All over but the cryin'

Here comes the stache...

Pavano and his mustache take the mound tonight!
We can win this game. Pettitte is pitching for the Yankees and has not been very sharp his last couple outings. We need to get to him early forcing them to their bullpen.

Heard there was a lot of whiney fans last night telling people to sit down. I plan on standing the whole game and expect everyone around me to be into it too! I will be constantly yelling and doing my best to inspire the Twins. Just like tinkerbell they need their fans to BELIEVE! We need to stay positive and let them know we think they can doit!!

Did any one notice that the TBS announcer Darling sounds like James Wood?

GO TWINS!

Game one

Yankees take game one.
Happy with how Liriano pitched. Crazy how one pitch can change the whole game. But we didn't quit and we had plenty of chances but just could not get that big hit.
I get to go tomorrow night and am looking forward to watching Pavano pitch and to feel the intensity of the crowd.

The park looked beautiful and the crowd was loud! I still feel optimistic. Would like to see Valencia get a hit but him taking that walk was beautiful. Glad that we got CC to walk in a run. I will take these small victories, hopefully they will build into a big victory.

GO TWINS!

EZ pass my @$$...

I really am fine with the Yankees coming in to Target Field over confident. Keep adding fuel to the fire. These Twins will not go down easy. After all the struggles this season losing Nathan then Morneau and all the young guys stepping up. This team finds ways to keep winning and they will in the post season.

GO TWINS!

CLINCHED!!

My brother went to bed during the 7th inning saying "They just don't have the fire tonight." Boy was he wrong! The Twins were doing as they always do...keep playing taking good at bats and executing on defense. What a great 8th inning! Sign of how ready this team is!

Thanks A's!

Fun watching them celebrate covering poor Dick Bremer in champagne, Jim Thome hugging everybody and players out high fiving the fans!

Loving these Twins!

Go Twins!!!

Final Push....(no 163)

I imagine Gardy heads to the park everyday with a smile on his face. He knows his team doesn't have to play a game 163. Then as he sits and writes out the line up his tummy starts to churn, can't put Mauer and Morneau on the list, he pauses should I let Kubel pinch hit? Do I let Hudson play or rest him? Is Cuddy Ok without a day off? Lots of unknowns float in his head, he does his best not to think ahead to the playoffs. He wants to win as many games as possible hopefully get home field advantage for the playoffs.

Once again Gardy excels as Manager helping his team get another Division Championship. Balancing the lineup protecting his pitchers, rearranging for injuries and keeping everyone together! His low key exterior and burning inner passion helps the team make it through a long challenging season.

Maybe he isn't the most showiest manager but that is not the Twins way. Just as TK before him he stays even tempered keeps issues in the clubhouse and brings out the best in his players. The young guys called up through out the year are ready to play thanks to the system preparing them. Everyone knows what Gardy expects of them on and off the field. It is obvious that the Twins are doing things right and this year they took the extra step. Bringing in Hudson and Thome adding pitchers Capps, Fuentes and Flores.

I don't want to look to far ahead and stay in the moment just as the team is trying to do...but I am excited for the playoffs! I will watch the remaining games hoping to win a couple more then the Yankees but I will not dismay if we don't. I don't buy into the Yankee curse so I am not afraid to go there and play. This team has had a fun exciting season and entertained me greatly and no matter what they do in the playoffs I will still love them!! But first lets beat Cleveland!

GO TWINS!

Sitting Pretty...with a broom in hand!

Beautiful win tonight in Chicago! Sweeping the Sox is really fun!!

Glad the fellas are coming home so I can see them play again! What an awesome team! Everybody is contributing, getting hits from Thome and Mauer but also JJ, Delly and seems like everyone else!!

Our pitchers are rockin' firin'...yea OK Pavano smacked Konerko in the face but our bullpen has been really good the last few games.

Hope all you naysayers have jumped fully on the bandwagon! You better not start that can't beat the Yankees crap!! Seriously I doubt a single guy on that team fears the Yankees I bet some of them kinda wanta go to NY to play the opening series...

Of course Gardy won't even talk about the post season. Think the whole team would do the same thing. They are focused like lasers on the next game, they seem determined to win every single game left.

Lets all enjoy the ride!

GO TWINS!

Super Tuesday!!!

Again I was lucky enough to go to the game on Tuesday night! My big brother Jayboy took me as a birthday present!! It was a bit chilly but our seats were really close and safe from the wind. The opponent being the Royals added to the evening for me because as I have said before the Royals were my team.. My father loved the Royals so I loved them too! My first big league game was the Royals. My first cool interaction with a player was Frank White 2nd basemen for the Royals. I have many fond memories of watching the Royals play on warm summer nights in Kansas City.

Last night sitting in our new outdoor stadium I couldn't help but think of those nights with my Dad and siblings in KC. That is also a beautiful park and for us to have one like this is just thrilling!! The chill in the air, smell of grilled onions, constant chatter of fans and eruptions of cheers...this is what baseball is about.

I made myself a circle me Bert sign but don't think I got circled though Bert did wave to us from the booth! Also got my name on the scoreboard from my 8 cool siblings! The Twins played great, got some hits from the back end of the order and once again Thome blasted one out of the park. The pitcher threw one a little inside and I could tell that ticked off Jim so two pitches later goodbye ball! Went about 430ft!



The White Sox lost so we are 4.5 up! They seem to be playing really well fighting through their own injuries. Guess they had some last night too. But as Gardy said as long as we win we don't have to worry about the Sox. Of course next week when we play them I suppose we have to worry a little bit!

GO TWINS!!

Royal Welcome!

Jim Thome!! What a homerun!! That ball flew! Amazing seeing it hit the flag pole! This after Kubel knocks it out of the park, and followed by Delmon almost hitting it out too!

Again I was at the game and had a great time. Love the way the crowd gets into the games! Even though we had a little rain I was safe and dry under the canopy way up top. I dont think there is a bad seat in that ballpark. Unless you sit next to someone with a ton of cologne on like the first game I went to with my brothers. But even that wasn't a big deal as we wanted to explore the park and sat in several others spots around the stadium.

Tuesday I am hoping to get circled by Bert and who knows make it into the booth! Hope you all watch the game because at the very least Bert will say my name.




GO TWINS!!

Hi Yo Rangers!

We pulled out a squeaker Sunday. I was lucky enough to go to the game with my fabulous niece. Got to watch the legends game which was really funny...I mean fun. Looked like we had the game well in hand and then the wheels started falling off. Rauch came in and got two outs then they brought in Capps with one on first. He was terrible and loaded the bases. Quirky weird play ended the game.

Not sure what will happen with the Rangers. Hamilton may be out for a while and Lee is hurting. The hope is that the standings stay as they are and we play Tampa Bay at home and the Rangers knock off the Yankees then come here. Of course we need to make sure keep the Sox from catching up to us. Can not believe the Red Sox couldn't even get one game from Chicago.

Couple positives from yesterday Kubel was out there hitting, Blackie held his own and luck was on our side! I am off to today's game!


ME AND MY FRIEND KENT!

GO TWINS!!!

A little up a little down...

Detroit turned out to be a tough and kinda ugly series. The Twins managed to pull out 3 of 4 and looked good and bad. The last game of the series was a sloppy crazy mess. The best thing about it was how they played the next night in the series opener with Texas. I was worried the late night and plain craziness of the game would affect them. But the beauty of this team is they keep plugging along, show up for the next game and start over. They don't get down and they don't get too high. Its a long season and making it through requires an even keeled team.

Losing Kubel for a few games sucks as well as Danny pulling up last night. But just as they have all year someone steps up. Matt Fox pitched a great game last night, not a hard thrower but made that ball move. Span seemed to wake up a bit last night making a great catch and getting some hits. Mauer catching that 13 inning game and then showing up behind the plate Friday is impressive.

This team perseveres! All the ups and downs we have stayed relatively consistent. Lost our closer, our MVP first basemen, erratic starting pitching and a rotating injury bug in the heart of the infield...yet we keep filling the holes and winning.

GO TWINS!!

Squeaker!!

What a great game!

Gotta love pulling out these close games! Sure would have loved a blow out win but those Detroit pitchers are throwing some good ball.

Keys:
Liriano pitched really well.
Alexi made a great defensive play even made it into the ESPN top ten!
Great scene to have Thome come off the bench and get a hit. Even though we didn't score it was a great moment.
Cuddy continues to overachieve covering 1st. Several big stretches to get the ball and out!
Mauers throw to seconds was perfectly placed and handled by JJ!
Rauch was throwing fire! He looked confident and intimidating.
Loved our sweet rookie Valencia coming to the plate and fighting back from 1-2 to get a sweet hit for the WIN!!!

I am loving this team and how they keep battling!! This next month is going to be so fun!!!

GO TWINS!!

Still 3 ahead for now....

We only got one game in Texas but overall I feel good about the series. Our outfield defense was sloppy first game but seemed to tighten up. Span needs to take over in the outfield, take charge of the action. D-Span needs to get himself together for the stretch, he has really seemed off to me not only in the field but at the plate. Half the time he has this spaced out look on his face, makes me wonder if he is having any of the lightheaded like last year. Remember when he missed a few games because he passed out or had a dizzy spell. I would hope he wouldn't try to hide something like that but you never know.

