Minnesota Twins

[Xmasjjm]

Yes, that's true, but it sort feels like if do end up going deeper into the playoffs with our current staff, it will be because we got lucky or something that our current rotation happened to be on top of their games at the time. Do you really want to see Blackburn or Slowey pitch in the playoffs like they did in Philadelphia (or Seattle also for Blackburn)? I sort of feel like the window of opportunity to really make a push in the playoffs is relatively short, it takes a lot of ingredients to do it. I know we're always competitive in the central, but the playoffs have always been a different story. I have a feeling that if the Twins don't make it past the first round this year (again) and get into at least the ALCS, then the Twins will be taking a serious look at Gardenhire. I know at the beginning of the season that the Twins brass had specific expectations of the team and getting booted in the first round of the playoffs is not one of them. It was mentioned that I think the GM made a speech to the team during spring training that they expect to go deep into the playoffs and he was looking straight at Gardenhire when he said it. I remember hearing something like that anyway.

It would be asinine to ever fire Gardy...he should be there as long as he wants. It's not his fault that he has Nick Punto, Blackburn, and a bum at short...

Trading top prospects for an ace does not mean that they will get past the first round...

[Benny003]

It would be asinine to ever fire Gardy...he should be there as long as he wants. It's not his fault that he has Nick Punto, Blackburn, and a bum at short...

Trading top prospects for an ace does not mean that they will get past the first round...

Certainly doesn't hurt your chances in the near term though. Not much point in going to the playoffs every year just to lose in the first round. Obviously something is missing if it keeps happening over and over again.

[Xmasjjm]

Certainly doesn't hurt your chances in the near term though. Not much point in going to the playoffs every year just to lose in the first round. Obviously something is missing if it keeps happening over and over again.

Ever read Moneyball? Billy Beane said the playoffs are a crap-shoot and he is right. Look at how close the Twins were to wining 2 games against the Yankees last year...

I'm all for adding an ace, especially Cliff Lee, but not at a high cost. Ramos, Manship or Swarsak, and Joe Benson is plenty for a guy who is going to sign for $16m+ with a different team after this season.

In my opinion the thing that has been missing in the playoffs is confidence. You can't be very confident in the playoffs with Nick Punto starting...Unless the Twins add an ace their fate for 2010 is all with the sticks: time for Span, Mauer, Morneau, Cuddyer, Kubel, and Young to carry the team.

[Nick@Night]

If the Twins make a trade for a pitcher I hope it's for a guy that will stick around next year.

[42graystreet]

Ever read Moneyball? Billy Beane said the playoffs are a crap-shoot and he is right. Look at how close the Twins were to wining 2 games against the Yankees last year...

I'm all for adding an ace, especially Cliff Lee, but not at a high cost. Ramos, Manship or Swarsak, and Joe Benson is plenty for a guy who is going to sign for $16m+ with a different team after this season.

In my opinion the thing that has been missing in the playoffs is confidence. You can't be very confident in the playoffs with Nick Punto starting...Unless the Twins add an ace their fate for 2010 is all with the sticks: time for Span, Mauer, Morneau, Cuddyer, Kubel, and Young to carry the team.

It is very hard to believe this line of thinking, but my baseball statistic geek friend tells me this all the time. The Twins really shouldn't do anything that is a "short-term" move in an effort to get further in the playoffs. These moves cost us valuable prospects and don't pan out very often. We only think they do because when it does pan out, everyone makes a huge deal out of it.

We need to keep with our same philosophy that has gotten us into the playoffs 6 out of the last 8 years. The playoffs really are a crap shoot with injuries and individual player slumps accounting for more than the addition of a single player. We just haven't gotten very lucky.

Now with that said...if we can con the Mariners into making a deal like Blackburn/Ramos/prospect X for a pitcher like Cliff Lee, then let's do it. But if they want our entire farm system, no way in hell.

[UNLTrpt]

I heard on ESPN radio a couple weeks ago after the Twins played the Yankees, one of the talking heads was asking one of the baseball guys why the Yankees have such a good record against the Twins. He attributed it to our pitching. What are we known for? Good control, Pitching strikes. He said the Yankees are a good "strike" hitting team. That they hit good control pitchers really well. We're just going to have to out slug them.

[Benny003]

Ugh! Tying run on first with one out and Kubel breaks his bat hitting into a double play. What an opportunity.

[Benny003]

Umpire must have had a dinner reservation he had to meet. First pitch to Morneau was 8 inches off the plate. It was so far outside it almost didn't fit on the FoxTrax thing. Put Morneau on the defensive for the next 2 pitches and that's all she wrote. Frustrating loss for sure.

[Benny003]

Losing 2 in a row to the Brewers, great. They go for the sweep tomorrow. I can't believe we get Morneau up two nights in a row as the tying run in the 9th inning and he strikes out both times. Not cool.

[grace2]

:lol Common Man was talking about that pitch that was so far outside it barely fit on FoxTrax. I hope the Twins can pull it together like they were at the beginning of the season. Getting swept to the Brewers would NOT be okay.

[Benny003]

Not hitting with runners in scoring position is what killed them tonight. I have no idea why our starting pitching is struggling so badly on the road (except Pavano). They just look like a different group on the road than they do at home. We need to be sharp for Detroit coming to town next week.

[42graystreet]

I'm so nauseous after watching the Twins lately, that I can't bare being in this thread for more than a few moments. [dry heave]

[bigeyefish22]

Big test today: play with some pride and avoid the sweep, or roll over??

Gotta roll out the best lineup you can, too, right?

[Nick@Night]

Big test today: play with some pride and avoid the sweep, or roll over??

Gotta roll out the best lineup you can, too, right?
I did like that Cuddy said to Gardy that if putting him at 3B gave the team the best chance to win by getting Kubel and Thome in the line-up more that he'd be ok with it.

[bigeyefish22]

I did like that Cuddy said to Gardy that if putting him at 3B gave the team the best chance to win by getting Kubel and Thome in the line-up more that he'd be ok with it.

Hell yes, love Cuddy.

[42graystreet]

I did like that Cuddy said to Gardy that if putting him at 3B gave the team the best chance to win by getting Kubel and Thome in the line-up more that he'd be ok with it.

I've wanted something like this to happen for a couple months now.

