RADIO
Jorge Polanco 2020 Outlook: Another Solid Year Ahead For The Twins Shortstop
5 years agoJorge Polanco is coming off a huge 2019 season. He had an overall stat line of .295-22-107-79-4. The 22 home runs were by far the highest home run total of his career. He may have benefitted from the live ball, but his statcast metrics also improved quite a bit. Polanco's barrel rate improved from 3% to 6.7%. His launch angle and hard-hit rate also improved to 17.9 degrees and 33%, respectively. Polanco lowered his ground-ball rate to 31.9% and raised his fly ball rate to 29%, aiding in the extra home runs. Due to the increased power, he also had a career-high .190 ISO. Even with the increased power, Polanco also had a career-high .295 batting average and has now hit .282 or better in three of the last four seasons. Polanco increased his walk rate to 8.5% and lowered his strikeout rate to 16.5% as well. When looking ahead to the 2020 season, Polanco should be in store for another solid season. He is projected to once again hit second for the Twins. Batting second should allow for another 100+ run season, hitting in front of Nelson Cruz, Eddie Rosario, Josh Donaldson, and the rest of the stacked lineup. He is currently the 19th shortstop being drafted at pick 165.17. Polanco is a great option if you miss out on shortstop early or are looking for a middle infielder.
