For The Love of The Game

Twinsfest Map

2012-01-25T23:33:00.000-06:00

For those of you who have never been to Twinsfest, here's a picture of the maps of the set up (from 2010).
Note: this may not be the actual set up for this year, this is merely to offer help.

Hope this helps! Be sure to stop by Fan HQ by Autograph stations 1 & 2 and say hi to me if you're at Twinsfest this coming weekend!

Welcome New Twins Players

2011-12-22T22:15:00.000-06:00

I can't say I'm that excited about the new Twins that are coming on board. Mainly for the fact that we lost Michael Cuddyer, Joe Nathan, Jason Kubel and Kevin Slowey. I think the biggest loss was Michael Cuddyer. He was such a great Twins player.

When the Twins signed Jason Marquis today, I couldn't help but google him to see what he looked like. (I'm a girl, give me a break...I need to know the cuteness factor of a player too). I was shocked how much he looked like Carl Pavano. From some of the pictures of him pitching, it appears he has a similar approach to Carl as well. Does this make me like him? Meh...I'm very undecided about all the new Twins players. About the whole team really. It's definitely going to be an interesting season where I'm not sure what to expect at all.

I decided to have a bit of fun with Carl and Jason tonight...in the form of photoshop. Here it goes.

We finally have Mario AND Luigi. Welcome aboard, Jason Marquis...err Luigi.

Betsy, It's Your Pitch

2011-09-19T19:28:00.001-05:00

I know, it's been quite some time since this blog has seen the light of day from me. It's not that I've tried neglecting it, it's just been a really hard season to write about the Twins. Don't get me wrong, I still love the team just as much as I did from the start, but it'd be nice if they could win a few games! Am I right, or what?
At this point in the season, I think all of us are hoping that the Astros pull their stuff together and find a way to have a better record than the Twins so that we at least come away with something from this horrible season (aka higher/possible number one draft pick). Otherwise, we should end up somewhere close to the top for draft picks regardless.

This past Friday was probably my last game I'll be going to this season, but it was an incredible game! Did the Twins win? No. They lost 7-6 because of a Jim Thome (now Cleveland Indian) home run. I actually was fortunate enough to be able to throw out a first pitch before the game. How did I get to do this? Well some of my readers probably already know since they are also on Twitter and likely follow the Twins, but for those who are not, the Twins tweeted "The first person to show this tweet to the Captain gets to throw out a first pitch 20 minutes from now. #TFans". My friend and I were on the first level by the left field bleacher seats so we weren't far away. We booked it upstairs and low and behold, I was the first person to show the tweet to them.

It was incredible. I probably could've been happy just going onto the field. That alone was so cool. I was so nervous before it was my turn to throw out the pitch. I had a hard time even keeping the ball in my hands (which Jessica can probably attest to). It turned out good though. I stood just in front of the pitching mound and got the ball to T.C. Bear (who was my catcher) without him having to move at all. I was quite proud of myself, since I'm not good about throwing the ball long distances (just ask my teammates from softball last year!)

I am still on cloud nine from the whole experience. I also realize that it'll probably never happen to me again, but for that one night, I was happy to be where I was even if the Twins did lose.

Saturday night, me and some other twitter friends all headed to Bloomington and went to Baseball Unplugged. Michael Cuddyer was not there to host the event, but Trevor Plouffe, Rene Tosoni and Anthony Swarzak were there. It was a fun night. We tried to get the 3 rookies to tell us all who Gumby was (for the rookie hazing); I asked what songs they used as their at bat music (mainly just to hear Rene Tosoni admit his at bat music is called "I Love My Sex"). Trevor Plouffe was a kick that night. He gave my friend a high five as he walked past her and had a lesson from me in how to say my last name right. I also found out that Anthony Swarzak saw me throw out my first pitch when Rene Rivera pointed me out to him (supposedly Rene told him that we're friends on Twitter).

If I could repeat this past weekend (Friday night and Saturday), I would.
For those who are wondering, I haven't forgotten about giving away the Delmon Young signed photo. I still will do that. So be sure to like my facebook page for this blog. There'll be another autographed item I'll be giving away and potential for a third player later on.

Don't know where to find the page? Well you're in luck. Go HERE for the blog facebook page.

Here's Your Chance

2011-07-27T17:15:00.000-05:00

Lately, I've been a bit in mourning. I'm sad that Luke Hughes got sent down in order to make room for Scott Baker. I LOVE Scott Baker, don't get me wrong, but I really don't understand the logic behind the decision. I know that the move was so Gardy could have 13 pitchers going into this current road trip. Sure, more pitchers is a good thing, especially when you are the Twins' bullpen (they haven't been the most reliable this season...and that's an understatement), but what is the point in keeping a pitcher (or 3) who constantly give up runs and frustrate every one, down to us, the fans?

At least before Luke got sent down, I got to meet him (again) at Baseball Unplugged. Cuddy hosted the event with Delmon and Luke as guests. I had a suggestion given to me to ask Luke if there is a method behind his pie-ing of his teammates, or if he just tries to go for the surprise attack. Now the video I got isn't really a video...it is, but it's so dark, you can't see anything (which is alright since my friend decided to film it sideways and I'm too lazy to rotate it). So you'll just have to imagine Luke while he's talking and listen to this:

It was quite possibly, one of my favorite Baseball Unplugged's. (on a site note: I'm becoming less and less of a fan of how they distribute the autograph tickets to fans.)

Here are some of my pictures, and be sure to check out the great pictures of the night at Michaelcuddyer.com (under photos).

photo courtesy of michaelcuddyer.com
The bag Luke is holding are the cupcakes I made for him. Delmon was "lactose intolerant"

Here's your chance folks: you can WIN an autographed photo by Delmon Young. All you need to do is "like" For The Love Of the Game Blog on Facebook. Go HERE. Then, post a comment. I'll pick one lucky winner. Don't have facebook? Send me an email with the subject 'Delmon'.

of course the photo you win IS in face signed.

Best of luck to everyone who enters to win the photo! Who knows, maybe there will be another opportunity in the future.

Well played, Mauer. Even at first.

Approaching the All-Star Break

2011-07-08T20:56:00.000-05:00

The All Star game is just around the corner marking the end of the first half of the season for baseball. It's hard to believe this much has passed already. It's unfortunate that the Twins won't likely be at a .500 winning record going into the All-Star break, but thankfully they aren't the worst team in baseball anymore. As of today, there are 6 teams that have worse records than us! In my eyes, that's progress.

The next three home stands the Twins have after the All-Star break will really be telling. First Kansas City, Cleveland and the Detroit. We need big series wins to gain some ground in our division. At this point, I think most teams in the AL Central, have a decent shot. Plus previous years' history, would back that theory up.

A few weeks ago, I had the opportunity to see the Twins in Milwaukee. It's definitely a different experience. I've learned, I'm not the biggest fan of Brewers fans. A lot of them that I experienced, were rude, extremely loud and drunks. (disclaimer: this does not apply to ALL Brewers fans, just quite a few I encountered.) I had a couple drunk kids Saturday night that tried to high-five me in the face; had rude drunk guys screaming (so loud their voices cracked every time they yelled) in my ears on Friday night. Sunday was the best day as far as fans. I can't say that it would be a trip I would make again. I did however get some great pictures (one of Michael Cuddyer that even he found funny.) that I'll share in this post. (Pictures below)

On the 4th of July, I had the opportunity to sit in one of the Event Suites thanks to Kristina and Ben from Peanuts From Heaven. It was incredible and we all had such a great time! I am very thankful they asked me if I wanted to go.

Peanuts From Heaven writers and myself.

For those of you in the cities, feel free to join myself and Fan HQ at Bunny's in St. Louis Park for the All-Star game viewing party! Here are the details:

Michael Cuddyer All-Star Game Viewing Party

Bunny's Sports Bar - St. Louis Park, MN

5916 Excelsior Boulevard

Seating begins at 6:30pm and the game starts at 7:00pm.

Admission to this family-friendly event is free and Bunny's will provide FREE hot dogs, chips and popcorn from 6:30-7:30. There will be giveaways and prize drawings throughout the game.

The first 24 people* to arrive will receive an All-Star gift bag with a limited edition Cuddy t-shirt, gift certificates, coupons, and more. Michael Cuddyer autographed cards will be randomly inserted in the gift bags!

Hope to see a bunch of people there! It'll be a lot of fun!

Now, pictures.

I think Luke busted me taking his picture.

Joe NOT a natural at second base.

Butera

the awful pencil I kept score with...and what I did to it. haha

Cuddyer. He signed this pic and wrote "Nice Shot" on it.

Valencia

One of my fav pics I got (and it's not cause of their butts)

This was a ball somebody drew on in "Autograph Alley"

View from their version of the Legends Club (NYCE Club)

Drew got hit in the cookies.

Wieners!

Our last chance for hope in Milwaukee.

Feel free to check out all the pics from my trip to Milwaukee on my facebook page:

ALBUM 1

ALBUM 2

Majors, etc Part 2...

2011-06-22T18:51:00.003-05:00

So Blogger decided to be fun with my blog post and didn't post the completed post.
READ THE PREVIOUS POST FIRST.

Here's the rest.

Some of the highlights (Hanging With Majors): I called Drew Butera a porn star and asked what movie I should rent to see him in it. If you're wondering why would someone call someone else that, then you obviously haven't seen his hideous mustache that he has going right now. See below. He's a good sport when I tease him. He teases me back, which I'm fine with. I enjoy it actually. Luke Hughes remembered me from Sunday night and gave me a "Australian" hug (Repko told me if I bought my beer from Hughes, I got a Australian hug along with the beer. Luke Hughes didn't know what an Australian hug was, but I told him I'd settle for a regular hug.)

Hughes and Repko

Nathan

Butera

Kubel

Over the weekend, I attended the whole series against the Padres. What a great weekend (even with the rain on Saturday). I had great seats all three games and took a ton of pictures. (Some of which are below at the end of the post).

Saturday morning, I was at Fan HQ for the Danny Valencia. I like the kid (I call everyone a kid, regardless if they are my age or younger). He's a very sarcastic person and super nice. Plus, he's got a great smile and he's easy on the eyes. He seemed like he had a good time as the nearly 200 people came through the line. He decided, after prompted from a coworker of mine, to ask personal questions about my Sunday night at Casino Night. I'm not sharing details or even the story on here, but I'll just say that Danny Valencia knows way too much about my personal life.

Lately, the Twins have been on quite a tear! It's been great to see this winning streak they are on. The game last night astounded me (and I'm sure some others). I'm not going to lie. I was worried when the start of this road trip was against the defending World Series champs would be tough for them. The team really showed that they have gotten past a lot of their early season difficulties. I hope this streak continues and the Twins continue to dominate.

This weekend, I'll be in Milwaukee at Saturday's game and likely Sunday's as well. I'll be sure to take lots of pictures of Miller Park and of the Twins game. I'll be decked out in Twins gear and likely be one of those obnoxious Twins fans (mainly because I'll be going to the games with Brewers fans). I hope everyone enjoys the weekend and this winning streak. I'll try to keep up on this more often than this month has allowed.

And lastly...DREW GETTING Shaving Cream in the face!

Casino, Majors, Beautiful Baseball

2011-06-22T18:35:00.000-05:00

I've had no excuse lately for not writing other than I've been incredibly busy this month. I know that's not the best excuse with all the great events I've been to lately, for not writing, but that's been the case. This month alone has included: Justin Morneau's Casino Night, Hanging With The Majors at Toby Keith's I Love This Bar, Danny Valencia signing at Fan HQ and a bunch of Twins games.

Casino night was an incredible night. I worked at the event as a greeter. Once everyone was in the door, I was free to roam around, which I used that time to go around and get pictures with various Twins players. It was tons of fun to be able to see the players all dressed up (and all looking good!).

The players were all having fun, bidding on silent auction items and playing cards. It was definitely a good night to catch them for picutres with them. On my list for that night were: Revere, Tosoni (whom I was the only one working the doors that recognized him when him and his wife walked up), Luke Hughes, and Rivera. If you ever get a chance to go to this event, you should. I was a fabulous night and one I hope to attend in years to come (whether I'm working or not.)

Myself and Denard Span. I was with a couple guy friends of mine...and Denard told me "I'd much rather take a picture with you than those two." Made me happy.

The host of the evening (Justin Morneau) and myself

Luke Hughes

Ben Revere (who looks rather short even though I have heels on)

Drew Butera and myself with Luke Hughes creeping in the background.

Hanging with the Majors night wasn't quite as fun as it was last year. Last year it was at Majors and this year it was at Toby Keith's I Love This Bar. While it was a great location for the even, things just didn't seem as organized as they were last year. The dinner started late and it was so much more strick with autographs and pictures and donations. I'm fine with donating to a great cause, but they tried requiring you to donate $10 per picture with any player. I opted to buy beer and tip from there. The players didn't act like they saw a point in the $10/picture either. They were more than willing to take pictures with any of the fans. I think the staff that organized the event would have been better off charging a cover charge at the door (like $5 per person or even $10 per person) and then making pictures free with autographs costing $5. I didn't opt for any autographs, but I'm a person who prefers pictures anyway.

Pardon This Interruption - Hipster Kevin Slowey

2011-05-31T18:34:00.000-05:00

Things have been pretty crazy lately, and I'm sorry for the lack of posts. I invite you all to check out my friend Karlee's latest entry. It's great for a good laugh and pokes some fun at the Twins front office and (in good fun) Slowey. It's definitely worth checking out.

Hipster Kevin Slowey

Harmon Killebrew 1936-2011

2011-05-17T17:19:00.001-05:00

It's a sad day in the world of baseball. One of the greatest players (though I never had the honor of seeing him play) and the greatest baseball players I've ever met passed away this morning. As a fellow baseball fan reading this, you probably have already heard the news.

I just want to share a link to Michael Cuddyer's FSN blog with you. It's a great story about Harmon that I think everyone will enjoy. (Make sure to have some tissues with as you read it.) Michael Cuddyer 'He Was Able To Paint A Masterpiece' Blog

RIP Harmon Killebrew "The Lord bless you and keep you; the Lord make his face shine on you and be gracious to you; the Lord turn his face toward you and give you peace." (Numbers 6:24)

Storm of Emotions

2011-05-14T18:02:00.000-05:00

The sky after the hail storm had passed over Target Field

It's been a tough spring for Minnesota sports fans. Heck, it's been a tough year. There's been several times this Twins season, that I've been asked if I'm still a fan. To answer that: Yes, I am always a fan of the Twins. Win or lose. Sure, I like everyone else, enjoy watching them win more than I like watching them lose. All in all, I love baseball and will watch the Twins even when it's hard (like it currently has been) and when they are doing great.

Tuesday's game was actually fun to be at. Sure, it was super sticky hot and there was a rain/hail delay that caused the game to go until about 11:30. (63 minute delay). I think I found the game to be fun because I was under the shelter of an overhang on the lower level. I got to watch people run from their seats and some people stay in their seats even through the golf ball size hail storm. I had heard after the delay that sirens were going off around Target Field for tornado warnings. Where I was sitting, I was not able to hear them. I don't know what the Twins would have done had their been a tornado that was threatening the area. Where do you take shelter at Target Field?!

I am truly honored to have been able to meet Harmon at Twinsfest a few years ago.

Yesterday was another tough day for Minnesota sports. Harmon Killebrew released a statement saying that he was entering hospice care and he is losing his battle with cancer. He's going to be someone who is truly missed when he leaves this life. My thoughts and prayers are with his family and him during his final days.

Flowers at the foot of the Killebrew statue at Target Field

Another tough pill to swallow in sports, was Derek Boogaard (NHL player). He was 28 years old and his two brothers found him dead in his Minneapolis apartment. Boogaard was currently a New York Ranger, but he played several seasons with the Minnesota Wild. I got the chance to meet him a couple times during his time here. Once at a signing and then he also came into the bar I used to work at a few times. Always seemed like a nice guy. It's hard to lose anyone, but someone so young makes it a little harder to swallow.

