2015 Twins: For Better Or For Worse

Sep 9, 2014; Detroit, MI, USA; Detroit Tigers right fielder Torii Hunter (48) makes a play against the Kansas City Royals at Comerica Park. Mandatory Credit: Rick Osentoski-USA TODAY Sports

Right Field

Why They’ll Be Better:

Statistically, better and worse in right field fall very close together. The Twins brought back Torii Hunter this offseason, and while he’s no longer the defensive asset he once was, he brings a veteran prowess with him. His bat is going to be a big plus in an offense that needed to add another veteran capable of consistent production. While his defensive ability has fallen off, his intellect remains. Replacing Arcia in right field actually could benefit the Twins, with Hunter having a better capability of getting reads off of fly balls hitting the overhang or high off of the wall.

Why They’ll Be Worse:

We saw how last season played out for Arcia in right. Target Field is a difficult outfield with a lot of ground to cover, and Hunter no longer has the range of even an average outfielder. Should his bat fail to continue along the path he has tread and he begins to press defensively, the intellect of using his veteran know how to his adverting could fail him. Hunter isn’t going to track balls like a typical right fielder might, and with a pitching staff needing help in the outfield, that could prove costly.