Minnesota Twins lose cult hero Willians Astudillo to Injured List

Minnesota Twins cult hero Willians Astudillo will be out of the lineup for at least ten days, as he is heading to the Injured List due to a strained hamstring.

It has not taken long for Minnesota Twins utility man Willians Astudillo to become a fan favorite. Physically reminiscent of another fan favorite in Bartolo Colon, Astudillo has entertained with his exuberance and approach on the diamond. A super utility man capable of playing seemingly everywhere, his exploits defensively or on the basepaths have made him a must watch player.

Alas, he will not be in the lineup for at least the next ten days. Astudillo was placed on the Injured List on Saturday, as he was struck down with a strained hamstring during the Twins contest against the Orioles.

Prior to being removed from the game due to injury, Astudillo had a hit in his only plate appearance and scored the Twins first run of the game.

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It is not surprising that he managed to collect a hit in that lone plate appearance. Astudillo had gained notoriety in the minors for being the antithesis of the Three True Outcome player, rarely walking or striking out. That approach carried over to the major league level, both in his brief trial last year and again this season.

Although he has not been in the lineup on a daily basis, Astudillo has made quite an impact. Making appearances at catcher, as well as both corner infield and outfield spots this season, he has produced a .313/.327/.521 batting line, hitting two homers and four doubles. In his 52 plate appearances, Astudillo has drawn just one walk, and struck out only once.

Initially regarded as an entertaining novelty, he has proven to be an extremely valuable player. Not only does he possess incredible versatility defensively, but his bat has proven capable of performing at the major league level. The Twins, and baseball fans across the game, have to hope that his stay on the Injured List will be relatively short.

Willians Astudillo is set to miss at least ten days. Hopefully, the Minnesota Twins fan favorite will be back soon, entertaining everyone with his play and skill on the diamond.