The Minnesota Twins are exciting. Everyone is excited about Buxton and Correa. Which makes sense, you should be. Two of the best players in baseball at two premium positions is going to be a blast this year. But here are three names to watch for that might help the ’22 Twins take the next step and finally, please, for the love of God, win a playoff game.
1. Alex Kirilloff OF/1B
A blue chip prospect who made his debut in ‘21, Kirilloff had his season cut short due to a wrist injury and eventually surgery. Since he got banged up, and eventually shut down, the hype around him has been quiet and I’m not sure why. Entering his age 24 season I expect big things from AK . He’s a guy that has mashed at every level in his professional career. Don’t forget about the top tier prospect.A .290 average with 20 home runs is a solid, but realistic, projection for the sweet swinging lefty’s ‘22 campaign.
Jhoan Duran P
Duran is a flame throwing right handed pitcher. He can touch triple digits with his explosive fastball. At the young age of 24 he stands at 6’5, 230 lbs. A great body size that can hopefully help him stay healthy. Duran has nearly a 9 K/9 in his pro career. His expected role for the Twins this year is in the bullpen (or arm barn) which should help him pace himself. Expect his K/9 to creep to 10 or 11. He should be a regular on Pitching Ninja.
Jorge Alcala P
Alcala is another big righty with massive stuff. Featuring a big fastball Alcala really turned it on in the second half last season. In his last 22 innings of the season he posted a 0.82 ERA and struck out 27 of the 77 batters he faced (35%). Alcala might will be a big part of the Twins Bullpen this season.
I think a low 3 ERA with tons of swings and misses and soft contact is a fair outlook on the righty’s ‘22 season.
Go Twins.