Predictions

Some predictions: The Red Sox will win the East, and Angels the west. I see more parity in the Central; I actually think the Twins could vie with Cleveland, Chicago and Detroit for the Central title.

It's true, everyone would have to do well, especially our starters. But Nick Blackburn and Philip Humber will be good additions, and I see Slowey leading in games won, with 18.

If the Bs can pitch up to their potential (Boof Bonser, Scott Baker and Blackburn) it will be an exciting season. I'm actually not expecting a lot from Hernandez or Liriano. Hernandez will be gone before the All-Star break, and Francisco Liriano won't be as effective as he was in 2006. He'll be much better in 2009.

The offense should be greatly improved. And Gomez will provide a lot of excitement. So far this spring, he's been on base 17 times, and scored 12 times. That's a 70 percent clip. I doubt if it will carry into the regular season, but if it did, it would be great.

I know I really felt that Jason Pridie would be the Twins' best CF choice, but Gomez certainly is exciting to watch. As long as Craig Monroe doesn't get much time in CF, I'll be fine. Denard Span was probably disappointed, but he'll get another chance.

Matt Tolbert actually played a little outfield in Tuesday's game. Must be Ron Gardenhire's effort to stretch the infielder into an even more well-rounded reserve. If he gets hot offensively, watch him take over at 2B though.

The relief corps should be solid again, especially now that Joe Nathan has been signed to a 4-year deal. It was expected. The Twins need him to anchor the relief pen.