Coming into Spring Training, the battle for second base looked like a two-man race between Brooks Lee and Edouard Julien. Both young infielders struggled in 2024 but still hold plenty of potential heading into the 2025 season.
While neither has completely separated himself in the competition, Rocco Baldelli’s lineups and the Twins’ evolving defensive picture are making it increasingly clear that Brooks Lee has a legitimate path to making the Opening Day roster.
Last season, Lee made an electrifying debut, scorching hot in his first week in the majors. However, after that initial burst, he struggled mightily, posting just a .503 OPS over 50 games.
Some of those struggles could possibly be attributed to lingering back issues that delayed his MLB debut, while some could be chalked up to the usual adjustment period for a young hitter facing big-league pitching. Either way, 50 games isn’t nearly enough of a sample size to make any definitive judgments on his future.
Fast forward to this Spring, and Lee has put together a .727 OPS with two home runs. Fine numbers in Spring Training, but it’s not his offensive production that suggests he is on track to make the Opening Day roster—it’s how the Twins are deploying him defensively.
One of the biggest signs in Lee’s favor is his usage at shortstop. He has started at shortstop six times this spring, compared to just three starts for Willi Castro.
Coming into camp, many assumed Castro’s ability to back up Carlos Correa meant that Lee’s defensive versatility wouldn’t necessarily be a factor in his roster chances.
However, the way Baldelli has utilized Lee suggests that the team sees him as the primary backup shortstop rather than Castro.
That shift would allow Castro to continue his super-utility role, moving around the field as needed.
Another telling sign iLee’s lack of playing time at third base, where some expected he might find a home alongside Royce Lewis.
Instead, Jose Miranda has seemingly locked down the backup third base role, with Lee seeing just one appearance at the hot corner this spring. That reinforces the idea that Baldelli views Lee as a second baseman and shortstop, strengthening his case to make the roster.
The big question now is whether Julien can still make the team alongside Lee. Could both break camp with the Twins?
Our own Gregg Masterson explored that possibility earlier this week, and while the answer remains uncertain, what is clear is that Lee’s standing within the organization has improved dramatically over the past month.
Ultimately, while the Opening Day roster is not yet set, all signs are pointing toward Brooks Lee having a role on this team.
If he can rediscover the bat that made him such a coveted prospect, there’s a strong chance he’ll be penciled into the Twins’ lineup when the season begins.
Do you think Brooks Lee will make the team out of camp? Leave a comment below.