The Twins are showing their serious intentions to make a good run at it with the aquisition of two left handers for the bullpen. Says something when the team has a need and the front office goes out and fills it. I guess the Angels have quit for the year getting rid of Fuentes, Torii must feel very confused. Seems like a role reversal.

Starting out good in Seattle!
GO TWINS!

Up 4 and #4 is back!

Sounds like it was a fun game yesterday as well as lots of farve drama. I stole away for a day at the lake with my sisters and nieces. Had a wonderful time but have to admit there were several times I wished I could watch the game!

I got a vivid description of some of the highlights from my big brother. Thome trying to score from first...wish I could have seen that but loved my brother acting it out. He also gave a detailed description of Delly running over AJ. Not sure if it was related to the pitch coming at JJs head during the at bat before but feel pretty sure that something nasty will happen tonight in the game.

I don't see the Twins as bench clearing brawlers but seems like if any team can bring that out of them it would be the Sox!

Eyes glued to the game tonight!

GO TWINS!!

Up 3!!

Gotta love the Tigers playing well in Chicago!

Twins looked great today. Slowey pitched great and had some very good defense behind him. Would have been great to have him keep pitching but totally understand pulling him because of the previous elbow soreness. Though maybe if those insurance runs were up before they decided maybe he would have chanced it.

The bench players keep stepping up. Whether its Repko covering anywhere in the outfield and getting timely hits or Alexi covering second then short. Cuddyer playing anywhere they need. Butera helping rest Joe! Valencia tightening up his D and swinging a great bat. All of the guys who have come up to help this year have done their jobs and more. Could you ever have imagined being with out Morneau and winning 22 of 33 games. Seriously imagine how many more of those we would have won.

Last night Duensing was fabulous, threw like an old veteran. Lots of credit to Rick Anderson and a little to Pavano too. I really think Rick gets the most out of his pitchers. Pavano adds stability and leadership to the crew. Hopefully Perkins will shore up the bullpen.

This is going to be an exciting two months!!

GO TWINS!

EVEN

Tied again. Not a good game last night. Did not play like we should defensively! Not liking JJ's wrist, hope its just a little twinge and that he will be fine. Hurts to lose Mijares, sounds like they will move Perkins into the bull pen. Guess that means bring up Blackie! I think he found his stuff again.

Tonight lets dominate defensively and get some hits!!!

GO TWINS!!

One Up!

Great game tonight!

I only saw last few innings when game was already out of hand. (Tues is golf night!)

Need to send a message not only to Sox but to themselves as a team, they need to build up their confidence to make a strong finish and go into the playoffs strutting! The pitchers throw better with an aura of confidence in the dugout. Does seem like the guys are seeing the ball well and taking advantage of the humid air in Chicago - 5 Home Runs.

Looking forward to Wednesdays game!

Go Twins!!

Tied

Love Buck Showalter!
He has those Orioles playing some good ball! They beat the White Sox tonight!

Now Twins are even with them on the eve of a 3 games series. The whole Pennant race will come down to how the Twins do against the Sox. Nine games. I hope the Twins are feeling as confident as I am!

So long Cleveland!

I am happy to be leaving Cleveland. I think its hard to play these bad teams at the end of the year. We either play down to their level or suddenly they become an awesome team knocking the crap out of the ball and pitching out their minds. Well the Twins salvaged this series. Good hitting, fielding and pitching.

While you never want your pitcher to give up early runs it is really great when they can get back on track and shut a team down like with Duensing today. Thankfully the offense got the lead back and then it was a cruise until the end.

Orlando seems to have come back strong but I still miss ALexi, I hope he is ok. Again the team shows how players step up. After Alexi came out yesterday Plouffe played fine defensively and got his first major league Home Run. Just love the depth of this team!


Let's go visit the Sox! They lost today to a resurging Orioles team so we are a half game back. Total of 9 games to go against the sox, I like our chances!

GO TWINS!!!

Big Ninth!....but not big enough

The umps just came out and said Thome's HR was not a HR! I am stunned looked like a HR to me I know of course I am biased. Looked like Ron was about to blow a fuse hope this helps the guys keep it going.

Now Span Strikes out with a sleep walking swing at a crappy pitch. Really think he needs a break his head is in a fog!

Now our newest hero Alexi hits a single and the runners are flying GAME IS TIED!! Can this play out any better baby Jesus is up!? Speedster Alexi on first one out. Dang long pop to left, no hits tonight. Two out bring on Delly!!!

Extra innings!

***********************
One pitch. game over. Indians win. If this does not get this team pumped up to come out and beat the crap out of the Indians tomorrow I don't know what would. They fought back to get into this game have a rotten call made against them then scrap out the tie and waste two outs. Throw one pitch lose the game. Crazy!


GO TWINS

split works for now...

I did not get to watch the first two games and only saw the endings of the last two.
Could not believe the bunt attempt by Span!?! Heard he had a meeting with Gardy today. He maybe needs a day off, good thing we have Repko. Just seems like DSpan has been off lately. It is good to have a strong player to fill in.

Really getting two of these games was needed and we did it with out Morneau. Too bad we didn't have Mauer the first two games. I love how well Alexi is playing. Just look at him out there he is so into the game. Looks sharp, he is a ball hawk! You have to love his athleticism!

I was surprised that Gardy stated the ball Delmon kicked wed night, should have been caught. I did not see the play, was he not hustling? was he late breaking to it? Even though we won the game Gardy was cranky. He made it clear that it should have been an out and they should not have scored.

Off to Cleveland

GO TWINS!

Bring 'em on...

Off to Tampa we go!

Twins have played great the last three series! Lots of hits and great starting pitching! Looks like we got a good closer with Capps, glad we didn't give away the farm to rent a pitcher.

So the guys have done what they needed to against pretty bad teams and now they face an actual contender! Hopefully they will continue to play well and keep the naysayers at bay! I really am not worried about the Tigers any more and feel confident that the Sox will implode thanks to their Manager. We have the best record within the division against teams in our division and I expect that to continue.

Moryes should be back in the middle of August and maybe this time off will help him have a strong finish to the season unlike past years! Love how Repko has played as well as Danny V! Have to feel good when the guys you call up shine! So many positives for this team!!

Bring on the Rays! Let's slow their roll a little but not so much that they don't beat up the Yankees!

GO TWINS!

DELLLY!!!!

So I admit it earlier today I said "If only Delmon was better in the outfield defensively." Then he makes this play tonight catching a fly ball and turning to throw it to second, gets the runner trying to advance! So here I am feeling bad for questioning his defense, then they interview him at the end of the game...He says I didn't think the runner was going and just tossed it in luckily it was good enough...Huh?! Is he really saying he wasn't trying to make that play? What?! Maybe its just that he is shy and doesn't like talking about himself, but he really did all the right things to make that play. He took a great angle to the ball and turned and threw hard and accurate. Please let me believe he did that on purpose and not like he said, LUCKY.

Maybe Gardy needs to just keep Alexi in even if Orlando says he is fine. He played great tonight and really looked focused! I will take my chances with him in the field if he keeps hitting like tonight. He is so quick on the ball I think he may even be better then Hudson in the field...that is if he stays focused!

Loved Danny Valencia tonight starting to get a crush on him!! Asked my brother Jay what his nick name should be and his quick reply was ORANGE...I like it so he shall be orange from now on.

Feeling good about Scotty Bakers start tonight, he looked better tonight. I like the goatee he has going, guess he knows he can't pull of the stache like Pavano! At one point Scotty Baker had to duck a hit right back at him, this got Bert and Dick talking. Dick asked about Bert getting hit during his career "...couple went by my ear, they were talking to me!" I love this because I have no doubt that Bert has had conversations with baseballs.

Our defense is what will get us past the Tigers and the White Sox.

GO TWINS!!!

Got one!

Off to Baltimore hopefully back on a roll.

Gotta feel good when you don't have your two MVPs in the line up and you win the game. Delmon Young continues to get the big hits. Maybe he needs to take Morneaus spot in the line up (tip to Tim who has been saying that for a while)

Love Slama from the moustache to the socks he is awesome! Lets hope Duensing brings a little pick 'em to the starting pitching!!!!

Hopefully we can get some good wins on the road.

GO TWINS!

AAaaaarrrgggghhhh....

The freakin' Indians!

Did not watch the game tonight just the last couple innings and I can't believe we didn't win that game.

Mauer bunting........What?

Ok shake it off.
Slowey pitched well so thats a positive. He made it too the 6th inning!!

GO TWINS!

On A Roll Again....

How about those Twins now!!
I did not get to watch the game today but got an excited report from my brother Jay. Early part of the game looked like the first one with the Soxs but the 9th inning was a thing of beauty. Those guys knocked the ball around like we all expect!

Lets stay on this positive roll. Think good thoughts for Morneau!

GO TWINS!!!

Whew!

We won! Yes Rauch made it a little scary but we WON!! This will be the beginning of our climb back on top. JJ looked good Kubel didn't strike out 3 times and we got runs in when the bases were loaded!

GO TWINS!

