Minnesota Twins Prospect Retrospective: Michael Helman

[Cody Christie]

MLB rosters expanded over the weekend, and the Twins added a player who may be unfamiliar to the casual fan. Here’s a look at Michael Helman and how he got to the cusp of making his big-league debut.

Image courtesy of Rob Thompson, St. Paul Saints (photo of Michael Helman)

As the Twins have focused on building a competitive roster, some under-the-radar prospects have begun to shine. One of those prospects is Michael Helman, a versatile infielder, and outfielder who has made a name for himself through steady progression and adaptability. Let’s look back at Helman’s journey from college standout to legitimate major-league option.

The Twins selected Helman in the 11th round of the 2018 MLB Draft from Texas A&M, where he had put together an impressive junior season. In 2018, Helman batted .370/.451/.546 (.978) with 25 extra-base hits, solidifying himself as one of the top players in the SEC. His performance drew the attention of the Twins scouts, and he signed up for $220,000. 

Helman began his professional career on a high note, hitting .361/.409/.510 in 39 games with the Elizabethton Twins and the Cedar Rapids Kernels in 2018. However, the transition to full-season ball in 2019 presented challenges. With the Fort Myers Miracle, Helman’s average dipped to .197, and he struggled to find consistency at the plate. This early adversity tested his resilience, but Helman’s work ethic and defensive versatility kept him in the organization’s plans.

The cancellation of the 2020 minor league season due to the COVID-19 pandemic meant an extended layoff for many players, including Helman. This lost year was a setback, but it also gave Helman time to refine his approach and return stronger.

Returning in 2021, Helman played the entire season at High-A, where he was 2.5 years older than the average age of the competition. He hit .246/.336/.462 (.798) with 19 home runs, 21 doubles, and 21 stolen bases, showing improved power and speed. His ability to play multiple positions—second base, third base, and all three outfield spots—made him a valuable asset in the Twins’ system. Following the season, the Twins sent him to the Arizona Fall League where he went 11-for-51 (.216 BA) with a pair of doubles. 

The 2022 season was a turning point in Michael Helman’s career. Playing for Double- and Triple-A, Helman batted .258/.337/.432 (.769) with 20 home runs, 23 doubles, and 40 stolen bases. His walk rate improved, demonstrating better plate discipline, and his power numbers spiked. Helman’s speed on the bases and his defensive versatility made him a valuable player, and his breakout performance earned him attention from the big league club.

Helman has been limited over the last two seasons because of hamstring issues and a dislocated shoulder. He hit .302/.368/.544 (.911) with 20 extra-base hits and eight steals across 166 plate appearances in 2023. During the 2024 campaign, he hit .283/.367/.508 (.876) with 15 doubles, 13 home runs, and ten steals. His call-up has been a long time coming, and he is a good fit for the current Twins roster. He is a right-handed bat who can play both infield and outfield, or he can be a base-stealing threat as a pinch runner. 

Helman may not have the pedigree of a top prospect, but his role in the majors is becoming more apparent. With his combination of speed, power, and defensive versatility, he has the tools to carve out a role in the majors, whether as a utility man or a more regular contributor. His journey from an 11th-round pick to a legitimate major league option is a testament to his hard work and determination.

Congratulations to Helman and his family!

What stands out about his professional career? What are your expectations for Helman? Leave a COMMENT and start the discussion. 

View full article

[Patzky]

I'd love to see him start in the getaway day game!

[Mortimerkenny21]

Good for him! Hope I get to see his first MLB hit or RBI! Good luck Helman!

[Blyleven2011]

If i remember right , There once was a chance he would have been  called up if he wouldn't have had injury , I think there was a need for him 2022 but then he had a hamstring injury right before he possibly would have been promoted ... 

I sure hope he can contribute to the team , good luck in the majors ...

