In just over a month with the Twins, Robbie Grossman has filled a gaping hole in the outfield and has been the answer for an offense in need of a catalyst.
That's a significant development for a player who was just signed to a minor league contract May 16.
"It's just a blessed opportunity to be here," the switch-hitting Grossman said, "and I'm going to make the most of it."
In 28 games with the Twins, the 26-year-old Grossman is batting .289 with five homers, 15 RBI and a .425 on-base percentage. Since May 20, his first game as a Twin, he has led the team in doubles (nine), RBI (15), walks (23) and on-base percentage (.425). And he is tied with Eduardo Nunez in runs over that stretch with 18.
Grossman is taking advantage of an opportunity he didn't initially see in Minnesota when he considered signing during the offseason.
Drafted by Pittsburgh in 2008, Grossman was one of three players the Pirates sent Houston for Wandy Rodriguez in 2012. Always a good judge of balls and strikes, Grossman couldn't hit enough, and he was released by the Astros in November.
He had offers from a handful of teams, including the Twins, who have long admired his flexibility in the outfield and potential at the plate. Grossman looked at the Twins roster and saw it full of impediments to playing time.
"We tried to sign him after Shane Robinson left," said Rob Antony, Twins assistant general manager. "We thought of him in that role as an extra outfielder who can play all three outfield positions. He went with Cleveland because [Michael] Brantley was hurt and he felt it was a better opportunity there.