It's been a long few days, so I'll keep it brief and to the point. Be sure to check out Roger's vote below for Twinkie Town's #1 prospect for 2011.
What Happened
- The Twins traded J.J. Hardy, Brendan Harris and cash to the Orioles for Jim Hoey and Brett Jacobson. We've already gone over this in spades.
- In the Rule 5 draft, the Twins selected
NeilScott Diamond. Diamond will have to stay on the Twins 25-man roster all season. Out of the Atlanta organization, he saw his first time at triple-A this past summer at the age of 23. His greatest strengths include strong ground ball tendencies, leading to few home runs allowed, and excels versus left-handed hitters.
What's Rumored
- With the Nationals backing off Carl Pavano, the Twins are the favorite for his services in 2011. The Brewers are a suitor as well but refuse to go to three years.
- The Twins kicked the tires on Koji Uehara, Rich Harden and Octavio Dotel, but weren't reported to re-visit their interest in Brandon Webb, which was noted in November.
- If the Twins land Pavano, the Twins might be willing to trade a back-end starter. Kevin Slowey's name was mentioned.
- Matt Guerrier and Jesse Crain may or may not be looking for massive dollars.
- Tsuyoshi Nishioka is looking for a deal in the range of three years, $12 million.
What We Learned
- J.J. Hardy wasn't as valued much as salary relief and bullpen help.
- The Twins trust Alexi Casilla more than a majority of Twins fans.
- Carl Pavano and the Twins have a mutual interest in Pavstache: The Return.
- Joe Nathan was shut down until after Christmas, to keep his arm from getting built up, then let down before getting built up again in spring training. This way he can start throwing in January, ramping up to mid-February and games in March.
- Tsuyoshi Nishioka will be flying to Minneapolis next week to take his physical. His deal is imminent.