Today I received a email from my brother regarding last nights game and the state of our Twins team. Following that is my reply to him:

The reason the Sox have won, what 27 out of the last 31, is that Ozzie got on their collective cases. When someone needed a kick in the ass he gave it to them. When asked about his teams' play he's spoken honestly. Gardy needs to start managing, kicking ass and sitting players whose heads aren't in the game. If he can't do that he needs to go. I know, he's had a good run, but this team needs a firm hand. The talents here he needs to let them have it. Balks to score runs. Swinging at bad first pitches in the 9th inning. Not hustling, not playing with courage and balls. This isn't the team we've come to love. I don't think Gardy has it right now. I think managers make big differences and our manager isn't doing the job. This better be turned around by the time I get home or I'll be making scenes at T-Field.

While I too was disappointed in the game last night I never felt like we quit or had no balls. I would never choose to have a manager like Ozzie a homophobic quick tempered guy who rips his own players and bosses. I think it is only a matter of time before the Sox begins their usual infighting that hampers their game and Ozzie begins to call them names in the paper. I prefer the low key Gardy who keeps team business in the clubhouse. He has sent down players Harris, Alexi, Perkins gotten rid of whiners like Garza. Do you think we should send Joe down he is under .300? His style may not be loud and nasty like Ozzie but he has done just fine for our Twins.


I don't think he has much control over a guy holding onto the ball and creating a balk and what would you have said had Cuddyer hit that ball out of the park and how do you know Gardy didn't yell at him. I am guessing the whole team had a good earful last night. Maybe if our guys had crazy outbursts throwing helmets and fighting with each other it would make you believe they are trying harder but personally I prefer them not panicking and staying together as a team. Baseball is a crazy game that if full of moments that can change the game. Swinging at bad pitches to me is a sign of trying too hard. Hitting a ball to the warning track with bases loaded does not show lack of effort. Not sure how we make our pitchers better pitchers maybe send slowey down and bring up Slama and move Duensing to the starting rotation. Hopefully Morneau will feel better soon and Joe will get back to form. I shall stay a fan and keep cheering hoping we turn it around.


I know the argument these guys are making a ton of money they should play better well the guys throwing and hitting against them are making a ton of money too and are awesome players too and well sometime your home team doesn't get the bounces. Save your outrage and anger for crappy governors that cut education budgets and CEOs of companies that take shortcuts and cause huge environmental catastrophes...baseball is a game.


GO TWINS!

Hold that Tiger! redux

Ok lets end this first half with some wins!!!

It would really great to get some wins here before the break. I remain optimistic for this team I am not jumping on and off the bandwagon like some people I know...JAY! I know this team is good and after the break they will come back and kick some major BUTT!

Looks like the evil Yankees will get Cliff Lee and that is just disappointing! Not that I really wanted to trade away our best prospects for a rental but I wanted him to stay in Seattle or go anywhere but NY!

GO TWINS!!!

run as fast as you can D-Span...

Wow 3 triples that's pretty awesome. Denard is definitely digging the new ball park, seems the only place he can get a hit lately. I did not get to watch much of the game last night but what I saw was fun!!

Another home run for Thome, guess Cuddy at third is working. Though don't think Thome can keep running the bases like that!

It was good to hear that Detroit Pitcher Zumaya is relatively OK...I guess a broken elbow is better then torn ligaments. Glad Twins fans were classy and gave him a support as he came off the field. I love it when fans think beyond their own team and support players in hard times like that, or acknowledge exceptional play like when fans gave White Sox pitcher Buerhle a round of applause for an almost perfect game here last year.

The game last night is hopefully the beginning of a streak before the Allstar game. We need to get on a positive run, help keep those bandwagon fans aboard. I am not sold on picking up or as Reusse said in the Trib today "renting" Cliff Lee for the rest of the season. Maybe I am old fashion but I want the guys who have been working hard all year to be the ones to get us to the post season. I want my team to be real Twins not a guy who plays part of a season then leaves the next. That just doesn't sit right with me, I know that's not how pro sports work in the modern world.

Go Twins!

Say what you will...

What a game! Maddening having Loriano give up 4 runs in the first inning. Enough to make you stop watching, but if you do you are not a fan of baseball. You are a bandwagoner!

The Twins never stopped playing. It is easy to get down after giving up 4 runs. And their fielding was horrible but they kept battling. They did their best to make it a game. Things just did not go their way. No timely hits only double plays. They hit the crap out of the ball just kept going where we didn't want it.

Bright spot Jim Thome getting a triple as well as a homerun. Think he will need tomorrow off!

I can't wait for the All Star break. Gonna shake off these last couple weeks and get down to business!

Go Twins!

Bert loves me!

I am sure you didn't notice but Bert said my name two different times tonight!

GO Twins!

Brewer Beating

Not a fun time in Milwaukee! While we were able to make the first two games at least exciting today was just plain terrible. Have to give credit to their pitcher Gallardo he did a great job. Not so sure about Cuddyer playing third? Think Punto would have gotten those two balls last night thus saving two runs. Guess it was worth trying, a lineup with all those big hitters seems like a winner.

Big question of the day will we go after a pitcher like Cliff Lee? Blackburn certainly has not followed up on his excellent May. It would require the Twins to trade a top prospect and some big money but could help make that push into the play offs. I am torn I love all our guys and think they can do it if they can stay healthy or rather get healthy. Having JJ back should be a boost and maybe Pat Neshek soon. Saw that they sent Harris down and brought up Jason Repko an outfielder. Not sure I understand bringing up an outfielder guess Cuddy will be playing third more for now.

I am happy for my Milwaukee cousins hope this helps your team get on a winning streak! Lets hope for a better series in New York!

GO TWINS!

hey hey standing room only...

Tough series with Atlanta but think we did fine. Look forward to seeing them in the world series!

Love the way the weather clears up for the games lately! Great last night to see Matty T hitting it out of the park and his continuing good hitting tonight!

Also liked seeing Valencia get a RBI, really would have liked him to play a little better then he has but hes done OK. Hopefully we get Hudson back Friday. Also thinking positive thoughts for JJ! I want Punto back at 3rd especially with the way hes swinging the bat.

Love the analysis you get from Coomer about batters. He is good at explaining the fine details of the stance & swing. I really like him this year guess in the past I didn't listen to him talk or did they not let him talk so much? If we didn't have Vavra I would think the Twins would do well to have Cooms. But having said that I love Vavra! He has done great work with Deli, Punto and I believe he would have made Gomez a better batter!

Have to feel good watching Baker be a strikeout pitcher against the Rockies. To bad he couldn't go into the 8th! i am sure people will give Gardy crap for that. Like the bitching when he sat DSpan for a home game. Its a long season those guys need a day off once in a while or they will break down at the end of the season.

Crap I should not start blogging during games...8th inning...Matty G just hit a batter after giving up a double. How can you do that facing the bottom of the order...grrr. Now Mijares is coming in...feeling queasy!

Unbelievable that Mauer didnt get a hand on the ball! Pitch went past him and it bounced back off the limestone perfect and he just couldn't get the handle. Guess he's human. 2-1 Twins now and 2 outs after a little pop up too Valencia....
C'mon Mijares...2 strikes...crowd standing up....clapping...1-2...GOT 'EM!!! Love it hope this gives Mijares some swagger!!! Good job! Now lets get the run back!!!

Alright no run but lets shut em down 1-2-3! GO JR!!! This crowd is really in to it. That has got to fire up the big man! full count 2 outs....Giambi on deck...come on baby!!!! Fly to Cuddy!!!! Great! We needed those two wins face the Rockies Ace tomorrow, but we got Francisco!!!

Go Twins!

so close yet so far...

Twins and Royals tonight
I missed the first 6 innging because I had to hold and smell sweet babies! Love the MN Twins but these twins are well worth missing a game. They are cute, very smart and so very tiny!

When i did finally turn on the game I could see my MN Twins were not faring well. But I cheered them on and they scored 5 runs! That was fun to watch! Then Joe makes a cool defensive play reaching around the fence...that guy is awesome. Did you see how nonchalant he was after he did it. Loved that Dick said "Well played Mauer!" And after replay Bert says "Look at him show off his snow cone." Sure enought the ball was sticking out of the top of his glove like a snowcone!

I really am enjoying Dick and Bert this year. I love that they say such silly things. (NOTE: game is still on 9th inning and Moryes just hit a single to score Mauer. Dick is saying Cuddy is due...dang hard hit for the final out!) Bummer would have been fun to win that but made it a game at least. Love it!

I will continue my LOVE BERT AND DICK Fest at another time.

GO TWINS!

Sleepy in Seattle

Not a good second game in Seattle. Blackburn was definitely not feelin it last night and Mahay just plain sucked. But I held out hope that the bats would wake up! Not to make excuses for them but I imagine the time change and travel affected them. I surely hope they play better tonight and are ready for the rest of the road trip.

Stay up late and cheer them on!! At the very least its fun to watch Ichiro bat. That guy has the weirdest swing but man is it effective! He is always contending for the batting title.