[Whitey333]

Awesome.  Gotta be happy for a guy like him.  As much as I rip the FO for their transgressions, I commend them for rewarding him with a trip to the big.  Now let's hope he plays.  A couple of seasons ago they brought up a minor  leaguer in late September.  They Twins season was long lost.  The player was super excited.  I remember his family had come for the weekend to watch their son make his MLB debut.  But despite the Twins being way out of the race they didn't get him in there.  One of the many classless and clueless things this FO and Rocco has done.  BTW good luck Holman.

[Whitey333]

BTW part II.  It's Helman.  I know

[LA Vikes Fan]

I'm actually hoping that they start Helman today since Tampa Bay is starting a left-hander. You know it will either be Farmer, Helman, or I guess maybe Lewis at 2B, although the latter seems very unlikely. Let's give this guy a chance to get his feet wet now and find out if he can help us down the stretch before Buxton is ready to come back and displace someone from the roster. 

[Dman]

It's one heck of an accomplishment to make the Majors as an 11th round pick.  No matter what happens he can always say he made it.  He has had a nice batting line the last two years and is versatile in the field.  He should be a good fit for a utility role.  Just have to wait and see how he does against the best pitching there is.

[High heat]

I’ve been a Michael Helman fan!

 

I think he can fill the Margot/Farmer role for this yr and into next year.  If Twins are in deed cutting more salary a league minimum guy who fills both roles saves you 10 million and opens a bench spot. 
 

By all accounts he is a passible major league SS and CFer.  Which should make him atleast a solid 2B and LF as well.  

[MMMordabito]

3 hours ago, Whitey333 said:

Awesome.  Gotta be happy for a guy like him.  As much as I rip the FO for their transgressions, I commend them for rewarding him with a trip to the big.  Now let's hope he plays.  A couple of seasons ago they brought up a minor  leaguer in late September.  They Twins season was long lost.  The player was super excited.  I remember his family had come for the weekend to watch their son make his MLB debut.  But despite the Twins being way out of the race they didn't get him in there.  One of the many classless and clueless things this FO and Rocco has done.  BTW good luck Holman.

That was Drew Maggi.  Former Twins bench coach Derek Shelton righted that wrong in Pittsburgh last year.

[Doctor Gast]

I like Helman, wish him luck.

[Blyleven2011]

30 minutes ago, Doctor Gast said:

I like Helman, wish him luck.

We also like keirsey Jr , but helman is righthanded and replacing Margot ,  I understand  the reasoning  ...

[IndyTwinsFan]

6 hours ago, LA VIkes Fan said:

I'm actually hoping that they start Helman today since Tampa Bay is starting a left-hander. You know it will either be Farmer, Helman, or I guess maybe Lewis at 2B, although the latter seems very unlikely. Let's give this guy a chance to get his feet wet now and find out if he can help us down the stretch before Buxton is ready to come back and displace someone from the roster. 

I can't help but wonder if his presence, plus with Royce thrown into the fire at 2nd, that maybe Julien is the one moving out to make room for Buck's return.  I can definitely see the logic behind such a move.

[Patzky]

6 hours ago, LA VIkes Fan said:

I'm actually hoping that they start Helman today since Tampa Bay is starting a left-hander. You know it will either be Farmer, Helman, or I guess maybe Lewis at 2B, although the latter seems very unlikely. Let's give this guy a chance to get his feet wet now and find out if he can help us down the stretch before Buxton is ready to come back and displace someone from the roster. 

Batting ninth playing RF 

[Fatbat]

He sure seems like more than just a warm body. I hope he stays healthy and holds his own so we never have to see Margot and Farmer again strike out or hit into a DP. 

[LA Vikes Fan]

1 hour ago, IndyTwinsFan said:

I can't help but wonder if his presence, plus with Royce thrown into the fire at 2nd, that maybe Julien is the one moving out to make room for Buck's return.  I can definitely see the logic behind such a move.

You might be right. Given his versatility he would be a better fit IF he can hit. It also helps that he hits RH. I would like to see him as a replacement for Farmer, but I think that's unlikely.