Miguel Sano is a lot of things already, after barely playing a quarter of a major league season. He's the Twins' most dangerous hitter (we could argue this, but his approach, power and the way he's pitched indicate it's true). He's a middle-of-the-order savior. He's everything advertised and more.

But is he a Rookie of the Year candidate after a late start?

First, the good news: Sano is mashing. Of MLB rookies with at least 150 plate appearances this season, he's first in OPS and slugging percentage. By sheer production alone, even in a small sample size, he's making himself a factor.

Now, the bad news: there are a few pretty big obstacles. The biggest: Carlos Correa, the shortstop for the Astros who fans will have the pleasure to see at Target Field this weekend, has been phenomenal since being called up two months into the season. Correa is hitting for power and average while playing highlight-reel defense. He also has 100 more at-bats than Sano. As long as Correa doesn't fall apart, he has to be considered the odds-on favorite to win the award with the Astros.

RandBall: startribune.com/randball