[Benny003]

I just hope having Cuddyer as a relatively inexperienced 3rd baseman doesn't hurt us defensively. Things like that can cost runs. I do like how the batting lineup looks though.

[Benny003]

Blackburn!! :mad

[AJF_41]

Didn't make it through 4. Ouch.

Sweeeeeeeeep. Lame.

[42graystreet]

No chance now that we could move Blacky in a trade. He sucks.

[dmb@uvm]

:D:bounce

[Benny003]

Getting swept by the Brewers, unbelievable. Hasn't happened since like 1996 or something. This road trip is killing us.

[sean52692]

damnit twins.

[Benny003]

I miss seeing the Blackburn from game 163 in 2008.

[bigeyefish22]

:D:bounce

You guys got a pretty nice line-up when it's clicking. Looked good against us, at least.

[dmb@uvm]

You guys got a pretty nice line-up when it's clicking. Looked good against us, at least.

Thats the problem tho, it very rarely clicks. Im hoping they can go on a nice run before the ASB but I wont get my hopes too high.

[Benny003]

I just have to keep telling myself the season is less than half over. Still not fun watching our lead in the central evaporate though. Hopefully coming home will get them going again. Should be a fun matchup tomorrow though, Pavano vs. Santana.

[Benny003]

"Entering Friday, the Twins' starting pitchers had posted a 9.67 ERA over the first six games of the road trip, having allowed 29 runs in 27 innings."

:BANG

http://minnesota.twins.mlb.com/news/article.jsp?ymd=20100625&content_id=11569068&vkey=recap&fext=.jsp&c_id=min

[CrashTheStone41]

This race is going to be exciting!! Just like the last 2 seasons I see it coming down to the last few games

[42graystreet]

we suck :(

[Nick@Night]

Nice to see them get on Santana right away.

[42graystreet]

We didn't suck today. That was nice to see. Pavano with another great start.

[handsareme]

...at least the Twins won today.

[crashintonickdm]

dont lose tomorrow, you fockin bums

[42graystreet]

dont lose tomorrow, you fockin bums

We've got Scotty Baker on the mound today, so the Mets have a good chance :shrug Baker has been shitty on the road this season.

[CrashTheStone41]

Please lose tomorrow, you fockin bums

Fixed for the Sox fans

[42graystreet]

God, I hate being right sometimes.

[Benny003]

This can't continue otherwise we can kiss the playoffs goodbye. I'm hoping either this upcoming homestand wakes them up or maybe even the All-Star break gives them a chance to recover. The team looks a little burnt out right now.

[UNLTrpt]

Safe to say this is a pretty big series against Detroit. We need to get our mojo back.

[Nick@Night]

At least Verlander pitched yesterday, so we won't see him. Unfortunately the Tigers won't see Pavano.

[42graystreet]

At least Verlander pitched yesterday, so we won't see him. Unfortunately the Tigers won't see Pavano.

This sentence completely embodies the current troubles we face. Super Pavario (featuring "the 'stache") is our best pitcher. Can't believe a June series would feel this important, but it kind of does.

[Benny003]

Pavano should be pitching Friday, right? I have tickets for the game, I'm wearing a fake mustache to the game and I'm making my wife wear one too. Respect the 'stache!

It has to only be a matter of time before Target Field has an official Carl Pavano Mustache Night where they give out 20,000 free fake mustaches.

[AJF_41]

great start...

[Nick@Night]

Kubel, you have batted twice and created 4 outs. Stop it, you're making Cuddy jealous.

[Nick@Night]

That's the slowest triple I have seen since Redmond's a few years ago in the dome.

Edit: Thome's first triple since 2004.

[grace2]

Thome's tripled before? I figured he's only hit home runs and singles

[rustysurf83]

I really hope the Twins start winning so Kenny Williams will come to his senses and sell off what he can...

[grace2]

Joel Zumaya. I forgot this guy even existed, man he throws hard.

Edit: Holy cow, did he just throw his arm out?

[Nick@Night]

Joel Zumaya. I forgot this guy even existed, man he throws hard.

Edit: Holy cow, did he just throw his arm out?
He just pulled a Chet Steadman. May very well be his last pitch ever.

[davelk10]

Looks like a broken humerus, damn that pitching arm has taken a lot of abuse just about every season for the past 4 years

Reminders of Dave Dravecky of Giants in the late 80's and Tony Saunders of Marlins in the late 90's

[handsareme]

Hopefully this is just a mid-season slump.

[Benny003]

What I don't understand is how 4 out of the 5 starters have all hit the wall. It's just terrible watching them because it's a trainwreck every game lately except for Pavano.

Mauer is getting depressing to watch. This is one of the lowest batting averages I've ever seen him with.

[Benny003]

Ugly, ugly, ugly:

For a team that had been in first place for all but three days so far this season, the Twins certainly have had concerns of late. Not including the two starts by Carl Pavano, the rest of the starting staff combined to post a 12.10 ERA on the recent road trip. After breaking the record for fewest number of errors by any team in history over the first 50 games of the season, the Twins have seen many errors prove costly lately. And in Monday's loss, the club grounded into three inning-ending double plays to give it a Major League-leading 88 GIDPs this season.

http://minnesota.twins.mlb.com/news/article.jsp?ymd=20100628&content_id=11707088&vkey=recap&fext=.jsp&c_id=min

[42graystreet]

I will be there in person tonight to watch this team soil our beautiful park. I'm so depressed about the Twins. It's influencing my ability to get psyched for Alpine.

[Benny003]

I'll be there too. Could be the last time we see Blackburn for a while if he doesn't perform. Did I see him correctly in the dugout on Sunday? Was he sporting a Carl Pavano mustache? I think he was. Keep an eye out for it tonight.

[Nick@Night]

I'll be there too. Could be the last time we see Blackburn for a while if he doesn't perform. Did I see him correctly in the dugout on Sunday? Was he sporting a Carl Pavano mustache? I think he was. Keep an eye out for it tonight.
He said he wasn't sure if he was going to keep it past Sunday.

[Benny003]

He said he wasn't sure if he was going to keep it past Sunday.

Well it seems to be doing wonders for Pavano. Blackburn might as well give it a try too!

[bigeyefish22]

Im not sure when this stretch of bad play will end but I can't see the team playing any worse as a whole. Just gotta get through it somehow, with chances still intact.

