This time of year is fun for baseball fans. Lots of speculation on (and actualization of) trades and free agent signings. So far this winter, the Chicago White Sox and Cleveland Indians have acquired some high-end players. Chicago has just picked up Jim Thome (ouch!), and the Indians have recently acquired starting-pitcher Paul Byrd.

In order to compete in the rapidly-improving American League Central Division, the Twins really have to upgrade a few positions.

Last week, the Twins filled one of three holes, by acquiring 2B Luis Castillo from the Florida Marlins. He should do well as the Twins' number two hitter.

The other holes are at third-base and DH.

Likely candidates for the third base jobs seem to be free-agent Bill Mueller, and Hank Blalock (via trade.) My favorite at this position is Blalock, but the Texas Rangers are asking for the Twins' number one prospect, Francisco Liriano. (Liriano is -like Johan Santana- left-handed and Venezuelan. Liriano is said to have a faster slider and fastball than Santana, as well as a comparable changeup.) The Twins are reluctant to deal Liriano, as he is considered to be a future staff ace.

Maybe I am in the minority on this one, but I think the Twins should make this deal. Liriano hasn't shown much in spring training, or during his few major league starts. I think that the team could make due with Kyle Lohse (instead of Liriano) in the rotation as long as there are some guys providing offense.

Next up is DH. So far the two most prominent names we've heard are Mike Piazza, and Frank Thomas. Let's hope that they get Piazza! The White Sox actually won it once Thomas was benched. We don't need that up here.

There's my hot-stove chat. Enjoy!