The Minnesota Twins have already more than exceeded everyone’s expectations this season as they are in the midst of the AL Wild Card race. Now that they’re legitimate contenders here in September, it’s time to optimistically look ahead at what they need to do in order to make a real run for the pennant this October.
1. Miguel Sano needs to prove he’s the AL Rookie of the Year.
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I know what you’re thinking. It’s a lot to ask from a rookie…no it’s a TON to ask, but Sano needs to be near spectacular for the Twins to make a run. The 22 year old rookie from the Dominican Republic has been absolutely pivotal to the Twins success this second half. His presence in the middle of the order as a legitimate home run threat has boosted an offense, which was in dire need of a some fire power. His play at the plate cannot diminish if the Twins have any playoff hopes.
2. Glen Perkins needs to be the closer he was in the first half of 2015.
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Yes, Jepsen has been an incredibly beneficial pickup for the Twins this second half, especially since taking over the closer role with Perkins’ shaky performances and current stint on the disabled list. But, if we have any chance of securing wins late in games, we’ll need the veteran All-Star to pitch like one. It’s no secret that this league has turned into one where bullpens dominate with overpowering stuff. We’ll need Perk to bring back that electric slider to compliment his mid 90’s fastball in order to shut the door on opponents in the ninth.
3. Joe Mauer needs to continue to be clutch.
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Although the homegrown kid from St. Paul certainly isn’t what he used to be in his MVP days, he has really stepped up to the plate in crunch time, pun intended. Mauer leads the team with a .357 batting average this season with runners in scoring position. Lets see if he can keep that up when it matters most.
4. Starting Pitching must be exceptional.
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Now, this is probably the most important and most obvious of all. A rotation without any true aces, especially without Ervin Santana in the postseason, typically wouldn’t seem to have a chance. But, if they can just keep us in close ball games, which they have, then we can leave it up to our offense who just seems to find a way to rally. If we make the one game playoff, don’t be surprised to see Kyle Gibson (above) to get the nod.
5. Target Field could use some old “Metrodome Magic”.
Hopefully, this Twins squad can light the flame for a fan base that’s been starving for a title since 1991. I know we can’t replicate the deafening sounds of the Dome, but this loyal fan base can create an atmosphere unlike any other at Target Field. Let’s bring a little magic back to the Twin Cities.
God Bless and Go Twins.