Minnesota Twins: Trevor Plouffe and 2 Other Players Who Need More Playing Time

The Minnesota Twins are currently in fourth place in the American League Central division.

The 2012 season is already lost, so it’s time for the team to evaluate some players for next year.

If certain players prove themselves, the Twins won’t have to go out and trade for or sign replacements.

Let’s take a look at three players who deserve more of a chance to prove what they can do.

Trevor Plouffe, Util

Plouffe, once he returns from the 15-day disabled list, will probably see some more playing time at third base after Danny Valencia was traded.

He’s played a bulk of his games at third base this season while Valencia was battling inconsistency and injuries.

If Plouffe knows that he’ll be at third base everyday, it might help him improve his already decent batting stats.

He’s currently hitting .259 with 19 home runs and 38 RBI. He’s a big-time power hitter, but needs to drive in more runs if he’s going to be successful in the majors.

Chris Parmelee, 1B

Parmelee is stuck behind Justin Morneau at first base, and when Morneau gets a day off, catcher Joe Mauer will sometimes play first.

So, there’s not a lot of opportunity for him at first, but he needs more playing time nonetheless.

He’s played 30 games at first this season and has only made two errors. He’s also hitting .204 with two home runs and six RBI.

Those numbers will probably go up with consistent playing time. The Twins need to either find him a more permanent spot in the lineup or send him back down to the minors for more seasoning.

Kyle Gibson, P

Gibson underwent Tommy John surgery last September, but is now back on the mound.

Once he gets closer to the pitcher he was before the surgery, he should get a chance to show what he can do on the big league club.

The Twins are going to need some starters for 2013 and beyond, and Gibson can be one of those guys.

If he’s ready to pitch at a high level before September call-ups, the team shouldn’t wait to let him show what he can do.