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AL Central

Minnesota Twins

Story Last Season - After playing from behind all season, the Twins took over first place in their division in the closing weeks only to lose in the first round to the Athletics.

Key Losses - Although they did a good job keeping their big players, the Twins will be without stud pitcher Francisco Liriano due to a Tommy John he underwent last season. Liriano will be out all season.

Key Additions - Ramon Ortiz was acquired to add depth to the Twins depleted pitching staff.

Impact Players for 2007

• Boof Bonser - Boof is another starting pitcher called up from the minors who will be expected to play second fiddle to Johan Santana. If he can have near Liriano's impact from last season, the Twins can still contend in this tough division.
• Justin Morneau - Justin had a terrific season last year and he carried the team when Liriano went down and Mauer began to struggle. He should be the focus of the Twin's 3-4-5 batters all season long.
• Torii Hunter - Hunter was the focal point of the Twin's offense for many years but was marred by injuries for most of 2006. He can add more power and leadership to the Twin's relatively young lineup.

Prediction - Without Liriano, the Twins simply don't have the same team they had last year which barely won their division. They should finish a close third to the White Sox and the Tigers.

Detroit Tigers

Story Last Season - A joke of a team for years, the Tigers finally turned it around and made it to the World Series as a wild card team.

Key Losses - Jamie Walker was a solid left-handed bullpen pitcher and he is now on the Orioles. Not a huge loss, however, as the Tigers farm system has many good pitchers to send up.

Key Additions - The Tigers dealt for Gary Sheffield right at the beginning of the offseason and he should add a big bat to their lineup.