The Twins are trying to keep their ship afloat until a couple of aircraft carriers arrive to save the day. They are outfielder Byron Buxton, who could debut this season, and third baseman Miguel Sano, who would have made his debut this season if not for season-ending Tommy John surgery.

But the Twins are not the only ones in the AL Central with new young players. And, unfortunately, a couple are already in the majors and could become thorns in the Twins' sides for many years to come.

Chicago's import

The White Sox went out during the offseason and landed first baseman Jose Abreu after he defected from Cuba, signing him to a six-year, $68 million contract. Abreu, 27, has excellent power and appears to be a good hitter, too. And he certainly wasn't overwhelmed against the Twins last week.

KC's young arm

Royals righthander Yordano Ventura could wind up facing the Twins next weekend at Target Field. He has a fastball clocked at 102 miles per hour and a sharp curveball.

Tigers stay strong at third

Detroit's trade of Prince Fielder allowed it to install Nick Castellanos at third. Castellanos hit .276 with 18 homers and 76 RBI last season as a 21-year old at Class AAA Toledo.

Cleveland got a young arm, too

Throw in Cleveland righthander Danny Salazar, and there are plenty of young newcomers who could present problems for the Twins.