Article: CUDDYER: CAN A PHENOM MAKE A DIFFERENCE? Star quality; The Twins' Michael Cuddyer is a rookie technically but a veteran in terms of playoff success. He's also a budding superstar, say teammates who caught his act late last season.(SPECIAL)

Byline: La Velle E. Neal III; Staff Writer

Fort Myers, Fla. -- John Lackey and Francisco Rodriguez did it last season, Livan Hernandez and Jaret Wright in 1997, Derek Jeter in 1996 and Fernando Valenzuela in 1980.

And, perhaps, Michael Cuddyer will do it in 2003.

"He's a superstar in the making," Twins first baseman Doug Mientkiewicz said.

The Twins hope Cuddyer becomes the latest in a long list of rookies who step forward to play a significant role on a World Series championship team.

Cuddyer, the ninth overall pick in 1997, technically is a rookie. He fell just short of using up his first-year eligibility last ...

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