credit: Jesse Johnson-USA TODAY Sports
Quite possibly, Schafer’s speed will be the biggest asset to the Twins in 2015. Should Hicks play to the ability he was once billed, Schafer will adequately fill in as a fourth outfielder. While not playing every day, he could be called upon at any point to pinch run, and this is where the Twins benefit from him the most.
In 2014, Schafer played in only 41 games for the Twins after being claimed on waivers from the Atlanta Braves. He stole 15 bases across the period of time. The fourth outfielder before him, Sam Fuld, stole 12 bases for the Twins in 53 games. With over 60 games left to round out the season, Schafer has plenty of room to improve on his mark.
Schafer’s usage will depend a lot on how Aaron Hicks plays and the shape that Oswaldo Arcia finds his back to be in. That being said, no matter what his time in the field looks like, he will be the Twins biggest asset on the bases. I’d guess Schafer gets close to doubling his 2014 total and swipes around 30 bags for the Twins.
Next: 2015 Twins: Who Paces The Lineup?
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