Roster alters

With the signing of Livan Hernandez, it's liable to have some effect on the Twins' 25-man roster.

Philip Humber will likely be the odd-man out, among the Twins' starters. Kevin Slowey, Francisco Liriano, Scott Baker and Boof Bonser are locks to make the starting five, as is Hernandez. If Liriano needs to be stretched out more, or any of them falter, Humber would be waiting to fill the spot.

Nick Blackburn, Brian Duensing, and Kevin Mulvey are the next tier of candidates. Any of them could easily step onto the Major League pitching mound this summer.

Another question with his signing is on the 40-man roster. Right now, as of 2/14/08, the Twins have 41 players on their 40-man roster. That includes Jose Mijares who was injured in a car accident and will not be pitching for several months. He will undoubtedly be put on the 60-day disabled list.

Another roster question circles around Craig Monroe, especially if he falters this spring. Will the Twins bring him north, or cut him loose and save a bunch of money? Right now, some expect him to platoon at DH with Jason Kubel. But Monroe has to prove his worth this spring. otherwise, the Twins won't keep him around.

Jason Pridie and Carlos Gomez will compete for the CF spot. I expect both to stay with the club, but Gomez may need some more seasoning at AAA. If Gomez does not come north, then either Denard Span or Garrett Jones will stay with the club as its fifth outfielder, or - more likely - Alexi Casilla or Brian Buscher would get a shot as another reserve infielder.

Ah springtime. It's a great time of year.