MINNEAPOLIS — The Minnesota Twins made a 13-win improvement this year, the second-biggest rise in the American League, and remained in contention for a wild card spot until the final weekend of the regular season.

After four straight seasons averaging 96 losses, the Twins were relevant again. At times, they were tough to beat: throughout May, going into the All-Star break, and before and after Labor Day during a 16-7 run. Resilient was the best description of these Twins, with a 16-7 record over their last 23 road games one of many examples.

“That’s a good trait to have in a team,” third baseman Trevor Plouffe said. “We’re not going to sneak up on anybody next year, but I think that come 2016 we’ll be ready to compete again for the Central Division and make a playoff push.”