When I sat down to write this, the outside world was dismal, dark and wet. To paraphrase W.C. Fields “T’aint a fit day for man nor beast.” But I bet the sun was shining in Fort Myers, Fla. and it seemed to be a good time for my annual rose-colored glasses Minnesota Twins forecast. You know, the time when the Twins’ forthcoming year is painted an overly optimistic hue. The idea is to take each starting player and assume the best year possible.

Let’s start with Denard Span, leadoff batter. Span came into his own last year. He seemed to have an epiphany when he was called up the second time to replace Michael Cuddyer. The game made more sense and came easier to him. Span provided the team with hitting, speed and defense. What more can you ask? Span continues his play of last year and sets the table for the heart of the lineup.

Alexi Casilla was a surprise last year after being sent down for an attitude adjustment. However, the Twins were forced to call him up after a series of infield injuries. Casilla came up and played as well as any second baseman in the Majors until he hurt his thumb. This year, the second baseman relieves the minds of any doubting Thomas’, resumes his play of last season and looks to be the Twins’ second baseman for years to come.

Joe Mauer is recognized as Major League baseball’s premier player, wins his third batting title and leads the Twins to their first World Series appearance since the last century. Minnesota rejoices and Terry Ryan is lauded for his decision to draft Mauer.

Justin Morneau continues to improve his first base defense and with the troubles of Alex Rodriguez, becomes the top slugger of the American League. Morneau hits 40 home runs, drives in 125 RBIs and bats .325. He does lose the MVP trophy finishing second to his friend Joe Mauer.

Joe Crede lives up to his reputation as a fielding whiz at third base. Crede is a solid presence in the batting order and finishes second to Morneau in team home runs and runs batted in. Joe is voted comeback player of the year and personally bests Chicago on three separate occasions. In the middle of the season Crede is signed to a four-year contract.

Designated hitter Jason Kubel bats sixth and becomes the player that all expected him to be before his knee blew out.

Michael Cuddyer takes over his old spot in right field. Leads the league in outfield assists and he and Joe Crede provide the right-handed power that the Twins have sorely missed the past few years.

Nick Punto shows he deserves the starting shortstop position and statistics prove that he gets to more ground balls than any other shortstop in the league. He gives the Twins timely hitting in the bottom of the lineup and becomes known as Mr. Clutch.

But, perhaps the biggest surprise this season comes from centerfielder Carlos Gomez and his increased power and batting average. He is the best end of the lineup hitter since Brooklyn Dodger Carl Furillo batted before Dodger pitchers and won the National League batting title.

Another player that should be mentioned is Delmon Young. He showed evidence of fulfilling his potential and played well when called upon, particularly when filling in for an injured Michael Cuddyer.

The above is a great deal of wishful thinking, but there is one thing that bothers me. How are the Twins going to be able to afford this lineup next year?