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I’m having trouble understanding why you think the Twins would look for a stop gap outfielder instead of just letting Buxton play it out in center with Rosario in right (preferably in right rather than Hicks because of his cannon of an arm) and Hicks in left. That is a dangerous defensive outfield with imense offensive potential. Why give worthless at bats to a stubs or other stop gap outfielders? Buxton is the future, play him until he figures it out. I don’t think it will take him long. The pitching staff sure won’t be complaining with that outfield.
Terry Ryan has openly said that Buxton was rushed to the Majors, and he regrets that he had to do so because of injuries and lack of depth in the organization. That, to me, suggests that barring a huge Spring Training in which he looks 100% big-league ready, Buxton will get a month or so in Triple-A.
There’s no question that he’s ready defensively, but learning to hit on the fly nearly broke Aaron Hicks. They’re not the same caliber of prospect, but Hicks was a Top 20-30 guy in his own right.
As for Rosario/Hicks in right/left — Rosario’s arm is extremely accurate, but scouts have put an 80-grade on Hicks’ throwing arm since he was in the minors, as he’s demonstrated in the past (youtube.com/watch?v=FDSx-Aoiz4E). He’s the guy in right field for me. I’d leave Rosario where he is and where he’s already become very, very good and comfortable.
All around good points. I’d still prefer Buxton in center opening day. While Hicks was a near bust due to his rushed call up, I just think Buxtons overall talent level (far surperior then that of Hicks) will allow him to adjust to big league pitching quickly. This team has a legitimate shot at the AL central next year if they make a few correct adjustments via trade this offseason.