Club hunts for answer in center

0 Comments | USA TODAY, March, 2008 | by Mel Antonen

FORT MYERS, Fla. -- For the first time since 1999, the Minnesota Twins will have a new center fielder. And no matter who replaces Torii Hunter, the Twins will experience a huge drop-off in experience, offense and leadership.

Two of the candidates -- Denard Span and Jason Pridie -- have never played in the big leagues. The other, Carlos Gomez, had 125 at-bats in 58 games for the New York Mets last season.

"They are all true center fielders," Twins general manager Bill Smith said. "They can run, field and throw. The question is: Who will best fit into the lineup? Ideally we'd find a leadoff hitter."

The backup plan is Craig Monroe, 31, who isn't a natural center fielder but has 104 home runs in seven seasons, 28 with the Detroit Tigers two years ago....