Minnesota Twins outfielder Byron Buxton could hit his way into the leadoff spot this spring, manager Paul Molitor indicated Monday.
In 411 career plate appearances, Buxton has led off for only 59 of them. He's slashing .255/.293/.382 with a concerning 35.6 percent strikeout rate out of the one hole, but the boost in opportunity would bode well for his fantasy appeal. The 23-year-old former top prospect has batted ninth for the majority of his career (374 plate appearances).
Buxton's production improved from his rookie to sophomore season, as he posted a .225/.284/.430 slash with a .304 wOBA and .205 ISO through 331 plate appearances. He mashed 10 taters and stole 10 bases.
Source: Rotoworld.com