Phillies signing former Minnesota Twins outfielder Max Kepler

And on December 19, 2024, we got that answer, too. After 1,072 games in a Minnesota Twins uniform, the 31-year-old (soon to be 32) Max Kepler is signing with the Philadelphia Phillies (pending physical).

Outfielder Max Kepler and the Philadlephia Philies are in agreement on a one-year, $10 million contract, sources tell ESPN. The deal, which is pending a physical, will give the Phillies a new corner outfielder in the 31-year-old Kepler. First on the scene: @Feinsand/@ToddZolecki.

— Jeff Passan (@JeffPassan) December 20, 2024

In his decade+ with the Twins, Kepler was a pillar of inconsistency at the plate. One month, he’d be the hottest hitter on the planet. The next month, he can’t buy a hit. Still, he plays great defense and his offensive numbers, from a macro view, are above average.

At $10 million, Kepler gets the same amount that both Kevin Kiermaier and Harrison Bader signed for as outfield free agents last offseason. It is the same value he finished playing at for the Twins in 2024.

Last season, Kepler slashed .253/.302/.380 for Minnesota across 105 games. That was worth just a 91 OPS+. He dealt with injuries that sapped his effectiveness, but it was a far cry from the 124 OPS+ he posted in 2023.

Max Kepler goes deep for a 3-run dinger and the @Twins are on top big! 💪 pic.twitter.com/u4pEbvT4Il

— MLB (@MLB) August 14, 2024

Kepler roller coaster moves East

It wasn’t until Major League Baseball introduced a juiced ball in 2019 that Kepler really took off. As a member of the Bomba Squad, Max launched 36 home runs, a career-high. His 46.6% fly ball rate that year was indicative of a line drive and elevate approach that leaned into his pull power. He never found that swing again, post 2019.

Related: New Minnesota Twins President Has His Eye on One Almost Ready Prospect

Although Kepler’s offensive profile leaves plenty to be desired, he remains an asset in right field. He was worth four outs above average and provide a two fielding run value last season. That will decline as he ages, but the Phillies are only concerned about 2025.

MAXimum effort on this catch. #TwinsWin | #MNTwins pic.twitter.com/HBoTrIax6v

— Minnesota Twins (@Twins) July 1, 2023

Kepler goes to the National League for the first time in his career. The right field line and power alley are virtually identical at Citizens Bank Ballpark and Target Field. The wall is ten feet shorter in height though, and could add to the German’s home run total.

Related: Minnesota Twins Taking Calls on Another All-Star Talent

It will be weird to see Kepler wearing another uniform in 2025. It’s better than either the Guardians or Yankees though, of which he could have been a fit for either. Minnesota travels to Philadelphia for a three-game series at the end of September.

Max Kepler’s free agency should be fascinating for Minnesota Twins to observe

Max Kepler has known nothing but the Minnesota Twins over the course of his professional career. He signed with the organization as a teenager out of Germany, and now at 31 years old, he gets to experience free agency for the first time. MLB insider Mark Feinsand placed the outfielder amongst the third tier of his comprehensive free agent rankings.

“It’s been five years since Kepler’s breakout 2019 season, during which he set career highs with 36 home runs and 90 RBIs. He might have to settle for a one-year pillow deal to reestablish his value, but Kepler remains a solid defender with 25-home run power, making him a solid risk-reward candidate.”

Feinsand on Max Kepler (MLB.com)

Minnesota extended Kepler on a six-year, $41.13 million deal prior to the 2019 season. They certainly didn’t know the baseball was going to be juiced, but he became a key member of the Bomba Squad. That 123 OPS+ has never been matched by Kepler, and the years since have been largely mediocre. Across 519 games, he owns a 102 OPS+ that includes average counting stats across the board.

Related: Minnesota Twins Protect Two Rule 5 Prospects in 40-Man Moves

Kepler’s offensive profile has always been limited because of his approach at the plate. He doesn’t hit the ball hard, and doesn’t lift the baseball. He also doesn’t draw walks. The path to success is such a tight threading of the needle that it has always resulted in substantial ebbs and flows.

Related: Former Minnesota Twins Prospect Wins Rookie of the Year

There’s no reason why Kepler won’t find a home though. His defense remains well above average as a corner outfielder. If he can land in an advantageous ballpark like Cleveland or New York, then the offense could come back around as well. It would be a shock to see the Twins bring him back, and someone should be willing to pay him in the $10-15 million range per season.

