Luke Keaschall Sets MLB Steal Record in First Five Games

MINNEAPOLIS — Luke Keaschall is making headlines five games into his MLB career with the Minnesota Twins. At just 22 years old, he is already leaving a mark by tying a rare record for stolen bases.

Keaschall, who was called up after recovering from elbow surgery and limited to just 14 games at Triple-A St. Paul, is batting .353 with three doubles, four walks, and one hit-by-pitch in his first five games. His performance has helped the Twins, who were desperate for offensive firepower.

He has reached base safely 11 times in his debut, just one shy of Kirby Puckett’s team record of 12 times through the first five games set in 1984. “I’m trying to have gritty at-bats,” Keaschall said. “That’s the thing I probably value the most, is trying to get on base.”

Not only has he excelled at the plate, but Keaschall is also showing speed on the bases. He has successfully stolen five bases in five attempts, tying the MLB record for most stolen bases by a player in their first five games. This feat has not been achieved since at least 1901.

“He’s settled in very quickly,” Twins manager Rocco Baldelli said. “It’s almost like there was no settling in; he just came in ready to play.” Keaschall’s prowess on the bases is notable, especially as no other Twins player has stolen more than two bases in their first five games.

Despite limited fielding experience due to a previous injury, Keaschall’s ability to impact games with his legs and bat has impressed coaches. “He makes you wake up, sit up and pay attention,” Baldelli added.

With aspirations to play second base and potentially the outfield, Keaschall has also made a name for himself by being aggressive on the bases. “I feel like baserunning is all situational,” he explained, showcasing his readiness to contribute effectively to the Twins.

As of now, Keaschall’s future looks bright with the team, embracing the fast-paced nature of major league baseball. The Twins have placed their faith in him, and through his first five games, he has proven them right.