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).

PUNTO!

Nicky is having surgery on his wrist. It is not serious just a little clean up. He should be fine by spring training. Looking at the Mn Twins site I noticed comments from two people saying something to the effect too bad he wont be out longer and wishing he was replaced by a new player.
Boy that really bugs me. First to wish ill will on anyone is so wrong. I sure dont like every player but would never hope they have an injury to keep them out. Second how can you not like Nicky! He has to be one of the hardest working players out there. Ok I will admit hes not the best hitter but has had his moments. Besides we shouldn't need him to be a big time hitter thats why we have Joe, Justin, Michael, Kubes and supposedly Del. He just need to He is very good defensively even when they switch his position constantly. Really how many players can switch from 2B to SS to 3B?! And he hustles his butt off earns every penny he makes!!
So Nick I wish you a quick recovery! Dont let the haters get you down!!

74 days until opening day at Target Field!

Thome!

So the Twins did it! They signed Jim Thome! Ok I have to say I was reluctant to jump on board with this decision. Then I thought at the very least he wont be coming in and hitting homeruns against us. Then I read today in the paper that part of the plan would be letting Kubel play more outfield and having Thome DH. LOVE IT! Anything that keeps Delmon out of the outfield sounds good to me. I know I need to stay on the positive tip with Del he did warm up at the end of last year. And I hope he will continue to achieve at the plate but sorry he is terrible defensively. I know hes young and can improve but watching him run is painful.
I apologize to my niece who loves Del -Z I will try to not get on his case this year and cheer for him. Just glad that there are options.

Do you think Thome could still cover 1st once in a while to spell Justin. Dont think he has played defense in a few years but maybe he could a few times.

76 days until opening day at Target Field!