UP: Max Kepler
On one hand, it was a tough week for Max Kepler. The Twins oufielder was in the hunt for one of the top nine outfielder spots to advance for the MLB All-Star Game Starters’ Election, but missed out to Texas’ Joey Gallo by 138 votes. On the other hand, Kepler had a clutch week when many of the other Twins struggled at the plate.
Kepler delivered one of the Twins’ signature moments of the year during a 17-inning victory over the Red Sox on June 18. After hitting a game-tying home run in the 13th inning, Kepler would blast the game-winning single in the bottom of the 17th to help give the Twins the win. Kepler would homer again the following night and delivered a RBI single as part of the Twins’ rally to defeat the Royals last Friday night.
Kepler’s rebound season has been a big one for the Twins as he’s hit .271 with 19 HR and 51 RBI despite spending most of his time in the leadoff spot. Mix in strong defense in right field and Kepler should be in the mix as an All-Star reserve.