Imagine hearing, after all the machinations of the offseason, extending Byron Buxton, adding Carlos Correa, revamping the pitching staff and promoting the top organizational prospect, that the All Star Game push by the Minnesota Twins would be for Luis Arraez to get voted into the Mid Summer classic.
Arraez was the subject of speculation since his debut three years ago. Obviously, Arraez had a little bit more skill than had been expected when he first arrived at Target Field, but the Twins already had a second baseman in Jorge Polanco, especially if they could add a legitimate short stop. And besides, how much sustained success could this 5'10 bundle of energy have?
The pandemic years weren't as kind to Arraez. He was still good, but not the special player he is today. His average was .294, and mostly empty. Arraez doesn't hit for power, and his average wasn't one that necessitated inclusion in the lineup. As a result, his name cropped up this season in trade rumors as a potential piece to be included in a package for a starter.
Now, in mid-June, Arraez leads the league in batting average and on base percentage, reaffirming the promise he had in 2019. He still doesn't hit for a lot of power, but he is on base all the time, either with a walk or a hit. He's taken over at first in the absence of Miguel Sano and Alex Kirilloff, and his glove is hidden there much better than in the corner outfield. The Twins are working to put him at the top of the lineup when they can, and it is paying off.
And don't forget that Arraez is now one of the more long tenured members of the team, even though he is only 25. His comfort in the Majors and in the clubhouse is allowing some of his quirky side to come out. He's gaining popularity with fans who are getting to know him, and seems to already be a hit in the clubhouse.
The Twins ultimately balked on using Arraez in a trade, and the benefit is a likely All Star and a potential batting champion. Sometimes, it pays to hold on to what you have.
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