Manager Paul Molitor confirmed Sunday that Kepler would be used primarily as a defensive replacement during his stint with the Twins, Rhett Bollinger of MLB.com reports.

EDGE Analysis

Kepler was brought up from Triple-A Rochester late Saturday after Danny Santana was forced to the DL with a hamstring injury, but for the time being, it appears Molitor is comfortable with proceeding with Miguel Sano, Byron Buxton, and Eddie Rosario as his regular starters in the outfield. While Kepler could see the occasional spot start in addition to his duties as a late-inning defensive ace, he'll likely need either Buxton or Rosario to struggle at the dish if he hopes to claim regular at-bats.