Twins Could Move Johan Santana Within 10 Days

Rumors continue to fly surrounding a possible trade between the Minnesota Twins and New York Mets for Johan Santana... and suddenly we have a time frame.

According to the St. Paul Pioneer Press -- who has a representative harass me via telephone at least once every two months in an attempt to gain a subscription -- a trade "is expected to occur within 10 days." Yikes! Looks like the Twins are planning on moving their two-time Cy Young winning ace before the start of Spring Training.

The Mets, who may be willing to part with young prospects such as minor league outfielder Fernando Martinez, seem to have delayed inking free-agent pitchers Livan Hernandez and Kyle Lohse until the Twins make a decision.

Santana, who is demanding a six-year, $150-million extension in order to waive that pesky no-trade clause, went 15-13 with a 3.33 ERA last season behind a lethargic Twins offense. He fanned 235 batters over 219 innings, walking 52.

In 63 games last season between the Gulf Coast League and Binghampton Mets, Martinez batted .265 with 4 homers and 22 RBIs. Still a long way from the big leagues.

In other Twins news, right-handed starter Boof Bonser has shed 20 pounds from his husky frame. Before an intervention by GM Bill Smith and skipper Ron Gardenhire in September, Bonser weighed in at roughly 260 pounds, standing at 6'4". He contributes his weight loss to eating right and working out extra hard. Way to go, buddy!

[Newsday]