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Twins' Justin Morneau To Start Season As Designated Hitter

The Minnesota Twins want Justin Morneau involved in games whenever possible, though ideally, he would be at first base where he's most comfortable and can be most effective. Unfortunately, Morneau has suffered plenty of injuries at first base, including concussions and concussion-like symptoms (which, as far as anyone knows, just means more concussions) over the last season or so.

Morneau will be involved right out of the gate in 2012, as the Star Tribune reports that he'll open the season as the designated hitter. He doesn't necessarily want to play there long-term though, and wants to play first base whenever possible:

"The way it's looking, with (Chris) Parmelee making the team as a first baseman, I think it's looking more toward DH than first base,'' Morneau said. ``It isn't necessarily something that I want to do but it's better in the long run in terms of being healthy and available to play every day. That's the biggest thing right now."

He goes on to say that they'll revisit it later in the season and see how he's feeling. It's all about whether or not he experiences more concussion symptoms and what his fatigue is looking like at that point. Fatigue can increase the effects of a concussion, so if Morneau has to be limited, then that's what's best for him and his career. Just having him on the field should be a big help for the Twins, regardless.

Photographs by Micah Taylor, clairity, and Fibonacci Blue used in background montage under Creative Commons. Thank you.