Written by Andrew Kneeland | 10 November 2009

I’ve said in the past that Nick Punto needs to start. I’m perhaps the biggest supporter of Punto, and I’ve received my fair share of flak for taking that stance. So, in tidy bullet-point form, I will lay out my views on the Punto Situation.

• If our Opening Day roster looks like the current roster, Punto needs to start at second base. This would force Gardy to put either Joe Mauer or Punto in the No. 2 position in the lineup. Neither are ideal No. 2 hitters, but that is beside the point.

• If Minnesota signs a second-baseman, Punto needs to start at third base and the Twins need to let Joe Crede walk freely. Providing the new second-baseman is capable of hitting in the No. 2 position in the batting order, this is the most desirable option.

• When Danny Valencia is ready to take over at the Hot Corner, Punto should be relegated to a utility role off the bench. I am perfectly fine with Punto on the bench most days only if there are better options in front of him.

• I believe the Twins need to sign a second-baseman capable of batting second, which would leave Punto at third base, keeping the bag warm for Valencia.

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