One Year From Now: Predicting the 2025 Twins Lineup

Predicting the future in baseball can be an exercise in futility. Last season, it looked like José Miranda was out of the team’s long-term plans, as he struggled with a shoulder injury. Now, he’s reestablished himself as a crucial piece of the team’s lineup. Matt Wallner and Edouard Julien had tremendous rookie seasons but have struggled in 2024. So, let’s look into the crystal ball and see who fits into next season’s roster.

Catcher
Current: Ryan Jeffers
One Year from Now: Jeffers
Jeffers started the year on a tear, but has recently cooled down. Christian Vázquez has been one of baseball’s worst hitters this season, and the Twins still have him under contract through next year. His defense continues to be among the league’s best, and that’s the biggest reason the Twins have kept him on the roster. Back-Up Plan: Vázquez, Jair Camargo

First Base
Current: Carlos Santana
One Year from Now: Julien
Minnesota added Santana on a one-year deal, and it seems unlikely the veteran will be back next season, even with his improved offensive performance. The Twins have other players to take over at first base, and Julien might be the best option. He initially struggled after being demoted to Triple-A, but his bat has started to turn around. He’s started to see some time at first base in the minors, but his bat must produce. Back-Up Plan: Miranda, Alex Kirilloff

Second Base
Current: Willi Castro
One Year from Now: Brooks Lee
Julien was supposed to be the team’s everyday second baseman. However, his struggles have forced them to pursue a different plan. Castro has filled in nicely, and will have a role as a utility player again next season. Lee ranks as the organization’s second-best prospect and is mashing the ball at Triple-A. He needs a defensive home in the big leagues, and second base is his most likely spot. Back-Up Plan: Castro, Julien, Austin Martin

Third Base
Current: Royce Lewis
One Year from Now: Lewis
The Twins have been using Lewis less regularly at third base in recent days, while he’s been in an offensive slump. Obviously, there are also perpetual, unrelenting injury concerns to take into account. He’s still the team’s best option for the long term, though, even with some defensive struggles. Both of his significant injuries this year showed up while running the baes, so playing the hot corner doesn't seem to be the culprit in his physical issues.

Miranda has played more regularly than expected at the hot corner, but is likely better suited for a DH/1B role. Lee also has the defensive chops to take over third base if Lewis continues to struggle, or to settle in there if the team elects to bring Lewis back as the DH later this summer. Back-Up Plan: Lee, Miranda

Shortstop
Current: Carlos Correa
One Year from Now: Correa
Correa is having his best season in a Twins uniform and has a chance to represent the team at the All-Star Game. Outside of Willi Castro, he’s been the team’s first-half MVP and provided the club with the value they expected when he signed for at least $200 million. Lee has continued to play shortstop in the minors, and could fill in if Correa missed time. For now, the Twins hope Correa is on the field and continues to produce like one of the AL’s best players. Back-Up Plan: Lee, Castro

Left Field
Current: Trevor Larnach
One Year from Now: Larnach
Larnach seemed to be outside the team’s plans entering the season, but that has changed quickly. His improved approach against off-speed pitches has made him a dangerous hitter. He’s producing like the player the Twins hoped he’d be when they drafted him in the first round. His spot isn’t guaranteed for next season, so he must continue to prove that his 2024 performance is not a fluke. Back-Up Plan: Matt Wallner, Emmanuel Rodriguez, Castro, Martin

Center Field
Current: Byron Buxton
One Year from Now: Buxton
Few predicted that Buxton would be able to roam center field again, especially at an elite level. He’s proven his detractors wrong again this season, producing at a very high level. The Twins will continue to have backup plans for Buxton when he misses time. Rodríguez has regularly played center field during his professional career and has the skill set to stick at the position. Castro and Martin have filled in during the 2024 campaign and can be backup options next season. 
Back-Up Plan: Rodríguez, Castro, Martin, DaShawn Keirsey

Right Field
Current: Max Kepler
One Year from Now: Wallner
Kepler’s time in a Twins uniform is likely over at season’s end, leaving the team searching for a right fielder for the first time in over a decade. Wallner has been on a hot streak at Triple-A and has an arm that can be a weapon in right field. Minnesota will need to give him a chance in the second half to prove his offensive adjustments can stick at baseball’s highest level. Back-Up Plan: Larnach, Rodríguez, Martin

Who will be in the Twins’ lineup midway through the 2025 campaign? What unexpected change is coming, and not captured here? Leave a comment and start the discussion.