Jose Miranda faces pressure as he competes for the first base position after Santana's departure. With an impressive offensive performance last season, he must improve defensively to secure a consistent starting role.

Jose Miranda, who started 12 games at first base last season, is one of the leading candidates to fill the vacancy left by Carlos Santana. Despite showing promise by matching an MLB record with a 12-hit streak in July, he struggled significantly after a lower back injury, raising concerns about his readiness for the upcoming season. Manager Rocco Baldelli highlighted the need for Miranda to improve defensively as the team prepares for spring training.

Jose Miranda is expected to play a significant role for the Twins at first base, as he is one of the leading internal candidates for the position. While it’s not his primary defensive role, the team is looking to increase his exposure there. The front office is also considering how to utilize him more effectively, potentially allowing him to spend more time at third base if they acquire a regular first baseman. Miranda's development and adaptability will be crucial as the Twins navigate their offseason plans.

Jose Miranda struggled offensively during the latter part of the 2024 season, posting a .543 OPS with no home runs after the All-Star break. His performance contributed to the team's overall slump, as the Twins scored three or fewer runs in 17 of their last 30 games. Developing young hitters like Miranda will be a key focus for new hitting coach Matt Borgschulte, who aims to help players make necessary adjustments as they transition and adapt to major league pitching.

Jose Miranda had a strong season, posting a 115 wRC+ and contributing positively to the Twins' lineup. His performance added depth to the team's offensive capabilities, showcasing his potential as a reliable player moving forward.