In 2008, Denard Span played in more than 90 games, finishing sixth in Rookie of the Year voting. Here’s how he ranks among the list of Twins outfielders.
- Ninth in Runs Scored (360)
- Ninth in Hits (669)
- Last in Home Runs (23)
- Last in Runs Batted In (230)
- Fourth in Stolen Bases (90)
- Fourth in Batting Average (.284)
- Fourth in On Base Percentage (.357)
- Ninth in Slugging Percentage (.389)
Span might not be considered a top 10 outfielder in Twins history, but he was an above average lead-off hitter during his five years with the Twins. He was an important piece during the team’s playoff race in 2009 and 2010. He also led the American League in triples with 10 in 2009.
While Span does not rank highly in most of the categories, he does rank fourth in SB, batting average and OBP. This is due to Span’s high walk rate. He never struck out more than 90 times in a season and usually worked the count in any of his at-bats.
Primarily playing in center field, Span was just as good defensively as he was offensively. Unfortunately he could not fully recover from concussion-like symptoms in 2011.
After being dealt to the Washington Nationals, Span has seen a bit of a career revival. He has batted over .300 twice and led the National League in hits in 2014 with 184.
There could be an argument to be made here. Span could be ninth or he could miss the list entirely. Either way Span is a good fit here and no. 10.
Next: 9: Mack Attack