I wish they had miked up Hudson in the dug out last night. It cracks me up that when ever they show him he is talking. I think the only time he isn't is as the pitch comes to him when batting. Did you see during the Texas game when he was talking to a ranger on second base about a previous play? The ranger(sorry cant remember which one) was obviously uncomfartable and just trying to ignore him. Such a contrast to other Twins like Mauer and Morneau who seem like quiet guys. I think its good for the team to have a player like that who is always going.

Enjoy the game.
GO TWINS!!!

Expectations!

There are high expectations for this Twins team. I think this is a good team, a great team in fact and I have really high hopes for them. What I don't understand is the constant grumblings by sports "reporters" newspaper and radio. Whether its questioning Gardy's handling(babying according to some)of the closer or them not demolishing the Yankees. I don't get it?!

We are doing so much better at this time then last year. We have the best defense in baseball, we are leading our division. There have been only a couple games where I felt like we weren't in it at all. The new additions are contributing the call ups are contributing, the pitchers are keeping us in every game, the bull pen is holding its own. What the hell people!

This is baseball it is a wonderful complicated simple game. These men are hitting balls thrown at them 90mph, they are fielding balls flying at even faster speeds and doing it all really well. Sure they are not perfect, heck we have a whole 12 errors now. Sure they get paid a hell of a lot of money to do this and do it well. But do not forget they are human beings not machines. You can not tell me they are not trying.

Maybe I look at them with rose colored glasses but I see a group of guys who are really working at the game. They face a pitcher who stymies them for 5 innings but they keep working at him. Their patience at the plate is really impressive to me sure we don't always get the big hit when the bases are loaded but hell we are loading the bases!! Eventually those hits will come.

This team is still warming up, its early in the season. I would prefer they really get clicking about the end of July and then steam roll thru August and Sept! Remember the way they played at the end of last season? If that team which was working with several young pitchers patching the bullpen and starters and didn't have their MVP Morneau can make that kind of run at the pennent then this team....well it makes me giddy to think what they can do if they stay healthy!

I encourage you to watch the game with a less critical eye. Think of them as your kid out their playing. They need your encouragement not your criticism. Enjoy the beauty of the game, the art of it, the strategy and the way one hit or one odd bounce of the ball can change a whole game. I know they make a lot of money but its still baseball. If they were perfect it wouldn't be fun to watch.

Be a fan!!

GO TWINS!!!

Home is where the hits are...

Our boys sure know how to hit at home. It was a good run of games at home, that is if you haven't got your panties in a twist about the Yankees games. Think the game we won calmed a few people down but I am sure even with the sweep of Texas some are not satisfied.

Personally I was really happy with how the guys kept at it and played some great baseball. Seems they are getting the groove of the new park, figuring out where to hit it. We may not hit a lot of home runs at home but we can still bounce the ball all over the place.

Our pitchers were great including the bullpen which came in and did what they were suppose to! Though Rauch made it exciting at points he got the job done. Our defense has got to make them feel more confident.

Think good thoughts for Orlando Hudson! I think they are just being cautious and that hes fine but better safe then sorry. It will be fun to see Cuddy play 2nd!

GO TWINS!

KUBEL!!!

Slump what slump? Wow his last home run was a great at bat! He was so patient fouling off pitches and working for the one he wanted. Seemed the whole team was really focused at the plate.

We also seemed to get those bounces that the Yankees usually get like the line drives to Morneau and Blackburn. Blackburn was really good too. His last couple starts have been great! seems like he has found the right little tweak to make himself more effective. Really all of our pitchers did good against the Yankees our bats let us down!

Mijares came in and threw a great 8th inning. Got to love how well he has been doing. I really Like Burnett he looks so stoic. He stayed cool and took the Yanks down for the final 3 outs. Feels good to have such a big win against them!

I hope the guys keep hitting like that the pitchers keep steady!

GO TWINS!!!

Vote Early and often!

Use your right to vote to help get the M&M boys on the 2010 All Star team! So far Joe is doing fine but Morneau needs some help. Right now Teixeira of the Yankees is leading First basemen, he is like fourth or fifth best of 1st basemen in the AL right now. Its just because he;s a Yankees so make sure you rectify this travesty by voting lots. I believe you can vote several times online and when you go to the game fill out a form or two!

GO TWINS!!

8th Inning!

8th inning
I wondered if Gardy would pinch hit for Butera but he didn't and the kid got his first extra base hit! Then Span did his job and moved him over to 3rd and reached first thanks to an error from Jeter. No outs so of course you think we can score right?! Wrong Hud hits aline drive to Pettite and then Joe hits into a double play. Aaarrrgghhh!

Now Yanks up to bat and get a home run from Nick Swisher to take the lead. Beautiful play by Cuddyer to get the 3rd out. Why don't players respect his arm?!

This is what you want in a game like this -Morneau, Cuddyer and Young coming up to bat! Pettite is pitching the 9th! What a bunch of crap!! They send him out so Rivera can warm up some more!!! That is really a lame! He should have to face at least one batter.

Morneau hits to the second base...Out.

Cuddy takes the count to 3-2 - bouncer to short.

Delmon roller to third.

dang what a let down.....

Squirrels and rain...

The most exciting thing about the half game last night was the squirrel trying to jump on Harris. I am not complaining because we played just fine and didn't allow them to score. Hopefully we can continue that today, while maybe getting some runs ourselves.

Go Twins!

**UPDATE***
Twins lose 1-0 Jeter hit a homerun off duensing....DANG!

Hopefully the guys shake it off and eat some power bars before the next game!!

GO TWINS!!

Yanks at home

We had a rough road trip, but played well against the Brewers at home. The runs came in bunches, wish we could save few of those for the series beginning tonight.

We have the Yankees in our home park and I expect the Twins to be pumped up and play hard. Looks like JJ will be back but unfortunately Punto will be out. Lets hope Brendan can get some hits and fields well!

GO TWINS!!!

Canadian Shows Off!

I am guessing Justin Moryes had a hardy stack of pancakes this morning with real maple syrup!! He clobbered the ball today helping the Twins clobber Toronto!

GO TWINS!

Got ONE!

I am writing this during the 9th inning final at bat so hopefully I won't have to go up and change the title. Glad we got at least one game or I think most of the sports guys in town would have imploded with their angst! Jeez the yakking going on you'd think the whole season rests on this series. Baloney!!

Yes sure I would have loved to come into NY and swept them but lets be realistic not fatalistic. Losing to the Yankees at this point in the season doesn't mean we can't beat em if we face them in the playoffs. I am kinda sick of the whole Yankees hex or whatever. Yes it is difficult for us to beat the Yankees but its hard for anyone to beat the Yankees. The team is full of all stars (I will hold my tongue about the other things that make them tough to beat) they are an elite team.

OK this last inning is a good test for Rauch and though he has made it a little too exciting...He is staying composed and throwing strikes! Down to the last out! GOT EM!!!

How about that a comeback win against the Yankees! They have only lost three games in the last two years when they are ahead after 6th inning! So i fully expect the tune to be a little different from the sports radio/paper guys! The sky is not falling!!

Keep cheering for the Twins, stay positive!

GO TWINS!

Good Weekend!

Good thing Twins have a night off! Gives me a chance to catch up and hopefully little more time for some of our owies to heal up. I am sure Mauer is happy for a day after DHing yesterday, as well as JJ and O-dawg!

If we have to have injuries this is the best time of year for it. As I have said before its good to bring up some of the Triple A guys to give them a feel for the big leagues. So far everyone who has come up has done a great job! Manship pitching, Wilson Ramos and Luke Hughes all did what was needed of them. Also the bench guys stepping up like Harris when Nicky was hurting and Alexi who had a great weekend!

It is a team game after all, every player is important. This may be our edge over a team like New York. The Yankees are hot and playing well but they are also an older ball club. They better hope their big guns stay healthy, they do not have the depth that the Twins have! Now Tampa is different they are a young team! Perhaps we shouldn't dwell on that its like putting the cart before the horse we got a long season here lets stay focused on the next series.

I am going to the first game of the series with the dreaded White Sox. Its probably going to be freezing but I'll just stand under the warming lights and wear a knit hat! I am hoping to get Bert to circle me so watch the game!

GO TWINS!!

First of many?

Is this the first of many or are we really this lucky? Seriously didn't you think this would happen in April? Could we be more fortunate how this one has turned out. We get a double header on a Sat! It will probably be really cold but hopefully not wet.

This will be a good test of our new ball park. They are going to but the heat on over night so if it does snow it will melt immediately. The drainage system has worked really well so far. I suppose it keeps the field from freezing and soft but not mushy.

Hopefully the bats will warm up tomorrow. It sucks to have Pavano throw such a good game and get no runs. We left too many on base! Don't think we will have many games like that.

Lets hope for sunshine tomorrow!

GO TWINS!

Hold that Tiger!

Lets hope the rain holds off so we can get the game into today! Great game last night!

Good job JJ! He made an awesome defensive play to keep the Tigers from scoring then comes up to bat to hit a triple and score the winning run! Think he is feeling at home!


Lets do a comparison on stats!These are for the last ten games:
Hardy batting .279 Gomez .316 Wow that is surprising to me GOGO must have a new patience at the plate. He also has 4 walks to JJ's 2 but 9 strike outs to JJ's 7. They both have one homerun and are close in RBI's 3 for gogo and 4 for JJ. GoGO has 3 stolen bases to zero for JJ. Seems pretty even, I am guessing GoGo is doing his usual excellent fielding and JJ has been very good. So so far it would seem the trade is working out for both teams.

