Nelson Cruz watched his 40th home run of the season, and his 400th career homer, in September. (Kevin Martin — Star Tribune/The Minnesota Star Tribune)

Nelson Cruz didn't reach the 40-home run mark until his 10th year in the majors. Since then, he has steadily been blasting Bombas (bold: led AL).

2014: .271 batting average, 40 homers, 108 RBI

2015: .302, 44 homers, 93 RBI

2016: .287, 43 homers, 105RBI

2017: .288, 39 homers, 119RBI

2018: .256, 37 homers, 97 RBI

2019: .311, 41 homers, 108RBI

about the writer

More from Twins

Sports

Yanks ace Gerrit Cole gives up right to opt out, stays with New York rather than become free agent

Sports

Yanks ace Gerrit Cole gives up right to opt out, stays with New York rather than become free agent

Gerrit Cole gave up his opt-out right on Monday and will remain with the New York Yankees under a contract that runs through 2028 rather than become a free agent.

Twins

As Pohlad family explores sale, it’s ‘business as usual’ for Twins front office

Twins

As Pohlad family explores sale, it’s ‘business as usual’ for Twins front office

Twins

Twins first baseman Santana wins first Gold Glove at age 38

Twins

Twins first baseman Santana wins first Gold Glove at age 38

Sports

Yanks ace Gerrit Cole gives up right to opt out, stays with New York rather than become free agent

Sports

Yanks ace Gerrit Cole gives up right to opt out, stays with New York rather than become free agent

Gerrit Cole gave up his opt-out right on Monday and will remain with the New York Yankees under a contract that runs through 2028 rather than become a free agent.