The key acquisition in Minnesota’s Johan Santana trade may prove to be speedy outfielder Carlos Gomez. The 22-year-old kid’s skills are impressive though raw at this point in his career, particularly at the plate, as he’s batting just .246 with a .271 OBP in 2008. His two walks and 14 strikeouts in 13 games are indicators that he could use more minor league time to learn to control his strike zone.

Still, Gomez has dazzled with his speed, reminding Twins fans of the departed Torii Hunter by tracking down balls anywhere in center field. The rookie also has stolen six bases in seven attempts to share the top spot in the American League in steals with Kansas City’s Joey Gathright and Chone Figgins of the Angels.

Ready or not to stick in the majors, Gomez has captured the attention of manager Ron Gardenhire with his little ball skills. In addition to sharing the league lead in steals, he also shares the major league lead in infield hits and bunt hits.

Major League Leaders in Bunt Hits & Infield Hits, 2008

Player. . . . . . . . . . . . . . Bunt Hits. . . . . . . . .Player. . . . . . . . . . . . . . .IF Hits
Carlos Gomez, Min. . . . . . . . 4. . . . . . . . . . . .Carlos Gomez, Min. . . . . . . . .5
Coco Crisp, Bos. . . . . . . . . . 4. . . . . . . .. . . . Joey Gathright, KC. . . . . . . . 5
Erick Aybar, LAA. . . . . . . . . .3. . . . . . . . . . . .Julio Lugo, Bos. . . . . . . . . . .5
Four tied with . . . . . . . . . . .2. . . . . . . . . . . .Lastings Milledge, Was. . . . . .5

Without his speed, Gomez might be batting well below the Mendoza Line. But with his speed, and Gardenhire’s propensity to play the little-ball game when necessary, Gomez is likely to continue his on-the-job training in the majors.