Hopefully Joes heel will be better by the series with the Orioles.

GO TWINS!!!!

Home again home again jiggity jig...

Good to be home!

Long road trip but the Twins ended it on a good note, taking the series from Cleveland. Seems the boys are happy to be home they are playing well tonight!

Gotta love when your MVP is not playing and the guy they bring up for him goes 4 for 5 in his debut! Wilson Ramos wasn't so hot down in triple A but he sure is showing off his hitting in the limelight


But that's why they sent him down and kept Butera. Wilson got the at bats he needed to stay hot. Kinda feel bad for Drew, he is destined to be the bridesmaid. Seems with another hot night at the plate he becomes a great trade piece if we need to get some pitching strength. We got a lot of young catchers right now, guess we'll see if Morales gets healthy. (currently is 7 of 9) They will both be sent down when Jose is healthy again. Sucks for Drew who has played really well the last couple games filling in for Joe. Held on to the ball in a big play at the plate, of course in the same game he couldn't get the clutch hit when they needed it to win the game. Baseball is a tough game, those guys coming up to fill in for injuries have one shot to show what they got. Every at bat is important if they dont light up the stat sheet they wont make the right impression.

Baker was ok tonight didn't fall apart when things got tough. Liriano was amazing in Cleveland. Has to help when everybody is hitting and running the bases!

Twins hopefully will make a strong statement against the Tigers at home and avenge their only series loss. Detroit has some serious weak areas especially defense so we should be able to put some runs up!

Go Twins!

shake it off!

We lost our first series shake it off!
New game today, lets start over.
Hopefully Joe and Justin are feeling better and Hardy and we get back to our awesome baseball. I do think I heard a few people jump off the band wagon yesterday but they'll climb back on soon enough!

Tip of the cap to Mike for making my new header! Thanks Mike I will work and doing my own but yours rocks!

GO TWINS!

Bert loves me!

Have you ever noticed that Bert says my name during broadcast quite often!?!





You just listen sometime soon he Will say "Kitty Kitty Kitty!"

Go Twins!

FRANCISCO!

What a game last night! First and most importantly Liriano looked awesome. He looked nasty and dominant! He definitely has his mojo workin'! His pitches were moving and he just looked really confident on the mound. Seems like he and Joe were working the batters well. We needed him to pitch awesome because Verlander was throwing some crazy nasty stuff of his own.

That ball was dropping and moving all over. Almost can't get mad at the ump when he has to track such crazy stuff. Though the pitch D-span got mad about was very outside. D-span knows he needs to keep his disgust to himself! That was very out of character for him and really stupid. We have to hope he does not get suspended for throwing the bat! I can't even imagine what Gardy said to him after that but am guessing D-span is beating himself up. I say shake it off let it go and don't do it again!

How about our old guy Thome! Running the bases like a spring chicken! Got to love it when the big diesel is out there cruising around the bases! I really appreciate the effort he puts out. I expect he'll hit more home runs as the season goes on just to avoid running like that!

Tigers really hurt themselves with some really terrible errors! Crazy they got more errors in one game then we have had all season! Good job Harris being so versatile, not only holding up 3rd base but then moving over to 1st! Lets hope Moryes is feeling OK today!

Go Twins!

PS Way to go Rauch!!!

No sweep.

We won another series but everyone seems focused on our not getting the sweep. While I agree that a sweep would be great I don't think it makes our team bad. Or as LaVelle E Neal III suggests a "sign of inability to finish." This is a good team that is playing good but not even as good as they can and they are winning. I have heard fans complaining about their patience at the plate. Yes that's right PATIENCE! They think they should be swinging away.

Consider these stats:
2nd in American league in runs 98
2nd in AL runners left on base 144
.262 with runners in scoring position
4 for 26 .156 bases loaded

Now you can look at those and say wow we left a lot of guys on base. How about instead you say we scored 98 runs and had potential for a lot more? There is no way we only hit .262 the rest of the year, not with these hitters. You could also say Wow we loaded the bases a lot! Our hitters are not going to bat .156 at those times for the rest of the year. Hey we left a lot of runs on the bases but gee! we have won 13 out of 19 games.

Lets try our best to be positive fans not negative. Enjoy the day off and get back at the cheering Tues!

Go Twins

Poor Punto

Nicky was put on the DL today luckily it will be retroactive to when he last played last week. they will bring up Luke Hughes. Luke was in triple A Rochester and evidently is playing well, hes a second basemen who can play anywhere in the infield and outfield. Surprised that its not Matt Tolbert but maybe hes not playing well right now!? Bet it would be fun to go to some of those Triple A games see some future stars.
Smart of Nicky to rest it now, this early in the season better to take the time unlike later in the year when you gut through it! He did that at the end of last year. Its good in some ways just as I said before witht the pitchers its good to get those young guys up give them a little taste of the big leagues. Maybe next time they come later in the year they aren't as nervous and will play better. Or they go back down and play harder so they can get back up to the BIGS

Good to have Pavano come back with a strong game after his tough last start. Also glad that Kubel got a hit to shake that hitless streak. It is important that even the guys who haven't gotten hits are still getting productive outs! you know moving the runners around. Besides if you have guys like JJ stepping up and if Thome can get on a big role. Lets keep loading the bases eventually someone will clear 'em.

Go Twins!!

Twins!

So we lost today but hey we can't win them all. Though maybe we could win all the series! That would be pretty sweet!

I am feeling good about the all around play. We are getting on base with a lot of patience at the plate. Lots of walks and then good base running and little hits! The big hits will come, but the small ball is going to be what gets us wins! Its classic baseball= get on base, get the ball into play and run the bases.

I am a little worried about Nicky Punto. Though can't complain about how Brendan Harris is filling in...decent defense and getting on base. Hoping Nick will play at KC this weekend. Did you see Casillas play from SS today! He is quick! Hope he keeps improving, his potential is high.

Neshek hopefully is going to be OK and not go on the DL. If he does it will be fun to see Slama if they bring him up. Also its good to get some of the pitchers up, get their feet wet. Then if they are needed later in the season they are rid of the jitters.

I was lucky enough to go to the game Tuesday night with my two brothers! We got there really early and explored the outside of the stadium. I toured the pro shop finding the things I want but can't afford! Think I will get an inaugural away cap, the one with the red bill. Didn't think I would like the red but its a sharp cap. In love with the light blue jacket that Bert has been rocking!

The ballpark was beautiful! The seats we had were really high up in the left field bleachers but still great view. Super fun to be there in sunshine and have it transition to evening. Everything changes as the light does, I am sure the players are still getting use to all those little elements. From the lighting to the outfield walls...it will take lots of games for it to be ingrained. Soon that wide warning track will be easy for our guys and discombobulating for other players.

We only sat for a little bit then wandered around the park exploring! You can see the field almost everywhere you go. It feels spacious and intimate at the same time! The food was good though a little expensive, but they let me bring in my own peanuts! Went up and hung out with the organist! I loved it! Hope to go back soon!!

GO TWINS!

PS I love how the guys look with the black on their cheeks (see pic above)! WHat is that called

Knocked their Soxs off!

Another beautiful afternoon for baseball! The boys played nice small ball lots of hits and good base running. Great defense and stellar pitching from Liriano! By the looks of it he has got it back! Threw that slider well and smoked the fastball -94 mph. Fun contrast to the knuckle baller Wakefield.

GO TWINS!!

Rainy game!

Guess we can't win em all, but it sure is fun trying. Though they had to play in a light rain the game was good today against the Red sox. While we didn't pull out the win there were lots of bright spots.

Slowey pitched well which to me is what is expected from him. Coming off a wrist injury its still early for him. i imagine it will take a few games to get into top form but overall he looked pretty good. Its important that our pitchers just keep the game within reach.

Not going to discuss Delmons fielding play wasn't pretty but not worth brow beating him. I am giving him an incredible amount of slack - he did hit two doubles!

It was also good to see that fans handled the rain just fine. Some seemed to enjoy it! Think everyone is still in such awe of the ball park they are happy to just be there! i am still not use to watching them play on TV there...doesn't look right or normal. It looks good though and I will get use to it!

Lets tighten up and get the series win tomorrow!
GO TWINS!

Outdoor baseball!!

The Twin Cities were a buzz today! First game in the new ballpark!!
As you probably already know the Twins won. Kubel hit the first homerun, Pavano got the first win and Rauch got the first save. A huge day of firsts and lots of fun! Though it had to be an exciting day for the players and the hype had to be sort of overwhelming they played ball like they were suppose to. Great example of small ball with a touch of long ball.

Hope that kid that caught Kubels homerun was well rewarded. I would have demanded the whole team has to hang out with me! Oh and really good season tickets! I probably would have settled for getting to meet Kubel and maybe see if Joe wanted to meet my niece think they would be a good pair!

I can't wait to go to a game!
GO TWINS!

Why you should like Kubel...

