The Twins, who were awarded exclusive negotiating rights to Tsuyoshi Nishioka, envision him playing second base rather than shortstop, according to a major-league source.
Nishioka, 26, played both positions for the Chiba Lotte Marines of the Japanese Pacific League.
Minnesota could retain this year's primary shortstop, J.J. Hardy, through salary arbitration.
Twins Wil Try Nishioka At Second Base