Minnesota Twins: A Look Back at the First-Half of the Season

Mandatory Credit: Bruce Kluckhohn-USA TODAY Sports

This is no longer Joe Mauer’s team. This is now Brian Dozier’s team. The Twins second baseman has been the Twins MVP throughout the first-half of the season.

Dozier is currently only trailing the reigning MVP, Mike Trout for runs scored with 67.

Dozier is currently hitting .256 with 26 doubles, three triples, 19 home runs and 50 RBIs. He leads all second baseman in runs scored, home runs and RBIs.

Despite being one of the best second baseman in baseball, Dozier was snubbed from the All-Star roster. When the starters were announced for the All-Star Game, it was Houston Astros second baseman, Jose Altuve who was the American League starting second baseman. When the reserves were announced the next day it was Cleveland Indians second baseman, Jason Kipnis, not Dozier. That night Dozier hit a walk-off, home run against the Detroit Tigers.  Dozier lost the Final Vote to Kansas City Royals third baseman, Mike Moustakas and it appeared Dozier would be left off the All-Star Roster; before an injury to Jose Bautista forced him to miss the game and the Twins second baseman took his place. In typical Dozier fashion, he hit a home run in his first All-Star Game at bat.

Dozier is on pace to hit 28 home runs, 40 doubles and drive in 80 runs. Dozier may not get a lot of National media attention, but he is the heart of this team.

Next: Quality Starting Pitching