MIGHTY MAX 💪💪💪

Max Kepler takes Trevor Bauer yard AGAIN. #MNTwins pic.twitter.com/4kB6MB2MJc

— FanDuel Sports Network North (@FanDuelSN_NOR) July 13, 2019

Related: Former Minnesota Twins Closer Makes BBWAA Hall of Fame Ballot

No matter where he ends up, seeing Kepler in a different uniform is going to be jarring for a bit. You can bet there will be a tribute video the first time he returns to Target Field.

Former Twins litter lower tiers of free agency

It’s not just Max Kepler that is hitting the open market. Minnesota had multiple veterans depart this offseason, and there are plenty of players with ties to the organization that show up on Feinsand’s breakdown. Unfortunately for all of them, they check in among the lower tiers.

It seems relatively unlikely that Minnesota would be interested in the vast majority of their former talents. Jorge Polanco could be a decent stopgap at second base if he wanted to return on a cheap deal. There is a need at first base, but Santana may have had the last productive season of his career.

Related: Minnesota Twins Insist They Aren’t Interested in Trading Star Players

The Twins could be suitors for names like Roki Sasaki (Tier 2), Yusei Kikuchi (Tier 3), Tyler O’Neill (Tier 3), or any number of players in the lower tiers. Falvey must work his magic this offseason due to payroll constraints, and how that shakes out will determine where Minnesota finds themselves once the regular season begins.

Max Kepler a Twins free agent for first time

All Max Kepler has known within the realm of professional baseball is the Minnesota Twins. The German signed as a teenager. Now, at 31 years old, he is on the open market for the first time. What will he get now that he is a free agent? ESPN Insider Kiley McDaniel ranked Kepler as the 30th best free agent, and pins his AAV (average annual value) at $14 million.

Kepler will be 32 in February and had a bad walk year — (slightly) below average at the plate and on the bases while playing a corner-outfield spot — but there are still teams that think 2024 was an outlier and he’s closer to his 2023 self. I think there’s multi-year interest on the promise that he could be above average in all phases once again.

Kiley McDaniel on Max Kepler (ESPN)

Last season Kepler made $10 million in the final year of a six-year extension he signed with Minnesota. McDaniel pegs Kepler’s next contract at two years and $28 million total. That $14M AAV seems a bit rich, but teams could line up to pay a player with his defensive abilities. Max has struggled to remain consistent at the plate, during his decade run in Minnesota, but his defensive metrics have always been above average.

WHAT A CATCH BY KEPLER 😱#MNTwins | #MLB pic.twitter.com/Cncj7tvGM4

— FanDuel Sports Network North (@FanDuelSN_NOR) July 1, 2023

Related: ESPN Admits They Got it Wrong on Twins Infielder Edouard Julien

They are centerfielders, but both Kevin Kiermaier and Harrison Bader got $10 million last season, which should bode well for Kepler. I’m not sure if I agree on McDaniel’s valuation of Max Kepler. But I do agree with one thing. Max certainly won’t be back with the Minnesota Twins.

Carlos Santana’s market after Minnesota looks nice

Minnesota was in the market for a first baseman last year. They opted for an affordable 38-year-old veteran, on a one year deal. Carlos Santana cost just $5.25 million, and ended up as one of the team’s best hitters. Oh, and he won a Gold Glove at first base. Going into 2024-25 free agency, McDaniel ranks Santana as his No. 43 free agent.

Like Pederson, Santana is in this general area of seemingly every free agent list, moving up or down and getting one vs. multi-year deals depending on last season’s performance. Santana performed, posting a 114 wRC+ and adding career-best defensive metrics at first base, so he could be an alternative for the teams that lose out on Christian Walker.

Kiley McDaniel on Carlos Santana (ESPN)

Similarly to Kepler’s prediction, the valuation seems high here. Santana nearly tripling his salary because of a Gold Glove seems wild. It’s not as though good defense is something new for him, and he’s not getting any younger. Santana started out slow for Minnesota, and he faded down the stretch. The Twins would probably love him back, but at nowhere near this price.

Twins are struggling but Carlos Santana's defense continues to be there ever game.

He's 2nd among 1st basemen in Defensive Runs Saved since the start of last season. pic.twitter.com/S5VYoI8fDf

— SIS_Baseball (@sis_baseball) September 25, 2024

Related: Two Free Agent Pitchers Linked to Minnesota Twins

Ultimately a team will need to decide on how much they believe in Santana’s ability to stave off the aging process. Once a wall comes for a player, it generally goes downhill quickly. No one wants to land the latest representation of Nelson Cruz.

