In Minneapolis, Sid Hartman writes the Twins' decision to sign 3B Josh Donaldson "should put an end to the constant refrain" that the team's ownership, the Pohlad family, "wouldn't spend money to build a winner." The Pohlads have "always told their front office that they can spend millions on player contracts and free agents if it will help build a winning ballclub. Twins Owner Jim Pohlad "continues that philosophy" (Minneapolis STAR TRIBUNE, 1/17).
ALL IS NOT LOST: In Baltimore, Peter Schmuck writes the "challenge going forward for the Astros is to continue winning while the organization makes it clear to its players and the public that there cannot be even a hint of suspicious activity." The Astros '17 World Series championship "bears an imaginary asterisk, but the front office has pushed all the right buttons strategically to assemble a very talented team, which is projected to remain one of the winningest franchises in the sport" this season. The team "just needs a no-nonsense manager with a strong reputation to make sure that happens" (BALTIMORE SUN, 1/17).
BABY BLUE: In Toronto, Laura Armstrong noted the Blue Jays "had fans in a tizzy on Monday as the organization teased a return to a beloved retro jersey on social media." The Blue Jays are "expected to reveal the new threads on Saturday morning at Winter Fest, an annual fan event at the Rogers Centre that includes current and former players." The prospect of a return of powder blue jerseys "excited many fans" (TORONTO STAR, 1/14).