There are several things to consider when discussing the value of Kubel. One that this is only his 6th year of MLB he missed all of 2005 with a severe knee injury. It took a couple years for him to really get back fullfilling the huge potential he had before the injury. Really feel like last year was his first year at full strength. He could play the outfield everyday if we needed him.
Lets look at his stat compared to Cuddyer and Morneau last year. You love Cuddyer and Morneau - Cuddyer kept us in it last year and Morneau is a league MVP.

2009 Kubel Morneau Cuddyer
HR 28 30 32
RBI 103 100 94
Slugging % .539 .516 .520
AVG .300 .274 .270

He looks good compared to those big dogs. You must also keep in mind that Gardy loves him. Kubel came into the league as a hot prospect, people expected him to hit the snot out of the ball. He blew his knee out and almost was out of baseball for good. I think Gardy admires how hard he has worked to get back to the form people expected of him. Who knows how much we would have to be paying him or where he would be if he hadn't hurt his knee. We should feel fortunate to have him as a DH just the price we are paying. He will play more this year including the outfield and I think it will make his game all around better. Look for him to contribute lots of RBIs even though he's in the middle of the lineup following Mauer, Morneau and Cuddyer.

So I say cut the "beast" some slack be a good fan that cheers for all the players and realize nobody is going to play a perfect game every time out. Sure he'll leave some runs on the bases but so do our two MVPs. The hope is that if the MVPs don't get the hit then Cuddy or Kubel will, the way its been so far this season the 7-8-9 hitter will do it.

GO TWINS!

CLUTCH!

Mr Kubel was clutch in saturdays game!!

I neglected to mention that Denard was clutch friday night before with his diving catch. Sorry Denard!! You rocked!!

Not sure who will be clutch today but I am sure it will be a different player!

One more day and we play in our own outdoor park!! Wish I was going to that game!! Might just go downtown to check out all the action!

GO TWINS!

Extra Innings!

Extra innings for the Twins and Sox last night not exactly what Gardy would have liked..but the twins won! After a redeye flight to Chicago the Twins did look a little tired but the crisp evening air kept them awake enough.

The Twins had an early chance to score but suddenly their bats went quiet. The quiet bats were compunded by a baserunning error from Orlando. As they should they kept battling. They took advantage of Sox errors and stayed in the game. Loriano pitched OK not awesome but not horrible. Pitchers just need to keep the score low and we can win.

Clutch hit from JJ in the 11th inning got the extra run we needed. Rauch again did a great job closing the door. Hopefully everyone was able to get some sleep and will be up for todays early game. I am sure todays game will be even more difficult for the Twins and even for the sox who had extra innings the night before the Twins game. Hopefully the sun is out!

Go Twins!

Series #1 = Success (3-1)

Excellent start to the new season! Winning the series against the Angels at their own park is quite an achievement! Also hitting 9 homeruns! Awesome! Having had so much trouble with the Angels in the past it adds to the confidence to go in and beat them 3 out of 4! The Angels are a good team, a good hitting team and we held them down - way to go Pitchers!!!

Loved watching Thome last night! The guy ran his ass off to get a double and then hits a HUGE homerun later in the game. I say buy him a glove and put him at first base once in a while - ok maybe too far there but he looked great!

The whole team looks great. Everyone looked so focused so serious as they played but then you'd see them in the dugout smiling and high fivin'! Great team chemistry! It does seem to me that they are going about the business of baseball while still having fun! All four starters looked good especially from the stand point that they each had moments of trouble but they stayed focused and worked out of it. They seem to be pitching with confidence knowing that they can manage the game and as long as they keep it close their hitters will come thru for them. And how about that bullpen!?! Mijares came in last night and did a great job showing that Monday was not the norm. Loved watching Burnett close out the ninth, you could see how excited he was but he kept it under control and worked the pitches!

Now I know this is only 4 games of 162, its a long season and there will be bad games but looking at this line up and seeing the 6to9 hitters coming up and knocking the snot out of the ball that just makes you feel GOOD! They still play the small ball getting people on base and moving them around but to have the long ball in your back pocket is fabulous. I do not envy the opposing pitchers there is no let up in this line up. You got the big dogs and the piranhas, get past the MVPs to Cuddy, Kubel/Thome and Del then Hardy, Harris or Punto and back to the beginning. WOW!

Ok was it just me or did you feel the emphasis behind Harris's bat when he hit the homerun. Like he was saying check that out! Play me at third - of course he followed up with a strikeout and missing a scorcher down third base line. Honestly I think Punto would have handled that ball but I will admit I am a Nicky fan!! I just hope Harris accepts the role he has and makes the most of it. So far the whole team seems to understand the plan, willing to get that productive out and keeping focused.

Tonight will be the beginning of another tough series. The guys will be tired from traveling last night and they have to play early sat. Guessing Joe and Thome won't play tonight. Thinking Thome is probably sore from hoofing it around the bases last night! Get to see Loriano throw - Hope he tosses a no hitter and sends Ozzie into a tizzy!

GO TWINS!

Pavano! or 2-1

Pavano started a little rough just like Blackie and Scotty but he didn't give up any runs. Got into a little trouble loading the bases but worked his way out of that too! Think it always is helpful to the pitcher when his team gets some runs on the board. Seems to me all three starters so far have looked good, when they had problems they were able to work out of it. I know its early but everybody looks really focused.
JJ hit another dinger...what has GoGo done the last few nights? GoGo is batting .333 he is 4 for 12 all four hits in game one one double & a home run. He also has a stolen base. JJ has two HRs. Don't know what gogo has done defensively but the play JJ made in the 9th was awesome!!

Have we ever played the Angels this tough! I know Morneau has never hit like that against them! Two homeruns in two games!?! WOW! Go MorYES!!!!

This fun!!
GO TWINS!!

1-1

The bats were knocking the ball around this time for the Twins and Blackburn pitched great! Happy to have a Twins pitcher go more then 6 innings! 3 HOMERUNS!! WOW!! Love that Joe got one and happy to see Morneau hitting too! New guy Hardy plugging one out, hopefully a taste of something he'll do thru out the season! Has to feel good to him to get that so early in the season.

Bullpen
Really looked sharp! Matty G 1-2-3 really great. Duensing did his job, getting a tough out in a tight position. Huge for a young guy to step up there! Makes me really happy and feeling a good vibe. Rauch looked really dominating! All around if our pitching can do that every night we will win a lot cause these guys can HIT!

Defense
Looked sharp, turned a few double plays. Our infield defense is really going to be a strength!!

This is going to be FUN!

0-1

Not the start I would prefer but there were a few positives. I really like the new uniforms and have decided my new hat this year will be the red billed TC one!

Baker started out a little rough but he got it under control. He really looked good after the first and a third inning. Crane looked good too. Mijares.....OUCH! We left a lot of guys on base but hey at least we were getting guys on base! Those Angels are a GOOD team and we didn't look horrible just didn't put it all together. I look forward to the game tonight. I was really sleepy at the beginning of the game but then woke up really expecting the Twins to make their move.

Feeling good about Delmon hitting a homerun, expected Cuddy or Kubel to do it too! Maybe the bats will get cracking tonight. As long as we keep getting guys on base we will be good. Mijares will do better and Baker is going to stay in the groove he got in after the first.

I think the Angels are one of the better hitting teams in baseball they are patient at the plate. If we could take back a couple pitches and a couple at bats- we were right in that game. I hope Morneau relaxes a little he seems like he is really trying tooooo hard!

Our little GoGo Gomez made a great debut in Milwaukee 4 for 5 a homerun and a stolen base! WOW! I know there will be plenty of o for 4 nights for him too but I am happy that he had such a good game. I want the Brewer fans to like him especially my cousins! Good Luck GOGO!

Lets go Twins!!

Game 1!!

Official the season starts tonight for the Twins!! I plan on staying up late to watch them play the Angels. Cutie Scotty Baker will be the starting pitcher, expectations are high for him this year, I don't think he will disappoint!

It will be fun to see Tor-i-i, I wish him a good season but not the rest of the team. Though when they play the Yankees I will cheer for them. Actually I will cheer for anyone playing the Yankees! I turned on their game last night and groaned because they were up 5 to 1. Woke up this morning to see that the Red Soxs came back to win!! OK not a Red Sox fan except when they play the Yanks.

Lets go Twins!!!

Closer Rauch

The Twins announced that Rauch will be their closer. Tattooed and over 6' he is an imposing figure, though he does not have the stuff like Nathan. He has experience as a closer and should do just fine. I am hoping this line up will provide him with some cushion.

I agree with the Twins that defining roles for the bullpen is better then doing the whole committee thing. it is important for players to know what is expected of them. They can develop a routine on game days which is helpful for getting into a groove!

I actually am afraid of how optimistic I feel about this team. Perhaps this has to do with my gopher disappointment every year. Always get all fired up and then they let me down. I guess I am willing to take the chance on this team, I am just plain excited!! I think any let down will come from unknowns like injuries not lack of effort. These guys seem ready to take that next step. They are cohesive and work hard, they are hungry for more then a division championship!

Day Game!

