The Twins have called up outfield prospect Max Kepler, tweets Mike Berardino of the Pioneer Press. Kepler, 23, appeared briefly for the Twins last season, compiling just seven plate appearances total. He’ll fill in for utility man Danny Santana who will head to the disabled list with a strained hamstring.
Kepler performed well in Double-A last season. In 482 plate appearances, he hit nine home runs, stole 18 bases, and slashed .322/.416/.531. He walked (71) more times than he struck out (67). MLB.com ranked Kepler the 43rd best prospect entering this season.
In the unlikely event that Kepler remains with the club all season, he would be on track to reach free agency after the 2021 season. Of course, the Twins could easily push that back to 2022 or later by optioning him.
The Twins need something. The big boys are playing scared.