[Benny003]

The hitting is actually fine for the most part, especially now that we have the DH back. It's all the starting pitching basically besides the odd errors that have been happening here and there. It feels like every game lately we automatically start in a 4 or 5 run hole.

[Nick@Night]

We're wasting Delmon's hot productive streak.

[tosssweep]

We're wasting Delmon's hot productive streak.

QFT.

I think the two things to blame for this skid are obvious: 1) Poor pitching from our starters (Pavano & his 'stache excluded) and 2) Injuries to our middle infield, "forcing" (this is up for heated debate) Gardy to run out half the Rochester crew, especially on Sundays.

Baseball is a game of consistency and we're lacking it right now. It's also a game of knee-jerk reactions from fans, which is what all the fuss is about.

[Benny003]

QFT.

I think the two things to blame for this skid are obvious: 1) Poor pitching from our starters (Pavano & his 'stache excluded) and 2) Injuries to our middle infield, "forcing" (this is up for heated debate) Gardy to run out half the Rochester crew, especially on Sundays.

Baseball is a game of consistency and we're lacking it right now. It's also a game of knee-jerk reactions from fans, which is what all the fuss is about.

I have to remind myself the season is just now getting to the halfway point. There is still a lot of baseball left to be played. It's just frustrating to watch what was once a fantastic playing team a month ago play so poorly now.

[42graystreet]

This is awesome. Sitting back at Target Field on a perfect summer evening, sipping a beer, watching the Twins crush the Tiggers. Couldn't ask for anything more.

[Benny003]

This is awesome. Sitting back at Target Field on a perfect summer evening, sipping a beer, watching the Twins crush the Tiggers. Couldn't ask for anything more.

Agreed, it was a great game to be at tonight. Not only did we get 3 triples from Denard Span (!), but we got Thome's 572nd homerun, one shy of Killebrew. I hope I can be at the game where he ties him. Hopefully Thursday or Friday.

[bigeyefish22]

Last night was fun. Not to be a damper but I couldn't agree with Reusse more: http://www.startribune.com/sports/twins/97448704.html?page=1&c=y

[Benny003]

Yeah, I would agree with that as well.

[Benny003]

Everything has looked really good the last 2 games. Now let's keep it going through Tampa Bay and on the road, then I'll feel better.

[bigeyefish22]

In one series, I've never seen so many outfielders looking lost in the outfield than the Tigers did. Just sprinting toward the wall, desperately thrusting gloves in the air, letting balls kick away and bounce all the way back to the infielders,... it was a debacle, probably cost them 5 runs in 3 games (total shot in the dark).

[grace2]

If the Twins take this into the next series, we'll be just fine.

[AJF_41]

Everything has looked really good the last 2 games. Now let's keep it going through Tampa Bay and on the road, then I'll feel better.

Yup......

[Benny003]

I really like our batting lineup with Cuddyer at 3rd base. Just imagine when we get Hardy back in there instead of Punto batting (although he really hasn't been doing bad lately).

Also, I'm loving the weather this week. I've been lucky enough to get to go to 4 games this week. The weather has been flawless.

[AJF_41]

come on...2 out in the 9th...lame.

extra innings needed.

[davelk10]

Absolutely brutal call at 3rd in the 10th. Although it ultimately didn't have an effect on the game, it was still terrible. No consistency behind the plate either.

Also great job Rausch, we can't be blowing these games.

[Benny003]

Tonight sucked. One strike away from the win and we end up losing the game. I was surprised the Guerrier blew the 10th like that. He's usually rock solid.

So what exactly happened on that call at 3rd? I was on the first base side and all I remember is that the ball beat the runner by a mile and Cuddyer was waiting for the runner to arrive so he could tag him. I looked away briefly because I thought it was a sure out. Next thing I know I see the 3rd base umpire calling him safe. I had never heard Target Field boo so loud before.

I took pictures at the game. I don't think there was anything too overwhelming, but should be a few nice shots.

[Benny003]

I saw the replay on Sportscenter. That ump was a fucking idiot. How is possible to even conceive that Cuddyer didn't tag him out?! What a joke. Didn't affect the score, but was just the icing on the cake for terrible calls all night.

[Benny003]

Watch the video here about that tag at 3rd last night, they included all 3 networks that were broadcasting the game. Funny how only the Rays broadcast seems to honestly think he was safe.

http://minnesota.twins.mlb.com/news/article.jsp?ymd=20100702&content_id=11829666&vkey=news_min&fext=.jsp&c_id=min

"He never tagged him," Maddon said. "He wasn't tagged and he was safe. The umpire made a good call."

I just lost a little respect for Maddon. I can understand if he wants to make that case during the game for the sake of his team, but after watching the replay there is simply no way you can say he honestly missed the tag. That's a joke. I know the play really meant nothing, but how dumb do you have to be to argue he was honestly safe?

From now on Cuddyer will probably just have plow into runners to get the call I guess.

[Benny003]

Great game tonight from Baker. We pulled out a 4-hit win against their ace. Rauch held on to the save, so that's encouraging. I got pictures of the post-game fireworks, but I won't be able to work on them until next week. I'm hitting up Alpine this weekend of course.

[GOB_]

Watch the video here about that tag at 3rd last night, they included all 3 networks that were broadcasting the game. Funny how only the Rays broadcast seems to honestly think he was safe.

http://minnesota.twins.mlb.com/news/article.jsp?ymd=20100702&content_id=11829666&vkey=news_min&fext=.jsp&c_id=min

"He never tagged him," Maddon said. "He wasn't tagged and he was safe. The umpire made a good call."

I just lost a little respect for Maddon. I can understand if he wants to make that case during the game for the sake of his team, but after watching the replay there is simply no way you can say he honestly missed the tag. That's a joke. I know the play really meant nothing, but how dumb do you have to be to argue he was honestly safe?

From now on Cuddyer will probably just have plow into runners to get the call I guess.

