Joe Mauer

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As every Twins fan knows, being in a small market sucks.

Every year, the Minnesota faithful watch their team become obsolete in free agency while the likes of the Yankees, Red Sox, and now even the Rays and Indians spend money to improve their teams and make the AL competition that much tougher.

But there is one thing the Twins can do well: overcome adversity and compete. This club is able to contend every year, despite their payroll being significantly less, and it all starts with a solid foundation. Minnesota was truly built from bottom to top.