The best thing that was said yesterday in reference to Harmon Killebrew news was from my friend Ben (Bennyc50 on Twitter or of That's Twins Baseball blog.) "News about Killebrew should remind us how insignificant the bad start to the Twins season is. It's just baseball.
It's been hard to write good things about the Twins lately and I've struggled to find things to write about. I will keep plugging away however and try to bring you recaps of the games/series, win or lose. I do have some pictures for everyone to enjoy from my fabulous seats last night. (Section 3, row 3, seat 3...seemed to fitting.)

Carl and Drew coming from the bullpen

Justin, you should be looking toward the ball...not the umpire.

Cuddyer

Plouffe

throw over to first

too bad this running wasn't on a home run or a single even.

Nathan

A Gem of A Night

2011-05-06T18:27:00.000-05:00

Photo courtesy of Sara Conrad

I'm sure most (if not all) of you have heard that Steve Holm has been sent back down to Triple A and Rene Rivera has been called up to take his spot. I'm skeptical like every other Twins fan about whether or not Rivera will really make any more of a difference than Steve Holm did.

I'm jealous of some of my friends. They got to witness Liriano's no hitter the other night in Chicago. It wasn't that exciting of a game, nor was it a clean game. Liriano gave up 6 walks and only had 2 strikeouts
Liriano – no hitter/6 walks (friends witnessing the event). They said it was a little cold outside (they looked cold too in snow hats and winter jackets), but I'm sure they were happy to be there to witness the first no hitter of the 2011 season. I know I was glad that it was the Twins and Francisco Liriano who got the first one! I do think Liriano owes Jason Kubel a meal (at least a beer) because without that home run, who knows how long that game might have gone on.

It was nice to see the Twins sweep the White Sux. Sure, they were a team that before that series, was only one place ahead of us in the division, but it's quite possible that it could be the jump the teams needs to start winning.

I guess having 1/3 of the Triple A Red Wings players here may also be something that could boost the Twins and make them start winning. I know a lot of people don't really have faith in a team that is compiled of so many triple-a players, but I'm trying to keep the faith in these guys until they prove me otherwise.
Welcome to the other Red Wings: Plouffe, Revere, Tosoni.

The news that's been announced that I enjoyed the most is that Kevin Slowey will be activated after the game tonight. He's going to still be in the bullpen as the long reliever. My guess is Alex Burnett with get the ax and be sent back down to Triple-A to make room for Slowey.
Can Liraino pitch a gem again? This is the question everyone will be looking for an answer to come Monday night when Liriano is scheduled to pitch again. I don't want to make an calls on this because I honestly don't know if he has it in him to do it again. I guess we will all see

Twins take on Boston all weekend and then are home on Tuesday to face the Tigers.

It's Raining Twins

2011-04-25T22:28:00.001-05:00

The first rain postponed game of the season took its toll on Friday night. I was a little bummed to be sitting at the stadium and hearing the announcement that it would be played at a later date. Sure, I would have had rain dripping on me from the overhang above the first level, but I didn’t care. I was ready to sit through any conditions Mother Nature could throw our way.

Saturday was quite possible (and probably) the Twins’ best game of the season. They showed they are capable of hitting the ball and scoring runs. It was good to finally see their bats come alive. I did start to get worried that they would use up all the hits they had in them Saturday and have nothing left in the tank on Sunday. Thankfully that wasn’t the case.

All of the Twins players, minus Cuddyer, had at least one hit in Saturday’s matinee game. Several of them got on base with walks as well. Drew Butera is lucky that Phil Cuzzi wasn’t an umpire in the game. His hit (1 for 4) dropped in right where Joe Mauer’s hit dropped in the playoff game that was called foul. Danny Valencia was the sole Twins player with a home run in the game. I guess if you’re going to only go 1 for 4, I guess you gotta make it count! It was wonderful seeing Nathan come in (I joked how he really couldn’t screw up the huge lead the Twins had going into the 9th). He got two players to strike out and then the other out with a pop up. It was refreshing to see him pitch well and I really hope that builds up his confidence for future outings.

Baker and Blackburn warming up on Sunday

Thankfully on Sunday, the weather was a lot warmer than the previous two days. I even managed to get a little sun burn. I didn’t mind it however. I would prefer to sit in the hot sun and get a little sun burn than be freezing (like on Saturday) where a blanket and jacket didn’t keep me warm enough in the shade. The game had me nervous in parts of it. Sure we took the lead initially, but it didn’t last too long when Cleveland took a one run lead in the 4th.

I was sitting close enough to the almost home run to be able to tell that the ball hit off of the corner of the limestone and shouldn’t have been a home run. I was happy to see the call be reviewed and then later over turned and ruled a double instead. It helped keep the Twins in the game and probably helped keep morale up as well. I also was close enough to see Jim Thome almost smash two balls out of the park. It was crazy how well they carried and then just died right before they would’ve gone out. His first hit was a super long single. It was good to see Thome realize that his second hit wasn’t going out of the park and turn that hit into a double.

Happy Easter from Target Field

I had fun with taking pictures at the park over the three (well almost three) games. I got a little creative (as you can see with the pictures in this entry) with them, but also took some regular pictures. Make sure to follow me on Twitter to see my instagram pics I upload during games. (or follow me on Instagram too at Bitzy59).

Tomorrow marks my (technically) 9th game, 8 that they played. I’m hoping the rain stays away and allows us to get the game in. I really don’t want to have to worry about two make up games, one is enough.

No, I Will Not Make Out With You!

2011-04-19T18:24:00.002-05:00

Photo courtesy of Sarah Gault

There seems to be a lot of illness (flu mainly) going around the clubhouse. First, Mr. Birthday Man himself, Joe Mauer, then his BFF Justin Morneau and now the latest? Delmon Young. They all need to stop making out with each other (or something) and get healthy already! I don't like key guys like them out of the line up. It has been good to see the B-Squad (sometimes even C-Squad) line up kick some ass and take names like they have been doing the past couple games. I just hope it's something that continues.

The Twins have finally put together a winning streak, and will hopefully continue that streak tonight against Baltimore again. It's been tough this season to be a fan. Sure there have been years like this in their past, but for some reason, it feels tougher to deal with this year. Maybe it's the great season they had last year and how much I wanted to see a repeat (well minus the playoffs) year. I am not counting the Twins out by any means. I know it can be done.

Special shout out today since it is Joe Mauer's birthday! Man Muscles (side note, make sure to click on Man Muscles. Babes Love Baseball did a rocking interview with the birthday boy catcher!) turned the big 28 today! Happy Birthday, Joe! I even baked you a ~~cake~~ cupcakes for you. I hope Scott Baker delivered them to you.

Maybe this would be a more appropriate birthday cake however...

Sick M&M cake

I was so excited to see Drew Butera have a huge night at the plate last night. He drove in a couple runs and had a couple key hits. For all the negative talk about him, it's nice to see him show that he can hit the ball and drive in runners. I'm sure he'll get better. It takes practice and that's what he surely is going to get with Joe Mauer on the DL right now. Be sure also to check out a great shirt my buddy is thinking of making for Drew.

For those Drew fans: you can meet him at Fan HQ this coming Saturday (Ridgedale Mall) from 6:00-7:15! Autographs are free! Stop by and say hi!

Speaking of the upcoming weekend, the Twins will be back in town (and I'll be at the weekend series) against Cleveland. More to come after this current series vs. Baltimore. I'm keeping the faith in the team that they'll start to show signs of life in their bats (and the relief pitching). It can't hurt, right?

Stating the Obvious

2011-04-15T21:33:00.000-05:00

It's been tough to watch the Twins lately, to say the least. They aren't winning series, they are splitting or losing series. It's starting to feel like we're cheering for a team like the Orioles (last year). I'm tired of it. I still love my team, but I would really like to start watching the win.

The Royals series was a fun, short series, but one we should have won. Tuesday night was a great game. Our bats came alive and we actually were able to piece together some hits and runs. It was nice to finally see the bats come alive (it's still not happening every game). Even on Wednesday, I thought we'd have a chance. Heck, we managed to score first and score in the first inning. That was the first time we have done that all season. The woes came from our starting pitcher, when Liriano had his 4th inning meltdown and let the Royals take the lead. It didn't stop there. The Twins put up a good rally, but our bullpen failed to keep us within distance in the game.

I've decided enough is enough. The Twins (even though they are now minus Joe Mauer due to a viral infection) need to step up and start playing like the great team they were last season. Being a team that is second from the bottom in the worst record category, something has gotta change.

Tuesday night had another highlight. I found out my coworker was going to the game as well, and that he was going to be "that guy" who proposes to his girlfriend up on the big screen during the kiss cam. I think it's funny that I knew someone up on that. I however have never been a fan of that. It's very unoriginal and really, why do you want 38,000 other people staring at you while you pop the question (or have to answer the question). To each their own, but it's really not for me!

She did say 'yes'.

Justin and Liriano are auditioning for Dancing With the Stars.

So far, this road trip to Tampa has been quite honestly, depressing. It's been tough to watch the games. I was very happy with how Carl Pavano pitched and thought we actually were going to win Thursday night's game. We were up 2-0 with our closer, Joe Nathan coming into the game. Sadly, he allowed 2 runs to the Rays and it was a tie game. The Twins even mustered up another run to take the lead in the 10th. Matt Capps came in this time and instead of the Rays tying the game...he let Jhonny Damon hit a 2-run home run that allowed the Rays to win. It was depressing and I feel bad for Carl. He deserved the win.

On a happier note, Drew Butera (for those who are fans) is going to be signing FREE autographs at Fan HQ in Ridgedale Mall on Saturday April 23rd from 6-7:15pm. ALSO, the first Baseball Unplugged of the year is going to be on Easter Sunday featuring Joe Nathan, Brian Duensing and of course Michael Cuddyer. (April 24th from 6-7:30pm at Hubert's Downtown). Hope to see some of you at one of these different events! I'll keep everyone posted about different signings as I hear about them.

Here's to the Twins winning tomorrow against the Rays. It's time to get back in the positive mood and be hopeful they can actually win this!

8th Inning Wonder Boy - Opening Weekend

2011-04-11T17:42:00.002-05:00

This was NOT the 8th inning...

It's tough to be a strong team offensively when your star player is not getting any hits until the 8th inning of all three of the games during the home stand. I kept track (via keeping score) and Joe Mauer got a base hit in all three games vs. Oakland during the 8th inning. Odd, right? I know, the hits will come for him and for the rest of them team, we just have to give it time. Quite honestly though, I don't like watching them lose, especially when I'm at the game!

Thanks to Shawn Lavelle for taking this great shot of the fly over!

I was very thankful Friday, that the Twins followed the unspoken rule about a Team's Home Opener. (The home team must win the opener.) It was a great day outside, weather was lovely and the sky was blue. I met up with a few other fellow bloggers/twitter folks at the stadium (a new face and a few I already have met!) It was funny because Jacquie (@Minnie_Jax) and I were sitting in the same section (that was our first time meeting).

I was quite happy with the seats we had and extremely happy to be back at Target Field watching baseball. I didn't realize how much I missed it until I was there. I was like a kid in a candy store when I saw the players on the field for batting practice.

Nathan warming up

Slowey playing catch

I was sad to learn of Slowey going on the DL, but I understand the Twins wanting to put him on there so that they are able to get additional help in the meanwhile, until he is healed and able to pitch. I think the problem that caused this is that he went from being a starting pitcher to a pitcher Gardy wants to use back-to-back-to-back. It's got to be difficult on his arm and surely something that he's not used to. I think there should at least be a little transition time before he's used so regularly out of the bullpen. There are plenty of other guys we can use. (I know some times that is easier said that done and that pitchers have bad outings).

Saturday was another fun day filled with Twins baseball. That morning, I got to work at Fan HQ for the Scott Baker signing and even sit at the table with him (handing him pens and keeping people moving through the autograph line). I had such a blast sitting there with him. Didn't care to be in almost EVERY picture from the event, but it was worth it. I asked him about why he goes by Scott instead of his real first name of Timothy and he said "that's just what my parents always called me [Scott]. My wife actually goes by her middle name too." I thought that was pretty interesting.
I also talked to him about the Faith and Family nights the Twins used to do at the Metrodome with KTIS. On these nights, a few Twins players would give their testimony and then there was a post-game concert from a Christian artist (Matthew West and Jars of Clay were ones I went to). It was a lot of fun both years that I went. I learned that Baker didn't speak at the one with Jars of Clay because he was the starting pitcher the next day. He told me he was going to talk to the team Chaplin about why they haven't done one since the new move. (Which we both figured was probably because they don't want the field to get ruined with the stage.)

one of the cuter pictures I'm in with Baker (photo courtesy of Fan HQ)

I also made cupcakes for the Scott Baker signing at Fan HQ (I was jokingly told I had to make "Baked goods for Baker" to sit a the table. I followed through with it for fun.) I brought Red Velvet cupcakes and offered one to Baker if he wanted one. He did end up taking one before he left and then had 4 other cupcakes packaged up to take with him. He said "I'll take these to the clubhouse. They'll get ate right up!" I'm really quite curious to know who had one of the cupcakes I made...it makes me really excited, but nervous at the same time for the Twins players to be eating cupcakes that I made!

Baker, me and the home made cupcakes (yes, they have TC's and Twins written on them)!

I sure hope they liked the cupcakes (whoever got them!). I know Michael Cuddyer didn't get one. He tweeted me back after I asked him if he had one. Guess I'll have to make more next time!

Saturday night was also full of Twins, but this time baseball. It was a good game, other than the fact that we couldn't manage to get any hits to save our lives. It was quite sad that we managed to lose that game 1-0 on an unearned run (Casilla error). I like most people am fed up with Casilla's poor defense at short stop. I quite honestly would like to see Casilla at second and have Gardy put Nishioka at SS (of course when he's healthy again).

Looks like Kevin Slowey is licking his lips...maybe he had a cupcake!

Luke Hughes must think Minnesota is a lot colder than Australia.

The new scoreboard in right-center field is pretty nice looking. It's not quite as big as the main scoreboard, but it does help those who can't see the other one. It's kind of amusing too, because during players at bats, it shows random tidbits about the player (see below). Some are better than others.

The new scoreboard in full view...along with the Twins tower

Sunday was another Twins filled day. The offense seemed quite lack luster again, with the exception of Justin Morneau. He went 3-4 Sunday and got some good contact on the ball. It's good to see Justin hitting the ball again (heck it's good just to see him out on the field playing). The best part about Sunday was another Target Field proposal.

This proposal however (the first of the season) wasn't quite the same as most of them. The couple up on the screen kissed when they initially were shown and then the message appeared on the screen. The camera sat on the couple waiting for the man to give the ring to the woman. The couple just kept staring at the camera...soon the woman mouths "That's not us." and the camera quickly scans the crowd trying to find the actual couple. This may be better than seeing people on the Kiss Cam say "that's my sister". A friend of mine said that he ran into the couple (the wrong one) and they've been married for 4 years. OOPS!

Sunday also marked a day where I got to watch a home run sail over the center field wall (where the trees used to be). Thome marked his career 590th home run! I sure hope I'm there to witness 600 this year! Congrats to Jim Thome!

Tomorrow marks another game for me. I won't catch a break until the last Wednesday of the month (other than the road games.) I however am by no means complaining about going to Twins games. I LOVE every minute of it, win or lose. (I hope it changes soon to more winning than losing however.)

I'm sure I'll have more pictures after these games and I'll try to recap each series, or more. Welcome back to baseball season everyone!

Home Opener view of Target Field (thanks to Shawn Lavelle for use of this photo too!)

Fighting The Demons

2011-04-05T18:01:00.000-05:00

Tonight is the second game of a four game series in New York. Being a Twins fan and knowing their history against the Yankees, it's hard to be optimistic about the Twins winning any games. I however am going to do my best, at least tonight, to stay positive about their chances. I mean, after all, it's CC Sabathia we're facing. We have beat CC before (when he was with the Indians), so why can't we do it now that he's a Yankee player?