No farewell tour for Minnesota Twins Max Kepler

Max Kepler has been dealing with knee soreness for weeks now. He finally landed on the injured list after hurting the lineup by trying to play through it. After facing live pitching on Monday, it was determined that he will be shutdown, therefore ending his season.

Max Kepler isn’t expected to return in the regular season, Rocco says.

Chris Paddack threw live yesterday and plans to throw again Thursday, with a decision point possible after that.

Justin Topa feels physically ready to return, he says, after his two Saints outings went well.

— Do-Hyoung Park (@dohyoungpark) September 24, 2024

The Minnesota Twins signed Kepler as a teenager out of Germany. He has been with the organization since 2010. Joe Mauer was still a catcher and Target Field was less than a year old. With 1,072 games at the big league level under his belt, Kepler launched 161 home runs with a .237/.318/.429 slash line.

The #MNTwins lineup the last time Max Kepler was not part of the organization:

Denard Span CF
Orlando Hudson 2B
Joe Mauer C
Justin Morneau 1B
Michael Cuddyer 3B
Jason Kubel RF
Delmon Young LF
Nick Punto SS
Carl Pavano P

(6/20/10)

— Ted (@tlschwerz) September 24, 2024

Related: Minnesota Twins Final Stand…?

After a strong 2018 season the Minnesota Twins extended Kepler (and Jorge Polanco). Kepler hit a career-high 36 home runs as a prominent member of the 2019 Bomba Squad. Outside of his resurgence in 2023, that would wind up being the only above-average season offensively.

Max Kepler is on pace for 120 home runs this season#BombaSquad | #MNTwins pic.twitter.com/Nq4b9mbY8j

— Bally Sports North (@BallySportsNOR) July 25, 2020

At 32 years old, Kepler will hit free agency for the first time. It remains likely someone will give him a one-year deal in order to play right field. He still rated above-average defensively this season posting four outs above average and two fielding run value.

Related: Breakout Starter Named Minnesota Twins’ Minor League POY by Baseball America

The reality is that the suitor won’t be Minnesota, and the two sides will part ways for the first time in over a decade. It has been quite the run.

Pitching help is murky for the Twins as well

Kepler wasn’t the only player trying to return for the Minnesota Twins. Justin Topa, acquired in the Jorge Polanco trade, has yet to appear in a big league game this season. Physically ready to go, Topa has yet to be given clearance by Minnesota. He made a pair of rehab appearances for the Saints, but allowed three runs on a homer in the first outing.

Standing ovation for Chris Paddack. He allowed a leadoff single on his first pitch but quickly struck out the next three.

The stuff looks really good. Fastball up to 99.0 mph, the hardest pitch of his MLB career. pic.twitter.com/mjGQ8Qdszs

— Do-Hyoung Park (@dohyoungpark) September 27, 2023

The Twins bullpen has been in shambles during the second half, and Topa would seemingly provide a boost for Rocco Baldelli. Chris Paddack has been out since July, and he would take a bullpen spot as well. Last season Minnesota inserted Paddack in the pen after he recovered from Tommy John surgery. The results as a starter this year were middling at best.

Minnesota opting against activating either of the pitchers on Tuesday is telling. Waiting until Thursday for another throwing session on Paddack essentially gives him just a single game to make an impact. Realistically it appears that the schedule is just running out.

Related: Minnesota Twins Swap Out Bullpen Pitchers

The Twins have six games left and trail both the Kansas City Royals and Detroit Tigers for a final playoff spot.

Pitching help incoming for the Minnesota Twins

Recently the Minnesota Twins claimed Cole Irvin and optioned Jorge Alcala. The move was a curious one, but the bullpen needs a breathing human being to step up and get the job done. There aren’t many out there capable right now, Irvin included. The Star Tribune’s Phil Miller says both Justin Topa and Chris Paddack could be options this week.

“Topa will be examined by Twins doctors when the team returns home on Tuesday, though since the Saints’ season ended Sunday, it remains unlikely that he will be activated to pitch in the majors this season.“

Miller on the possibility Justin Topa joins Minnesota (Star Tribune)

Topa was the major league centerpiece of the Jorge Polanco trade. He never got healthy out of spring training, and it appears he won’t make a single pitch for Minnesota this season. His presence was supposed to create a sizable impact in Baldelli’s bullpen. That reality is part of the problem the Twins find themselves in now.

