Leading Off for the Minnesota Twins…
As an everyday player, Escobar gave the Twins a huge boost in the second half hitting .269, with an on-base percentage of .330 and a slugging percentage of .486.
Escobar has flashed some signs of power during his tenure with the Twins. Last season he blasted a career-high 12 home runs with 58 RBIs. He also fourth on the team in doubles with 31 and was tied for third with three triples.
For the most part, Escobar spent his time in the lower part of the order but if he continues to put up number like he did, an opportunity in the leadoff spot may be what Escobar deserves and what the Twins could use as a lineup boost.
So those are the four potential players I see as options for the leadoff spot. The rest of the lineup seems pretty set with power being a point of emphasis with the likes of Trevor Plouffe, Miguel Sano and Byung Ho Park.
Next: The Case for Phil Hughes
So who else could be potentially be in the leadoff spot? Danny Santana if Buxton doesn’t break camp with the Twins? Max Kepler? I personally don’t foresee anyone but Buxton being named the leadoff hitter as long as he makes the 25-man roster.
If Buxton is the future and the leadoff spot is what his future holds, then why not let the future be now?