Sources: Twins, Hudson in final stages
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The Twins are in the final stages of negotiating a one-year, $5
million contract with free-agent second baseman Orlando Hudson,
according to major-league sources.
Several hurdles remain before the deal will be completed,
including Hudson passing a physical, the source said. But Hudson
clearly has chosen the Twins, and the momentum for an agreement
continues to build.
The Nationals long were thought to be the front-runners for
Hudson, but overplayed their hands by waiting for his price to
drop. The Indians also were interested, but were unable to trade
right-hander Fausto Carmona to clear payroll.
Hudson, the National League Gold Glove winner at second base
last season, figures to be a welcome addition for a team with a
strong defensive tradition. He also should fit neatly into the
Twins’ batting order, hitting second in front of Joe Mauer
and Justin Morneau.
The signing of Hudson likely will result in the Twins using
Nick Punto and Brendan Harris at third base. The move also will
serve as further evidence of the Twins’ commitment to winning
at a time when they are trying to sign Mauer long-term.
Hudson, 32, made the All-Star team after getting off to a hot
start for the Dodgers last season, but lost his starting job to Ron
Belliard in September. He ended up appearing in 149 games and
posting a batting/on-base/slugging line of .283-.357-.417 with nine
home runs and 62 RBIs.
Some scouts and executives believe that Hudson has not been
the same both offensively and defensively since undergoing surgery
to repair his left wrist in 2008.
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