3 speedy free agents who could boost Twins’ sluggish offense – Twins

As the dust settles on the 2024 season, one glaring stat stands out for the Minnesota Twins: They were the slowest team in baseball. The Twins ranked last in stolen bases with just 65 and ended their seventh straight season finishing in the bottom 10 in stolen bases. Additionally, her sprint speed was last in the league at a sluggish 26.8 feet per second. The lack of speed in the base lanes has become a major problem for a team that once thrived on power and was known for throwing the ball over the fence.

There were always times when outs were lost because of a bad base run or because we simply didn’t have the speed to take an extra base. Whether it was a missed opportunity to turn a single into a double or a runner being thrown out trying to advance, the lack of a reliable running game hurt the Twins all season, especially in key moments on the route.

It’s no secret that the Twins have prioritized power over speed under Derek Falvey. That worked great when they led the league in home runs, but in 2024 they finished a mediocre 14th. When there was not enough strength to carry out the offensive, the team’s lack of speed left them with no other dimension to exploit. Without the baserunning threat or the ability to create pressure with speed, they became too predictable.

With the offseason upon us and names like Kyle Farmer, Max Kepler, Manuel Margot and Carlos Santana potentially out, the Twins have a chance to add some momentum to the roster. Some of these players contributed at a decent rate, while others anchored the lineup and slowed it down. Regardless, there is now an opportunity to transform this team by adding some fleet-footed players who could make a real impact in 2025.

Let’s take a look at a few affordable free agents the Twins could target to add much-needed speed and baserunning prowess to this aging, slow roster.

Jose Iglesias, infielder
José Iglesias, a veteran the Twins know from his time in Detroit, still has solid speed despite turning 35 next season. In 2024, he ranked 99th in baseball and ranked in the 83rd percentile in sprint speed. Iglesias doesn’t bring much power, but he continues to hit for average, hitting .337 in 85 games for the Mets last season. His ability to play second base, third base and shortstop makes him a versatile option to replace someone like Kyle Farmer. Iglesias’ speed and hitting power could give the Twins the spark that has been missing.

Kevin Pillar, outfielder
Kevin Pillar has been on Twins fans’ radar for some time as a potential fourth outfielder who can dominate center field when Byron Buxton is out. Now more than ever, Pillar’s value may extend beyond its pure defensive role. Ranking 126th in sprint speed (78th percentile), Pillar would immediately give the Twins more speed in the outfield. His ability to play all three outfield spots gives him flexibility, and he would be superior to Manuel Margot in terms of speed and defense.

Garrett Hampson, utility
If the Twins are truly looking to increase velocity, Garrett Hampson is their man. In 2024, Hampson ranked 10th in the MLB in sprint speed and was in the 99th percentile. His versatility is reminiscent of Willi Castro in that he can play almost anywhere on the field, both infield and outfield. The catch? His bat is a significant weakness – he posted a .576 OPS last season, although he showed his potential with a .729 OPS in 2023. Hampson hasn’t been a prolific base stealer, but his elite speed could give the Twins a weapon they’ve been missing and he should be a cost-effective option.

Speed ​​should be a top priority as the Twins consider how to reshape their roster for 2025. Adding some of these names could complement the team’s power approach and help avoid the baserunning issues that have plagued them this season. The Twins have been stuck in a one-dimensional offensive identity since 2017, but with the right moves they can once again put pressure on opposing defenses in ways that go beyond hitting the long ball.

What do you think? Are any of these players worth a chance in free agency? Should the Twins focus more on speed this offseason? Share your thoughts in the comments below!