I just want to say that I was watching the Rays' broadcast and after they saw the replays they thought he was out as well. As far as Maddon, he's an idiot.

http://tampabay.rays.mlb.com/video/play.jsp?content_id=9565131&topic_id=8877450&c_id=tb

[Benny003]

Congrats to Mauer and Morneau, now let's get Delmon on the All-Star team!

http://mlb.mlb.com/mlb/events/all_star/y2010/fv/ballot.html

[grace2]

Delmon should already be in the all-star game imo

[jkrue22]

Reports that Cliff Lee could be heading to the Twins for prospects... I would love this for fantasy and real life purposes. :D

http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/2010/baseball/mlb/07/05/mariners.lee/index.html?eref=sihp

[UNLTrpt]

Reports that Cliff Lee could be heading to the Twins for prospects... I would love this for fantasy and real life purposes. :D

http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/2010/baseball/mlb/07/05/mariners.lee/index.html?eref=sihp

I think if Ramos is the only person (of consequence) that we give up in the deal, I think its ok. If we start getting into pitching prospects or even current bullpen arms, I don't think it would be a good deal.

And I wonder what the possibility would be if we could sign him to a 1 or 2 year deal? Or are we all just writing off the fact that he's going to be a 2nd half player.

[Benny003]

Delmon should already be in the all-star game imo

Your votes now can help make sure it happens.

[Benny003]

I think if Ramos is the only person (of consequence) that we give up in the deal, I think its ok. If we start getting into pitching prospects or even current bullpen arms (not including Crain), I don't think it would be a good deal.

And I wonder what the possibility would be if we could sign him to a 1 or 2 year deal? Or are we all just writing off the fact that he's going to be a 2nd half player.

Fixed...

[Nick@Night]

Congrats to Mauer and Morneau, now let's get Delmon on the All-Star team!

http://mlb.mlb.com/mlb/events/all_star/y2010/fv/ballot.html
It will be Swisher or Youk, in something like this the larger market fanbase will determine the vote.

[Benny003]

It will be Swisher or Youk, in something like this the larger market fanbase will determine the vote.

Doesn't hurt to try.

Jason Stark was saying on Mike and Mike this morning that the Twins are the front runner for getting Cliff Lee.

[AJF_41]

Hicks and Ramos for Lee?

[Nick@Night]

A guy from the Tribune had a blog/article today about giving a prospect for Lee and cited when the Tigers dealt for Doyle Alexander during the 1987 season to help them in a close division race. The prospect they traded was John Smoltz and in hind sight the Tigers got a solid 1/2 season from Alexander and a division championship but the Braves got 10+ from Smoltz and several divison titles. I guess the difference here is if the Twins did trade Ramos, it's not like him doing well in the future for another team was a missed opportunity for us. Mauer is going to be the man here the next 7 years, Ramos should be expendable in a move for Lee with no regrets.

Edit: http://www.startribune.com/sports/twins/blogs/97851114.html?elr=KArksLckD8EQDUoaEyqyP4O:DW3ckUiD 3aPc:_Yyc:aUycaEacyU

[UNLTrpt]

A guy from the Tribune had a blog/article today about giving a prospect for Lee and cited when the Tigers dealt for Doyle Alexander during the 1987 season to help them in a close division race. The prospect they traded was John Smoltz and in hind sight the Tigers got a solid 1/2 season from Alexander and a division championship but the Braves got 10+ from Smoltz and several divison titles. I guess the difference here is if the Twins did trade Ramos, it's not like him doing well in the future for another team was a missed opportunity for us. Mauer is going to be the man here the next 7 years, Ramos should be expendable in a move for Lee with no regrets.

Edit: http://www.startribune.com/sports/twins/blogs/97851114.html?elr=KArksLckD8EQDUoaEyqyP4O:DW3ckUiD 3aPc:_Yyc:aUycaEacyU

exactly. Mauer isn't going anywhere. I did see somewhere that the Twins might be throwing around an idea of a C/1B/DH triple headed monster. But that means Mauer would have to play 1B sometimes, I don't know if we want to do that.

[bigeyefish22]

Anyone else loathe and ignore the mlb all-star game? I do.

[Nick@Night]

Anyone else loathe and ignore the mlb all-star game? I do.
I pay attention to it, the fact we have perennial guys that are going to it now makes it fun to follow. I will always watch the HR derby, if nothing else.

[42graystreet]

Anyone else loathe and ignore the mlb all-star game? I do.

I love it. I don't necessarily agree to using it as the World Series home-field determining factor, but I still thoroughly enjoy watching the game and the HR Derby.

[grace2]

I think if Ramos is the only person (of consequence) that we give up in the deal, I think its ok. If we start getting into pitching prospects or even current bullpen arms, I don't think it would be a good deal.

And I wonder what the possibility would be if we could sign him to a 1 or 2 year deal? Or are we all just writing off the fact that he's going to be a 2nd half player.
If we can manage to sign him, then it's a good move. But I don't want to give up quality prospects for a guy we're only gonna have for half a year.

[42graystreet]

winner

88

[grace2]

What's wrong with the MLB All-Star game? I think it's by far the best all star game out of any sport. And the fact that two Twins starters are playing helps too.

[grace2]

A guy from the Tribune had a blog/article today about giving a prospect for Lee and cited when the Tigers dealt for Doyle Alexander during the 1987 season to help them in a close division race. The prospect they traded was John Smoltz and in hind sight the Tigers got a solid 1/2 season from Alexander and a division championship but the Braves got 10+ from Smoltz and several divison titles. I guess the difference here is if the Twins did trade Ramos, it's not like him doing well in the future for another team was a missed opportunity for us. Mauer is going to be the man here the next 7 years, Ramos should be expendable in a move for Lee with no regrets.

Edit: http://www.startribune.com/sports/twins/blogs/97851114.html?elr=KArksLckD8EQDUoaEyqyP4O:DW3ckUiD 3aPc:_Yyc:aUycaEacyU
Interesting article. However, I disagree that we should have no regrets trading Ramos if he becomes a great player. You want to keep your best prospects regardless of whether or not you need someone at that position. It's like the NFL Draft, every analyst will tell you to draft the best avaliable player, not what you need. The Twins need to be smart and not deal out great prospects for a guy who will only be here half a year.

Now, if we can sign Lee, then that's a different story.

[Nick@Night]

Delmon is in dead last in the voting for the final AL spot. Not shocking.

[Nick@Night]

Interesting article. However, I disagree that we should have no regrets trading Ramos if he becomes a great player. You want to keep your best prospects regardless of whether or not you need someone at that position. It's like the NFL Draft, every analyst will tell you to draft the best avaliable player, not what you need. The Twins need to be smart and not deal out great prospects for a guy who will only be here half a year.

Now, if we can sign Lee, then that's a different story.
Unlike the NFL, Ramos can't steal at-bats from Mauer the way a running back can take carries away from the current starter (see Adrian Peterson and Chester Taylor).

