The Minnesota Twins newest player was a very familiar face for fans.  Tori Hunter was introduced to the media after signing a one year 10.5 million dollar contract for 2015.  Hunter indicated at the news conference he wanted to play longer and wants to end his career where he began it, in Minnesota.  Hunter was drafted by Minnesota in the first round of the 1993 Amateur Draft (20th overall pick) and has had a stellar 18 year career in the Majors.  His career totals are 2,327 career hits, 331 homers, 1,310 RBI's and a  .279 career batting average.  He also has 193 stolen bases, has won nine gold gloves and is a 15 time All-Star. Just last season with Detroit Hunter hit .286 with 17 homers and 83 RBI, nearly identical to the numbers from the previous season when he garnered some votes for MVP (he's received votes for that award 13 times).  I believe it was a terrific signing.  Yeah, he's 39 and admittedly doesn't have the range he had a few years ago, but hey, he will still be an improvement over what we have in the outfield and I like the signing more for the leadership qualities he has.  Tori Hunter has never been afraid to tell somebody what needs to be done on the field and he is as competitive a player as there has ever been.  Hunter mentioned new Manager Paul Molitor as one of his mentors coming up and this team has lacked some veteran leadership since Michael Cuddyer packed his bags a couple seasons ago.  Joe Mauer is just not that kind of leader.  He may be the face of your franchise, but Hunter will now be the spine.  Yes, the Twins need pitching.  We all know that, but I loved the signing of Hunter to the one year deal and look forward to watching him show the youngsters on the Twins how to play the game with intensity every day.  Now Terry Ryan and Mr. Pohlad we need a true number one pitcher and 10.5 million dollars isn't going to buy that.

Tori Hunter back with Twins !
Tori Hunter back with Twins !
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