Last night, the Twins kept pace with the Yankees. I'll even overlook the fact that Timmy (Baker) gave up 2 home runs after hitting one batter, and walking another. He recovered nicely after that and really settled into the game. Our bullpen even kept us in the game. I nearly wanted to look away from the TV when Dusty Hughes came in to pitch. After seeing how he performed in Spring Training, it's hard to be optimistic about him. If only the Twins bats could light up and start making things happen.

I think Justin's swing is just a matter of time before it starts lighting balls up and sending them over the fences. There will be some adjusting time for him, given the fact that he's coming off the bench and his concussion. I can't imagine that would be an easy task to overcome.

Starting this Friday, the Twins are finally opening at home! I am more than excited for Opening Weekend. I will be at all three games in the series and will certainly be taking as many pictures as I can. This year, the pictures won't be as exciting since things aren't really "new" anymore, but I'm sure there are always new things to find at that ballpark. I shall be on a mission to find them.

Also this Saturday, Scott Baker will be at Fan HQ in Ridgedale Mall from 11-12:30 signing autographs, and taking pictures (12:15-12:30). Come out and meet him and say hi to me! (I'll be the one sitting at the table with him, most likely!)

Here's to winning tonight: (insert drink that I am toasting). CHEERS!

Back In The Saddle Again

2011-02-01T20:53:00.000-06:00

Danny Valencia and Delmon Young signed ball

With Twinsfest this past weekend, I finally feel like I have something to write about. It's been a while, and I'm sorry for the lack of posts. Then again, it's the off season...other than trades and acquisitions, there isn't a lot to write about.

too much fun with some Big Sticks.

This weekend I was one of the 25,000 people able to attend Twinsfest. One day I went with Karlee and the other, I worked at FanHQ's booth. Some things I didn't like about Twinsfest being at the National Sport's Center were: 1. too small; 2. two different buildings with a decent walk between the two; 3. waiting in line outside to get autographs from anyone in the smaller of the two buildings; 4. not being able to observe the kid q&a.

I never thought that I would miss the Metrodome as the location of Twinsfest. This year's schedule of players/autographs/photos didn't seem at "high profile" as it has been in year's past either. Maybe that's because I opted to not go through a lot of autograph lines, or maybe I was actually observing correctly. Maybe I was just missing Justin Morneau (whom I wouldn't think I would miss) too much.

One of the funniest things was listening to Phil Mackey's radio show where he played the Newlywed Game with Twins players like Slowey, Cuddyer, Valencia, Span, Blackburn, Kubel and maybe a couple others. The point was that the player they were talking to had to answer questions how they thought a certain teammate of theirs would answer. For instance, things got uncomfortable when Slowey tried to evade Mackey's question of "How would Nick Blackburn describe you in 5 words (or less)." He only came up with 1 word: talkative. Danny Valencia got asked "who would (I didn't hear who his counterpart was) say wears his sunglasses at night." Danny said that he would...and he has (he proved this on Twitter).

My favorite person that I met over the weekend was Jim Kaat. That was by far the coolest person (Harmon Killbrew was super cool to meet a few years ago).

I'm sure some people are surprised that I wasn't most excited to get (yet another) picture with Kevin Slowey. Of course I was excited to get my picture with him, but he wasn't someone I hadn't ever met.

Yeah, you can't tell I'm excited at all here.

I got to meet some fellow bloggers that I hadn't before, and other social media "friends".
I did hear a rumor at Twinsfest as to why Joe Mauer has a new (and highly talked about) hairdo. Which reminds me, I'm officially back on the Joe Mauer bandwagon with his new do. Rumor has it that Joe is going to be doing some sort of hair product (shampoo or something like that) endorsement. His agent told him to grow his hair out a little so that they would have a little more to work with during the commercial. All I know, it's working for Joe. I did let him know that I liked the new hairdo when I went through his photo line (after a long wait from 10am to 2pm).

I got a lot of flack from Seth Stohs (who shouldn't talk given that he hung out solely at the prospects table the entire weekend) when I got my picture with Kyle Waldrop. Seth kept trying to tell me that I was sitting on Kyle's lap, which I was only squatting next to him. I think Seth was just hoping I would cause some sort of controversy during Twinsfest! (HA!)

The best comment though came from one of my coworkers at the FanHQ table. There was this card (picture below) at our table and she goes "who are they?" I responded "prospects." She retorts "For the Twins? Or for you?" I about died of laughter...and really...is there a difference? ;-) haha!

"prospects"

Drew Butera and Kevin Slowey were sitting back to back at the two autograph tables inside the main building on Sunday signing autographs. They seemed to like to chat with each other a lot. My friend Kari tried getting a picture of Butera, who quickly lifted up his button down shirt to cover his face. (he did uncover his face and let her get a picture). I asked for a picture with him, which he thought I said "can I get a picture of you?" and he plastered a fake smile across his face.

There was definitely too much adorableness going on within these two tables...and craziness. Ben Revere came over to Alex Burnett and put him in a headlock. It was a good five plus minutes before he finally let him go. One fan (trying to get her baby signed) had Slowey hold her baby, which was the cutest thing ever. All the ladies within the immediate area melted for Slowey.

All in all it was a good weekend (in a bad venue), tiring, but fun. I am hoping the Metrodome sees repairs before Twinsfest next year or that they find a different location (better planning) so that there isn't two different buildings to have to go between.

Spring Training is coming up soon! I'm sure most of you are like me and getting excited to see the boys of summer back in action. The off season always feels so long and every year I feel like I am more anxious for the start of the next season.

The Star Tribune posted a great article about Brian Duensing and his wife the other day. If you haven't read it yet, I suggest you check it out. Click HERE to read the article.

I'm Not Ready To Say Goodbye Yet!

2010-10-07T20:59:00.001-05:00

Going into this post season, I was very optimistic. I thought with how the Twins were playing, no matter who they faced, they had an excellent shot of going on the way and winning it. Even when I knew the Twins would ultimately (thanks baseball gods) have to face the Yankees to get to the ALCS, I thought they could do it. Yesterday's game felt so good, up until Mark Teixiera had to hit the blasted 2-run home run that ended up ruining that game for the Twins and allowing the Yankees to take a 1-0 lead in the ALDS series.

Tonight wasn't any better. Carl Pavano looked great. Sure, he allowed a few base runners, but nine times out of ten, he was able to get out of the jambs he worked himself into without making it look like much of an effort. Twins broke out and took a 1-0 lead early in the game, but were unable to keep it very long. Orlando Hudson showed us that he is capable of getting big hits. Delmon Young finally did what I thought he needed to do in the post season and stepped up with two big hits in the game. Sadly, the Twins couldn't rack up the runs in these innings.

I feel for Danny Valencia, and I can definitely see his nerves throughout this series. Do I think that he shouldn't be nervous and that he should act like a veteran? No, I think he's acted that way up until this point and these are HUGE games and something he's never experienced. I think the games will get less nerve-wracking for him as the time goes on. I still think he's got the right stuff (no New Kids reference intended, I swear).

The person, however, in this post season that is on my "list"...Jason Kubel. Kubel is now hitting .080 (2-for-25) with 12 strikeouts in 7 career postseason games. He has not gotten a single hit in the past two games. I think we need him to sit and warm the bench for the third game if he is going to play like that. I think there are plenty of current bench warmers that could do just as well (possibly better). I don't really think he will get benched, but maybe it would knock some sense into him and kick him into gear. We need guys like him, Joe Mauer, Delmon Young and Denard Span to come up HUGE for us (not to mention Thome as well). If these guys are not going to step up and play like the leaders they should be, why don't we just play the B-squad team that played hung over the day after the Twins clinched the division? They were capable of pulling out a win at least. (Yes, I know it wasn't against the Yankees.)

A beat writer for the White Sux suggested that the Sux should dress up like the Yankees so that the Twins would "pee themselves" when they faced them. I think the Twins should imagine that Yankees (since there is no way they would ever really do this) are the White Sux. They ARE capable of beating them and if they treated the Yankees like they were the White Sux, maybe we could win one of these games.

Alright, time to end on a happy note and send everyone off with some last regular season game photos I took. Hopefully, the Twins will turn things around and bring the ALCS back to Target Field. It'd be a great birthday present for me. Enjoy the pictures.

Slowey pitching with Valencia in the fore ground and Morales at first.

A Casilla in it's natural environment...ready to pounce.

Valencia

Brian Fuentes taking his warm up tosses

Matt Capps

Morales at second

Brian Duensing

Also enjoy this video on mlb.com of Kevin Slowey, showing off the Viva La Stache t-shirt!

Kevin Slowey and his 'staches!

And The Winner Is...(My Votes Count)

2010-09-27T22:12:00.001-05:00

A while back, Seth Stohs asked a bunch of us Twins bloggers to write up our picks for MVP, Top Pitchers and Rookie of the Year (as far as Twins only) for this season. I was one of the fortune bloggers to get to give my input. I've decided to share with everyone who it was that I voted for.

MVP (first place vote gets 10pts, 2nd place 8 pts, and so on)

1. Delmon Young - Delmon really stepped up when Justin Morneau got hurt and was unable to contribute. He even had a chance to be on the final vote for the All-Star ballot.
2. Joe Mauer - Isn't it obviousy why he's up on my list? It's Joe Mauer.
3. Carl Pavano - Carl's been a great investment the Twins have had this season.
4. Danny Valencia - Viva Valencia. This rookie should be in the running for Rookie of the Year. He's blown all Twins fans away. We've been looking for a starting third baseman and I think we've found him!
5. Jesse Crain - I will admit, I was on the "Crain Wreck" kick at the start of the year, but Jesse has really settled down and been a force to be reckoned with the second half of the year.
6. Francicso Liriano - Frankkkkie has been....well just like his nickname implies. Lights out.
7. Justin Morneau - Although his season was cut short, he was in the running for the AL MVP for the entire ride of the season he was involved in.
8. Jason Repko - I couldn't think of who else to pick, and I think that Repko still has stepped out as part of a fabulous defensive outfielder. His cannon is enough to knock your clothes off as it goes flying by you.

**Note, I did not mean to leave Jim Thome off my list. He just slipped my mind.

Top Pitchers (This one was only 5 choices, point count still the same style)

1. Brian Duensing - He had to step up from the bullpen and has been a security blanket. I'm never worried when it's his day to pitch.
2. Carl Pavano - Carl has been fabulous this year. If my reasons above were not enough, Carl has been the ace that our rotation has revolved around.
3. Jesse Crain - Jesse's been out lights out guy in the bullpen. When Matt Guerrier collapsed, Jesse Crain came through.
4. Francisco Liriano - Although he's had some shaky starts, he's also got us through so huge starts and helped us get to the post season (where we're headed).
5. Brian Fuentes - A great pick up late in the season. I find myself excited to see him come into games. He pitches like a true veteran and one who is able to shut guys down. It feels like a force to be reckoned with.

Top Rookie (This one was only 3 choices, and points again are same style)

1. Danny Valencia - how could Danny Valencia not be on anyone's rookie of the year list? I would have liked to have picked him for all of my 3 picks, but I had to pick some others too.
2. Matt Fox - one of the biggest games of the year, where we really needed a win, this rookie stepped up and showed all of us that it's unwise to have little faith in rookies. I was afraid we were all going to get a little lost with this guy. (HAHA, had to.)
3. Luke Hughes - First MLB hit was a home run. Enough said.

Be sure to check out the full list of winners at Seth's blog here: www.sethspeaks.net.

Another note: If you're looking for some good amusement, be sure to check out the rookie hazing pictures on Pat Neshek's website. On The Road With Pat Neshek They are definitely worth looking at. Any Valencia lovers out there...wowzah.

Just Like 163, Only Better!

2010-09-22T21:29:00.000-05:00

Last night the Twins clinched the AL Central division with a huge win and with some help from the Oakland A's! The Twins rallied in the 7th inning and came back from a 2-0 deficit to beat the Indians 6-2.

Beer soaked...everything...at Target Field

Earlier in the day, the Twins had tweeted that they wouldn't be showing the White Sux game and that fans couldn't stick around after, they planned for no celebration after a possible clinch. A bunch of us figured what the hell, let's try and stick around. The worse that can happen is they kick us out. We made our way over to the Twins dugout (where we could see the out of town scoreboard). It wasn't long before they turned that and the main lights off. We thought for sure that meant we'd have to leave. Nope. We had plenty of people checking mlb.tv on their phones and calling people to find out the progress.

Drew capturing photos/video of the crowd still at the field

Two outs came in the 9th and when the final batter for the White Sux had two strikes the crowd began getting rowdy. A few of the players poked their heads out during the last inning, taking pictures and getting the crowd riled up. Once they knew they had the division, they kept us in suspense for another 15 minutes and then finally live sprung out from the dugout bringing beer and buckets full of liquid (I assume a sort of beer/champagne-water)...thankfully Jon Rauch missed me and my friends by about a foot, but Drew Butera didn't miss with the abundance of beer he drenched us with. It was cold during the game, but adrenaline had us so riled up we didn't feel the cold anymore. Only excitement coursed through our systems and kept us wanting more beer to be thrown on us.

Drew drenching us in beer!

It was incredible and I felt like I was part of the team for the night! I now officially know how the players feel when alcohol is thrown about and gets in your eyes, hair and all over your clothes. Do you care or feel any kind of pain? Nope! You feel the need for more!

yes it's a little blurry...but it's the "F@&king Fifth" when some of the guys do the most damage, according to Plouffe.

I'd have to say that being able to stick around and celebrate with the team with a few thousand people was 100 times better than game 163 last year. If I had the chance to do it again, I'd take the opportunity in a heartbeat!

Span

Justin Morneau getting interviewed

I also made a tv appearance toward the end of the night! I tried ducking out of the way but was not quick enough! Oh well, guess it's just proof that I was there! Can I have seconds?

The team out celebrating with the fans!

Not A Normal Post

2010-09-22T06:33:00.000-05:00

Oh Oh It's Magic!

2010-09-19T22:42:00.001-05:00

Currently, the Tigers and the White Sux are still playing and a wild pitch just scored the tying run...after tonight, the Twins' magic number will still be at 5 or if by the grace of God the White Sux lose, it'll be down to 4 (I'm hoping for the latter, since the Twins didn't get it done today). I was happy to be away from the TV today and not watching the debacle that was called a Twins game.

Group photo of the staffers at Fan HQ with JJ Hardy

It's been a busy week and I've been slacking at writing more on here. I've had a few Twins games and got to hang out with JJ Hardy within the past week (which was a blast!). I worked at the Fan HQ signing at Ridgedale Mall where JJ was signing. He is an absolute doll and I had the pleasure of making him laugh on several occasions. The picture below is example 1 of making JJ laugh.

I have balls...Kari: "Look, Slowey is behind you!"

JJ Hardy and his sore hand...had around 300 autographs that he worked through!

It has been so great watching the Twins magic number dwindle down quickly and a clinch of the division seem inevitable. I know that realistically, the White Sux probably won't make a comeback, but they are pesky and an annoying team, so I don't want to count them out just yet. I don't want to get too high on having the AL Central "in the bag" and have it blow up in my face. Yes, I have faith that the Twins will win it, but I just can't count my chickens yet.

view from section 325 (thanks to @Loleets!

Now I will post some pictures from the last game I was at, which knocked another section off my list of visiting every section this year. (All I have left is the trapezoid section (which you can see in the picture above) and the cushy seats right behind home plate.) Enjoy!

KKKKKSlow

Ahh the all too familiar Cuddy swing


The should be Rookie of the Year!

The last thing that Jeff Manship laughed at: Drew Butera laughing


Ben Revere

Joe Mauer making sure everything is still intact.


Laser arm Repko

JJ at third base

This was when Drew got his double (somewhat of a fluke, but I don't care!)

I sure hope this man was drunk when getting this painted on his face...