[grace2]

Unlike the NFL, Ramos can't steal at-bats from Mauer the way a running back can take carries away from the current starter (see Adrian Peterson and Chester Taylor).
Yeah, but he can DH. Or Mauer can DH. There are ways around it, if they're both great players it's not like there's nothing we can do about and only one player can hit.

[Nick@Night]

Yeah, but he can DH. Or Mauer can DH. There are ways around it, if they're both great players it's not like there's nothing we can do about and only one player can hit.
If he doesn't go in a trade for Lee, I bet he goes in a trade eventually.

Edit: I'd rather see Smith unload Ramos instead of Hicks in a Lee deal.

[grace2]

Yeah and I'm saying we shouldn't do that

[42graystreet]

Someone on the radio made a good point about Hicks yesterday. He's an A ball player with a great reputation as a guy who can develop into the next big thing. That's what you hear out of the Twins farm. Maybe that's what they want us to hear, to make his value (in a potential trade.......) seem higher than it is. Maybe our farm hands have seen some chinks in the Hicks armor and that's why we're willing to let him go in a trade for Lee.

As for Ramos, I have no problems letting him go. The catcher position is one we don't have to worry about for a couple years.

[Benny003]

Buster Olney said yesterday on Baseball Tonight that the Twins made a real offer of Slowey and Ramos for Lee. Hicks was not part of the current offer. I like the idea. I mean when this team is clicking on all cylinders, they are a force to be reckoned with. With Lee in the playoffs, we would be a serious contender.

Side note, what in the hell is wrong with Guerrier lately? How many losses does he have in the last week? 2 for sure, I can't remember if there was a 3rd or maybe it was just a blown hold.

[bigeyefish22]

Buster Olney said yesterday on Baseball Tonight that the Twins made a real offer of Slowey and Ramos for Lee. Hicks was not part of the current offer. I like the idea. I mean when this team is clicking on all cylinders, they are a force to be reckoned with. With Lee in the playoffs, we would be a serious contender.

Side note, what in the hell is wrong with Guerrier lately? How many losses does he have in the last week? 2 for sure, I can't remember if there was a 3rd or maybe it was just a blown hold.

I don't mind that deal either, specially with a few arms in the minors that could be ready for the rotation by next year.

Other than Lee, who else might fill that role with the Twins? I've heard about Oswalt but he's owed 16mil next season. There's also Dan Haren, not sure his contract status, but hes no longer a world beater (at least not so far this season).

[Benny003]

Oswalt is the only other one I've heard, but I think the deal with the Mariners makes more sense since they are actively seeking a talented catcher.

[bigeyefish22]

Oswalt is the only other one I've heard, but I think the deal with the Mariners makes more sense since they are actively seeking a talented catcher.

I agree in that respect. A good catching prospect would be more valuable than just about any other position to most teams though. I'm just not sold on giving up such a good asset (along with whoever else would go) for a rental. Only way I would be all for that would be if we were *that player* away from being front runners, or at least second to no other team. This team has been below average for over 2 months (something like 26-30 in their last 56, I believe). I know they had some injuries but starting pitching has been the main issue and even with Lee, with the performance we're seeing now, our starting rotation wouldn't match up to the best ones.

[Nick@Night]

Word is Texas is getting together a prospect deal for Lee, they appear more than willing to give up talent. Baker wastes no time fitting in with his fellow starting mates by giving up multiple homeruns to the Jays.

[AJF_41]

Are we not going to make the playoffs?

[42graystreet]

Are we not going to make the playoffs?

this remains a possibility.

In transfer news, the Yankees put together a package that includes their super-star catcher prospect (forget his name). Looks like we're only one of many options the Mariners have. I don't like our chances. And I feel that we must make a move to bring in pitching, otherwise we aren't going to the playoffs. The starting rotation (Bakey/Blacky/Slowey) has just been so disappointing this year.

[Benny003]

I really don't understand how our pitching can be this poor after starting out so great. I really hope this is just a temporary funk. The one good thing is that we're still pretty decent at home (for the most part). We've never been a good road team, but we do need to improve on what we've been doing lately.

[Nick@Night]

So much for Lee, at least he's not going to the Yankees.

http://sports.espn.go.com/dallas/mlb/news/story?id=5367615

[42graystreet]

What about Oswalt? Are we even the running for him? Are the Astros listening to offers yet?

[Nick@Night]

I'd assume the Twins would start discussing that avenue, they need to do something before the wheels fall completely off.

[bigeyefish22]

Oswalt makes 16 mil next year, that makes me a bit leery. Might be better than nothing though, and you might be able to re-sign him? If you'd want to? Could he act like Jack Morris for us... not stylistically, of course, but you get what I'm saying.

[uro55]

Fuck it, get Oswalt!

[Nick@Night]

I guess the one silver lining in this is the Rangers aren't a lock for the post season, so if they miss and we make it we don't have to face him in a Yankee uniform.

[uro55]

I guess the one silver lining in this is the Rangers aren't a lock for the post season, so if they miss and we make it we don't have to face him in a Yankee uniform.

I'm most happy about that.

Also I'm thinking that even though Oswalt makes big money, and I think has one year and an option left on his deal? Houston might be willing to pay some of his salary to move him.

[bigeyefish22]

I guess the one silver lining in this is the Rangers aren't a lock for the post season, so if they miss and we make it we don't have to face him in a Yankee uniform.

I think they are now. I do. I predicted the Twins would beat the Rangers in the alcs before the season started, and I considered that wishful thinking. Yeah, tootin' my own horn, sorry, just sayin'... they're good

[Benny003]

The Twins are quickly becoming less and less fun to watch. Maybe we can just skip the first 4 innings, start with a 5 run deficit and have our bullpen on the mound right off the bat. That would make the games much faster with identical results just about every game.

[AJF_41]

double play with bases loaded....

arrgghhhh!

[bigeyefish22]

We'll come back.

Right?

Right.

[tosssweep]

No Cliff Lee to the rescue.

Continuing the 6 week skid...

The All-Star break better be the energizer we need...

[Benny003]

So how do we explain how basically all of our starters suddenly suck? I mean I understand one or two guys have a little slump, but this is like our entire rotation just became terrible all at the same time. Do we blame Rick Anderson or what is it?

