"I can't mope around and feel sorry for myself," Buscher said. "My goal hasn't changed. I'm trying to make this team."

Buscher's season will likely be spent as a backup for Crede at third and Justin Morneau at first base, while Harris becomes a utility infielder.

"They're still in our plans," manager Ron Gardenhire said. "We'll still need them."

But they needed Crede, and his power from the right side, even more. Crede has hit more than 15 home runs five times in his career, and his new team finished last in the American League in home runs.

Crede's back problems -- he has missed 180 games over the last two seasons and has had surgery twice -- make him a risk, but with no other serious bidders the Twins were able to negotiate a contract that guarantees Crede only $2.5 million.

Crede might become the Twins' fifth Opening Day third baseman in five years, and if he stays healthy, he is nearly certain to declare free agency again next winter and pursue a long-term contract.

But ...

"We've got the makings of a winner right now," general manager Bill Smith said, noting that Minnesota missed the playoffs by one game last summer. "And we think he can help."