The search for Third- A belated Nick Punto Day Post

Going into Spring Training, one of the key stories to watch for the Minnesota Twins is the situation at third. The Twins have taken a look at many third basemen throughout the offseason, most notably Joe Crede and Kevin Kouzmanoff.



As Spring Training approaches, Gardy seems to have become accustomed to the idea of a platoon between Nick Punto, Matt Tolbert and Alexi Casilla at third. This season, the Twins move into their new ballpark and with a new ballpark the revenue generated has increased. The Twins payroll has skyrocket from 65 million last year to an astonishing 95 million this year. The expectations of a World Series appearance has grown tremendously.Looking back at the last five years, 4 of 5 World Series winners (exception is the 2009 Phillies with Pedro Feliz) have had power-hitting third basemen. The current platoon hit a combined 3 home runs in 2009. In order to improve the shortcomings of the hot corner, I believe that Gardy should look at giving Cuddyer some time at third this spring training.



Now let's look at the potential lineup if this were to happen.

CF Span
2B Hudson
C Mauer
1B Morneau
LF Kubel
3B Cuddyer
DH Thome
RF Young
SS Hardy

This move would allow the Twins to add some power in the lineup in Thome and move Young back to his true position in RF.
Cuddyer with his stellar arm and above-par range would make for the third basemen we have been looking for since the departure of Koskie in 2004.
As I said, this is just Spring Training and if Cuddyer does not produce as he should be producing we can go with the option of the platoon but I feel that this move could open up a new future for the Twins.

Feel Free to comment away!