[bigeyefish22]

So how do we explain how basically all of our starters suddenly suck? I mean I understand one or two guys have a little slump, but this is like our entire rotation just became terrible all at the same time. Do we blame Rick Anderson or what is it?

I wonder the same. It's beyond my knowledge of baseball to make any conclusions about it. Doesn't seem to happen to other teams as much though? I wonder about that, too. Like when guys on other teams reach a level of effectiveness Baker has, Blackburn has shown, Slowey too, they don't seem to struggle as often and as long as our guys do. I have a feeling that's not accurate though, I'm sure it happens to other teams just as much. Maybe these guys (the aforementioned 3, maybe Frank too, in a different way) just aren't that good.

[bigeyefish22]

Someone should email Sinker, JoeC or LaVelle and ask. I'd do it if I had time. I have before, and they usually answer thoughtfully.

[bigeyefish22]

The Tigers are going to beat us by double digits tomorrow.





















































8

[bigeyefish22]

blurb in the Strib: While lamenting Nick Blackburn's reluctance to throw off-speed pitches, pitching coach Rick Anderson pointed to the success Carl Pavano is having by doing so.

What the fuck am I reading?? Maybe it is Anderson. You don't let your kid tell you he's eating ice cream for dinner, you're the parent and you feed him greens; likewise, you're the pitching coach, you tell him to throw what he needs to throw to be successful or you don't start him anymore. It's called coaching, helping guys understand what will make them successful. Apparently Anderson's all hands-off and $hit and he's gonna let Blackburn start calling himself Frankenstein and eating ketchup for dinner. Christ.

[Xmasjjm]

blurb in the Strib: While lamenting Nick Blackburn's reluctance to throw off-speed pitches, pitching coach Rick Anderson pointed to the success Carl Pavano is having by doing so.

What the fuck am I reading?? Maybe it is Anderson. You don't let your kid tell you he's eating ice cream for dinner, you're the parent and you feed him greens; likewise, you're the pitching coach, you tell him to throw what he needs to throw to be successful or you don't start him anymore. It's called coaching, helping guys understand what will make them successful. Apparently Anderson's all hands-off and $hit and he's gonna let Blackburn start calling himself Frankenstein and eating ketchup for dinner. Christ.

The problem is not Rick Anderson. The problem is that the Twins starters are not that good. At their best, each is only a true number 3, maybe a 2 on a normal staff. Anderson can't make Blackburn's pitches sink, he can't make Slowey's stuff break, and he can't calm Liriano down. That stuff is 100% ability, either mental or physical that each player figures out.

The pitching wouldn't be such a sore spot if the Twins could score more than 3 runs a game. This lineup, when healthy, should produce 5-7 runs a game at least in theory.

Maybe the break will restart some things. If not, then hopefully this is the year that the Twins learn that Blackburn, Slowey, and Baker are just not good enough to be in a competitive MLB rotation.

[bigeyefish22]

The problem is not Rick Anderson. The problem is that the Twins starters are not that good. At their best, each is only a true number 3, maybe a 2 on a normal staff. Anderson can't make Blackburn's pitches sink, he can't make Slowey's stuff break, and he can't calm Liriano down. That stuff is 100% ability, either mental or physical that each player figures out.

The pitching wouldn't be such a sore spot if the Twins could score more than 3 runs a game. This lineup, when healthy, should produce 5-7 runs a game at least in theory.

Maybe the break will restart some things. If not, then hopefully this is the year that the Twins learn that Blackburn, Slowey, and Baker are just not good enough to be in a competitive MLB rotation.

I don't disagree that there is a possibility we have numerous starters who just aren't good enough to man a competitive rotation. That doesn't let Anderson off the hook for allowing the kids to raise themselves. You have to say no once in a while. His job is to know better than these guys, not defer to their opinions of how they want to pitch.

[Benny003]

Both Gardy and Rick have been complaining about too many fastballs being thrown because the batters are setting up for them. Doesn't Joe say what pitches to make? Are the pitchers just waiving them off or what? It's almost looking like a stint in AAA is going to be needed to regain their confidence.

Jim Souhan in the Tribune today says we should trade Young for Oswalt. Seems pretty controversial, but he has some valid points like Young's lack of defense and our depth of outfield prospects to fill his spot. The problem though is that Young is relatively cheap and Oswalt is required $16 million next year. I think we can afford it, but it almost seems like a lop-sided trade in terms of money value. Not sure what we should do, but we definitely need an ace pitcher without a doubt.

[Xmasjjm]

Both Gardy and Rick have been complaining about too many fastballs being thrown because the batters are setting up for them. Doesn't Joe say what pitches to make? Are the pitchers just waiving them off or what? It's almost looking like a stint in AAA is going to be needed to regain their confidence.

Jim Souhan in the Tribune today says we should trade Young for Oswalt. Seems pretty controversial, but he has some valid points like Young's lack of defense and our depth of outfield prospects to fill his spot. The problem though is that Young is relatively cheap and Oswalt is required $16 million next year. I think we can afford it, but it almost seems like a lop-sided trade in terms of money value. Not sure what we should do, but we definitely need an ace pitcher without a doubt.

Souhan has asinine ideas. He is a reporter for a reason. Trading Young makes no sense. So the guy has a few errors, big flppin' deal. Without his bat, the Twins are way behind in the Central. Oswalt is not the pitcher the Twins need.

Delmon is finally showing what he can do. He is right-handed power bat that will compliment Mauer and Morneau for years.

The only pitcher I want to see the Twins try to add is Dan Haren.

[Benny003]

I agree, I like Young a lot. However, it doesn't really matter how well we hit if we're giving up 7 or 8 runs every game. We need pitching, very badly.

[bigeyefish22]

I kinda like the idea of dangling Young. He's been hitting great, which has been nice, but he's still gomer pile in the field and this could be better production than he'll average in his career. I think there's a good chance of that.

I don't know who we could get to start for us. Lilly too expensive and just not good enough, Haren's been bad this year, Oswalt is way expensive next year

[grace2]

Young for Oswalt would be kind of stupid. He's a number one overall pick and he's having a productive season so far. I mean, he could break out and become maybe half of what he should have :lol And let's not freak out and act like the Twins don't do this every year. We'll get on the right track, it's not like they've been pitching like shit all season (although it is getting to be a long time).

