As the 2009 season is about to begin, the Twins are hungry after falling one do-or-die playoff game short of making the postseason last year. Sports Illustrated and other experts are predicting the Twins will take the AL Central division this season behind the bats of Joe Mauer, Justin Morneau and last year’s breakout hit, Denard Span. Span will bat leadoff for the Twins and provide speed and some surprising power. Too bad it only took him 7 years to develop from a top prospect to an everyday player in the big leagues.

Tags: al central, baseball, denard span, joe mauer, justin morneau, minnesota twins