While a lot of folks are projecting left-handed pitcher Sean Gilmartin out of Florida State to be the Twins' pick at number 30 in the 2011 Major League Baseball Draft, I would like to take a look at a player that the Twins could also have an eye on, and one that I feel could potentially help them.
The middle infield has been a bit of a sticking point for the Twins ever since Chuck Knoblauch woke up one morning and realized that he had forgotten how to throw the ball to first base. The Twins have a couple of folks with promise at the middle infield spots in the minor leagues, there's always room for more talent and more competition.
That's why I, personally, feel that a guy that the Minnesota Twins should take a look at, should he reach the 30th spot in the draft, is shortstop Levi Michael out of the University of North Carolina. Michael was the best shortstop in college baseball this season, by all accounts, and is somebody that could help the Twins in the long-term, to be certain.
Michael hit .300 for the Tarheels this season, and also stole 15 bases. A switch-hitter, he is known for his ability to work the count and to make fairly consistent contact. . .sounds a lot like what the Twins have been looking for. Defensively, he is solid, but there is debate among different scouts as to whether or not he has the range to stick at shortstop in the long-term or whether he might have to shift over to second base. His arm is adequate, but not spectacular.
Regardless of whether it's at shortstop or at second base, Levi Michael projects as a solid enough hitter at the Major League level that he could help to solve the Twins' middle infield woes, in my opinion. The odds are that he won't make it to the Twins' selection at number thirty. . .and, unlike the NFL Draft, there is no "trading up" if he's who the Twins want. . .but if he does, he's a guy that the Twins need to seriously consider taking a look at.