[Benny003]

Young for Oswalt would be kind of stupid. He's a number one overall pick and he's having a productive season so far. I mean, he could break out and become maybe half of what he should have :lol And let's not freak out and act like the Twins don't do this every year. We'll get on the right track, it's not like they've been pitching like shit all season (although it is getting to be a long time).

We have the same rotation we had last year in the playoffs. Where did that get us? The problem isn't necessarily the regular season, it's the playoffs. This rotation scares me when I think about them pitching in the playoffs, especially on the road. Where would we be if we were in the eastern division instead? The central division is way more winnable than the eastern division. We probably won't be playing another central division team in the playoffs (wild card will probably go to the Rays).

[bigeyefish22]

We have the same rotation we had last year in the playoffs. Where did that get us? The problem isn't necessarily the regular season, it's the playoffs. This rotation scares me when I think about them pitching in the playoffs, especially on the road. Where would we be if we were in the eastern division instead? The central division is way more winnable than the eastern division. We probably won't be playing another central division team in the playoffs (wild card will probably go to the Rays).

We would be soundly in 4th place in the East right now, and out of contention. But, we're not in the East (and if we were we'd probably be a different kind of team, market-wise, etc.) so we need to win the Central and go from there.

Good point re: playoff pitching. For years now we've seen the big money teams stock up with ridiculous starting rotations. Even at their collective best(s), our rotation is outclassed by several other contending teams. We not only need a serious trend toward dominance by, well anyone (though Frank and Baker seem the most likely options), we also need Pavano to continue to perform and even improve come playoff time (he's been good but I don't think good enough to beat CC or Josh Beckett or Cliff Lee in a pitchers-duel) AND a strong addition, like an Oswalt (unless you want to bank on two or more of our other 4 current starters (or Duensing) becoming near-dominant as well) if we want a serious chance at winning the World Series. I'm a little tired of getting there and then hoping for breaks and luck and serendipity.

All that said, maybe we don't have it this year; that wouldn't be the end of the world (edit: in the sense that we wont end up selling good prospects for a rental and we'll save our bullets for a run next season). I think we could have 'it' this year but if we don't start winning before the trade deadline to make an Oswalt-type move make sense, we might miss this season's opportunity.

Not to be too negative. I think we're gonna have a good second half and I think we'll be in the playoffs. I just hope we have a real chance once we get there.

[Xmasjjm]

You have to remember that the playoffs are ALWAYS a coin flip. Sure it helps if you have better starting pitchers but that does not mean you automatically move on. Now that being said, yes, the Twins need better starting pitching to compete in the playoffs. A true "ace" would be ideal, but really the Twins just need consistency. If the guys on the current rotation want to continue to start in the second half they will have to throw better.

The real problem, and I'd argue fate of the Twins' 2010 season, is consistent hitting with runners in scoring position. If the sticks hit with guys on, the Twins are not 3.5 back. The Twins will only go as far as the lineup takes them: Mauer must go off for a month or more; Morneau needs to be healthy; Young needs to continue; Cuddy and Kubel need to pick it up.

Big time hitting is the Twins' key to second half success. Bringing in an Oswalt, Haren, et al. is only a band-aid on a lackluster staff and underachieving lineup.

[bigeyefish22]

You have to remember that the playoffs are ALWAYS a coin flip. Sure it helps if you have better starting pitchers but that does not mean you automatically move on. Now that being said, yes, the Twins need better starting pitching to compete in the playoffs. A true "ace" would be ideal, but really the Twins just need consistency. If the guys on the current rotation want to continue to start in the second half they will have to throw better.

The real problem, and I'd argue fate of the Twins' 2010 season, is consistent hitting with runners in scoring position. If the sticks hit with guys on, the Twins are not 3.5 back. The Twins will only go as far as the lineup takes them: Mauer must go off for a month or more; Morneau needs to be healthy; Young needs to continue; Cuddy and Kubel need to pick it up.

Big time hitting is the Twins' key to second half success. Bringing in an Oswalt, Haren, et al. is only a band-aid on a lackluster staff and underachieving lineup.

I don't agree that the playoffs are a coin flip anymore. Sure seedings don't matter much but look at the teams who've won it this decade: The ones without big name starting rotations at least got dominant performances from who they had. And most were stocked with current or future #1-3 starters. I don't think this Twins team has that. I don't think they can win a world series with this rotation (barring maximization of potential by like 3 guys in the second half/playoffs; highly unlikely).

[Benny003]

I think our hitting is just fine right now. We haven't been losing 2-1 or 3-2 games. We've been losing 7-5 type games. The last time we gave up fewer than 5 runs in a loss (meaning that we could have won with a better hitting performance) was June 12th. That was a month ago. Every single other loss we've had in the last month we gave up 5 or more runs (more typically it was 7 runs). You can't win games when your pitching gives up that many runs. Like I said, I think our hitting is just fine. Yeah, in the beginning of the season our hitting sucked most of the time, but it's improved a lot (although we're on pace to break the single season record for hitting into the most double plays (174 by the Red Sox I think some years back, we have 102 right now)).

If our pitchers give up 3 or fewer runs in a game, I bet we win well over half of those games. Pitching is the problem, no question.

[grace2]

I think our hitting is just fine right now. We haven't been losing 2-1 or 3-2 games. We've been losing 7-5 type games. The last time we gave up fewer than 5 runs in a loss (meaning that we could have won with a better hitting performance) was June 12th. That was a month ago. Every single other loss we've had in the last month we gave up 5 or more runs (more typically it was 7 runs). You can't win games when your pitching gives up that many runs. Like I said, I think our hitting is just fine. Yeah, in the beginning of the season our hitting sucked most of the time, but it's improved a lot (although we're on pace to break the single season record for hitting into the most double plays (174 by the Red Sox I think some years back, we have 102 right now)).

If our pitchers give up 3 or fewer runs in a game, I bet we win well over half of those games. Pitching is the problem, no question.
That's crazy

[Benny003]

Here are pictures from the July 2nd game against the Rays. This was the first game in the series and it's the game that we lost in extra innings and Gardy got thrown out after that terrible safe call at 3rd base. On a lighter note, Pavano was pitching and TC was dressed for the occasion. ;-)

http://www.benckphotography.com/Twins/Tampa%20Bay%20Rays%2020100702/

I have a couple pictures from the July 3rd game too where there were fireworks after the game. I didn't take in-game pictures, just the fireworks and one or two other things. I'll get those up in the next couple days, but I want to take my time working on them to get the most out of them. It was tricky photographing the fireworks with the entire stadium in view. So hopefully a couple turn out cool.