“Far more plausible, according to Twins sources, is that Chris Paddack shows that he is healthy again now that the forearm strain he felt just before the All-Star break has gone. Paddack will throw a session of live batting practice to injured right fielder Max Kepler on Monday afternoon at Target Field, and both will also be examined afterward to determine what the next step is.”

Miller on the possibility Chris Paddack joins Minnesota (Star Tribune)

Paddack’s return would come in the form of a bullpen appearance. He could eat some innings behind the rookie starters, but he hasn’t been built up enough given the time he has missed. Last season Minnesota had the former Padres starter in the bullpen. He put up 3 2/3 scoreless innings during the American League Division Series against Houston.

Related: Minnesota Twins Swap Out Bullpen Pitchers

With just six games left, three against Miami and Baltimore, the Twins are really up against a tough timeline. The ability to get players back from injury has been a hurdle all season.

Should Minnesota want any of the help?

It’s weird to think that a team struggling to stay afloat would be against additional options. Of course they would welcome both pitchers and Max Kepler back into the clubhouse. From a production standpoint though, it’s a legitimate question as to whether any of the trio actually do help.

A healthy Topa is the best of the bunch. Since returning to St. Paul he has allowed runs in just one of seven appearances. His 10/3 K/BB is solid, and he showed that he can be a high-leverage reliever at the big league level last season. The runway not being long enough for him to return would be disappointing.

Standing ovation for Chris Paddack. He allowed a leadoff single on his first pitch but quickly struck out the next three.

The stuff looks really good. Fastball up to 99.0 mph, the hardest pitch of his MLB career. pic.twitter.com/mjGQ8Qdszs

— Do-Hyoung Park (@dohyoungpark) September 27, 2023

Chris Paddack worked out of the bullpen last postseason, but he gave up three runs in two appearances to end the year before that. In 17 starts this year, he owns a 4.99 ERA and has never looked sharp for any consistent period of time. Yes, he is better than the bottom of the Twins current bullpen, but the bar is not high to clear

As for Kepler, the Twins should want him nowhere near the lineup. He has made a habit of playing poorly through injury, and short of a hot start out of the gate, he has been abysmal. The defensive help makes sense as a replacement for Matt Wallner or Trevor Larnach, but if the knee issues linger, then the upgrade may not be worthwhile.

Max Kepler was called for batter’s interference after Francisco Alvarez drilled him in the helmet pic.twitter.com/ERviJgeDlG

— Talkin’ Baseball (@TalkinBaseball_) July 31, 2024

Related: Pitching is Obvious Problem… but Minnesota Twins Bats Might be Worse

All of it boils down to grasping at straws, and being too little, too late. The Twins didn’t need to be in this position. Injuries sunk them, and the performance of those on the roster did them no favors either.

Sending down Jorge Alcala made the group even more thin, which has Rocco Baldelli essentially managing with one hand tied behind his back. But hey, at least we got a Max Kepler update.

Jorge Alcala looks done for the Minnesota Twins in 2024

Jorge Alcala went into the All-Star Break with a 1.56 ERA for the Minnesota Twins. Despite being optioned already and having been given the runaround, he was among the best relievers for Rocco Baldelli.

The second half then hit and misfortune piled up. Across 20 games since July 20, Alcala posted a 6.75 ERA with a 7.07 FIP. He allowed opposing hitters a .923 OPS and fell out of the bullpen rotation.

Minnesota saw enough and sent him packing for veteran Cole Irvin. According to Rocco, the Twins wanted more lefty length in the bullpen, given how many young starters they are currently relying on,

“Length is probably the main point. We’re going to have games where we might need someone to throw three or four innings. It’s hard to make some of these decisions when the time comes. Obviously I had to sit with him last night and talk through it. Not always the easiest of conversations, but sometimes a tough one has to be made.”

Rocco Baldelli on the decision to option Jorge Alcala (Star Tribune)

The Star Tribune’s Phil Miller suggested that Alcala will likely head to Fort Myers, when the St. Paul Saints season ends, and remain ready, should the Twins make the playoffs.

But even then, it sounds like he’s unlikely to make the active playoff roster. Tonight, Irvin got his first opportunity out of the Minnesota Twins bullpen. The lefty, with poor numbers, got just one out before being sent to the showers.

Jorge Alcalá, 100mph ⛽️ and Vicious 91mph Slider…and Sword ⚔️ pic.twitter.com/m0MFEphWNE

— Rob Friedman (@PitchingNinja) May 30, 2024

Alcala had pitched multiple innings in six appearances this season. The latest was his last time out, in which he struck out four in a scoreless outing against the Cincinnati Reds.