TC is SO nice to his handlers...(the one on the right)

New things I got to see having club level seats

Matt Capps shutting down the A's

On another note: the last Baseball Unplugged of the year is on Wednesday night at Toby Keith's I Love This Bar from 7-9 pm! If you're going, be sure and say hi! I'll be there along with Michael Cuddyer, Ben Revere and Trevor Plouffe!

What Winning Feels Like

2010-09-09T17:21:00.000-05:00

Carl Pornvano (Click his name to see the "Viva La Stache" tshirt that is a huge hit amongst Twins players!

Today, while the Twins rested and had an off day, the Chicago White Sux lost to the Detroit Tigers to put them 6 games back from the Twins, bringing the Twins' magic number down to just 17! In the last 10 games, the Twins have went 8-2 and Chicago has went 7-3, which you would think would keep Chicago nipping at our heels. The Twins have capitalized on the games that Chicago has lost and kept winning the games they needed to.

It's great to see the Twins have the 3rd best record in the American League (83-57), just behind the damn New York Yankees (87-53) and Tampa Bay Rays (84-55). Now not to get anxious and jump ahead of ourselves...last year, the Twins were 6.5 games out of first place and ended up winning the division. However, if the Twins continue to win series like they have been doing, I don't think they'll have anything to worry about when it comes to Chicago.

Lately guys like Matt Tolbert and JJ Hardy have been stepping up while some of our other guys (Valencia) have been out. I think I am shocked every time Matt Tolbert has gotten clutch hits.

Nick Punto and Joe Nathan working out at Target Field

Congratulations to Jim Thome for hitting his 584-586 home runs! He's now tied for 8th place in the all-time list for home runs. Can the Twins please sign him for next season now? Thanks. If you don't already have one, be sure to check out the "Thome is my Homey" t-shirts at Diamond Centric!

Kevin Slowey back from the DL

Monday night hosted the second to last Baseball Unplugged of the season. The last one will be at Toby Keith's I Love This Bar, date TBD. This one had Michael Cuddyer, Matt Guerrier and Joe Nathan. A classic Unplugged, but still fun nonetheless.

Matt Guerrier and Joe Nathan

I once again asked a question to the players: "If you could play any position, other than your current one, what would you play?"
Joe Nathan: "I'd play shortstop, since that's what I was originally drafted for."
Matt Guerrier: "I think I'd like to play in the outfield. I see the balls that those guys don't catch out there. Though, I'd probably drop them too."
Michael Cuddyer: "I'd like to pitch. Since that's the only thing I haven't done yet."

Joe Nathan

Who knows, Cuddy, by the end of the season, you may get your wish! Michael Cuddyer was also impressed with my record (while at Twins games) and said "I don't know which is more impressive...the fact that you're 25-5 (now 26-5) or that you've been to 30 games!"

Michael Cuddyer

Cuddyer, Guerrier, Nathan

Another upcoming player appearance is for JJ Hardy, at the Fan HQ in Minnetonka! $10 for autographs. More information is available HERE. If you're going, let me know! I'll be there too!

Where's TC?

Be sure to check out Off the Mark's take on being an Usher in the first season at Target Field: HERE. It's quite entertaining and I'm sure I'm one of the people who do things that the ushers don't like. Like sit in seats when I bought standing room only tickets. :)


Look, even Mickey is a Twins fan!

Bending Till We Break

2010-09-04T12:34:00.001-05:00

Lately it seems like the Twins are getting hit big time by the injury bug. It’s not like they are taking every day blows like broken bones, or more than just Justin with a concussion. It’s strains, sprains, pulling muscles. They are getting tired it what it likely is coming down to. The season is getting near the end and their bodies have had enough. Hopefully with some of these guys sitting now, it’ll mean that they will be in top form for the post season (provided they make it to post season).

Denard Span

Thursday night proved to be one of those nights where the Twins just looked too tired. Our bullpen arms were either weak (not including Jeff Manship) or not available. We just picked up a couple guys (Fuentes and Flores) and one wasn’t even available due to soreness. If these guys want to play post season, they are going to have to toughen up and play a little hurt. It’s at this point in the season, where almost everyone is hurt. It makes me think back to the Minnesota Wild’s season and their super trooper Greg Zanon. Zanon played with a broken foot for several weeks. He didn’t want to be sit, he wanted to play, even though the Wild didn’t have a playoff shot. I know it’s never good to play when you’re hurt, but I think a little heart and determination can go a long way. Do I want these guys to get hurt long term because they play through pain right now? No, I definitely don’t want that. I just think that some of the injuries are mild enough that they could possibly tough them out.

Last night was a HUGE win against Texas. I’m not going to lie, I was a bit nervous about having a rookie start against Texas, but I was hopeful he would be able to baffle the Rangers like so many rookies in the league baffle us when we first play them. I’d say holding the first place Texas Rangers to 2 runs in 5+ innings, was a fabulous job! I was very impressed watching a guy who I hadn’t heard of until Seth Stohs broke the story that he would be starting. I’m not going to lie, I think I may even have more faith in Matt Fox than I do Nick Blackburn. I still cringe a little watching Nick Blackburn. Sure, I know he did a good job in his last couple outings, but he also started the season like that too and then fell down the rabbit hole and tanked. I just hope he finds consistency and sticks with it.

We fed Bit-O-Honey to TC!

Bears and Honey

The giant TC magic bounce at the State Fair...a little creepy.

Don't Mess With Texas

2010-08-26T18:39:00.000-05:00

These last few games have been tough to stomach. It's been hard watching a contending team take on another one and lose 3 games in a row. Thankfully we haven't lost all the ground we gained on Chicago because Kansas City and Baltimore have been helping our cause. I think they secretly like the underdog team and just hate the White Sux too. Who can really blame them for that?

It's been tough this year watching players get hurt and go on the DL for extended periods of time. The latest victims, Kevin Slowey (which probably makes me the most saddened) and Ron Mahay. Both were lost in the same game, during another tough pill to swallow. I don't think the Twins have been a team this year that should lose to the Angels. They're not the same threat they were a year ago, but the Twins played them like they were. These and other teams like Texas are ones that we have to stand up and fight to win.

Karlee and I fighting over TC.

Maybe the Twins need to take a page from Karlee and fight tooth and nail over what's important. If they want to stay in first place, they need to win games and win big games. Win games when Chicago loses and gain more ground than a mere 3.5 games. Sooner or later that small lead will be nothing if they don't capitalize on it early. I know, I don't really want to see yet another game 163, for the third year in a row. The regular season is long enough and stressful enough. Who needs a game chalk full of stress??

Joe Mauer checking his swing

Last weekend, I explored the option of Standing Room Only tickets. I'll put it this way, they were not my favorite. I like keeping score and I'm short, so I have to stand in front in order to see over people. With that being said, we had to get their super early in order to get what we considered to be a "good" spot (just to the third base side behind home plate on the lower level)...and we waited and waited some more for the game to start. In the whole day (which we opted for seats by the 6th inning, granted in the hot sun but seats nonetheless) we spent probably 6 hours standing. The game was around 4 hours long, and we were there when gates opened. It was a long day for sure. If you don't mind standing, those kind of tickets are fine, and cheap.

Kevin Slowey pitching

One of the perks of being there so early on a Saturday? I got to watch the Twins take batting practice. Not that it's terribly exciting, but it's fun being able to stand down right by the dug out and watch them.


Jim Thome is such a bad ass, he doesn't need a glove!

Timmy (Scott Baker) and his not so good looking facial hair.


Jason Repko

We also got to check out TC take on a couple of the Minnesota Wild hockey players in the home run contest. (Josh Harding and Clayton Stoner). To put it nicely, Clayton Stoner should stick to playing hockey.

All in all, despite the heat, it was a nice day and tons of fun. I'm looking forward to when the Twins are at home again, and I can see them live at Target Field (my second home) some more! 26 games hasn't been enough yet this season! (For those who care and seem to ask every now and then, my record is 21-5). Bring on the Tigers and bring on some more winning!

Hopefully the Twins can take on Texas tonight, deep in the heart of Texas and beat the heat of Cliff Lee. Cliff Lee (knock on wood) has not won since his trade. Let's hope that lucky streak he's got going, continues and the Twins benefit from it tonight. We've seem to have good success against him so far this season (and in years' past). I'm hoping for another L in Cliff Lee's stats (even though he's on my fantasy team).

That's it for now! GO TWINS!

Target Field: No Longer Where Joe's Balls Go To Die

2010-08-19T17:51:00.001-05:00

Well this weekend was crazy busy for me! It was jamb packed with Twins games Friday-Sunday! I am not complaining about spending time at Target Field, I enjoy it. Plus I got to see three rocking games and see the Twins sweep the Oakland A's.


Fireworks after the August 13th game

The Twins have been on a tear lately and are currently sitting 5 games ahead of Chicago for the lead in the Central. With Tuesday night's spectical of Jim Thome hitting a walk-off 2-run home run to win the game in the bottom of 10, I didn't think anything could top that last night. Boy, was I wrong. Joe Mauer finally decided to connect and not let Target Field own him and all his balls. My phrase used to be: Target Field: Where Joe Mauer's Balls Go To Die...this is no longer the case! It only took him 57 home games before he could land one just barely in the flower in the left field wall!

storm clouds that evaded Target Field

The rain stayed away all weekend during the game time. Thankfully, Brian Duensing pitch one heck of a game getting fans out of the stadium before a nice storm could rush through. He was outstanding in his complete game shut out starting a crazy game of shaving cream pie that himself and Jim Thome both took after outstanding games that they had (Duensing, complete game shut out; Thome, walk off home run that won the game for the Twins).

beautiful night for a beautiful shut out (and a storm to follow)

Tonight, the Twins look to finish off the White Sux series and bring out the brooms to send them back to Chicago.

This weekend the Twins have the Angels in town to face Torii and the gang in a three game series. I'll be at Target Field tomorrow for my 5th time in 8 days. I'm beginning to think that Target Field really is my home away from home. I don't mind though. I just get kidnapped when I'm at the games anyway.

Tonight: Mister Mustache man himself, Carl Pornvano takes on Chicago's ace Mark Buehrle. It should definitely be a interesting game...and it'll be a good deciding factor of the momentum the Twins will have going into the Angels series.

I almost forgot! Monday night was Baseball Unplugged at Park Tavern in St. Louis Park! Nick Punto, Drew Butera, and Danny Valencia were there.

I really have decided I like Danny Valencia, he looked like a kid in a candy store there on Monday night. With his parents and cousin in tow, he was beaming all night from ear to ear! I asked for clarification on the pronunciation of his last name and it is NOT how Bert Byleven says it. It's Va Len C Ya. Not Va Len CHIA. He told me that he's been sitting down with Bert going over how to say his name. Apparently, this has been unsuccessful so far.

It was a really fun night, and myself CapitalBabs, and Karleecupcake had fabulous seats right next to their table. Here are a couple pics I took that night (in the dark bar)...and hopefully, the fill in the blank surveys I gave Nick Punto (for the three of the them) will be filled out and returned to me so I can post those up here for everyone. Just a bit of ridiculous fun, but fun to share as well!


Nick Punto (and Drew) ready to answer questions


Danny Valencia

Drew Butera :)


Punto, Butera and Valencia

4 crazy girls (sketch54, capitalbabs, karleecupcake and me forthelove_ (Twitter names))

Something is Bear-y Wrong!

2010-08-12T17:11:00.000-05:00

Well first place was fun while it lasted! Last night's game was a tough one to watch, the Twins suffered through a lot of errors and blunders that didn't seem able to recover from. The night before, when we topped the AL Central, WOW! What a home run derby! The Twins pounded on the White Sux and every player (in the lineup) with a 'J' first name, got a home run...including my renamed J'Michael Cuddyer! What a tear and what a fun game to watch. Especially when it is a game against the White Sux and especially when we pound them.

I'm hoping tonight is a night like the first one in the windy city. I hope the Twins' bats come alive and battle against the White Sux back into first place. This series and next week's series against the Sux are important game, and ultimately could be what will make or break the post season.

Before the game started, I decided to go to the Roseville Library and check out story time with TC! It was a blast, though I think I enjoyed it more than most of the kids there (most were too young to sit still and participate). After story time was over, I finally got to introduce myself to my twitter pal, TC! The one thing that was missing was Karlee...don't worry, Karlee, TC's coming for you! :)

This weekend is going to be a fun-filled Twins weekend. I am now officially going to all three games in the Oakland series and I can't wait!

So I've been trying to compile some questions that I could have some of the Twins players answer that fans like us would like to know the answers too. Please comment with some questions (general Twins any player questions, or player specific) that you'd like to ask if given the opportunity, and I'm going to do my best to get them answered and post them here on my blog!

I hope everyone has a fabulous weekend! I'll update more after the weekend series with pictures and game recaps! Remember, leave your questions!

Is Winning Ever Enough?‏

2010-08-04T17:20:00.001-05:00


Target Field Plaza

Eight games was really nice to win in a row...getting blown away by Tampa Bay so far is depressing. A lot of people were still criticizing the Twins when they were winning and even the starting rotation, which let's face it, has stepped up a lot during the last few games.

Slowey pitched a fabulous game on Saturday. He pitched 8 solid innings and got Seattle's best hitter; Ichiro, to strike out 3 times. Sadly, Gardy didn't want to risk it and attempt to have Slowey strike him out a 4th time. Thankfully, Mijares was on his game and didn't cost us the game like he has in the past.


Slowey pitching

I'd like to welcome our newest addition to the team (yes, I know I'm late with this)...Matt Capps. I'm looking forward to seeing what he's made of and what he can do to help our team.

I can't say I'm like a lot of fans who were upset about the Twins trading away Wilson Ramos. I know he was our key for trade bait and that the Twins might have been able to get more for him, but one never knows if his trade value would have decreased by the next time the Twins had an option for a trade. Did a lot of teams see thru the fact that we already had a great catcher and that we would eventually trade away Morales? Who knows why really Billy Smith opted for the trade that he made. I think there is always a lot more behind these trades than we ever think about.

Enjoy some more pics!


Sunset at Target Field


Target Field at twilight


JJ Hardy


Funny shirt I found at Target Field while trying to find my new pal TC!

Road Woes Away

2010-07-26T19:57:00.002-05:00

Now I know, beating the Orioles isn't a huge feat, but it's a start to help balance the Twins and get out of the funk when on the road. There have been a lot of "road woes" the Twins have faced this year and their record has been less than stellar while on the road. The Twins came up with some huge run support and killed the competition over this weekend (Thursday - Sunday).

It was wonderful to see pitchers that are hanging in the balance having great games. Kevin Slowey and Scott Baker both looked good on the mound. I do think that Kevin Slowey looked a little sluggish and was missing a lot of the marks that Drew Butera had for him, but he was fooling the Orioles and getting the big outs that he needed! The Twins also gave him a lot of support, landing 10 runs in the course of the strung out game that had a rain delay in the mix. The downfall of that game was watching Nick Blackburn be Nick Blackburn in the 9th inning. If he was trying to show improvement in that performance, he failed.

This series was a great series to see Delmon Young show his true potential. He has been on fire, racking up RBI's, home runs, and sky rocketing his batting average to come close to having one comparable to Justin Morneau. I'm fine with him batting higher up in the line up the rest of the year.

Brian Duensing also looked great in his 5 innings of work on Friday night. It was too bad for him that Anthony Slama had to give up a 2-run shot to Luke Scott to spoil the lead for the Twins and ultimately lose the game. Pornvano was his usual self and gave a very solid performance, pitching once again another shut out. Even though I'm not a fan of his mustache, or the fact that he can convince his fellow teammates to follow suit, I like it when the Twins win games...and the mustache seems to help him win. (Or at least his superstition is telling him that.)

Baseball seems to have a huge history of mustaches and they never seem to go away. From guys like Rollie Fingers to Dave Winfield. There are plenty of well known players that have been spotted over the years sporting the 'stache. Here's a list (and the picture above) of some of those famous 'staches. Enjoy.

