Outfielder Austin Martin has become a staple in the Minnesota Twins lineup in 2026, putting together one of the strongest starts to the campaign on the team. He’s batting .293 with seven stolen bases, both second-best on the Twins, alongside seven doubles, 11 RBIs. Additionally, his and team-high in 23 walks (23) and .413 OBP lead the team in both categories. It builds off his strong finish to 2025, where he was called up in August and hit .282 with 44 hits.
Austin Martin Is Dealing With Ups & Downs Of MLB
But the 27-year-old has fallen into a slump recently, going 0-for-14 at the plate in his last four starts. He’s reached base only twice during the contests on a walk and a hit-by-pitch. Martin was given the day off on Wednesday, May 20, against the Houston Astros in the series finale. The move might just be a chance for Martin to get extended rest. But it could also act as an opportunity to find his rhythm again.
Austin Martin Has Been Minnesota Twins’ Best Hitter This Season
A Season Of Strides and Struggles
Martin started the 2025 season on the Twins’ Triple-A affiliate, the St. Paul Saints, largely due to injuries, after spending most of 2024 in the majors. And now over a year since being called up, the DeLand, FL. native has arguably cemented his spot in the big leagues. His current stat line is impressive, but it was even better at the end of April when. He was hitting .313 with a .477 OBP.
So, the struggles at the plate are the opposite of what 2026 has displayed. It’s the longest Martin has gone without a hit in his three-year MLB career — the closest being 12 at-bats in July 2024. Although the slump may garner concern, it should also highlight how the outfielder has blossomed and worn many hats the Twins placed on him.
He was moved into the leadoff spot last Thursday, May 14, as two-time All- Star Byron Buxton was dealing with right hip flexor soreness, and he delivered. Martin went 2-for-4 in the first game of his new role with a double, three RBIs, a walk and a steal in the team’s 9-1 victory over the Miami Marlins. He went 1-for-4 in the next contest before the hitless streak commenced.
Additionally, Martin has secured starts this season at all three outfield positions and played second base for a short time in 2024.
A Vanderbilt alum and the fifth overall pick in the 2020 MLB draft, Martin has gradually come into his own after a slow start to his career. His versatility and increase in productivity at the plate, as well as the more experience he gains, have has molded him into an asset for the Twins. Most players endure the ebbs and flow he’s currently facing at the plate, a defining part of baseball. But if he can find the success, he had early in the season once again, he’ll continue to be a pivotal part in the Twins’ 2026 trajectory.