His stuff is infinitely better than the veteran Minnesota claimed, and even with the tough stretch, it seems the Twins willingly made their bullpen worse.

Related: Minnesota Twins Making Surprise Move in Bullpen After Latest Meltdown

All year the Twins have sent Alcala on an odd wild goose chase. Despite arm issues that have held him back, he was often asked to do out of the ordinary work early in the year.

Griffin Jax and Jhoan Duran were both exhausted in appearances on Tuesday, and Irvin won’t be capable of keeping them fresh.

Max Kepler lagging behind for Minnesota

The Twins have already activated Byron Buxton, Carlos Correa, and Manuel Margot. Each of them went through a creative rehab plan that had them facing Minnesota minor leaguers.

Max Kepler, who was the last to hit the injured list, still remains delayed. He has made a career of inappropriately playing through injury to the team’s detriment.

“Max requested to get that reviewed by another doctor, [The doctor] decided that the best thing to do was get a cortisone injection, which he got [Monday], and he has felt better ever since. We know the season is coming to a close here soon, so we’re targeting getting him into games this weekend in St. Paul.

That would be the goal at present. It’s a core muscle, hip abdominal area issue, and he wanted to make sure it wasn’t serious. Obviously we’re running out of time. As long as his week goes well, then we’ll track toward games this weekend.”

Derek Falvey on Max Kepler’s return (Star Tribune)

Max Kepler was called for batter’s interference after Francisco Alvarez drilled him in the helmet pic.twitter.com/ERviJgeDlG

— Talkin’ Baseball (@TalkinBaseball_) July 31, 2024

Kepler has been on the shelf since September 1. He posted a .906 OPS through the first 32 games of the year, and has a .591 OPS in 73 since. It’s as though Kepler has never grasped that his ability is severely muted while playing through injury and it has led to just a pair of above-average offensive seasons over a 10-year career.

Both Trevor Larnach and Matt Wallner are superior options at this point. Short of Kepler being willing to play as a defensive replacement, his return to the big league club may be a detriment in the final week and postseason.

Related: If Mike Trout Can Change Positions, Why Can’t Minnesota Twins Players?

The Twins are doing everything possible to keep their waning postseason hopes alive. Rocco Baldelli is having to grasp at straws with a roster running on fumes. Things could wind up being too much to overcome.

That’s why it was big news, earlier in the week, when news broke that Byron Buxton was returning to the active roster, on Friday. His haters don’t want to believe it, but the Minnesota Twins are a much better team, when Buck is in the lineup. More on him shortly.

Byron Buxton returns, Carlos Correa and Max Kepler ‘hopefully’ close

Prior to the game on Friday, we got a bevy of additional injury updates from the Twins. First, Rocco Baldelli updated reporters on Carlos Correa and Max Kepler. Both guys, along with Buxton and Manuel Margot, have been getting live reps vs minor league pitchers this week, at Target Field.

Unlike previous updates he’s given, the Minnesota manager seemed a bit more optimistic regarding Kepler and Correa’s imminent return to the Twins lineup. Unfortunately, he would not get specific with their timelines. In fairness, it appears they may still be figuring that part out, too.

Carlos Correa (heel) and Max Kepler (knee) took live batting practice pregame, and Rocco Baldelli said the #MNTwins are "hopeful" they're close to returning.

"We're in the process of making those calls and seeing what those timelines look like, but I think we're getting close."

— Aaron Gleeman (@AaronGleeman) September 13, 2024

“We’re in the process of making those calls and seeing what those timelines look like. But I think we’re getting close.”

Rocco Baldelli on when Carlos Correa and Max Kepler will return the the Minnesota Twins lineup – via Do-Hyoung Park’s (MLB.com) tweet above

Update: Carlos Correa is Back for Minnesota Twins

From there, we got one more bonus injury update, to end the week. This one has been flying under the radar, for a couple of weeks. Right-handed pitcher Chris Paddack has been out of the Twins rotation for much of the 2nd half, but most recently due to a forearm injury that’s had him out since July 20.

But the 28-year-old Texan’s season may not be over, just yet. Normally a starter, Paddack and the Twins are preparing him for a possible relief role, come the postseason, if his arm will allow it.

