With Alex Rodriguez refitted for pinstripes, Johan Santana's status as a lame-duck Minnesota Twin likely will be the story line that dominates the rest of baseball's offseason. The Twins might want to trade Santana this winter or at the July 31 trade deadline rather than risk losing him as a free agent after the 2008 season. It's unlikely any team would agree to give the Twins the package they reportedly want of ready major league talent - they need a third baseman and a center fielder - and several top prospects, unless it got a window to attempt to negotiate an extension with Santana. If there were no extension, the deal would be off. Mets' GM Omar Minaya has said upgrading his team's starting pitching is a priority, and 10 days ago Hank Steinbrenner told The Associated Press, "Obviously, there will be an interest in Santana." The Yankees might have more to deal than the Mets, but only if they are willing to give up pitchers such as Phil Hughes along with regulars such as Robinson Cano or Melky Cabrera. But other teams might have more to offer than both New York clubs.