Damn Yankees!

Well, the major league baseball season just ended a couple of days ago as the New York Yankees bought...er, ah, I mean, won, another World Series title. (A friend also reminded me on Facebook that the Damn Yankees was also the name of a short-lived rock group featuring Ted Nugent!) I figured since the season was over, it's time to look at the Twins roster for the 2010 season.

Now that underperforming CF Carlos Gomez was traded to the Milwaukee Brewers for SS J.J. Hardy, the outfield mix is pretty much set with Delmon Young (a risk in the field) in left, versatile Denard Span in center, and Michael Young in right coming off of a career year. I suppose Jason Kubel will also be in the mix at a corner outfield spot when he isn't DH'ing too.

I guess the trade for J.J Hardy means the Twins won't be pursuing free agent SS Orlando Cabrera, unless they move Hardy to second or third base. That's a shame, because Cabrera was an igniter in the second spot in the batting order down the stretch, and was a mentor to some of the younger players.

I like Nick Punto's glove, but he's a poor hitter and would be better as a defensive replacement or utility infielder. I'd like to see Brendan Harris get the starting second baseman nod, because Alexi Casilla has turned out to be a bust. If not, maybe Harris will start at third or back up Justin Morneau from time to time.

Joe Mauer just won his third batting title, and I'd be amazed if he doesn't win this year's AL MVP. I'd like to see Jose Morales as his backup behind the plate next year, because Mike Redmond's offensive output has been diminishing year after year. Redmond would be best suited as a bullpen catcher or bench coach in my opinion.

As far as pitching goes, where do I begin? Starters Scott Baker, Nick Blackburn, Carl Pavano, and Kevin Slowey (before going on the DL) were effective, but Francisco Liriano was a disaster, and they had a bullpen meltdown after the All-Star break. Closer Joe Nathan is solid, and relievers Jon Rauch and Matt Guerrier did well. Hopefully the return of reliever Pat Neshek from surgery next year will be an asset to the pen next year.

It's about 4 months until spring training, but the exciting regular season finish this year gave fans plenty of hope and optimism for next year. Here's looking to another competitive year in the AL Central!