Minnesota Twins: Five Bold Predictions for 2016

2 of 6

Jul 7, 2015; Minneapolis, MN, USA; Minnesota Twins designated hitter Miguel Sano (22) hits a home run in the first inning against the Baltimore Orioles at Target Field. Mandatory Credit: Jesse Johnson-USA TODAY Sports /

MIGUEL SANO WILL HIT .278 WITH 35 HOMERS AND 105 RBI

Okay, so I’ll admit even I may be getting a little ahead of myself with these video game-esque statistics but the expectations will be insanely high for Sano’s first full season with the big league club.

Why I believe these numbers are doable for the big man is simply because of the monster numbers he put for the Twins in just 80 games last year.

Not only did he show the ability to drive the ball and knock in some runs, he also showed he has a more than capable eye at the plate. And if he can continue to improve his patience, he’ll be a true force in the heart of the Twins’ lineup.

That being said, Sano’s biggest struggles will come with his strikeouts. In those 80 games, he also fanned 119 times, which means it is very possible we see him strike out a lot. I’m talking in the 160’s-170’s.

Still, Sano was able to hit consistently well and put up a respectable .269 average despite the strikeouts. And with some new offensive firepower helping protect him in the order, Sano may feel more comfortable with less stress put on him to drive in runs for the team.

And as long as his confidence doesn’t take a hit if he begins to struggle in the outfield, I feel this prediction is actually realistic.

Next: Mauer's Comeback

Home/Minnesota Twins News