Tagged: Aaron Hicks

TwinsFest 2010: Part III

From displays of historic items and Target Field, to autographs from players of the past, present, and future, TwinsFest 2010 was a hit. In fact, it was the second biggest in term of attendance in it’s history. Second to only TwinsFest 2007, this year’s event drew a total of 34,637 fans over the course of three days.

TwinsFest first began in 1989, and since that time, the event has brought in more than $4 million for the Twins Community Fund. As one of the largest fan festivals in professional sports, TwinsFest helps bring baseball back to the surface, and it definitely didn’t disappoint this year as the Twins prepare to begin a new era.
Some final pictures of newcomer J.J. Hardy and three players of the future: Anthony Slama, Carlos Gutierrez, and Aaron Hicks.
Hardy.jpg
Slama.jpg
Gutierrez.jpg
Hicks.jpg

Prospect Ranking: #18 Aaron Hicks

Baseball America is regarded as the evaluator of major league talent on the Internet. Each year they publish their list of the best prospects from each organization, and the best of the entire league combined.

Editor John Manuel has posted his personal Top 20 Prospects list, and one player from the Minnesota Twins organization made the cut. In the 18th spot is the team’s 2008 first round selection, Aaron Hicks. 
Hicks hit .318 in 45 games for the Gulf Coast League Twins in 2008 after signing. Last season he spent the year with the Beloit Snappers where he hit .251 in 67 total games. 

Why he’s here: Five-tool ability to go with the ability to take a walk and premium defensive tools make Hicks an exciting prospect, even if he’s never played above Class A. 

What he’ll be: Hicks has some similarities to the Phillies’ Domonic Brown, though he might actually have more speed and a bit less power. He’s a tremendous athlete who was a scratch golfer as a teen, so it’s hard to put a limit on his talent. 

When he arrives: The Twins know what they’re doing with raw, toolsy center fielders, having developed Torii Hunter and Denard Span in succession. Hicks is next in line and has more offensive polish at a similar stage.

From Kirby to Torii to Denard, centerfield has been a position long developed through the system. Will 2007 first round selection Ben Revere or Hicks be next in line?