The Minnesota Twins are in no hurry to bring up an outfielder, but they have to feel good to know Aaron Hicks is there when they need him. Hicks is the prototype of a five-tool outfielder that scouts drool over. This converted pitcher has an absolute cannon for an arm, but how useful will he be to your fantasy team?
Runs. Runs are very lineup dependent but Hicks has all the makings of a legitimate No. 3 hitter.
Home Runs. Hicks only has 13 Home Runs in his 207 game MiLB career. However, his 6’2″ frame and his 35% Extra-Base Hit Percentage suggests that he could potentially become a 25-30 home run per year type of player.
RBI’s. Same as runs… if he can find a spot in the middle of the order, no reason he can’t drive in 90+ runs per year.
Stolen Bases. Hicks has swiped 40 bases while getting caught 20 times. He has the speed, but he’s not exactly Carlos Beltran smart on the paths, yet. 20+ stolen bases per year should be no problem, with 30+ not out of reach.
Average. Hicks’ greatest strength is his plate discipline. However, that doesn’t necessarily translate to a good average. Hicks will be a big asset in leagues that have OBP as a category. However, in the Batting Average category, I guess you could say he may just be… average.
Concerns. Playing time is the biggest concern for Hicks. The Twins outfield is well stocked with Delmon Young, Denard Span, Michael Cuddyer, and Jason Kubel. These players are all reasonably young as well. Which is exactly why Hicks has been in all sorts of trade rumors since the Twins are looking to make a playoff push. Hicks has now been in Single-A for two years (160 games). If Hicks stays in the Twins system, it would not be unreasonable if we don’t see full-time Hicks until 2012. However, you should definitely keep Aaron Hicks on your watch list. He is a top 15 fantasy baseball prospect.
Comparable Players: Dexter Fowler, Carlos Beltran, Jeremy Hermida
ETA: Mid-2012
