When Michael Cuddyer & his wife Claudia welcomed twins girls into the world earlier this month, fans of the utility player breathed a huge sigh of relief.  How could he sign with anyone but the Twins now that he had just welcomed his own pair into the world?  It’s perfect!

As delightful as it would be if that were the case, there are other factors that will play a role in Michael’s decision to re-sign with Minnesota.

The line-up the Twins opened 2011 with when they played two pre-season games against the Braves at Turner Field - March 29 & 30, 2011

Right now, it sounds like he’s sitting on 3 years, $26 million.  He made it clear early on that he was interested in talking about a 4th year option.  That’s still there and could come out as a tie-breaker with the Rockies in play.

He also wants the Twins to be contenders in 2012.  So does the rest of the team & everyone in Twins’ territory.  Last year was rough on everyone and the attitude in the clubhouse right now isn’t pretty.  No beef between players, just an over-all — WHAT HAPPENED THIS YEAR? — feeling that is a recipe for disaster when trying to rebuild after a down year.  Michael’s leadership & veteran status would be bright spot for a pretty young squad & all of the new faces that will be joining it this season.

While a resolution seems to be within sight, both the Twins & the Rockies are pushing Michael for an answer.  His camp has and remains to be very quiet, which is making both teams nervous and anxious for a resolution.  In order for these squads to move forward in the off-season, a resolution needs to happen.  Both teams have a lot of holes to fill and need to know where their money is going in order to do so. 

Right now there are no ultimatums but a ‘final offer, take it or leave it’ could be coming soon unless Cuddyer’s camp makes some noise.