The Minnesota Twins have the chance to have a special season in 2018. In the center of that focus will be the Twins next superstar.
Byron Buxton is on his way to superstardom for the Minnesota Twins. Buxton had 36 extra base hits last season while slashing .253/.413/.413 and used his speed to swipe 29 bases in 30 attempts. This former top MLB prospect is putting it all together before Twins fans eyes, and it’s a beautiful sight.
The key to having a good defense is being solid up the middle and Buxton will lock down centerfield for a long time. He won a Gold Glove in 2017 and will collect more before his career is over. Buxton runs like a gazelle and can cover for any holes in the outfield defensively. He also has a cannon and saps the opponents aggressiveness on the basepaths.
What can we expect from Buxton in 2018?
The Minnesota Twins will need his superior defense in centerfield this season. Ervin Santana will miss part of the regular season and the Twins aren’t exactly “rolling with aces” in the rotation. As long as the ball is in the park, and even some that aren’t, Buxton has a chance to get a glove on it.
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One red flag for Buxton are his strikeouts, he had 150 strikeouts in 511 plate appearances in 2017. Unfortunately, in 2018 that is a common theme around MLB. However, as Buxton matures, and finds his comfort zone in the Majors, he will cut down his strikeout numbers. He did take 38 walks last season, and has shown good plate discipline early in his Minor League career.
Buxton hits for power too. Although he hit only 16 home runs in ’17, he profiles for more than that. He should hit 20 or more home runs this season, while also contributing 35-40 stolen bases.
This is the season Buxton will put it all together. He will settle into the middle of this lineup and solidify the offense. Buxton is ready to take the next step, and the Minnesota Twins need him if they are going to contend in ’18. He is a legit superstar and Twins fans will be cheering him every step along the way.
Next: Can Eddie Rosario take the next step?
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