FanFanatic

I disagree. You don't put stress on a rookie by placing him in the #1 or #2 hole. You bring them up, put them at #8 or #9. Let them get comfortable hitting ML pitching, then inch them forward as the progress. Putting Hicks at lead off was one of the worst moves of the Gardy era and showed his inability to handle young players.

Actually, I'm not surprised by the offer of a new contract for Gardy. I expected it actually. I believe when the entire story is told, that Gardy probably demanded that his coaching staff be retained as part of the deal. Gardy has shown loyalty to his staff, his players, and the organization. As to whether this is the best move...well that will give us plenty to discuss over the next year. I'm OK with this result, although I would have preferred an Anderson retirement. I guess I'm a little sick of "pitch to contact" as the guiding principle of our staff.

Willingham has value as a RH DH next year. And, I agree his trade value can only increase. Unless Ryan can get a prospect for him, he should be pulled back. Doumit should be the odd man out.

I believe Brian is correct in arguing that the Twins should not be buyers. They are more than one or two pieces away from being a contending team. But I honestly don't see the Twins being offered much talent for their available veterans. I would predict that lack of offers will result in the Twins not being sellers either. And, if they go quietly past the trade deadline without making a single deal, I'm good with that. Sometimes the best trades are the ones you don't make.

"blessed is he who expects nothing, for he is never disappointed." - Alexander Pope