Kepler vs The Shift, Buxton's Knee & Taylor's Speed (Exclusive)

[John Bonnes]

FORT MYERS - Max Kepler talks about the shift ban, Byron Buxton is ready to lead a team with Carlos Correa, and Michael A. Taylor is looking for the green light. 

Image courtesy of © Thomas Shea-USA TODAY Sports

 

We're trying something new for Twins Daily's Caretakers: an audio report from John Bonnes on what he's seeing and hearing from players, coaches, and management inside Hammond Stadium. Today's report includes:

• Max Kepler discusses "the most challenging thing I physically had to play with in my career"
• Byron Buxton's bromance with Carlos Correa.
• Michael A Taylor wants to go back to stealing some bases (and Rocco is all for it.)

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[Rosterman]

I'm curious to see how Rocco fills out the lineup. The Twins need a ledaoff hitter. Could Taylor fill that role.

And, then, where do Farmer, Gordon and Solano fit into the mix. Sitting on the bench, getting regular player pushing their fielding option to DH. Can the Twins field a regular set line-up for the season?

I always felt batters took some solace in knowing who was batting ahead and behind them. Is that just past thinking?