Greg Maddux
Rollie Fingers
Dennis Eckersley
Goose Gossage
Rod Beck
Keith Hernandez
Wade Boggs
Barry Bonds
Dave Chalk
Clay Zavada
Reggie Jackson
Andre Dawson
Dale Berra
Don Baylor
Gorman Thomas
Dave Winfield
Lloyd Moresby
Rick Dempsey
Jim Leyland
Pete Vukovich
Bobby Grinch
Fred McGriff
Doug Glanville
Jeff Kent
Randy Johnson
Catfish Hunter
Bob Molinaro
Rick Bosetti
Robin Yount
Carl Pavano
(note: this is not a complete list. There were a lot of players with 'staches)

Stop, Slama Time!

2010-07-20T22:35:00.000-05:00

Okay, I just need to start by saying, losing to Cleveland is unacceptable. They are the last place team in our division, and we now have lost two games to them. It makes me ill. I don't think tonight that our starting pitching was bad. Sure, I would have like Slowey to go further into the game, but he was looking tired at the end of his 5.2 innings, and 99 pitches. After having a short outing of only 3 innings last time, I'm not surprised that he looked tired toward the end tonight. Overall, I'm quite pleased with how he did, and ultimately it was in fact our bullpen that lost this game for us. (No, I'm not saying anything bad about Jesse Crain and that fluke of a hit that scored 2 runs)

I'm quite happy about the roster move the Twins made yesterday after the game. I think all of us fans have been waiting for Slama to get a nod this whole season! He deserves it, and really, can he do any worse than the rest of the 'pen has? I know that he's gotta step up and be outstanding, or else he is going to get ripped apart by the fans. That's a lot of pressure for him, so hopefully he is oblivious to all of this pressure and just is the bad ass that he's been in Triple-A this season.

So during the torturous game that was last night's game, I got bored and started thinking about what the Twins players would be doing if they weren't baseball players. Here's the jobs that I've came up with so far for the boys:

Carl Pavano - Porn star (this one is pretty obvious, I mean look at this picture.)

Michael Cuddyer - Magician (if you haven't seen his card trick, check out my video of it on You Tube here: Cuddy The Magician.
Kevin Slowey - Motivational Speaker
Timmy (Scott) Baker - Angel (check out his head shot for this, with me in the pic)

Orlando Hudson - Actor. He acts a lot when he's playing baseball, so I think he'd be good at it.
JJ Hardy - Country Singer. For some reason, I can see him being good at this.
Nick Punto - Stripper.
Denard Span - Televangelist. He already thanks Jesus when he gets on base.
Matty Guerrier and Nick Blackburn - Semi Truck drivers. It's a toss up who's 'stache puts them in the lead for this job.

Joe Mauer - Chippendale Dancer. I think he's got the white boy dance moves down, plus a lot of ladies think he's pretty.
Jeff Manship - Superman/Clark Kent. Come on, he looks like him, right??
Jon Rauch - Basketball Player (I know, this is kind of lame)
Justin Morneau - Canadian Mountie

As talks about trades continue, I wonder if the Twins will make any moves that will make any of us fans happy. In the past, Bill Smith and co. do not have the highest track record with making moves that everyone else seems to think are the most obvious issues that need to be addressed. I guess this year, I'm hoping for help in the bullpen. Yes, I know our starting pitchers have left something to be desired, but I think and have faith that there is still some hope for them. I know that this means it'll come with some hard times and some losses, but I know the Twins and their love to come from behind late in the season and surprise the hell out of all of the competitors.

Keeping Up Appearances...

2010-07-15T23:39:00.000-05:00

Since I seem to get asked a lot about how I know about signings and such the Twins players do, I figured I'd let everyone know about the upcoming weekend signings and such! If anyone has any questions, feel free to ask and I shall answer! Let me know if you're planning on going to any of these and maybe I'll see ya there!

Denard Span at Best Buy in the Maplewood Mall
Saturday, July 17 — 10:30am-Noon

Saturday, July 17 - Meet Denard Span at Best Buy in the Maplewood Mall!
Location: Best Buy Mobile specialty store in Maplewood Mall
3001 White Bear Ave N, Suite 1072
Saint Paul, MN 55109

Carl Pavano at Best Buy courtesy of HBO Home Entertainment and Best Buy
Saturday, July 17 — 11:00am-Noon

Saturday, July 17 - Meet Carl Pavano at Best Buy!
Location: Best Buy Minnetonka
13513 Ridgedale Drive
Minnetonka, MN 55305

Michael Cuddyer & Brian Duensing for Klement's
Saturday, July 17 — 11:30 a.m. - 12:30 p.m.

Saturday, July 17 - Meet Michael Cuddyer & Brian Duensing at Festival Foods!
Location: Festival Foods
2671 E. County Road E
White Bear Lake, Minnesota

Jesse Crain for Blue Bunny
Saturday, July 17 — 11:30 a.m. - 12:30 p.m.

Saturday, July 17 - Come and meet Jesse Crain at Lunds in Plymouth!
Location: Lunds
3455 Vicksburg Lane
Plymouth, Minnesota

Matt Guerrier for Palermo's Pizza
Saturday, July 17 — 11 a.m. - 12 p.m.

Saturday, July 17 - Meet Matt Guerrier at Byerly's in Eagan!
Location: Byerly's
1299 Promenade Place
Eagan, Minnesota

Matt Guerrier hosts Baseball Unplugged
Sunday, July 18 — 7-8:30 p.m.

Sunday, July 18 - Matt Guerrier is hosting his first ever Baseball Unplugged featuring guests Jesse Crain and Brian Duensing.
Location: Carbone's Pizza Bar & Grill in Lakeville
7670 West 160th Street
Lakeville, MN 55044

Autographs:
The first 100 fans will receive a ticket for the autograph portion of the event when they arrive at the door. Tickets will be distributed on a first-come, first-served basis beginning at 4 pm. Additional opportunities to receive a ticket for the autograph session will take place during the event. The autograph session will run from approximately 8:00-8:30pm.

Nick Punto at Rock Bottom BreweryThursday, July 29 — 6-7 p.m.

Thursday, July 29 - Nick Punto at Rock Bottom Brewery!
Location: Rock Bottom Brewery
800 Lasalle Plaza
Minneapolis, MN 55402-2006

Time for a Break

2010-07-11T16:09:00.000-05:00

Today was a good day to finally get a win! It was well overdue and I think it was just what the Twins needed going into the All-Star break. It's been tough watching the Twins these last few weeks. It doesn't seem like we can win games to save our lives! I'm not ever going to jump off the Twins bandwagon, but I'm not always going to be happy with the way the Twins play either.

I think a lot of what has attributed to their losing this season is the number of home runs the pitchers give up, and the dreaded GIDP (ground into a double play) the Twins seem to average more than one per game. Michael Cuddyer and Joe Mauer still lead the team with the most GIDP's. Could this be what is keeping Joe Mauer's average down? (yes, the first part of the season was much better, but these two things have been our weakness all season long.)

The Twins pitching staff (among all pitchers this season) have given up 184 home runs. Our starting staff alone has given up 67 of those 184 home runs! This is a trend they need to stop and take control of. I'm not sure how other teams rank in this, but it seems quite high to me. In 89 games so far played this season (both home and away), this means the Twins average as a team, just over 2 home runs a game. There have been quite a few games lost by 1 or 2 runs that may have been able to have been won if not for those home runs.

Another issue plaguing the Twins is GIDP's. They have the Major League lead of 102 GIDP's that they have hit into. The record currently is held by the 1990's Red Sox at 174. This means, the Twins are only 72 away from beating that record. This also means that they are averaging more than 1 of these per game as well. On average, they hit into 1.15 GIDP's. They are on pace to have at the end of the season (at this rate), 187.45 GIDP's. This needs to change as well in the second half.

There are some other things that I think are potential problems the Twins have, but I'm not going to go into it. I don't want to point fingers and try to find someone to blame for this drought we're having. I think there are several elements that need addressing.

Congratulations to the Texas Rangers for winning the Cliff Lee battle. I really didn't think the Twins stood a chance, nor did I want to see Cliff Lee in a Twins uniform. As far as my fantasy team is concerned, I want Cliff Lee to continue to do well. Unless of course he's facing the Twins. :)

Hope everyone enjoys the All Star break and I hope the Twins come back with the bang they started the season with!

Majors at Major's and Then Some

2010-07-01T17:33:00.000-05:00

It's been really good to see the Twins in the win column again these past couple games. If Detroit would have been in first place any longer than they were, I may have bore my eyes out with a spoon. I know, they can't win them all, but when co-workers of mine are blaming me for them losing (I was told they hadn't won a game since I started my new job...which they actually HAVE). I don't like being blamed. I'm not at fault here and I know it.

Well last night was one of the best nights ever! Karlee and I (and Erin and Krystal) all went to Hang with majors at Major's last night at Major's in Bloomington. It was a dinner the Twins hosted to benefit military families. Well, after the dinner, the Twins players wandered around the bar and just hung out. Some were bartending, signing autographs, taking pictures, working beer tubs, or being super tall. It was fun being able to see the fun personalities of all the players hard at work!

I'm a huge fan of Drew Butera and Nick Punto after chatting with and b-sing with the two of them a lot last night! Karlee almost wet herself when Punto made his first trip by us. She turned around toward me to sort of "hide" from him. With her eyes closed, I spun her back around and she said something about Nick (well he was still within ear shot), he turned around waving "Hey, ladies!" I think she about died. It was funny.

I also had to give Nick Punto grief about his height (not that I'm that tall either). Four younger guys were trying to get their picture with him and he was standing on his tip-toes trying to still rise above them. I muttered "tip toes" loud enough for him to hear and he busted out laughing and goes "you totally called me out! I was on my tip toes!"

Kevin Slowey tried to be Punto for Karlee (before we chatted with Punto) and said "I'm not Nick Punto, but I know him!" It was super cute! I about died later in the evening when I was chatting with Shawn from JoeNathan.com and he said to Kevin, "Kevin, have you met my good friend Betsy?" and Kevin responded "Yes, I even knew her name!" It was incredible! I don't know however if its a good or a bad thing that he knows my name. Might mean that I meet him too often.

Here are some more highlights!! There were a lot of them, so I tried to keep it somewhat condensed! Enjoy!

*Denard Span (after I told him how my record was now 14-0) “You need to go on the road with me. I suck on the road.”

*Cuddy (after I told him how my record was now 14-0, he knew about it when it was 9-0) “Really?! You need season tickets!” I wanted to say to him, "Make it happen!"

Note in my picture, Cuddy looks like he's had a little booze...his shirt also has a picture of a cow and the different "part"...and says "You want a piece of me?" I loved it!

*to Scott Baker – “I hope you don’t mind, but I call you Timmy.” Baker – “That’s fine! A lot of people do.”

* Natalie Punto – “Sometimes Nick and I put the eye black on each other at home. Don’t ask why, cause I don’t even know!” (Umm, Natalie...too much information!)

* I almost ran into Jim Thome (literally!) on my way to the ladies room.

* Even in 4” heels, Jon Rauch is huge. I may not dislike him quite as much anymore…he was pleasant last night and nice enough to take pictures. I’m still not a huge fan, however.

* Drew Butera bought Karlee and I a beer. Kept telling me that my ID was fake (though he almost didn’t card me when we got our first beers).

* Nick Punto put eye black (well really burned the end of a wine cork, turning it black and then smearing it under her eyes) on Karlee and having the reapply it later (his wife said it wasn’t on well enough!)

* Punto smells really good and kept telling the ladies how they all look so much hotter than him with the eye black on.

* Denard Span (after I told him I have him on my fantasy baseball team and that my team is names “Let’s Get Denarded”) “Really? That’s sweet!”

* Drew Butera can mix drinks well! Punto’s wife thinks he looks like he’s 5, but thinks he’s super nice.

I was very happy to see Joe Nathan there! He was somewhat quite though...

Nick Punto was trying to get everyone at the bar to cheer Orlando Hudson on enough to get him to take his shirt off. He didn’t do it! They moved on to Denard Span, he shot it down! Then everyone tried to get Punto to do it. No one did.

It was such an incredible night! It was fun getting to know some of the Twins players better and just hanging out with them! I will admit, Jon Rauch was actually pretty nice to me last night. He seemed to be in a better mood than at Twinsfest, though he did get snarky with a couple guys who walked in front of where we were taking pictures. I'm still not on the Oscar bandwagon, but I'll be a little nicer when it comes to him.

Tonight: I'll be enjoying the game from the 300 level!

Were We On A Break?!

2010-06-27T12:15:00.000-05:00

A four game losing streak was hard to take. Being swept by the Brewers was even harder. The Twins are a team that can beat the Brewers as well as crush the Brewers! So why couldn't the do just that in Milwaukee? Well it didn't entirely seem like their bats were up to par, nor did our pitching stand up and give the Brewers anything to fear.

Friday night against the Mets, out pitching seemed to be back in the swing of things, until Kevin Slowey had a few hiccups in the middle innings. Our offense couldn't seem to piece together enough hits to come back and win it. It seemed like every time they got a couple hits, the rest of the lineup would fail and leave the few on base. This isn't how teams are going to win. I'm not sure entirely what the answer is to get the Twins out of these funks, but there is something missing, something needed to win (tougher games) and the Twins need to find it. They need to find it soon.

With the All-Star break coming in just a few weeks, Detroit and Chicago are closing the gap in the AL Central race. In order to stay on top, the Twins need to at least match, and hopefully exceed what Detroit and Chicago are doing. (Chicago is on an 11-game winning streak) It also means that the games coming up against those teams (Detroit, Mon - Wed at Target Field, and July 9-10 in Detroit; Chicago July 15-17th at Target Field) mean do or die for the top spot in the AL Central.

Today Timmy goes for his 50th win and the series win against the Mets.

The Big Hits

2010-06-21T17:25:00.000-05:00

It was hard watching the Twins two of the three games in Philly. I wasn't too happy that our starting pitching couldn't go into the 3rd inning in either game. I was ripped off! I wanted to watch the pitchers awkwardly swing at the ball over and over, and only got to see it once each game. IT SUCKED.

I watch most of Saturday's game at Park Tavern in St. Louis Park with a bunch of other Twins bloggers! It was the Twins Centric viewing party and it was fun! Seth was mean and teased me with Kevin Slowey's email address, ultimately deciding that he wasn't going to give it to me. (I swear I'd behave if I had it. I'd probably look at it more than actually use it. I'd be too scared to do anything about it! HINT HINT, Seth.) It was hard listening to pretty much what turned out to be the second half of the game on the radio while driving to my home town of Austin for Father's Day. I think people would have thought I was nuts if they would've been in the car with me, or even seen me from their car. I was screaming at the top of my lungs when Joe Mauer hit his home run to tie the game.

Of course, the game didn't end there for the Twins, that was just the start of the battle. I thought for sure that Drew Butera's first ever MLB home run was what was going to win it for the Twins. Then Jon Rauch gave up a home run, blowing the save. Thankfully the Twins came back in the 11th with 3 more runs to edge out ahead and win the game!

Two games out of 3 in Philly, the reigning NL Division champs of 2009, I'll take it! Sunday, Carl was outstanding going the distance and pitching a complete game! He even got a hit to try and help his cause. It was too bad that Carl put no effort into his running the base line. He made Jim Thome and Jason Kubel look like fast runners with how slow he trotted to the bases.

Thanks, Carl for being a badass! I'm still not sure I like the mustache, but if you keep pitching like that, I'll let ya keep it! Even if I do think it's gross.

Going For the Sweep

2010-06-16T22:39:00.000-05:00

Last night was by far the best game I've been to in my 14 games! I managed to score some fantastic seats 3 rows from the field (in section 3, which is right next to the Twins' dugout!!). I was so close to the field and the players I was having heart palpitations! It was a great game otherwise too. The Twins were trailing 2-0 in the first three innings (2nd run scored in the 3rd for Colorado) and it wasn't looking the best. We got Cuddy to third, but couldn't seem to bring anyone home to give Carl any run support.

