Threat Level: 2
The Twins seem ticketed for last place in the AL Central in 2013. Yes, they still have the Twin Cities version of the M&M Boys (Mauer and Morneau), but not much else that is concrete. Willingham is their only source of power, since Morneau has been plagued by concussions recently and they do not have an ace or, perhaps, even a solid number two pitcher. They have many young players in their lineup, including highly-touted prospect Aaron Hicks, who finally seems ready to play in the majors. But, compare their young talent to the Royals and there is a decent gap there. 2013 will probably be another long season in Minnesota, who need to start progressing faster before Mauer gets too old. He is a great stability for the organization, but he will not be young forever.
Projected Lineup
1. Aaron Hicks CF
2. Brian Dozier 2B
3. Joe Mauer C
4. Josh Willingham LF
5. Justin Morneau 1B
6. Chris Parmelee RF
7. Ryan Doumit DH
8. Trevor Plouffe 3B
9. Pedro Florimon, Jr. SS
Projected Starting Rotation
1. Vance Worley RHP
2. Kevin Correia RHP
3. Mike Pelfrey RHP
4. Liam Hendriks RHP
5. Cole DeVries RHP
Closer
Glen Perkins LHP
Yankee Killer: Ryan Doumit
Doumit’s .361 career average against the Yankees is his highest mark against any team. So, on a team that has Mauer, Willingham, and Morneau as their 3-4-5 hitters, Doumit as the six-hitter makes it even more difficult to navigate the middle of the Twins lineup.
Twin Killer: Derek Jeter
Throughout Jeter’s career, the Yankees have dominated the Twins, so it is no surprise that he has good numbers against them. In 125 games against Minnesota, Jeter has a .323 batting average, with 13 home runs, 57 RBI’s, and 83 runs scored. Even at the age of 38, expect Jeter to thrive once again against the Twins pitchers.
When They Play The Yankees:
 IN NY: 7/12-7/14.
IN MIN: 7/1-7/4.
