Injuries have derailed Royce Lewis’ promising career. During his rookie year (2022), he underwent a season-ending surgery on the torn ACL in his right knee after 12 games. A year later, he suited up in only 58 games due to hamstring, oblique, and head injuries.
After dealing with strained quadriceps, Lewis didn't play in April and May this season. But when he's available, the Minnesota Twins' infielder is among Major League Baseball's best players. In 15 games this season, he's hitting .392/.458/.961 with nine home runs and 13 RBIs.
Stats expert Sarah Langs pointed out that throughout MLB history, only seven players had more home runs than Lewis in their first 15 games of a season. The illustrious list includes Albert Pujols, Alex Rodriguez, Willie Stargell, and the late Willie Mays.
Royce Lewis has 9 HR
— Sarah Langs (@SlangsOnSports) June 20, 2024
only players with MORE in their first 15 games of a season:
2007 Alex Rodriguez: 12
1976 Mike Schmidt: 12
2019 Aristides Aquino: 10
2006 Albert Pujols: 10
2001 Luis Gonzalez: 10
1971 Willie Stargell: 10
1964 Willie Mays: 10 https://t.co/GXAh66a1bc
Meanwhile, his 2024 numbers (so far) improve his lifetime hitting averages to .315/.388/.627 with 30 home runs in 365 plate appearances throughout 90 games (including playoffs).
In their June 19 game versus the Tampa Bay Rays, Lewis had one hit, one RBI, and two walks in three at-bats against the Tampa Bay Rays. Unfortunately, Minnesota lost the game in ten innings. Still, having Lewis on the field is a sight to behold, especially for Twins fans. Their only wish is for their star to remain healthy moving forward.
-Lance Fernandez