What is up with these Kevin Slowey rumors floating around?

Clearly, the bullpen is the Twins' biggest weakness at this point considering the absence of Matt Guerrier, Jesse Crain, Jon Rauch and Brian Fuentes -- all once-important role players in the middle and late innings -- but are they really willing to trade a starting pitcher for some relief?

The team has chosen Scott Baker (remember when he was the Opening Day starter? Oh yeah, that was last season) as their fifth starter. Does this necessarily mean that Slowey is on the trade block? Not really. He just isn't a part of the rotation to kick off the season. You'll have that. He'll come in super handy in the unfortunate case of an injury or an awful start along the way, though. Anyway, a former starter can only strengthen the bullpen. In theory.

Besides, who has a bevy of relievers to toss at a right-handed pitcher with a career 4.41 ERA? No offense, Kevin. And honestly, the Twins can't believe Anthony Swarzak, Glen Perkins, Jeff Manship, or even Kyle Gibson is better suited as the sixth man... your thoughts?

I suppose if all five starters tossed the ball like Francisco Liriano did yesterday against the Baltimore Orioles (Spring or not) all year long, they won't need much more help in the way of relievers. Nine strikeouts in three innings? Yikes.

Some other stuff...

AP, Star Tribune

Joe Mauer has a ways to go before he beats out Derek Jeter for best-selling MLB jersey. [Big League Stew]

Victoria's Secret Twins gear for you or your special lady. [Babes Love Baseball]

Take a trip on the TwinsTrain this season. So fun. [TwinsTrain]

Need a new t-shirt? [Super Pavario at Seventh Ink]

Twins pledge relief assistance to Japan. [MLB]

A pink hat's journey. [Toss it Around]