Top 10 Outfielders in Minnesota Twins History

May 20, 2015; Pittsburgh, PA, USA; A hat and glove belonging to the Minnesota Twins rests on the dugout rail. Mandatory Credit: Charles LeClaire-USA TODAY Sports

Cesar Tovar played multiple positions during his time with the Twins but primarily was an outfielder. Therefor he makes the list.

• Fifth in Runs Scored (646)
• Fourth in Hits (1164)
• Ninth in Home Runs (38)
• Eighth in Runs Batted In (319)
• First in Stolen Bases (186)
• Fifth in Batting Average (.281)
• Seventh in On Base Percentage (.337)
• Last in Slugging Percentage (.377)

Known for playing all nine positions in one game, Tovar was one of the first utility players for the Twins. He was never a flashy player. He was never an all-star. He did not hit for power. So what did he do besides play every position in one game?

A careful look at Tovar’s stats reveals he was severally underrated. There is no doubt Tovar was a key player for the Twins in the late ’60s and early ’70s. Often included in top 50 Twins lists, he came ready to play every day.

Compared to other players on the list, his statistical rankings are all over the place. They range from first in stolen bases to last in SLG. Tovar led the American League in several offensive categories during his eight years with the Twins.

In 1967, he led the AL in games played (164), plate appearances (726) and at-bats (649). That year, he finished seventh in MVP voting. Tovar led the AL in doubles (36) and triples (13) during the 1970 season. The following season Tovar led the AL in hits with 204. From 1967 to 1971, he finished in the top 25 in AL MVP voting.

Next: 6: One part of the Soul Patrol