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Minnesota Twins: The 40 Best Players In Team History (No. 36-40)

By Jackson Bruce

Jul 15, 2013; Flushing , NY, USA; National League outfielder Michael Cuddyer (3) of the Colorado Rockies at bat during the Home Run Derby in advance of the 2013 All Star Game at Citi Field. Mandatory Credit: Robert Deutsch-USA TODAY Sports
Jul 15, 2013; Flushing , NY, USA; National League outfielder Michael Cuddyer (3) of the Colorado Rockies at bat during the Home Run Derby in advance of the 2013 All Star Game at Citi Field. Mandatory Credit: Robert Deutsch-USA TODAY Sports /
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MLB: Minnesota Twins at Detroit Tigers
Apr 13, 2017; Detroit, MI, USA; Minnesota Twins hat and glove in the dugout during the game against the Minnesota Twins at Comerica Park. Mandatory Credit: Rick Osentoski-USA TODAY Sports /

No. 37: Zoilo Versalles (14.6 WAR)

The Twins’ franchise player that comes to mind in the 1960s was Harmon Killebrew. While he tore up American League pitching, he was not the first Minnesota Twin to win the AL MVP. That distinction belongs to Zoilo Versalles.

In 1965, Versalles was incredible. He ranked first in the league in position player WAR, with a 7.2 mark. He also led the American League in runs, at bats, total bases, doubles and triples that year. All of that happened while helping the Twins win their first pennant.

While that season was one of the best in club history, Versalles was productive during his entire time in a Twins uniform. He won two Gold Glove awards and went to two All-Star games. He is fourth all-time in triples for a Minnesota Twin with 56 and is tenth in franchise history in at bats.

Versalles racked up double digit triples in three straight seasons, and double digit stolen bases in four separate seasons. His speed helped him get on base and score. While his defense was erratic, one time committing five errors in a doubleheader, he was still able to make plays in the field. Making plays was something he had trouble with in the minors, only having a .940 fielding percentage. He improved his defense in the majors.

The Cuban star was a valuable asset to the Twins in the first decade in Minnesota, and a good bat to compliment the star presence of Killebrew. While he is only number 37, his 1965 season will never be overlooked as it is one of the best for anyone in a Twins uniform.

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