These are the times that I fear my record will take a hit (it's first loss). I started getting worried at the start of the 4th, but Joe Mauer pulled through with a great base hit that started a HUGE inning for the Twins, scoring 5 runs on 6 hits (2 walks and 1 fielder's choice). The Twins batted around and Joe Mauer grounded into a double play to end the inning that he started. It was one of those games that throws my scorecard off cause I have to continue an inning into another column. I didn't mind though.

The Twins had 14 hits in the game and won the easy battle 9-3. I guess Carl finally got the run support he's been craving all season long! It was nice the Twins could finally provide him with some runs.

I did enjoy seeing some guys who have needed to step up (the rookies and Punto) really step up last night. Valencia went 2 for 3 (2 singles, walk and hit into a fielder's choice). Punto went 2 for 3 as well with a walk, and Matt Tolbert...he shocked the hell out of me going 1 for 3 with 2 walks and a HOME RUN. I didn't know Matt Tolbert could hit homers! I figured maybe that would give Joe Mauer some ammo to hit his first at Target Field (minus the one he blasted during the exhibition game), but nope.

Tonight: It was great watching Timmy dominate the Rockies! He had a career high of 12 K's (strike outs) and looked like the leader of the pack that he was supposed to be all along. It was great seeing him excel out there and also pitch 108 total pitches. It's not too often that Rick Anderson will let the pitcher go more than 102-105. I wish his pitch count hadn't been at that in the 7th so he would have been able to come back out for the 8th, but the outcome tonight still turned out in the Twins' favor.

Tomorrow the Twins will go for the sweep against the Rockies (day game). I'm not sure if I'll be able to catch the game or not.

Now: Enjoy some more pictures from my section 3, row 3 seats.

Punto (for Karlee)

I think Drew knew I was taking his picture. Oh well!

Trevor Plouffe

TC!

View from my seat (which got me on TV a lot last night, and thankfully my camera covered me most of the time!)

Joe Mauer up to bat

infielders

Mr. Morneau

Mauer

My Cuddy picture that looks like a baseball card.

inside the first base lounge...

Crisco is on FIRE!

2010-06-13T13:52:00.000-05:00

Friday night's game was fun! I was a bit nervous going into that game with my perfect record when the Braves were up 1-0 for almost a complete 7 innings of the game. Thankfully, Joe Mauer came through with a big hit in the 7th to rally the Twins to win the game 2-1.

My cousin and I got to enjoy the game for free, thanks for ESPN 1500. We somewhat stalked the van that was giving out tickets on Thursday (the tweeted where they were giving tickets out at) and before the lady could even roll down her window, my cousin was shouting "Sweep the Royals" out the window. We both were extremely excited to win the tickets, plus what better way to enjoy the Twins and Target Field for (my cousin's) first time?!

Frankkkie was on fire on Friday night striking out 11 batters. It was somewhat amusing, the guy sitting next to me asked to take a picture of my score book where the K's were all in line. I of course said sure!

It was fun being the tour guide for Topper and Amy at Target Field. They both seemed to enjoy it a lot and both had a great time!

It was unfortunate watching the game yesterday and seeing the squeeze play pulled against the Twins. This is normally Twins baseball, but I guess last night it was Atlanta's way of winning a very close ball game, 3-2. It was unfortunate that the Twins couldn't capitalize once again on bases loaded (with 2 outs). Apparently, Atlanta got the memo on the Twins' kryptonite: Load the bases, the Twins will do the rest.

And I've changed my mind about Target Field. It goes like this now: Target Field: Where Joe Mauer's balls go to die. Joe still hasn't managed (besides the one exhibition game against the Cardinals) to go deep at Target Field. Let's hope that changes and SOON!

And coming soon: a picture of all 13 of my tickets. I'm going to put the pictures all together into one picture and then I'll post it. Yes, I misspoke the other day...Friday was my 13th game, and am 13-0 now. (I counted from my scorecard which had a game that went beyond 9 innings.)

Target Field: Where Balls Go To Die

2010-06-09T13:27:00.002-05:00

It was a beautiful night for baseball last night. The rain cleared out and the sun decided to poke its head out of the clouds. I think the only thing that would have made it better: Kevin Slowey pitching the perfect game. I'll take his 7 scoreless innings that he did pitch. It was nice having Michael Cuddyer back in the lineup after being out for 4 days on bereavement leave. I know I missed Michael Cuddyer and I know there were some Twins fans that didn't. (I see a lot of those fans on twitter).

I don't think there could have been a better start to the game; Zach Greinke went through 7 batters in the bottom of the first inning, giving the Twins a 3-0 lead right from the start. Kevin Slowey went 4 1/3 innings before giving up a hit to any of the Royals batters. (He gave up 2 of the 3 hits he allowed in the 5th, and 1 in the 7th). It was unfortunate that in the 8th inning, Alex Burnett had to give up a run, letting go of the shut out the Twins had in place. Thankfully, the bullpen didn't blow the lead and turn this great win for Slowey into a no decision.

Justin Morneau (who is now the leader for the first baseman on the All-Star ballots) was the only one who was stumped by Zach Greinke and the Royals bullpen. Justin was 0-4 last night with 3 strikeouts. It was somewhat sad seeing Justin in a slight funk. Jason Kubel was counter reacting Justin's bad luck by having a great night at the plate. He had a 2-run scoring double and a solo home run in the game. (I think Kubel was happy to have my cousin return from Norway yesterday. She finally got to see him and she was proud of him.)

The Twins have two more games against the KC Royals before taking on NL East leading Atlanta Braves and NL team Colorado Rockies while on their 9 game home stand. All I know is that I'm much happier with the Twins at home. I'm hoping Orlando Hudson and JJ Hardy return to the lineups soon. (Hudson isn't eligible to come off the 15-day DL until June 15th, Hardy is day-to-day).

Currently the Twins are still 3.5 games ahead of Detroit Tigers. I'd like to keep at least that much of a distance between the Twins and the Tigers. It'd be nice to gain a few more games and have some room to breathe. I'd love to see the Twins run away with our division, rather than having out division a close race as it's been in most years.

So I have decided (idea coming somewhat from Hockey players and their "playoff beards"), to not cut my hair (which I haven't since November, though have wanted to in the past 2 months) until the Twins lose a game I am in attendance at. I am now sitting on a record of 12-0 when attending Twins games. I would love it if they would win every game I am at this year. If the Twins can do that, once the season is over (post-season included), when I get my hair cut, I will donate it to Locks of Love. If my hair isn't long enough by the end of the season to do this (and the Twins haven't lost any game I've attended), I will continue to grow it out until it is long enough to donate and then donate it to Locks of Love. I'm really hoping for a winning season! Anyone wants updates on this, let me know. I should continue to post pictures and such from any game I have attended. I will also tweet after every game my current record.

Tonight:
Carl Pavano (and his hideous mustache) vs. Kyle Davies (and the KC Royals)

MIA

2010-06-08T14:28:00.000-05:00

Hey everyone, I'm sorry I've been MIA a lot within these past couple weeks. I've been job hunting, so my time on here has been limited. I promise I will be back after tonight's game, if with nothing more than a few pictures and a recap of the game, then at least that!

For now, if you're in need of some reading material from other blogs in the Twins area, check out my blog roll on the side! Enjoy!

Bad Calls In Baseball

2010-06-03T17:29:00.000-05:00

Yesterday seemed to be a high day of bad calls by umpires. Armando Gallarraga was one out away from having the perfect game when Jim Joyce missed the call at first base that should have been an out. The Twins lost their game last night against Seattle due to a bad call (which should have been an out at second) that was missed by the umpire. I don't think MLB should review an possibly retract this "safe" call in order to give Gallarraga his prefect game. Why? You ask? Well, I think that would go against a lot of what baseball means. It ultimately wouldn't be fair. They aren't going to reverse the non-out call for the Twins last night and say that the game is just "suspended", are they? To play fair, they would have to do that.

I know that there has been a lot of talk about having more instant replay in baseball. I don't know if I am for this or not. Sure it would be great to have instant replay (or at least more of it on the "questionable" calls), but it would add length to the game of baseball. Hockey is another sport that has a lot of calls missed or poorly called. I know they only review goals currently in hockey and currently the MLB only reviews balls that are possible home runs. As much as I would love to have more calls go our way, I know that the Twins have been on the other side of bad calls before and have benefited from them. Football may be the sport that does "instant replay" right. The manager gets their red flag (challenge flag) and can challenge a ruling on the field. I think this would be a better option. If a manager is wrong, they are out of challenges (and ultimately, they only have 2 they can use all game).

Last night, I think the Twins played a decent ball game. Kevin Slowey kept his team in the game and kept the number of runs given up to only one. I was a bit torn (as a fantasy baseball owner) on who to start last night. I currently own BOTH Slowey and Cliff Lee. I opted to start both of them thinking that it would be a very good match-up. I luckily fared pretty well, having both the starters only give up 1 run each (Slowey pitching 7 innings and Lee pitching 8).

The Twins at least still have one more game in Seattle against the Mariners in order to split the series with them and avoid a series loss before the head off to Oakland.

My condolences go out to Michael Cuddyer (who we will miss while he's away for 4 ) as him and his family grieve the loss of his father-in-law. Cuddy will likely miss tonight along with the whole Oakland series. Congratulations to Danny Valencia on his big league call up. I hope that when the time comes to send someone back to triple-A that the Twins will consider keeping Valencia here and sending Tolbert back to Triple-A. I'm not a huge fan of Tolbert. He's like having a back up Alexi Casilla or a back up Brendan Harris as our other option. It's just not good enough if we want to continue to be a contending team. I think the Twins are missing a small element (I don't know what exactly this is...maybe another strong bench option) that I think could potentially hurt them down the road around the time of post-season. Hopefully I'm wrong.

On A Good Pace

2010-06-01T14:11:00.002-05:00

Right now all of the Twins pitchers all have at least 5 wins setting their paces for a great season, full of wins. As of last night, the Twins are 31-20, which is 11 games over .500 (.608), and they are 4.5 games ahead of the second place team in the AL Central, Detroit Tigers. There is only one team in the AL better than the Twins, the Tampa Bay Rays, and in the NL, only the San Diego Padres sit atop with the same record as the Twins.

If the playoffs were today here's how the AL would stand:
1. Tampa Bay Rays
2. Minnesota Twins
3. Oakland A's
Wild Card: New York Yankees

I'm hoping before the playoffs happen, that the New York Yankees fall out of any of the spots that have a post season. I know there is still a lot of season left before post season happens, but as we only have a little over a month until the All-Star Break (about 1/2 way thru the season), one has to look at the standings to see what kind of a chance their team will have of making it further than just the regular season.

I don't think any team is necessarily out of the running, it's too early to determine something like that. However, there are teams that are sitting much better than the rest of their division. The AL Central is one of the toughest divisions in the American League. In the last few years, the winner of the division has come down to one of the final games in the regular season. I think this year it should be a close race as well, but I think that the Twins will still shine about the rest of the AL Central counterparts.

I was happy that the Twins pulled off another series sweep. I wish it would have been at the hands of a team like Boston or the Yankees rather than the Rangers (I have a soft spot for them and really admire and respect a lot of their players). I was somewhat nervous on Saturday when Carl Pavano was pitching. Most games that Carl has pitched this season, he has seen little run support. When Carl is starting, the Twins only have averaged 3.8 runs in these games. This is the lowest for average of run support a starting pitcher gets. Francisco Liriano has the next lowest, averaging 3.9 runs per game he starts, Timmy (Scott Baker) 4.55, Kevin (Slowey) 5.5 runs, and Nick Blackburn gets the most with an average of 7 runs every game he starts. I'm wondering if I should go see more games Carl Pavano pitches, or a game Liriano pitches, since I'm 11-0 and have seen Kevin 5 times, and Nick Blackburn 4 times. Maybe that would help these others do better.

This week the Twins are on West Coast time (7 game road trip to Seattle and Oakland). They started their 4-game series with Seattle last night (winning 5-4) and then onto Oakland for a 3-game series. Only one of these games is a day game (Sunday 3:10pm) so be prepared to stay up until all hours of the night watching the Twins win! I'm not sure how much of these games I'll make it through considering I fell asleep during last nights' game, but I'm going to do my best!

Yup, that's Drew Butera popping his gum

Twins return home a week from today! I prefer when they are at home vs. away. There is just something about watching games at Target Field that is much more enjoyable to the other stadiums. I wouldn't mind if the Twins played at Petco Park again (this is the only other ballpark I've been to besides the Metrodome and Target Field). Petco is a lot like Target Field and quite beautiful. Some day, I'll make trips to other ballparks to see all for myself!

Now, I'm going to wait for the rain to come in and enjoy some more baseball tonight! Nick Blackburn faces Jason Vargas starting at 9:05pm (CST)!

The Power of J's

2010-05-28T00:06:00.000-05:00

It was a beautiful night for baseball tonight! I'm not gonna lie, being that my record was 9-0 going into tonight's game and the Twins were facing the Yankees at another game I was attending, I was a bit worried that my record might get a flaw in it. Thankfully after the first few innings, the Twins put my mind at ease and coasted pretty well against the Yankees. This is how the Twins should have been playing in all 3 of the games they faced the Yankees. The Yankees this year have not been the big power house force that they've been in years' past. Mark Teixeira has been a sub-par hitting, currently hitting only .216. I thought for sure Nick Blackburn would raise that average for him with the number Teixeira has put up against him, but thankfully he didn't go much against him tonight, only broke even.

It was my first time having someone's season tickets and USING them to go into the Metropolitan Club. Quite honestly, it was a beautiful place and the view was great, but it wasn't any more exciting than the Club at the Metrodome for season ticket holders. I guess I just expected more...

The sign behind the bar.

View from the Metropolitan Club

Rockets red glare

I was slightly miffed about my fantasy baseball team. I had opted a couple nights ago to bench Jason Kubel (since he's been less than stellar this season) and opted to play other guys instead. I should have played Kubel. He went 3 for 4 with 5 RBI's. That would have really helped my team out (though I am already winning this week).

While in our section tonight, we witnessed a big douche bag employee that was supposed to be selling soda, instead he was travelling from section to section standing in between the last break in the railing before the top, which coincidentally was RIGHT in my way. I said something, because I did want to see the game, and then he game me the dirtiest look, said nothing and walked away. I wish I would've seen his badge and found out his name. I watched him go from section to section doing the same exact thing EVERY section. He'd give whoever it was in each section the same dirty look he gave me. Hello, dude, you're there to do a job. If you don't want your job, I'll take it. I need one.

I was thrilled when the power of the J's was very strong. Joe Mauer was at second, Justin Morneau was at first, and Jason Kubel was up to bat, with JJ Hardy waiting in the wings. The power helped Jason Kubel knock in a 3 run home run.

The power of the J's on base

When I peeked into right field I noticed something funny, which my friend has pointed out to me at another game, but this time I got to see it for myself. Cuddy must stand and pace in the same spot EVERY game...he's worn down and changed the color of the grass in one tiny section of the right field. It almost looks like a dog peed on the grass and it's turning a different color.

See the spot? He standing in it!

All in all it was a fabulous game and the weather couldn't have been more beautiful and perfect. The one thing I could have done without would've been all the bugs. Where was Kirby the Kestrel when we needed him tonight? He could have had a large feeding on all the bugs we saw!

Tomorrow I get to test my luck all over again. I'm not starting to have friends call me Good Luck Charm. I hope that's the case and I hope my luck never runs out!

That's Twins Baseball and Unplugged

2010-05-24T14:58:00.001-05:00

I don't have much to write about. It hasn't been a good day and I'll just say that I'm glad the Twins aren't playing, because I would feel responsible for their loss. I did attend the Twins game on Saturday and also went to Baseball Unplugged with Jason Kubel, Denard Span and as always Michael Cuddyer on Sunday night, both of which were fun.

