Nick Punto Gardenhire has insisted on regular playing time for Nick Punto since his arrival via the Eric Milton trade in the early 2000 s Punto like Gardenhire in his playing days has the skill set of a light hitting utility infielder Despite his limited offensive skills Punto received salary in excess of 4 million dollars per year for the 2009 and 2010 seasons The Twins did decline the 5 million option on Punto for 2011 However Gardenhire may convince Twins management that Punto should be signed to a multi year deal beginning in 2011