What a beautiful day for baseball! Not even worried about who won (though the Twins did!). The stadium was the focus of these two games with St Louis a chance for the players to get a feel for it as well as the fans. The state of art drainage system was the star yesterday! The negative nellies must have been pleased to see the rain coming so they could complain about no roof! But the rain stopped and the field looked beautiful! I have no doubts we will deal with really cold or wet weather at points this year but i have to say the ballpark is beautiful!! I cant wait to get to a game!

As far as our Twins Denard looked sharp in the game yesterday and today Mauer knocked one out and so did Cuddy! I have a feeling Span will be a big spark all year and once Cuddy figures out the parks wind currents he is going to hit a lot out of there!! No doubt Morneau, Kubel, and Mauer will be hitting them too! They will figure out the spots to hit on the wall to get those extra bases as well as learn how to play them defensively.

It is going to take some getting use for the fans as well. Watching on TV its hard to remember this is our home park. I am glad we had these two games to get the awe for the Park out of the way now when they come back we can just focus on the team.

By the way it is the Twins organizations preference that we call this a ball park not a stadium.

Twins are back!

The Twins are playing an exhibition game in their new stadium as I write this. They are behind in the 8th inning but its still a fun game. Double J, Jacque Jones just came up to bat and the crowd gave him a standing ovation!! Good for you Double J and way to go Fans!!! He made a great diving catch to get them out of the inning. He really looks great, one of the best smiles in baseball. I was just thinking when we had Jacque was when I really started becoming a Twins fan! Him and Tor-i-i really made me like the Twins!! As I have said before I was a Royals fan, I will always have a soft spot for the Royals but the Twins are my team now!!!

The park looks great and its a sold out game! The Twins gave 6500 tickets to people who helped build the stadium! I cant wait to go to a game!!!!

FINALLY!!!!!

The Twins have signed Joe Mauer!!!!This makes up for the news that we have lost Joe Nathan for the year. I have to admit that the last week I have been worried about losing not only Nathan but also Mauer. It is a huge relief to me I think we can get by without a closer. The fact that our 5 starters will be stronger our bullpen will be stronger makes me believe that we can overcome that weakness. It is likely we will pick up a veteran closer somewhere but until then Rauch, Guerrier or the new kid Slama could carry us.
It is most important that we have locked up our native son! I had a hard time when we lost Tor-i-i and don't think I could have handled losing Joe! This has got me charged up again! Only 22 days until opening day!! I wish I had season tickets!! This is going to be a wonderful year!

Spring game #1

Lost to the Red Sox 2-1. But winning in spring ball isn't whats important. The fact that Kevin Slowey pitched two scoreless innings and felt good. After 8 months of recovery from a chip bone in his wrist he has got to feel great being back in the mix. Sure he gave up a little hit but was able to close out the inning. And after two years one can only imagine how excited Pat Neshek was to be throwing the ball. he threw one inning getting all 3 batters he faced.

Another good sign was Span leading off getting on base being advanced by Alexi and then brought around by a single up the middle from Kubel. Just like the coaches planned! A fun bonus moment was Jacque Jones-Double J making a diving catch. SEE the guy still has it!

GO Twins!

Questions....

Outfield...

Centerfield Denard Span! He will be great in center, as great as Gomez? Maybe won't be as fast and make as many crazy rundowns but he will be better at hitting the cutoff man and more aware. I do think we will miss him in right and left though. We already know he will be a great lead off hitter. Lets just hope his dizzy spells don't come back. Don't know who will cover center if he goes down. Cuddy or maybe even Punto. I think if there are issues that they will bring up Double J! This works out just fine because Double J is always a slow starter at the plate and if we don't need him until mid season he will be in fine form!

Right field Michael Cuddyer! He has a cannon for an arm but its unlikely runners will test him anymore. He has decent range out there though there are a couple parks that will challenge him. Lets also hope we don't need him to cover 1st base again! Again Double J could come up and do that instead. I believe he will come to the plate as strong as last year.

Left Field Delmon Young! I have wiped my slate clean for Del this year. The guy had a hard year last season. Sure I was on his case constantly last year but looking back I realize he had a lot on his plate. I can not imagine not being able to be with his Mom as she battled cancer and then losing her in the middle of the season. He ended the season hitting well and has come into this year knowing left field is his to lose. He has shed 30 pounds hopefully picking up the speed he needs out there. Not only will that help him in the outfield but also running the bases. He did have 14 stolen bases the first year he was here and 50 some when he was with Tampa. I also remind myself he is only 24! This may be the season he blossoms! Finally seems like he is comfortable in the clubhouse and working hard to contribute. There isn't as much pressure on him and that may help a lot.

Back up Jason Kubel! Our DH hitter and back up to left/right field had a good season last and looks to improve on that this year. He will share some DH duties with Thome, give days off to Cuddy and Del or cover for Cuddy when he spells Span. I haven't heard much about him so far this year but I am sure he is looking to build on his success from '09.

Overall the outfield looks good to me. We don't quite have the depth of last year and we may miss GoGo a little but I think Del has stepped up and Double J will be a good fall back for us late in the season. And who knows maybe a young prospects will step up late in the season. I am excited to see the new outfield crew at the new park!

Questions.....

3rd base
Early reports made it seem that Harris was a lock on playing third. But seems like it will come down to 3 Bredan harris, Nick Punto and Danny Valencia.

It comes down to do we want more bat less defense or defense less bat. All reports indicate Valencia will go to Triple A with hopes he'll be a mid season pull up. I doubt they will bring him up mostly because they wont need him and better to have him playing everyday to improve.

As you may know I am a fan of Punto and I think people whorip on him are ignorant Sure he doesn't light up the batting box. He is a leader in the clubhouse and spark on the field. He can play defense anywhere! With the new additions of Hardy and Hudson we can afford to have Punto batting 9th. We can count on him stopping some runs defensively. He got 60 walks last year! I take that over Harris in the field. Besides Harris has been a pretty good pinch hitter late in games.

I know Gardy loves Punto! Most likely they will split time there but I shall envision Punto having a good year at the plate and gold gloving in the outfield. Its going to be a fun year!

Spring training begins!!!

Today the catchers and pitchers report and begin work. Everybody is there except for Jose Mijares. He also missed the Twins fest because of a "visa problem". Last year he came in overweight much to the disappointment of the club. I don't think Gardy will put up with this for long. Mijares better show up in shape and ready to go. With Neshek back they will need room in the bullpen and Mijares doesn't seem to be doing himself any favors.

"its kinda sexy."

According to Michael Cuddyer the new Twins lineup is "kind of sexy". Well I cant disagree with him! I am so excited to see them get out and play. I am hopeful that Loriano is back to form and Neshek is going to bolster the bullpen. Our new shortstop JJ and second basemen Orlando Hudson will help add some punch to the lineup without any let down in defense!! Its all so exciting I can hardly wait to go to a game!

53 days until opening day!

Valentines Day!

Who will be my valentine? I would like the whole team to be my Valentine!

Happy Valentines Day!

(especially to my followers Boo! Scooter and Pitter)

58 Days until opening day at Target Field!!

Cheering!

If anyone from my family is at a baseball game you'll know it. We all cheer, there's no sitting quietly watching the game. No matter the size of the stadium we yell as if they can hear us. I firmly believe my yelling/cheering at the game helps my team. My Father who exposed all of us kids to baseball was our example of how to act at a game.
My Dad had season tickets from season one of the Sioux Falls Canaries. He sat right behind home plate. He always razed the ump and talked to the players, especially the catcher. In fact one year he went to a spring training game in Arizona and was hollering and the catcher stood up and turned around and said "Jack?" It was the Canary catcher who was trying to make a MLB club! He totally recognized my Dads voice!
Though not all my siblings are die hard fans they all enjoy baseball. They all holler at games while Timmy or Greg would be the loudest even my sisters will belt out during a heated game! I have been told repeatedly they can't hear you! Why do you do that? Like I said even if they can't hear exactly what I say they can feel it. My cheering adds to the atmosphere it sends positive vibes out to my players! I try not to be negative when I yell though if the Twins are playing the White Sox I usually have to razz AJ!
It will be different at the outdoor stadium, we definitely lose some advantage in noise not playing in the dome. But I think back to the days of sitting outside watching the Royals play and I loved it! The cool breeze the shining sun and the constant chatter of the crowd! Lets play ball!

Double J is back!

The Twins have signed Jacque Jones to a minor league contract so he will be at spring training. It is unlikely he will make it on the team but he said hes willing to go to triple A. Jacque was part of the team that got them back into the play off picture. A hard worker and just good guy. He didn't play in the majors last year but loves baseball enough to keep working at it.
I say good for the Twins for bringing back a guy who is a class act. Who knows we may need him during the season to cover the outfield he would be good to bring up if god forbid something happened to Span. I like that the Twins bring back veterans. Gardy always has a soft spot for guys like that in example Matt Lecroy. Ok I didn't care for Matt much but can appreciate Gardy rewarding good guys who work hard and love baseball. I can guarantee when we get to the playoffs Jacque will be on the roster.
GO Double J!

63 DAYS UNTIL OPENING DAY AT TARGET FIELD!

Target Twins Fever!