Chris Paddack told Do-Hyoung Park (MLB.com) this evening that he threw his first bullpen session today, at Target Field. His ultimate short-term goal is to earn a playoff roster spot, as a reliever. He said that decision will be made during the Twins’ final 6-game homestand, to end the season, which begins on September 24 vs Miami.

Chris Paddack threw his first bullpen session today and reiterated that his return timeline is geared toward the hope of a return to the bullpen for the playoffs.

He said there will be a decision point next homestand based on medical clearance and how the standings look.

— Do-Hyoung Park (@dohyoungpark) September 13, 2024

Getting Buck back is huge step in right direction for Minnesota Twins

Because of his troubles staying healthy, Byron Buxton will always be a controversial figure, in this market. As long as he can run, Buck is one of the best center fielders in the league. But in 2024, he’s been by far one of the more productive offensive weapons in this lineup, when healthy.

And he has been for most of the season. With 16 games remaining, the 30-year-old former 2nd overall pick has a chance to reach 106 games played in 2024. Rocco made it clear today, that Buxton will not play every game, but that he will be playing “regularly”.

Related: Minnesota Twins Release 2024 Draft Pick After Catching Him Cheating for Opponents

If Buck plays 10 of the remaining 16 games, he will reach the 100 games mark for the first time since 2017, when he played 140 games. Entering tonight’s matchup vs the Reds, Byron is batting .275 (third highest on the Twins), with a .862 OPS and 138 OPS+ (both rank 2nd), in 335 plate appearances.

Byron Buxton's arm seems to be just fine and dandy.

He entered with an 1.113 OPS in July — and that's on its way up after this homer. pic.twitter.com/LmW8v6F6qL

— Do-Hyoung Park (@dohyoungpark) July 26, 2024

According to Baseball Reference, he and Carlos Correa, at 3.3 WAR apiece, are the two most valuable players on the Minnesota Twins 2024 roster. So hate him all you want, this team needs Byron Buxton, if it wants any chance at making noise in the postseason.

Minnesota Twins finally make a move on Max Kepler

The German right fielder has been dealing with knee soreness for a few days now. He was scratched from recent lineups, as he’s tried to work through the pain. It’s likely the issue stems from much further back, however.

Since June, Kepler has hit a terrible .239/.278/.331, across 66 games. He has done this charade in previous seasons, as well. Playing through injury is one thing, but when it hurts the team, who are you helping? But finally, the Twins have seen enough.

Surreeeee would be nice if you would've just put a banged up player on the injured list who can't play every day instead of taking up a bench spot, but hey, that's just me. #MNTwins

— Declan Goff (@DexsTweets) September 4, 2024

The Twins continued to run Kepler out, because of his defense. With Byron Buxton out, he was the only plus-defender available to Rocco Baldelli. No doubt Kepler is an asset in right field, which is even more reason to get him healthy. Hopefully, he has enough time to heal, prior to the playoffs. That could be part of the decision to put him on the shelf now. But why oh why did we wait this long?

Related: Byron Buxton Going Back on Twins Shelf After Apparent Setback

Kepler is in the final year of a six-year deal he signed around the same time as Jorge Polanco, who was traded last offseason. Kepler, a fan favorite, has generated nearly 20.0 fWAR with Minnesota, but his offensive production leaves plenty to be desired, especially in terms of consistency. Outside of the 2019 season with a juiced baseball, Kepler never really realized his potential, offensively.

Who is Twins DaShawn Keirsey Jr.?

DaShawn Keirsey Jr. was the Minnesota Twins fourth round pick during the 2018 Major League Baseball Draft. Taken from the University of Utah, the outfielder is 27 years old. Across 471 minor league games he owns a .759 OPS, but has posted .821 and .839 OPS tallies for the Saints over the last two years.

Similar to Byron Buxton, Keirsey is an excellent defender. A right-handed Keirsey Jr. would have been on the roster weeks ago. He immediately becomes the best center fielder on the Twins roster, and should serve well as a regular defensive replacement, late in games. Keirsey Jr. is more contact than power, at the plate, but can have some sneaky pop, as well.

DaShawn Keirsey Jr. makes a STELLAR catch to save a run from scoring!

The Surge trail Springfield 4-1 heading to the 4th. #WindSurge pic.twitter.com/JXzuQwKBA7

— Wichita Wind Surge (@WindSurgeICT) July 2, 2022

He continues to have an incredible season. DaShawn Keirsey Jr. with this 2-run blast, his 14th homer of the season, one shy of his career high. He now has 68 RBI, 7 shy of the franchise record of 75. Hitting .300/.394/.483/.877 in the month of August@ticasino pic.twitter.com/aeaQXzWtsR

— St. Paul Saints (@StPaulSaints) August 23, 2024

Strikeouts are definitely something that Keirsey Jr. is susceptible to, but he draws his fair share of walks. On the basepaths he can be a menace, and should be used for the postseason roster.

