According to Charley Walters of the St. Paul Pioneer Press, Joe Nathan and the Twins have had "positive discussions about a contract extension."
The deal could run through 2011, enabling Nathan to spend at least a couple of seasons at the new ballpark. It sounds like Nathan won’t let talks run into Spring Training 2008, which will precede his walk year.
By 2009, the Twins probably will have already gotten the best of Nathan’s career. But as long as he stays healthy he should be closing when he’s 40. His skills could deteriorate and he’d still be a top five closer. If PECOTA were to sign him for 2009-11, it’d offer about $34MM. Since he likes Minnesota and wants to stay, the Twins might be able to complete a deal in that range.
