The Minnesota Twins have called up outfielder DaShawn Keirsey from their Triple-A affiliate, the St. Paul Saints, according to Bobby Nightengale of the *Minneapolis Star Tribune*. Keirsey, 27, has had a productive season in Triple-A, posting an impressive .292/.363/.477 slash line. He has hit 14 home runs and stolen 36 bases, showcasing both his power and speed. His speed and defensive abilities in center field are considered his standout qualities, and these attributes may come in handy for the Twins, especially given Byron Buxton’s ongoing hip injury.
Buxton, who has struggled with injuries throughout his career, has been dealing with a lingering hip issue, which may provide Keirsey with an opportunity to get some playing time in center field. Keirsey’s ability to cover ground defensively makes him a suitable option for the Twins as they look to fill the gap left by Buxton’s absence.
If Keirsey takes the field, it will mark his Major League debut, a significant milestone for the young outfielder. Drafted by the Twins in the fourth round of the 2018 MLB Draft out of the University of Utah, Keirsey has worked his way through the Twins’ minor league system over the past several years. Known for his athleticism, he has gradually developed his game, adding power to his repertoire while maintaining his strong defensive skills and speed on the basepaths.
His promotion to the big leagues is a testament to his perseverance and performance at the Triple-A level this season. With the Twins in the middle of a playoff race, Keirsey could provide a spark both defensively and on the basepaths. His speed, in particular, could be an asset for Minnesota as they look to gain an edge in close games down the stretch.
While it remains to be seen how much playing time Keirsey will get, his promotion indicates the Twins’ belief in his ability to contribute. Whether he plays in a limited role as a defensive replacement or gets a chance to start in center field, Keirsey’s skill set could help the team in multiple ways. For now, the focus will be on his potential to make an impact as he awaits his opportunity to debut in the major leagues.