Span-ing the Outfield: Denard Span Faces a New Challenge

Last season Denard Span all but promised that he would be the Twins starting centerfielder, despite the trade the Twins made last winter, bringing in touted prospect Carlos Gomez and sending ace Johan Santana to the New York Mets.

The competition was fierce but at the end Ron Gardenhire made the decision to stick with the newcomer and give Span some more time in Triple-A. Span was very disappointed and was angered by the decision. He took his assignment, vowing that he would prove everyone wrong, that he was the man for the Twins.

Instead of being frustrated and giving up, Span used his time to improve on his swing and discipline. Span lit up the opposing pitching in Rochester batting a .340 avg. When Michael Cuddyer was brought down with injuries the Twins decided it was a good time to give Denard his shot.

Denard didn't look back, instantly putting on display his extraordinary discipline at the plate and his uncanny outfielding abilities. It looked like Denard had right all along.

The question now is, how will this translate into success this season? Last year Span played with a large chip on his shoulder and used it to his advantage. However, if he gets a starting position will he be able to continue his play from a season ago?

Last season Span occupied right field, a place that had been designated as Micheal Cuddyer's. Span's play certainly merits him a spot in the starting three, but with three more teammates trying to get a hold of the other two spots, it appears Span may have a new motivation.

When you have a good problem in baseball, you usually imply depth. With four players who could start everyday, it would likely mean that any lack of productivity could spell a quick stint on the bench, watching someone else play your position.

Span will face challenges with an updated scouting report on how to pitch to him this upcoming season. However, the thought of losing his spot, possibly once more to Gomez, should bring out the best in his game.

Span is currently the Twins lead-off hitter in the lineup. But one thing to watch from him is not his role with the lineup, but also how he will mentor young Ben Revere. Span considers this a legacy, since he was mentored by Torii Hunter who was mentored by Kirby Puckett.