Stopped at Target today and they have a whole section of Twins items. I was drawn to it even though I don't need more Twins gear and shouldn't be spending money. That's the thing with Target you go there to get one thing and before you know it you have ten things!!! Well I got a pair of socks with the TC logo on them...I know lame but they felt comfy and gosh dang it they will look good when I go running at the gym. Maybe Anthony LaPanta will notice -(he goes to my gym!) and invite me to a game!

I suppose with the new stadium sponsorship that Target will carry lots of swag! I will do my best to resist buying too much. At least until it goes on clearance...hey wonder if they will do a Target Dog baseball player!!

"O-dog!"

It's official we have a new second basemen! Orlando Hudson age 32 like I said yesterday he is a former all star and gold glove winner. He can switch hit and seems like a good no. 2 hitter.
So that means Harris will be the primary 3rd basemen with Punto and Tolbert filling in for 2nd SS and 3rd as needed. Think Punto does good as a utility player seems to always be a spark! So I shall be optimistic about this new addition and confident that between Harris Punto and Tolbert we will be ok at 3rd. Not sure where this puts Alexi I suppose if he does well in spring training he could knock Tolbert off but wouldn't be surprised if they trade him. (Honestly I think Gardy is sick of him!) Maybe they could send him to Milwaukee too!

66 days until Opening Day at Target Field!!

Rumors...

Along with the rumors about Mauers contract the Twins may have a new second basemen. Orlando Hudson played for the LA Dodgers last year, before that Arizona and Toronto. He was an all star last year and won a gold glove. So I guess the Twins are not thinking Alexi...cant say I blame them and cant feel bad for him he has had his chances!
Not really familiar with Hudson just like JJ Hardy so I will wait to see what they do on the field before I say too much. But if you go by what others say they both are good additions.
It is always hard when there are changes to the line up. Especially when players you like get traded or leave. I still haven't totally gotten over losing Tor ii - and unlike the haters out there I don't blame him for going.(think it was the organizations fault!) I still cheer for him! This year it was Gomez, who you couldn't help but love with his big smile and amazing fielding - yes I know you had to turn away sometimes when he was at bat. But his smelling his bat was endearing too!
I just hope the chemistry is right with the new guys. I am doing my best to not get too hopeful and expect to much for the 2010 season but I think they are going to be a good team! As always there lots of unknowns like the pitching and you just never know about injuries.

67 days until opening day at Target Field!

My family and baseball...

I come from a family of nine kids, enough to field a baseball team! Ok we never had a family baseball team but I do recall some great wiffle ball home run derbys when I was little. When I was growing up we always took a trip to Kansas City in the summer. This was highly anticipated by us kids because not only did we go to Worlds of Fun amusement park and Stevenson Apple farm but best of all we would go to a Royals game!
The KC Royals have one of the most beautiful outdoor stadiums with waterfalls in center field! We always went early and watched the batting practice. I got to watch Bo Jackson hit home run after home run in warm ups. That mans thighs were HUGE, like a tree trunk! He was a nervous shy rookie he could barely manage a smile and wave for the crowd cheering madly for him. If he hadn't gotten hurt playing football I think he would have continued to improve as a baseball player.
The Royals were my team because partly because my Dad loved them but also because they were so fun to watch! George Brett, Hal McRae, Amos Otis, Frank White, Jamie Quirk, and Willie Wilson are some of the players I remember. I recall Amos Otis making a throw from center field to get a guy heading home. Cant remember who they were playing or any of those details just remember the excitement of the moment!
Thinking about all those fun game sin the outdoors makes me even more excited for the new season. Not sure how many games I'll actually be able to attend but hoping a few! Also hoping the weather cooperates for home games!

Baseball memories...

One of my earliest memories around baseball was at a Royals game! I remember I was standing next to my sister leaning over the rail watching the players warm up. We always went to the game early enough to watch batting practice and try to talk to players. Frank White the Second basemen was running in and my sister and I were waving and yelling to him so he tossed a ball to us. Some guy near us reached out and grabbed it. My sister and I were crest fallen, but Frank saw it and ran toward us yelling at the guy. "that ball isnt for you!" He made that guy give us the ball! I can still see his face yelling up at that guy and the smile he gave us when we got the ball. What a great guy!

I was thinking how just a moment like that from a sports star can make such an impression on little kids. While I dont think we should look at sport stars as role models or expect them to be any better then any one else I understand the profound effect they can have on a young person. Thing we forget is that anyone can have that effect if they just take the time. Though I have great memories of meeting baseball and basketball players my favorite sports memories revolve around my family. Sharing that time together. I doubt any of my siblings can hear a baseball game on the radio with out thinking of my Dad!

Morneau, Casilla and positive thinking...

So many things to discuss, a little over excited so I have been taking notes to remember everything. Future topics will include discussing the new stadium and the likelihood of freezing your ass off watching a game. Also the new foods at the stadium, the new players and so much more.

First off the word on Justin Morneau and his back.
A recent CT scan reveals his back is healed! He evidently has developed a plan not only to avoid hurting his back again but also to not wear himself out. The past couple years it seems Morneau has run out of steam at the end of the year. Hopefully having a stronger team all around will help but also Gardy plans to give him more days off. We can count on Cuddy to cover 1B well and if really needed Thome can too. Also Joe has been in Justins ear telling him to back off his work load. He is going to cut down the number of swings he takes outside of the games. Justin is known for the time he spends in the batting cage usually taking around a 100 swings, He has cut down to around 25. Jim Thome has also offered to show Justin a great routine for strengthening his back. On top of all that Justin is just plain excited for the upcoming season. He is happy with the new additions like Thome, Hardy and Clay Condrey.

Alexi Casilla is ready to go!
Alexi is feeling confident about his chances this year. Now I have never pegged Alexi as under confident more as unfocused. But he is just coming of a strong showing in the Dominican finals. He batted .344 in the series and according to Loriano would have been voted MVP if his team had won. Unfortunately for Alexi they had to go up against Loriano in the decisive 9th game. Loriano held them to one hit and 10 strikeouts in 5 innings! All good signs for Twins fans!!
Lets hope that Alexi comes in focused and sharp because he is out of minor league options so if he doesnt make it in spring training we will probably lose him. His future is bright - he's fast agile and young!

Misc:
Slowey had wrist surgery in Aug and says he is feeling good. His conditioning and pitching is right on track for the new season.
Delmon Young has lost 30lbs! Hey maybe he will be able to run! oops sorry that was mean. I meant to say Cool Del good job!

State of MN other sports:
I just need to vent a little after watching the Gopher men play Ohio State in basketball. Aaaaarrrgggggghhhh! looked terrible! Could careless about Royce White leaving seems like more trouble then the team needs. Hope the team can just get thru the season without embarrassing themselves too much.(sadly dont think we have a chance to get into tourney now) Keep your chin up Tubby! Unfortunately it seems the womens team is in the same hole.
Seems there is a tiny chance(very tiny!) that Seantral Henderson of Cretin Derham Hall will sign with the gophers. Maybe this is just wishful thinking on my part. He probably will go to Ohio State but miracles could happen. If he does choose the U they better turn it into a huge rah rah session to get people pumped not only about gopher football but the whole university! They really could use some positive hype!

Hitting the 90's...

Thats right Loriano is hitting the 90's with his pitches and consistently high 80's. He said his arm is feeling strong and his slider may not be as fast as it was before the injury but its snapping! He has focused on building up his endurance, getting in good shape.
All sounds really good, do we dare to hope he will become our rotations ace this year? I think all those young guys will improve this year and maybe become more consistent. Not sure what will happen with Glen Perkins, seems like there may be some bitterness after all the issues last year. Not sure whos side I am on with all that. On one hand it seems Glen was not honest about his injury and then the Twins may have been a bit sneaky in avoiding paying him more. Not sure if Glen will be one of those guys who becomes an all star cause he pitching with a chip on his shoulder or completely suck because hes bitter. I hesitate to say I lean toward the latter. I am confident that Gardy wont put up with an attitude for long. Even if he pitches well-I think Matt garza is a good example of that.

72 days until opening day at Target Field!!

More on Thome

I kinda feel bad after reading what Rod Carew said about Jim Thome:

"In 1992, I had the pleasure of meeting Jim Thome when he was a young player," Carew said "In 1964, I had the pleasure of meeting Tony Oliva, who became my roommate for about 10 years. What Jim has exhibited over his career is the same thing that Tony exhibited over his career. You can't find two nicer people who are always smiling. The Twins are getting a guy that's a very special person on and off the field. So Jimmy, welcome to Minnesota and I know that you are going to help this ballclub."

I have to fess up I have always put Thome in the "bad guy" role. The big brute, meanie, homerun slugger who would steal the game from us. After Carew said that Cuddyer talked about what a good guy he is too. So sorry Jim that I always made faces at you and yelled mean things.

He came to town for the awards dinner the Twins just had. Think its cool he took the time to come meet all of his new teammates. Seems like they are excited to have him as a teammate. Though didnt see any quotes from Del. I am guessing he is wondering how many at bats he'll lose to to Thome. Well, Del not many if you hit like you were at the end of 09. And if Kubel plays like he did in 09 he will keep DHing and Thome can be our late game pinch hitter. That may work really good for him(he's no spring chicken ya know).