Some of my favorite things from Unplugged were these:
Someone asked Cuddy if Joe Mauer had a girlfriend...his response: "I don't think he's exclusive if he does have one."
Our tablemates and new friends Linda and Michelle asked the guys how they liked inter-league play and Kubel's response "Well, we like to make a joke that the national league is like the JV squad."

I have decided that my new favorite player is Michael Cuddyer. My boyfriend raised his hand to ask a question, which the host of the event asks people what their favorite part about Target Field is. Brian (with advice from me) said that his favorite part was that the Twins haven't lost any of the games he's been to, and how I'm 9-0 with games I've been to this season. Cuddy's response was, "and we're just going to give these guys a tshirt for asking a question? We need to give them tickets! Give them some tickets!" I'm a big fan of Cuddy now, and thank you, Cuddy!

The last funny thing that happened was that while I was going through the autograph line I told Denard Span how I really am 9-0 and he goes "were you at today's game?" Cuddy looked over at Denard and goes "she just said she's 9 and 0, do you think she was at today's game?" It made me laugh.

Now enjoy some more pictures from this weekend!

Now onto Unplugged pictures:

This is what Brian won in the raffle for prizes from playing the bean bag toss.

And I'll throw this out there because this is my blog and I can. If anyone knows of places that are hiring (for Admin/Receptionist jobs) in Minneapolis area, please let me know! I'm looking!

Orlando Hudson on Rome Is Burning

2010-05-17T12:00:00.000-05:00

I don't really want to write about the Yankees series (partially cause I didn't watch all of the games). Glad they won however yesterday! That's a good feeling.
I just want to share this video instead today! It's quite funny.

Or if that doesn't work go here: ESPN Rome Correspondent: Orlando Hudson

Be Gone SATAN!

2010-05-14T21:31:00.000-05:00

Everything was starting to go well for the Twins at the beginning of the game. A.J. Burnett walked in the Twins' first run on a bases loaded walk. A home run for the Yankees tied it up. The game was a cat and mouse game all the way up until the Twins got into a jamb (the one hit was not any one's fault really, considering the ball ricocheted off Timmy leg and into shallow right field.) and the bases got loaded. Here is where I didn't agree with Gardy's choice for a new pitcher.
Now I know that judging Matt Gueirrer based on the small sample size isn't entirely fair, but I don't blame Matty G. I blame Gardy. It was unwise putting Matty G. in when he's given up 3 home runs (before tonight) alone to A. Roid. It's sickening and doesn't need to be encouraged or helped along in any way. I think we would have been better off walking A. Roid (giving up a run that would've tied the game)...maybe then we may have stood a chance at getting out of the inning.

Now as a result of Gardy's poor decision making skills, Scott Baker gets another loss, and his ERA racked up (2 of those 4 runs on the grand slam were Timmy's). Thanks, Gardy. Thanks for nothing!

As Jeff Dunham (as Walter) says: BE GONE, SATAN! I'm sure he must have been talking about the Yankees when making that comment (yes, I have watched Jeff Dunham so I do know the whole background of that quote.).

An Unusual Kind of Day

2010-05-14T11:18:00.001-05:00

So while trying to come up with something to write about with the past two game (neither of which I watched much of, one due to the fact that it was a day game and I was working, the other because I was just peeved about how the game went.) I was trying to think of something else to refer to the Yankees as other than the Evil Empire (which I do like that name, but it's not becoming to frequently used and I like to be different.). I came across wikipedia and saw that they had a list of nicknames for the different teams' players. Here's what they had for the Twins (I eliminated the past Twins players and only kept current ones).
Wikipedia's Twins Nickname list (it's short, but wacky):

Nick Blackburn: "Captain Blackburn of the Seven Sea
Francisco Liriano "Franchise" "F-Bomb"
Joe Mauer: "Chairman Mauer" or "Baby Jesus"
Justin Morneau: "Paul Bunyan" or "Dr. Neau"
Kevin Slowey: "Slow Mutant"
Anthony Swarzak: "The Smokestack"
Delmon Young: "Duh Duh Duh Delmon"
Carl Pavano, "The Worthless Poo", "American Idle" (he was under the NY Yankees players)

The only player I think I've heard anyone use those nicknames for is Joe Mauer. I do only know two people (they are co-writers of Peanuts From Heaven) that call Joe "Chairman Mauer"...though a lot of people that call him "Baby Jesus". The others I don't know that I here used...well...ever. Whoever decided to write that list of nicknames for current players is sitting on that island alone.

Tonight, I think the Twins need to really step things up and show the Yankees that they really are in it to win it this year. They didn't win a single game last years against them, they more or less just let the Yankees walk all over them and the Twins were the Yankees bitches. I think this is a good year for redemption and to show the whole major league that we are in fact competitors and want to go all the way. I think they have the capability and the potential this year. Plus I think if the Tigers can beat the Yankees (more than one game) that the Twins can do that too, and do it bigger and better than the Tigers.

Did you know that the Yankees (still the highest paid team in MLB) have an average salary that is $108,774,222 more than the Twins (this current season 2010.)? The Twins are ranked #11 (which I would wager is high for a "small-market team", but I'm sure signing Mauer to the deal he got bumped the Twins up a bit higher). On the note of high payed players, I find it kind of funny that Justin Morneau in the ad for Continental Diamonds (I believe) says "Because I don't make as much as my buddy Joe". Hate to break it to Justin, but this year, he does make more than Joe.

Tonight's Match-up: Scott Baker (4-2; 4.57 ERA) vs. A.J. Burnett (4-1; 3.40 ERA). Here's hoping for a successful night for Twins players in our line up. More after this weekend's series. I hope to give out 3 Stars of the Series again since the haven't WON the last two, merely split both of those series (yes, I know the one is slightly jaded and either was a sweep, split or swept series). GO TWINS and Go Timmy!!

Target Field Preparations

2010-05-12T09:22:00.001-05:00

Now I know today is "Delmon Young Day", but I really don't know what to write about Delmon Young, because I'm more just indifferent towards him. I also don't really want to talk about the game last night, because quite honestly the commentary and comments made about Kevin Slowey and how bad he was (cause don't you know that a pitcher is the only one playing in the defensive side of the game?), so I turned off the game to watch repeats of The Office, because it made me less crabby than the game was making me. So today, I've decided that for those who haven't been to Target Field, that I would put together sort of a "what to expect/bring with" guide for Target Field to help better prepare others (given that I have been to 8 games so far there).

What will you need to bring with you to Target Field?

Well quite honestly, it depends on what mother nature decides to do on that given day, but I would suggest regardless if it is raining, to bring with:

1. A poncho (the come in packs of 2 and are small to carry with you. They fit easily in a bag that for the men out there, could be a backpack).

2. A sweatshirt (or other long sleeved item.) If you haven't ever sat in the seats you will be sitting you, you may not know if you are underneath the overhang or not. If you are under the overhang on a sunny (50-60 degree day), you will be cold and want sleeves. A lady who sat next to Katie on Sunday learned this quickly (she complained the entire game).

3. A blanket. The night games tend to cool off a lot more than the day games, and considering we are in Minnesota, it can get quite cool at night. It makes it easier to be more comfortable while sitting in the hard plastic seats for the entirety of the game. Plus, if the chair gets too uncomfortable, you can always use your blanket as a cushion to sit on.

4. An umbrella. Sure this goes along with the poncho, but my theory is to always be safe, rather than sorry and miserable.

5. Mittens. I'm a freeze baby, and those games that I've sat in the shade, or it's dipped down low enough to be a tad bit cold, mittens (just the cheap 1.49 light-weight mittens) were my best friend and kept my hands oh so warm.

6. Good shoes to walk/stand in. You will do some walking from parking spots/light rail to the new stadium, and also once you get inside. There are so many things to see once inside Target Field, that you want to be comfortable.

Where do I park/what's the best way to get to Target Field?

I prefer to drive downtown myself, because I don't want to have to wait for a long period of time after the game to get back on the lightrail (I've been told that the line moves quickly, but when the game doesn't get over with until around 10pm for night games, I want to get home as quickly as I can). I wouldn't suggest parking in any lot that is more than $7. There are PLENTY of lots around the field that range from $3-$7 for parking, all within a couple blocks of Target Field. Don't waste your money at the places that try to rip you off and make you pay $10-$20. It's nuts. Day games during the week, however, are a different story. Most ramps and surface lots are used for people who work downtown, and a lot of them also fill up before 10am, so it will make it more difficult to find a cheap, affordable parking spot. Expect to pay more on these games (however, don't settle on the first lot you find, there may be a cheaper option only a block or two further away.).

What are the best things to see at the new field?

My favorite place at the new stadium, inside the gates, is quite possibly Hrbek's. It's so incredible (there are tiles on the ceiling that you really have to see in order to know how neat they really are.). Kent Hrbeck has all of the jersey he has worn in his baseball career (high school included) displayed on the wall, along with some really neat artwork.

Be sure to notice the wind wall (alongside the ABC Parking Ramp B). It's the largest piece of artwork in the Twin Cities. It's a wall of small stainless steel plates that moves with the wind. It almost looks like smoke when it gets moving.

I think the statues outside of the field are neat to see too. Two of them (Kirby Puckett and Harmon Killebrew) are right by each other (near the ABC Parking Ramp B (the one you see behind the right-center field), but it takes a little searching to find Rod Crew (he's near the ABC Parking Ramp A, near 7th street), he's off a little ways, but worth the walk to see. The Golden Glove is also really neat (and huge), and worth the wait in line to get your picture sitting/standing in the glove. The line moves fairly fast, and as long as you have some time to kill, you might as well do it.

What's the best food to try at the new field?

Quite honestly, I've only had the french fries, and some ice cream at the new stadium. I'm too frugal to spend $9.50 on a burger and fries. The prices of the food have increased this year, so bring more money with you if you plan to eat there. I've noticed that for plain nachos (like they had at the Dome last year) have stayed relatively the same price, as I've been told, have hotdogs. I don't really care for hotdogs, much less Schweigert's hotdogs. Those just gross me out even more, so I tend to steer clear from hotdogs all together.

Is there a spot the players come out after the games to sign autographs like at the Dome?

Sadly, the parking for the Twins players is now under the new stadium. It's a player/personnel only lot, so you're chances of getting there are slim. Plus I doubt any of the players will be signing post games this season.

If anyone has other questions that they would like to know answers to, feel free to post a comment and ask. I'll respond to them quickly. If I don't know the answer for you, I'll try to find out the answer.

Just Like A Banana...Split

2010-05-10T15:44:00.001-05:00

Although the Twins didn't win this 4-game series against the Orioles, they sure played a couple great games Saturday night and Sunday. The bats for the Twins just seem to be quieted on Thursday night, none able to score any runs against the worst team in MLB. Carl Pavano didn't pitch poorly at all either in Thursday's outing. He only allowed a total of 2 runs (both earned) in his 8 innings of work. Why can't the Twins muster up 2 measly runs or more to give poor Carl Pavano a little support. This season, so far, Carl has only allowed more than 2 runs in one of his six appearances. I think this speaks very promising of the kind of pitcher Carl will be for us for this season.

On the note of having a bad day, boy did Justin Morneau seem to have a bad day at the plate on Sunday. When that man has a bad day, he goes all out! He struck out 4 of 4 times during the game. Only 1 other game this season has he struck out every time up to the plate (this one was his season high so far, the other was only 3 at bats, and the other game he struck out 3 times, he also paired that with 2 walks). I do find this season a bit humorous for Justin, he uses "Rock and Roll Ain't Noise Pollution" for his at-bat music. The last time that Justin has this song for what he entered to, was the year he was MVP. Do you think he's trying to regain that title again this year and take it away from his buddy Joe Mauer, who's got it the last two seasons?

Yesterday as well seemed to have a feel like I was in an episode of the Twilight Zone. Alexi Casilla was one of the best hitters of the game. He went 2 for 4, with a double and an RBI. This is not a regular thing for Alexi. He hasn't had more than one hit in any of the few games he's played so far this season, yet Gardy still prefers to play him over Brendan Harris (while JJ Hardy is out).

Brendan Harris was also another great asset for the Twins yesterday, he went 3 for 4 with a double, he wasn't able to get any RBI's, because it didn't seem like the guys who were in the line up before him could get on base to give him the opportunity. I'd honestly like to see more of Brendan Harris at 3rd (or short stop when JJ is unable to play). I think Brendan has a great throwing arm, and he's willing to dive for the ball and make some great plays in the field. I think Gardy has a tendency to put Brendan on the shelf and not use him, for what reason, I'm not entirely sure.

This season, there seems to be a lot of smack talk about Timmy (Scott Baker). Sure, I know, his first few outings could have gone better. But after seeing him pitch, in my opinion, his best outing of the season on Saturday night, I think he's shown us the kind of potential that he is capable of. He only allowed 1 earned run in 8 innings pitched, which is the second time this season that he's only allowed one run. That run was a home run given up to Luke Scott in the 5th inning (a solo shot).

Next (provided the rain stays away long enough to not interrupt or post-pone the games), the Twins face off against division rivals, the Chicago White Sux. It'll be the first series (though a only two game series) that I will miss seeing any of the games. So far, I have been to 8 games, and all 8 of the games I have been to, the Twins have won. I like being on this winning streaks and I think my "luck" will truly be tested at the Yankees game I go to at the end of this month. Let's hope my luck continues and I do prove to be a good luck charm for the Twins. It'd be nice...maybe I could get some free tickets as a result. I definitely wouldn't mind, nor pass those up.

Now enjoy some more pictures during this gloomy off day the Twins have today. (pictures are from Saturday night and Sunday's games)

(nope, Justin wasn't looking for a ball, just day dreaming)

Congratulation, Tigers, You Suck

2010-05-06T09:27:00.000-05:00

Well it was a great day for baseball! Sure it was a little cool and windy outside, and occasionally it liked raining on us, but I couldn't complain. I got out of work to go see the Twins to help the win the final game against the Tigers! I now have a 6-0 record when attending Twins games. I think I need to find out who to talk to about getting free tickets since I am the good luck charm. I ended up finding fabulous seats for cheap for the game yesterday. We were a mere 10 rows up in section 121. For the price we paid, we should have been sitting in the 3rd level (the area behind home plate).

I was a little nervous, to be honest, about going to the game yesterday. I didn't want the Twins to lose (the sweep was on the line, along with Kevin Slowey getting another win!) and I didn't want to tarnish my record and have any games in the loss column. Thankfully the Twins took an early lead of 2-0 in the first, (which for those who didn't know, they are the first team since the 1971 Yankees to do so in 6 consecutive games) and got off to a great start. The only runs that the Tigers scored were on home runs, and there was only 2 players getting these home runs: Avila and Cabrera. Thankfully the Tigers had no base runners on, and thankfully Jon Rauch was plagued by Avila as well when he faced him.

Overall, this series was good to sweep! It pushed the Tigers to 3 1/2 games behind us and it made us look like a force to be reckoned with! I would've wrote about the game on Tuesday night (I was at that one as well), but the little bit of time I had before the game yesterday afternoon didn't allow for me to get anything written! I was very impressed with Nick Blackburn and his complete game that he pitched. Sure, I'd like to take back that home run he gave up (the tying run in the 9th inning), but hey, at least JJ Hardy pulled through for us with not only a diving save (which lead to an out), but also a great plate appearance, scoring the winning run on a wild pitch. I'm sure Detroit would like to have that game back. It was awful for them!

I am tired of seeing Kubel not be able to hit the ball to save his life. I know that FSN was calling his ONE HIT good, but one hit does not make you a good player. He got out both times that the Twins had the bases loaded for him. Last year, Kubel would have knocked that ball out of the park and made the bases loaded haunt the other team. This year, it's our version of Kryptonite, it just kills us and the other team makes it out of the inning without any more harm. So far Target Field is like how the Metrodome was to Matt Garza, he just can't play the best there. Which is sad, and I would love to see change going forward.

