The Twins are the Anti-Tigers

Their payroll is low. They traded away the best pitcher in the game. And their second best pitcher from 2007 now throws in Tampa. Their left-handed Phenom has been hurt most of the year. Recently, they cut the pitcher on their team with the most wins. Their Gold-glove center fielder left to play elsewhere for more money. This is the recipe for disaster, this sounds like the Reds. However, this is your 2008 Minnesota Twins. Currently 73-54 and only 1/2 game out of the AL Central lead.

How is this possible?

This has been made possible by a combination of things, but mostly - they have a great team, they play hard, and they are managed well.

Sure it helps that the middle of your order has Mauer and Morneau - The best catcher in the AL and the reigning AL MVP respectively. They also have a lights out closer - who may be the most underrated guy in the American league in Nathan. After that, there are a bunch of great pieces and parts - but no one really spectacular. Delmon Young - the big off season pick up has been solid -but 7 HR 53 RBI - not exactly tearing the cover off the ball. Can you imagine if the Yankees had Jeter, A-rod, Rivera, and then a bunch of roll players and a starting rotation held together by band-aids and duct tape? The Yankees complain about injuries more than anyone - but they still have Jeter, A-rod, Rivera, Mussina, Cano, etc, etc. And don't even get me start about the Tigers. After Mauer, Morneau, and Nathan do any Minnesota Twins start for Detroit?

I know Joel Madden is going to win the AL manager of the year - and with good reason. But Ron G. has no shame in finishing second in this race.