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Miguel Sano expects high HR total

The Minnesota Twins have high hopes for Miguel Sano, who evidently has high expectations of himself as well.

Sano, one of baseball's top power-hitting prospects and Minnesota's third baseman of the future, recently said he expects to hit anywhere from 45 to 55 home runs this season.

The 20-year-old Sano hit 35 homers in just 123 minor league games in 2013 despite battling an injured right elbow for much of the season. The slugger told the (Minneapolis) Star-Tribune that he thinks his homer total will rise with an increased number of games.

"I hit 45 this year. More games," Sano said Saturday, according to the Star-Tribune. "Maybe 55, you never know."

The 243-pound Sano underwent a physical exam Friday at Target Field, and no structural damage was found in his elbow.

Sano, who posted a .382 on-base percentage last season, also thinks he can increase his walk total this season, especially after working with All-Star Joe Mauer during spring training.

"Hundred and 20 [walks]," Sano said, according to the Tribune. "Maybe 150."

Sano, who will attempt to make the Twins' Opening Day roster this year, recently was rated as baseball's No. 4 overall prospect by MLB.com.