I did find it funny that Nick Punto plays a Phil Collins song for his at-bat music. That man has some strange taste in music, that's for sure. I guess it's better than him playing "Satisfaction" by Benni Benassi. I guess hearing Phil Collins every time Punto is up to bat is better than seeing Jon Rauch naked on the large video screen (mainly his tattoos, but he's at least 1/2 naked). The Twins' twitter person asked what people thought of the video, I responded. "It's gross. I don't want to see Rauch naked, or even partially."

Being that the Twins WON the series on Tuesday night, and swept yesterday, your beloved 3 Stars of the Series:
3. Michael Cuddyer (his 3 run blast got him 3 more bags of Skittles, he almost threw Cabrera out at first base, on what should've been a single though Cabrera ran slowly, and Cuddy was all-around great this series!)
2. JJ Hardy (he went 2 for 4 in both games of the series that he played, had the winning run on Tuesday and made some outstanding defensive plays as well!)
1. Denard Span (he was rocking Detroit and hitting at least .500 in every game. It was fun to watch him get on base every game!)

Now, I present some more pictures from the game yesterday! Enjoy:

Gracias, Ramos!

2010-05-04T11:13:00.000-05:00

Last night's win was a well deserved win! It was great seeing Scott Baker pitch well and the players remembering how to hit the ball and score runs (even with RISP!) There's been a lot of mean comments made lately about Scott Baker, which I know he hasn't had the best outings so far, and he is our ace, but how do we know that he isn't seeing these dirty remarks about how he shouldn't be our ace, etc and that is what's been causing him to be a slight head-case when he's pitching. He's been having a tendency to over think his pitches, which results in the ball being left up over the plate. Maybe after this performance some people will cut him some slack. I understand that people have bad days and they really are a hit to confidence and self-esteem. I want Timmy to do better! I want him to prove that he is the ace of our staff and that he can indeed get the job done.

I did find it highly amusing (and kinda sad) that when J'Michael Cuddyer hit his 3-run home run that after anxiously awaiting the balls landing, the first thing that came out of my mouth was "SKITTLES!" (for those who don't know the background story behind Skittles...Katie last year started promising Cuddy Skittles for every home run. At the last baseball unplugged, she actually GAVE Cuddy Skittles. This year, I've helped her modify it slightly. Cuddy gets Skittles (+1 for solo hr, +2 for 2-run, etc) for his home runs, but he loses 3 Skittles for every strike out.) I think this either means I'm hoping Cuddy gets out of the negative for Skittles, or that I hang out with Katie too much. I can't decide! I find this stat funny: Michael Cuddyer has hit all of his home runs at home, and Justin Morneau has hit all of his on the road so far this season! We need Justin to start hitting some at home! See how far he can send the ball flying!

What a night again for Wilson Ramos. He's gonna win the fans over quickly at this rate. It's really good to see him have another good night at the plate. Now, I'm sorry, but I do understand why he was sent down to Triple-A Rochester at the end of Spring Training. This kid should be hitting and playing every day. He's too good to have sit on a bench and only play once a week (maybe). I think what we all should do (along with the Twins) is enjoy Ramos while he is here. Once Joe returns to the line-up, I'm guessing that he'll return to Rochester. I think Ramos is going to make his case to become some very good trade bait for the Twins in the future.

Well today, I want to send out a Happy Birthday to Kevin Slowey! Hopefully his team can pull out a win for him, and the clouds and rain can stay away for the game tonight. Here's hoping for no thunderstorms during game time (for partially selfish reasons too, since I'll be at the game tonight).

Gardy Has A Man-Crush

2010-05-03T10:58:00.000-05:00

I think I'm going to get this sweatshirt for Gardy since he seems to have man crushes on a few different players. (sweatshirt on Zazzle). It's pretty obvious who he tends to favor and who sits in his doghouse frequently. It's like watching Jacques Lamaire coach the Wild again and knowing the guy who gets the 5 minutes of ice time, or frequently is the scratched player (even when they are a top prospect). It's also kind of frustrating at times.

So I really loved watching Wilson Ramos' performance in yesterday's game! It was clear that he's an overall better player than Drew Butera, but to play fair, I think it's also kind of a blow to Drew that Gardy said that Ramos will be the "starting" catcher while Joe is out. (Which by the way, if Gardy says Joe is "week to week", why aren't they putting him on the DL? It's killing my fantasy team too!) I think it could potentially make Drew lose even more confidence than he already has (having poor at-bats and a low average). I think Gardy needs to trust in some of the decisions he makes, and back them up. Don't get me wrong, I think at this point Ramos is a better starter, I mean how can anyone really argue the day he had yesterday in his first MLB start. He didn't look like a 22-year old and a rookie at that. He looked like a professional and if he was nervous, he sure didn't show it. I however am not going to base my like/dislike (I'm Swiss right now, aka neutral) on one games' performance. I think you need to consider overall, and roll with that.

I wish I would've been able to catch Saturday's game (even though the Twins lost), but I unfortunately had to work. Work's been busy, so that's why the blog has been a bit dim this past week. I promise to try and be better from now on.

I think the Twins did alright on Friday night. Sure, Kevin Slowey had a meltdown and had a hard time getting through 5 innings. I think he's been doing a little too many hanging out with Scott Baker. Scott Baker needs to up his game. I still love him, and I feel bad that he's had such rough outings, but I think it's more of a mental thing than a not being able to pitch good thing. It was great seeing Justin go deep in the first inning, I always enjoy those kind of starts.

Saturday's game was disappointing to watch ESPN update the score on my phone, only to see Matty G squander our 2-run lead and then the Twins ultimately lose in extra innings. Boys, this is not like hockey. There are no points for losing in extra innings. If there were, we'd have more than a 1/2 game lead over Detroit. How the hell did they get so close to us in the standings?!

Sunday's game, well I missed the top half of the first inning, and I missed Orlando Hudson getting a 2-run jack. Yesterday was the day of me missing every home run that the Twins hit. I ran to get gas for my car, and in the meanwhile, I missed Thome and Delmon's blasts! I wished I would have been able to see all of them, but I'll survive missing them. I'm just glad that the Twins won, Liriano was decent in his outing, and Jesse Crain (Crain-wreck) didn't screw us over big time.

I'm happy the Twins are back home for a good long week +. I'll be at the game 3 of the 9 game homestand. It should be fun seeing the boys in person again. They've been away too long.

One thing I am a little miffed about, the Pat Neshek situation. If Pat hadn't told the Twins that his finger still hurt, Dick Bremer said he would have been on his way to Triple-A Rochester. They want to demote Pat Neshek, but yet when Mijares, Crain suck, they get a pat on the butt and another chance to blow things. Pat Neshek has one bad outing (in all his times out this year) and he gets threatened to be demoted. Sure I understand that they needed room for Wilson Ramos since Joe is listed as day-to-day, but they had other options. They aren't in need of the extra bench player for reasons like inter-league play. They don't go to a NL teams place until June 18th. There seems to be enough bench options to part with one while Joe is out...and if Joe is out for a couple weeks, putting him on the DL would solve another problem. Maybe we need to start another one of those "Pitch In For Pat" Campaigns...

Okay, almost forgot the 3 Stars of the Cleveland Series:
3. Delmon Young (yes he didn't play in ever game either, but yesterday I think he showed us what he really is capable of! I like it!)
2. Wilson Ramos (the rookie only had one game to get on the list, and he deserved it. Let's hope he keeps this up!)
1. Orlando Hudson (he was a power house and had 3 good nights at the plate.)

Welcome to the Freak Show

2010-04-28T13:06:00.001-05:00

Last night it felt like I was watching a three-ring circus. Okay, so maybe not entirely like that, but it was an odd game. First of all, the Twins' runs were not scored on hits. Justin Verlander got the loss (which I'm thankful for), though he allowed 0 earned runs. Denard Span got tossed quickly (though none of us know exactly WHY he was tossed, I for one don't believe it was necessarily that he said anything. I think it was his action that led to him getting tossed.) I was thankful that I was not at the game, because it was have been a score keepers nightmare! Having to move Cuddy from RF to 1B and then out to CF, and then Young in the game to LF, Kubel from LF to RF and Brendan Harris from 3B to 1B. OY! What a blunder.

Thankfully the inability to get hits with RISP did not bite us in the butt last night. We capitalized on the errors the Tigers made and scored our runs on their mistakes. The best entertainment of my night (besides putting the TC logo on beads for a bracelet and earrings I was making), was a tweet I received in response to saying this: "Wow with how slow Jim Thome runs, I think I could run faster than him. And I don't run fast!" The response from Bennyc50: "Jim Thome doesn't run, the earth moves beneath him." I don't think I've laughed so hard.

Not much else to say about the game last night, other than I'm glad we won. I'm hoping we secure the series with a win tonight.

Here's the bracelet and earrings I did with TC logo's! (If anyone is interested in them, I will remake it, it is for sale.)

'Cause It's Broken

2010-04-26T11:58:00.000-05:00

Apparently the Twins have broken brooms and can't figure out how to sweep a team. I'm saddened with the fact that Kevin Slowey took another loss in yesterdays game. Do I entirely blame him for the loss? Absolutely not; and this is not my adoration for Kevin talking, this is the fact that we left numerous guys STRANDED on base. How many times were the bases loaded yesterday and no one could get that "clutch" hit? With runners in scoring position, the Twins were 1 for 11!

I am pleased that the Twins have now won 6 series in a row. That's a great accomplishment and it's never been done in Twins' history. As much as I would like them to win every game and sweep every team, I am realistic and know that it probably wouldn't happen (for any team really). They're just reminding us that they are not perfect, but are pretty high up there!

I'll give you the 3 Stars of the Series before moving onto some highlights (and maybe some low-lights) of the KC Royals series.
3. Justin Morneau (he's been somewhat of a hero this who season so far. I'm liking his offensive numbers, his home runs, and his golden glove worthy sprawls)
2. Orlando Hudson (he made good defensive moves and had a couple good nights at the plate)
1. Joe Mauer (baby Jesus has just been himself and produced and played well each and every night he plays. He went 5-6 on Saturday nights-game that would never end-bash.)

HIGHLIGHTS:
*JJ Hardy getting a homer on Friday night
*Jim Thome going deep Friday night as well (now you only owe us 54 more, Jim! Keep up the good work. I think you're setting a decent pace.)
*J'Michael Cuddyer racking up a few more RBI's bringing the total up to 17 for the season so far!
*Carl Pavano not having a meltdown and holding his run give-a-way total to a mere 2!
*Justin Morneau going deep two games in a row. 1 game I asked for the homer, the other, he just knew I wanted it.
*JJ Hardy getting a hit while my mom and I were talking a bit of smack about him (it was out of love, I swear!)
*Orlando Hudson for selling that 3rd out at second base to end the brutal 12-inning 4 hour, 15 minute game.
*The Twins for coming back and winning the 4 hour marathon game on Saturday.
*Pat Neshek for being a bad-ass and coming out to save the day. (it was unfortunate that Gardy didn't use him more than just that one lovely inning on Saturday)
*Jon Rauch blowing the save (yes, I'm not a fan of this, but it made me laugh, plus the Twins won, so no one get their panties in a bunch.)
*The Twins running Gil Meche out by the 4th inning on Friday's game.
*Pat Neshek for still having a 0.00 ERA.
*The Crain-wreck for not having a melt-down and giving up oodles of runs against us.
*The Twins for being the Twins and being so much fun to watch.
*Winning 6 Series in a row!

LOWLIGHTS:
*1 for 11 with RISP
*1 for 13 with RISP
*Jim Thome only having hit 3 home runs this season
*12 inning games
*Games that last 4 hours and 15 minutes
*Leaving the bases loaded.
*Jon Rauch blowing the save and our lead.
*Bert and Dick continuing to jinx players with their "calls".
*Bert's "calls". (they ALWAYS result in the player getting out.)
*Losing yesterday
*Kevin Slowey getting the loss
*Being unable to sweep teams that we should be able to DOMINATE.
*Being told I spelled a player on another team's name wrong (I flopped two letters around) and being told it was a "major fail".
*Never sweeping a team (so far).

Off day today...and Detroit Tigers Tuesday - Thursday!

Meanwhile, this is totally off the subject of my blog, but I have a prayer request (for those who pray). A friend of mine was shot and killed when her's and her husband's house got broken into. I am also good friends with Nick (the husband)'s sister Emily. Please keep the family in your thoughts and prayers! This is such a terrible tragedy. If you want to read about the tragedy, GO HERE.

Couldn't Pull the Trigger

2010-04-23T11:36:00.000-05:00

So the Twins couldn't yet again pull off a series sweep of a team. This time the team that lucked out and seemed to capitalize on this was Cleveland. For some reason the Twins just couldn't pull the trigger and get anything done yesterday. I'm not going to lie and say that I was a champ and sat through that game (listening mainly, watching only a little bit)...I didn't. I went home for lunch, watched about a half hour of the ass whopping and then decided that a nap was more enjoyable to the game. When I went back to work (when the Indians had the bases loaded with no outs), the Twins did not go back on the radio. I left it up to Twitter to tell me the final score (and when runs were scored in general). It was hard to look at the box score and see that the Twins only had 4 hits in the entire game, two coming from Justin, one from Drew Butera (his first MLB hit! So congrats Drew!!) and one from Denard. From our offense I would have expected a bit more. Is that being greedy or having too high of expectations? No, I don't think it is. I think the Twins have set these expectations that every one is placing on them. They are excelling more than most would have thought possible.

I still love you Timmy! (Scott Baker)

Wednesday night however was a different story. Sure they only had two more hits than yesterday's game, but Wednesday night their walks seem to haunt a little bit more and hit the Indians where it counted. You don't necessarily need an abundance of hits, you just need the clutch hits, the run scoring hits (or walks) to win the games.

As much as I loved J'Michael Cuddyer getting a home run to give the Twins a 4-0 lead (at that time), I didn't like that he was in the lineup that my fantasy team was playing this week. With Kubel hitting poorly right now (a mere .180 after Thursday's game) and being on my team. Currently I'm sitting at the very bottom of 10 teams in the standings. Kubel's ass is going on the bench now for a while, and I'm going to give someone else the opportunity to raise some hell, since he can't do it. Thankfully, Colby Rasmus was a bad ass the same night as Cuddy went deep. Rasmus went deep twice in the game, so that helped the blow I took from Cuddy.

I'm glad that the Twins already had the series win in the bag before Thursday's game. It marked the first time that the Twins have won 5 series in a row. This year is really starting to become the year of firsts (obviously with the new field that opens up a lot more firsts). What else will the Twins be able to make a "first" of?

In honor of them winning yet another series, I present:

The 3 Stars of the Series:

3. Justin Morneau (Justin kind of has sat under the radar in these few games. He's gotten some clutch hits that we've needed and seems to be one of the guys that's been quite consistent with getting hits back to back games.)

2. Francisco Liriano (Fran exceeded all of my expectations of how he might pitch and went 8 innings allowing no runs. I'm not the biggest fan of his, but I will give him credit. He pitched a great game and got out of jambs that could've have been quite lethal.)

1. Kevin Slowey (am I partial by selecting Kevin as the number 1 star? Probably a little, since I love him so much, but I don't care! Kevin pitched an outstanding 8 innings only allowing 1 run. I think Gardy should've brought him out for the 9th, but at 97 pitches he turned it over to Brian Duensing.)

It sounds like the series this weekend against the Royals could be difficult to play due to rain threatening. I won't be able to catch tonight's game if played (due to a conflict that will keep me away from TV and radio until probably around 10pm). I will however be checking Twitter and ESPN for constant updates about the games' progress! I think Carl Pavano has what it takes to dominate the Royals. Thankfully this road trip will keep the Twins in our time zone (or ahead of us) so that no one has to stay up until late in the night just to catch the full game. Plus they will be facing division rivals, which will give them a chance at gaining more of a lead in the AL Central Division. I look forward to seeing how many games they can inch ahead.