He has stolen 117 bases the past three seasons and has been caught just 19 times. The stolen base threat is something Minnesota doesn’t really have on their current roster.

Related: Minnesota Twins Play Royce Lewis at 2nd Base Against His Wishes

It is possible that Rocco Baldelli goes with all left-handed outfields to start against right-handed pitchers. Trevor Larnach and Matt Wallner would flank Keirsey Jr. in that scenario.

the #mntwins are calling up dashawn keirsey jr

he’s slashing .340/.395/.528 with 11 extra base hits since aug 1

this year he added a pre-swing move that can only be described as royce lewis-esque ⬇️ pic.twitter.com/oK3Gtv7HgA

— parker hageman (@HagemanParker) September 5, 2024

And if the Twins can get their second win in a row against the Blue Jays tonight, it sounds like they will have upgrades on the way, starting tomorrow, in top prospect, Brooks Lee.

Roster upgrades incoming for the Minnesota Twins

According to Aaron Gleeman (The Athletic), on the latest episode of “Gleeman and The Geek”, No. 15 overall prospect in baseball, Brooks Lee, will be called up by the Twins on Sunday, as part of the September 1 MLB roster expansion, when active rosters will grow from 26 to 28 players.

The infield won’t be the only part of the lineup being upgraded this weekend. In the outfield, Max Kepler is expected to return to RF, after a short hiatus. Then, at some point this week, Byron Buxton will begin a quick rehab assignment, before he returns to big league centerfield duties.

Rocco Baldelli said Friday, “Coming out of the last game [Max Kepler] played in, he did not feel great. Then we ran into the lefty [Chris] Sale, had the day off, we’ll work him out today and see how he feels. I think he should be OK going forward…”

Center fielder Byron Buxton took part in pregame outfield drills Friday as he moves toward beginning a rehab assignment. “He’s getting close to being able to go out there and play,” Baldelli said. “I would say Buck is ahead of [Carlos] Correa at this point.”

Minnesota Star Tribune

Related: Will Carlos Correa Return to the Minnesota Twins Lineup at All This Season?

If all goes well (and that’s far from a guarantee) it sounds like the Minnesota Twins defense will be leaps and bounds better next week, than what we have seen Rocco Baldelli run out lately. If (mostly) healthy and playing well, all three of Buxton, Kepler and Lee are upgrades on offense too.

2024 Statistics

• Byron Buxton: 335 PA, 16 HR, 49 RBI, .275 BA, .862 OPS, 138 OPS+, 3.3 WAR
• Brooks Lee: 110 PA, 2 HR, 15 RBI, .253 BA, .642 OPS, 82 OPS+, 0.6 WAR
• Max Kepler: 391 PA, 8 HR, 42 RBI, .258 BA, .697 OPS, 95 OPS+, 1.2 WAR

What are Twins getting back with return of Lee, Kepler and Buxton?

After a smoking hot start to his MLB career, Brooks Lee cooled off in a big way, prior to going on the injured list. Was that due to his injury, or was he struggling to adjust to big league pitching? That’s the question we’re hoping to see answered in September. Whether he’s at SS, 3B or 2B, the rookie is an immediate upgrade defensively.

Rookie Brooks Lee takes away a hit 😯 pic.twitter.com/9vnFa4Kulb

— MLB (@MLB) July 13, 2024

Because when this team is fully healthy (pretty much never), I’m not sure Brooks Lee cracks the starting lineup. Max Kepler is who he is, at this point in his career. He’s a really good outfielder who can be one of your best hitters, when going. But when cold, Kep goes really cold. And we’ve seen more of that Max this season, unfortunately.

Related: Familiar (but Perfect) Answer to Twins Bullpen Woes Just Hit the Waiver Wire

This summer has squashed any doubt about Byron Buxton in centerfield, both offensively and defensively. Even after this most recent injury, this is one of the healthiest seasons in Buck’s career (90 games). His 2024 numbers speak for themselves. His 3.3 WAR is 2nd on the team behind only Carlos Correa’s 3.4 WAR.

