No more muddle in middle: Nishioka to play second base

PORT CHARLOTTE, FLA. — Twins infielder Tsuyoshi Nishioka arrived at spring training as an international man of mystery, but over the past three days some matters have become very clear.

Nishioka will play second base and bat second in the batting order. His middle-infield partner, Alexi Casilla, will play shortstop and bat ninth.

Manager Ron Gardenhire announced their defensive assignments Saturday, two days after confirming their spots in the batting order.

Nishioka won the first of his three Gold Glove awards in Japan playing second base, in 2005, and two more at shortstop, in 2007 and 2010.

"I talked to Nishioka [and his interpreter] and got him to admit that he's more comfortable at second, and that pretty much told me what I needed," Gardenhire said.

"More than any of the drills, I wanted him to say something to me, and I knew it would take time. He always says, 'Whatever you want me to do.' "

Gardenhire watched Nishioka and Casilla play both positions during practice for four exhibition games. Nishioka showed exceptional quickness and soft hands, but he did make a throwing error at shortstop Friday.

But it is clear that Casilla has a better throwing arm. Gardenhire always has felt shortstop was Casilla's best position.

"I like Casilla's athleticism," Gardenhire said. "I like his arm strength, range, the whole package. This guy can really throw a baseball."

Gardenhire should know. Last year, Casilla accidentally drilled the manager in the right ear during batting practice. Gardenhire was taking throws at first base and wasn't watching when the throw blindsided him. He needed surgery to relieve the swelling.

"I'm living proof that he can really throw a ball," Gardenhire said.

Before Jason Bartlett established himself at shortstop, in 2006, Gardenhire lectured him on the need to take charge of the infield. He likes that in a shortstop. Is Casilla ready to assume a leadership role?

Nishioka showed that kind of leadership last year for the Chiba Lotte Marines, playing all 144 regular-season games at shortstop and committing 18 errors in 1,288 innings. He also won the Japanese Pacific League batting title, hitting .346 with a .423 on-base percentage.

Twins players are working to make Nishioka feel comfortable in his new surroundings. Michael Cuddyer has performed a few magic tricks for Nishioka, and others have taken him fishing.