The Twins liked the team that missed the playoffs by one game in 2008, and they are willing to bank on internal improvement by the young players to make up that margin this year. 

The Twins liked the team that missed the playoffs by one game in 2008, and they are willing to bank on internal improvement by the young players to make up that margin this year. 

Nick Blackburn worked particularly hard on leg strength during the winter, determined not to let minor surgery on his left knee affect his preparation for the 2009 season. 

--RHP Scott Baker agreed to a four-year, $15. 

Nick Blackburn worked particularly hard on leg strength during the winter, determined not to let minor surgery on his left knee affect his preparation for the 2009 season. 

--RHP Scott Baker agreed to a four-year, $15. 

Right-hander Scott Baker has agreed to a $15. 

Scott Baker took the mound with some extra financial security. 

Scott Baker took the mound with some extra financial security. 

Scott Baker took the mound with some extra financial security. 

Right-hander Scott Baker has agreed to a $15. 

--RHP Joe Nathan felt an irritation in the AC joint of his pitching shoulder after a one-inning spring debut Feb. 

The Twins liked the team that missed the playoffs by one game in 2008, and they are willing to bank on internal improvement by the young players to make up that margin this year. 

Nick Blackburn worked particularly hard on leg strength during the winter, determined not to let minor surgery on his left knee affect his preparation for the 2009 season. 

With no reason to be distracted, Jason Kubel is off to a strong start this spring.