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Couldn't agree more Seth, although I have this knawing in my gut that tells me Burroughs is going to be the spring training surprise. Although I really like Hughes and am amongst the believers that he can be our starting second baseman, I think he may begin the season on the dl. Then when Casilla has his normal injury, Hughes can replace him and win the starting 2B job.

Is the new Twins Daily going to be another site where everyone 'bad mouths' everything Mr. Ryan and the organization does? Your site has only been around for a couple days and I for one am already tired of all the bitching! You stated that Zumaya was their sole bullpen signing. What about Jeff Gray, Matt Malony, Jason Bulger, Jard Burton, Sam Dedumo, Casey Fien, Luke French, Luis Perdomo, Aaron Thompson, Brad Thompson, Daryl Thompson, P. J. Walters and Brendan Wise? That is thirteen signings this winter, all who are candidates for the bullpen. Most have some major league experience with a couple having substantial experience. I expect that several from this group have as good of a chance at contributing this year as the players everyone is complaining about not having been signed. Last time I checked, spring training is less than a week old. Lets give management time to evaluate what they have before we all jump on the sky is falling bandwagon...please!

John, I must disagree with your use of the term "foolish." It wasn't, it was a calculated risk that could range between a cost of $400,000 if he doesn't make the team (is injured) to $850,000 plus potential for bonuses of nearly another million if he played in 60 games. You claim that he should have used that money to sign another reliever, one of the several you have listed. You missed something very important however, that is different than last. Last year they picked up about a half dozen minor league free agents, with only Hughes and James having some major league experience. Hughes failed and James was great at Rochester, although did nothing with the Twins. This year they signed a dozen, most with some major league experience and a few with a lot of experience. Is it unrealistic to expect that one or two will enjoy some success this year? I don't think so.

I agree completely with Seth. As for pocketing the money, most of it has already been spent. When announcing that the Twins allocation for the first ten rounds of the draft is about $12.4mm, that is about $6+ million more than last year.

John, how long ago was it that I found you at the original Twinkie Town? This looks like it should be both fun and a very good Twins site.

Surprised when I read your farewell this morning over at Sethspeaks.net. Came over here and will love this site. Plus, gotta be a bit easier not going it alone. Wishing you and everyone here my best!

Good morning Nick and congratulations to all four of you for putting this coop site together. Although I agree with your likely opening day 25, count me amongst a small minority who believes that Luke Hughes should be given the opportunity to prove that he deserves to be our everyday shortstop.

Welcome to the world of blogging A. J. You are with a great group of guys, will look forward to your posts.