Feeling like a million Bux

Byron Buxton gives the @Twins the lead with HR No. 15 💪 pic.twitter.com/wxEQUiEwcq

— MLB (@MLB) August 11, 2024

Of course, you never know who is going to hit the injured list next, with this team. But if Lee and Buxton return from the injured list and Kepler proves to be fine, the Twins offense could be very close to full health next weekend, or shortly thereafter. Well, except for Carlos Correa. The book is still out on him.

Carlos Correa could headline Puerto Rico

The World Baseball Classic, which takes part during spring training, has been happening since 2006. In 2028, the MLB is considering a break in their season, or some way that allows the best players in the world to compete for their countries, without hurting the MLB teams they are paid millions of dollars to work for.

If there was to be a WNBA-like break for baseball, the best players on the planet could compete. If MLB players get the green light, The Athletic picked out one player from each team that is most likely to be called upon by their country. For the Twins, Carlos Correa was the obvious choice. Kaitlyn McGrath explains.

“We wanted to highlight Max Kepler potentially playing for Team Germany in this space but sadly — and perhaps not surprisingly — Germany has never qualified for the Olympics in baseball, making their inclusion in L.A. 2028 unlikely. What seems far more likely, however, is that Correa will suit up for Puerto Rico. Correa played for the commonwealth during the 2017 WBC but opted out of the international tournament in 2023 due to the birth of his child, so getting back into a Team Puerto Rico jersey, especially at the Olympics, would likely be meaningful to him.”

Kaitlyn McGrath on Carlos Correa playing for Puerto Rico in the Olympics

Correa has previously signed up to play with Puerto Rico in international competitions. Former Twins starting pitcher Jose Berrios would likely represent the country as well. Jose Miranda was on the Puerto Rico World Baseball Classic roster in 2023. A nagging shoulder injury forced him to bow out. The Twins organization has a strong Puerto Rico connection.

What other Minnesota Twins would be most likely selected for 2028 Olympics?

McGrath’s note on Kepler is fair given the overall strength (or lack thereof) for a German team. By 2028 Kepler will be 35 years old. His performance has been uncertain in recent seasons. He could play in some qualifying games given the player pool for his country.

Related: Carlos Correa is Completely Obsessed with WAR

Just looking at the Minnesota Twins roster and where they are from isn’t enough. The summer Olympics won’t return until 2028. Factoring in age, other competition, and additional factors, there are some inclusions to consider.

Team USA – Walker Jenkins (23), Brooks Lee (27), Royce Lewis (29), Griffin Jax (33)

Jenkins, Lee, and Lewis have all competed for Team USA as they have risen the ranks. Assuming health and development, the three of them could all be superstars in the next four years. Jenkins is one of baseball’s highest rated prospects, and Lee has pushed the ceiling of his pre-draft projections.

Lewis has been nothing short of amazing when healthy, but he’ll need to develop a consistent ability to remain on the field. Jax is the outlier here, but he has become among the best relievers in baseball. Team USA hasn’t always had a high bar for pitching, and Jax coming out of the bullpen could be a great closer for the group.

Walker Jenkins just had his first multihit game for the @CRKernels? We're all ears 🌽@Twins | @TwinsPlayerDev pic.twitter.com/hGW8M4IQ4B

— Minor League Baseball (@MiLB) August 3, 2024

Dominican Republic – Emmanuel Rodriguez (25), Jhoan Duran (30)

Similar to Jenkins, Rodriguez has ascended the prospect ranks and has a superstar ceiling. He can play all three outfield positions, and even if he moves to a corner, the power is there. He’s a patient hitter that could terrorize the best pitching for quite some time. Duran won’t be all that young in four years, but his velocity will always play. Aroldis Chapman is still doing it for the Pirates at 36 years old this season. Duran should be considered a lock for a top international roster.

Venezuela – Pablo Lopez (32)

It may be difficult to remember that Pablo Lopez is just 28 years old. Lopez has had a tough season, but is certainly among the best starting pitchers in baseball when right. Venezuela has a history of pumping out some incredible talent, and Lopez could continue taking steps in that direction. By the time Los Angeles hosts the Olympics, he could wind up being the ace of the staff.

Related: Minnesota Twins Appear Concerned About Byron Buxton’s Latest Injury

Major League Baseball finding a way to get big league talent in the Olympics could be huge. Fans of other spots besides baseball could be draw to the game. Additional eyes on the product is never a bad thing. Both Joe Ryan and Simeon Woods Richardson competed in the Olympics last time baseball was part of the festivities. They were both minor league prospects at the time.