I believe it is inaccurate to use this year's market to guage what it will be like a few years down the road.
Remember the ridiculous year when Manny signed his deal with us? The market corrected itself in a few years.
And if not, he's costing them $12 million.
Again, I find it really hard to believe the Twins will part with the best SP in baseball unless it's a great deal for them.
They picked up Torii Hunter's 12 million dollar option this offseason.
If they're willing to spend $12 mil on Hunter, they'll sign Santana.
edit - the Twins' payroll was close to $65 million last year.
Minor league talent, yes, but I think that it's possible you see teams make a push with MLB talent to go after him.
Again, who, and for what, we'll have to wait and see.
edit - Let me go on record as to saying he's in Minny for his career, BTW.
Don't sell the Twins short. They were pretty good in the second half last year without Liriano. I think their young pitchers (Bonser, Garza, etc.) can do a more than adequate job of filling in for the combo of Radke and Liriano. The Twins will always be in the race with Santana throwing every 5th day.
Don't be shocked if Santana sacrifices a couple mil to remain in Minnesota, either. These monster deals for superstars are becoming less prevalent. I also think Florida will try to do all it can to keep Miguel Cabrera.
Boise State has looked good.
Michigan was a real good team. USC was a lot better than I thought.
Rutgers, if they beat WVU, would have been in anyway. That's a moot point.