the rotation heading into camp
Ricky Nolasco, RHP: Has won double-digit games in six consecutive seasons and has struck out 7.4 batters per nine innings for his career, which makes him the strikeout king of this staff. Best bet to start on Opening Day.
Phil Hughes, RHP: He was 4-14 last season — 1-10 in Yankee Stadium. But the Twins are convinced that an escape from New York to Target Field will be the move the fly-ball pitcher needs. He's only 27 years old.
Kevin Correia, RHP: There were concerns before last season that a move to the American League would be bad for Correia, who signed as a free agent from Pittsburgh. He ended up as the most effective Twins starter, not striking out many batters but not giving up a ton of home runs.
Mike Pelfrey, RHP: The Twins re-signed him despite a 5-13 record last season. Why? Last season was his first following Tommy John elbow ligament replacement surgery, and team officials believe a bounce-back season is here.
Starter No. 5: Scott Diamond, Samuel Deduno, Kyle Gibson, Vance Worley, Alex Meyer, Trevor May ... this will be a battle royale.
lA velle e. neal III
