Article:Twins sign Morneau and Cuddyer

FOX-9 (Minnesota) reports that the Minnesota Twins have just signed Justin Morneau and Michael Cuddyer to long-term contracts.

FOX-9 REPORT

This is big news for the Twins who needed some positive energy after losing Torii Hunter to the Angels and the possibility of losing Johan Santana. Keeping Morneau and Cuddyer, along with Joe Mauer gives MInnesota some legitimate hitters in their line-up.

Morneau, who had just signed a 1-year $7.4 Contract, is now locked up for a long time. This is huge news as the Twins are keeping their 2006 MVP.

Cuddyer, who could possibly take over for Torii in CF is a fan favorite who came up in the Minnesota System. He has shown great strides and leadership over the last two seasons.

These signings may be enough to show Johan Santana that they are serious about winning and this could convince Johan to sign the 5-year deal with the Twins.

The Twins now have a nice young nucleus of hitters in Morneau, Cuddyer, Mauer, Jason Kubel and Delmon Young. They also have some nice pieces in the rotation with Santana, Baker, Bonser, Liriano, Slowey and others. This team may not content this year, but they are only a year or two away now and will still be fun to watch.