2015 Twins: Who Benefits Most In Fort Myers?
Aug 24, 2014; Minneapolis, MN, USA; Minnesota Twins left fielder Jordan Schafer (1) at bat against the Detroit Tigers at Target Field. Mandatory Credit: Brad Rempel-USA TODAY Sports
By this time, we have a pretty good idea that the centerfield spot is Aaron Hicks’ to lose. He’s coming in the favorite, and the Twins are hoping he gets off to the start he finished the season in the minors with. However, for Schafer, there is plenty to carve out this spring. Minnesota brought in some competition for the fourth outfield spot in the form of Shane Robinson. Last season, Schafer was as asset on the basepaths, and he even hit for the first time in his career.
Minnesota isn’t going to be expecting Schafer to contribute offensively to the same level, but he is going to need to be a defensive asset. At time last season, he looked lost in the outfield and that’s something the Twins can’t have in center. Schafer could be passed up by Robinson with a poor spring; a good one could have him pushing for Hicks’ job.