Top 10 MLB rookies expected to be on Opening Day rosters

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Mar 8, 2016; Dunedin, FL, USA; Minnesota Twins infielder Byung Ho Park (52) fields a ground ball in the third inning of the spring training game against the Toronto Blue Jays at Florida Auto Exchange Park. Mandatory Credit: Jonathan Dyer-USA TODAY Sports /

6. Byung-ho Park, 1B, Minnesota Twins

Like with Kim, it’s difficult to project exactly how well Park will translate to the major leagues from the KBO. Many believe Park has more upside at the plate, and he will get every chance to be the starting first baseman in Minnesota from Opening Day onward.

The first thing many scouts noticed about Park in the KBO League was his tremendous power. Park has slugged 173 home runs since becoming a full-time player four seasons ago, an impressive mark even in a homer-friendly league. As Park is just 28 years old, his power skill shouldn’t start to decline for a couple of more seasons.

FanGraphs believes that power will translate to the Majors, as Park is projected for 28 home runs in his rookie season. Strikeouts are going to be a major problem, but Park still has the ability to hit for enough contact to put up well-above average numbers at the plate.

Defense is going to be a problem, and Park is going to have to hit well to be even a league-average first baseman. Still, the power upside is great, so Park certainly has a chance to be one of the best position players of this rookie class.

For the low-risk, four-year, $12 million contract the Twins got Park to sign, they should be thrilled by his power hitting potential.

Next: 5. Kenta Maeda, SP, Los Angeles Dodgers

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