• The Twins are looking for third base competition for Trevor Plouffe. Could former Cretin-Derham Hall and Gophers star Jack Hannahan be on their radar? Hannahan was not tendered a 2013 contract by the Cleveland Indians.

• People are grumbling about some of the contracts signed this week. Angel Pagan (Giants) getting $40 million over four years. Shane Victorino (Red Sox) getting $39 over three years. Marco Scutaro (Giants) getting three years and $20 million at age 37. Eyes are rolling.

• Jake Mauer, Joe's brother, has been named the manager of the Twins' new Class A team in Cedar Rapids, Iowa. It appears to be a step down from High-A Fort Myers, where Mauer managed last season, but the Twins say it is not a demotion. "We thought Jake would be a good fit in Cedar Rapids. He can help us with our new affiliate there," said Brad Steil, the Twins director of minor leagues. Mauer probably will get to manage Byron Buxton, the Twins' first-round pick in June.

• Speaking of Buxton, the Winter Confidential staff ran into the staff of Baseball America one evening this week. BA is loving the Twins' top prospects. The Twins could land six in their top 100 rankings, which are due out around spring training.