This season, the Twins have given Luke Keaschall starts in center field when Byron Buxton is unable to play. Ryan Kreidler has also made some starts in center field, but the best possible Twins lineup typically doesn't involve Kreidler.
Unfortunately, Keaschall isn't a great defensive center fielder. In 210 2/3 innings at the position this year, Keaschall has recorded -9 Defensive Runs Saved and -4 Outs Above Average. Keaschall also hasn't played great at his new primary position, right field, but he hasn't been as much of a disaster there as he is in center.
Luckily, Keaschall no longer has to worry about playing center field now that top prospect Walker Jenkins is in the big leagues. Minnesota selected Jenkins' contract before Friday night's game against the Chicago White Sox. Jenkins, a strong defender, is in the Twins' lineup for the third straight game on Sunday while Buxton rests his hip. Buxton, who has been on the IL twice this season, is currently "day-to-day," according to Twins general manager Jeremy Zoll.
Twins' Luke Keaschall is much better in corner OF than CF
Now Keaschall can focus on playing right field. Even though he has recorded -5 DRS and -1 OAA over 226 2/3 innings at right field so far this year, corner outfield appears to be Keaschall's long-term position.
If Buxton returns to the field this year, having both Buxton and Jenkins in the outfield should make up for Keaschall's poor defense. Keaschall is also known as a hard-working player, so it's plausible he could improve massively in the outfield.
Keaschall may be hurting the team with his defense, but his bat is too good to keep out of the lineup. Through April, Keaschall hit just .217/.267/.275. Since May 1, he has slashed a strong .292/.394/.422 (135 wRC+) with seven home runs, 18 doubles, a triple and 26 RBI over 377 plate appearances.
While right field is a new position for Keaschall, center is a much different animal. You have to cover much more ground in center field, which is considered one of the most important positions on the field. Keaschall's defensive numbers are much better in right field than center field, making Jenkins' promotion to the majors good news not only for the Twins but also for Keaschall personally.
Sunday's matchup between the Twins and White Sox at Target Field is scheduled to begin at 1:10 p.m. CDT. Fans can watch the game on Twins.TV.
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