Justin Morneau, Twins star and Canada native, to carry Olympic torch

Twins star Justin Morneau to carry torch

MINNEAPOLIS — Twins star first baseman Justin Morneau has one more accomplishment to add to his ever-growing list of accolades. The Canadian will help carry the Olympic torch leading up to the Vancouver Games.

Morneau grew up a die-hard hockey fan just outside of Vancouver. He has asserted himself as one of the best young players in baseball, winning the AL MVP award in 2006.

Morneau says he was told last week that he will run with the torch in Vancouver the day before the opening ceremonies.

He says the honor is “something that’s once in a lifetime.”

Morneau joins a distinguished list of Canadians who were granted the honor, including hockey star Sidney Crosby, basketball star Steve Nash and country singer Shania Twain.