2015 Twins: For Better Or For Worse

Apr 10, 2014; Minneapolis, MN, USA; Minnesota Twins catcher Josmil Pinto (43) tags out Oakland Athletics second baseman Nick Punto (1) in a rundown in the sixth inning at Target Field. Mandatory Credit: Jesse Johnson-USA TODAY Sports

Catcher

Why They’ll Be Better:

In 2015, the Twins will have a new manager in the dugout, and Paul Molitor likely won’t carry the same feelings that Ron Gardenhire did previously. Gary became synonymous with wanting to have catcher insurance, and at times overloading the bench with them. Look for the Twins to roll with only two this season, Kurt Suzuki and Josmil Pinto. Getting Pinto’s bat up to the major leagues for good is no doubt a plus, and he should be able to be one of the club’s best home run hitters. Minnesota extended Suzuki on a team friendly two-year deal, and coming off an All-Star season, he should once again be big for the Twins.

Why They’ll Be Worse:

In 2014, Suzuki came out of nowhere for the Twins and competed at an All-Star level. His offensive game was the best it had been in years, and he was a consistent option for the Twins behind the plate. None of that can be expected to continue. Suzuki is not a great defensive catcher, and Pinto has proven to be horrible behind the plate. While the Drew Butera types do nothing for any fan, having no defensive catchers could prove costly. Suzuki should regress at the plate, and Pinto hasn’t yet proven he can contribute in large sample sizes.