MVN: Most Valuable Network

This series is predicated on educated guesses, past history of the team/general manager, rumors that have been out there for a while, and actions that I feel could be taken. This exercise is me playing GM to inspire conversation and a new way of approaching things. Moves that I complete as previous GMs of teams will carry over here. Trades only include principal, significant players.

The Minnesota Twins just barely missed the playoffs, forcing a one-game playoff with the Chicago White Sox for division champions. They did all this without Johan Santana and Torii Hunter. It sounds improbable, but those are the Twins for ya. Unfortunately, I see them taking a step back this year.

Minnesota Twins sign second baseman Ramon Vazquez. The Twins have shown a propensity for bringing in veterans (Livan Hernandez, Mike Lamb were the 2008 ones) and handing them starting jobs. This shouldn't change with Vazquez. The Twins will need a replacement for Nick Punto (signed by the Toronto Blue Jays) so the Twins will shift Alexi Casilla to short and hand the job to Vazquez. Vazquez had a torrid several months for the Rangers before falling off the face of the earth. Alas, the Twins don't have many options. They'll have Vazquez compete with Brendan Harris for the job.

Minnesota Twins shift right-fielder Michael Cuddyer to third-base. I did some research before moving Cuddyer to third to see if it was feasible. What I found is that it is possible for Cuddyer to move back to third base. He was originally moved because of questions of his ability to field the position after surgery. That said, the Twins are going to need a third baseman (and no, Brian Buscher does not count) so they should move Cuddyer to third. This will allow the Twins to start Denard Span in the outfield.

Minnesota Twins sign starting pitcher Mark Hendrickson. Hendrickson used to be quite a solid pitcher before he crumbled upon moving to the National League. He rebuilt his value a little in Florida, so should land a contract somewhere. With the Twins needing a left-handed reliever with the departure of Dennys Reyes, Hendrickson could head to Minnesota and act as insurance for their young starters.

Unfortunately, I'm bullish on the Twins' prospects for the season. I see the Indians, Royals and Tigers all improving with the White Sox holding the line. Something's got to give somewhere, and I'm guessing it's the Twins.