[handsareme]

Here are pictures from the July 2nd game against the Rays. This was the first game in the series and it's the game that we lost in extra innings and Gardy got thrown out after that terrible safe call at 3rd base. On a lighter note, Pavano was pitching and TC was dressed for the occasion. ;-)

http://www.benckphotography.com/Twins/Tampa%20Bay%20Rays%2020100702/

I have a couple pictures from the July 3rd game too where there were fireworks after the game. I didn't take in-game pictures, just the fireworks and one or two other things. I'll get those up in the next couple days, but I want to take my time working on them to get the most out of them. It was tricky photographing the fireworks with the entire stadium in view. So hopefully a couple turn out cool.Always love your shots.

[Nick@Night]

I think when it comes down to it, Mauer's deal is going to look like the biggest bargain in history. The Brewers offered Prince Fielder 5 yrs/100 million and his agent (Boras) doesn't think that's enough. He cites that because of the number of homeruns he's hit by 26 that everyone who has done it previously is in the HOF. Why does everyone have to be making 20+ mil a year now?

[Benny003]

Always love your shots.

Thanks! :)

[bigeyefish22]

I think when it comes down to it, Mauer's deal is going to look like the biggest bargain in history. The Brewers offered Prince Fielder 5 yrs/100 million and his agent (Boras) doesn't think that's enough. He cites that because of the number of homeruns he's hit by 26 that everyone who has done it previously is in the HOF. Why does everyone have to be making 20+ mil a year now?

Thats crazy. I hate the economics of baseball.

[dmb_41_sd]

Ok, making my pilgrimage to Target field this weekend vs the sox. Any idea who will be pitching sat and sun? Seems the all star game makes the rotation hard to find. Anything announced yet? Any must do/see things at target field? I imagine it will be tough to see it all. How's the food? other than expensive...

[Benny003]

The food is great. It's really hard to go wrong with any of it. If you're craving it, you can probably find it. Hrbek's is worth checking out (near home plate, main concourse). For some reason I still haven't tried the Townball Tavern, but I've been meaning to (second level near left field foul pole). They have the Juicy Lucy there. State Fair food out in centerfield has the giant turkey leg and walleye on a stick among many other good things. If you go out there, take a look over the batter's eye and look into the bullpen.

You have to check out the Twins store near Gate 29, it's huge and has a bunch of stuff you can only find there (near right field, most commonly used entrance probably). Before you go in the park, check out the giant Gold Glove outside of Gate 34 near the "wind wall".

Get there early, the gates open 2 hours before game time for weekend games. You'll need that much time to really soak it all in without dealing with the crowds. It gets super busy the closer you get to game time and it takes forever to walk anywhere then. So get there early and avoid most of the crowds.

Do a whole lap around the main concourse. That should get you to see most of the stuff you'll have access to. Unfortunately all the really cool things are on the club level and only the club members have access to them like Kirby's and Carew's lounges, the Metropolitan Club restaurant, and the cool things around the press box. If you look through my pictures from the Open House back in April, you can see pictures of most of those things:

http://www.benckphotography.com/Twins/Target%20Field/index.html

Enjoy the games! ;-)

http://i64.photobucket.com/albums/h184/Bluecow003/DSC_8873_4_5_6_7-Edit.jpg

[Benny003]

Mauer looked terrible at the All Star game tonight. 0-2, only reached because of an error, missed a stolen base throw to second by a good 15 feet, and had that running mistake to 3rd base. I know he didn't really want to participate, but that was pretty ugly. Didn't represent the Twins very well. He's looking incredibly average lately.

[davelk10]

Ok, making my pilgrimage to Target field this weekend vs the sox. Any idea who will be pitching sat and sun? Seems the all star game makes the rotation hard to find. Anything announced yet? Any must do/see things at target field? I imagine it will be tough to see it all. How's the food? other than expensive...

The Tony O cuban sandwich is awesome.
There are also 2 bars above the 200 level right behind home plate. Great spot to watch a few innings, especially in shitty weather.
If you have season tickets, check out the Metropolitan club.

[bigeyefish22]

http://www.startribune.com/sports/twins/blogs/98390764.html?elr=KArksLckD8EQDUoaEyqyP4O:DW3ckUiD 3aPc:_Yyc:aULPQL7PQLanchO7DiUsr

Oswalt is the only one I'd be happy with from this list. I still don't think the team has done enough to justify such a move, though.

I could see the Twins grabbing a starter similarly average to most on that list, that would be the least surprising development.

[dmb_41_sd]

The Tony O cuban....

The food is great.....

Thanks you guys! One more day and I'm on the road!

[grace2]

I bet the Twins get nobody.

[CrashTheStone41]

Joe Mauer is a beast.

Good game tonight. Twins hit well with 2 outs tonight and that is scary.

[jaydog82283]

Joe Mauer is a beast.

Good game tonight. Twins hit well with 2 outs tonight and that is scary.

It was about time Mauer was clutch. Of course Slowey stunk it up again and the Twins lost anyways. Thome struck out looking, yikes. Going to the game tomorrow. We really need to win, starting tomorrow.

[Benny003]

Our pitching is almost getting to the point of being embarrassing. We get 15 hits, 7 runs and we lose. Danks gives up 6 runs and gets the win. :BANG

[Nick@Night]

I know there's a lot of season left, but they are circling the drain right now. Someone in the starting rotation needs to get bumped out, whether it's putting Duensing in for someone and/or acquiring a replacement.

[Benny003]

I know there's a lot of season left, but they are circling the drain right now. Someone in the starting rotation needs to get bumped out, whether it's putting Duensing in for someone and/or acquiring a replacement.

Why not both? Take Slowey and Blackburn out for sure, put Duensing in and give one of our prospects a chance. I mean in all honesty, what would hurt? It really can't get any worse, so might as well give some fresh arms a shot. Slowey and Blackburn can go down to AAA and gain their confidence again. The biggest problem with that is simply the cost of paying 2 of our pro guys to spend time in the minors, but it shouldn't be that big of deal if it helps the team.

[bigeyefish22]

Why not both? Take Slowey and Blackburn out for sure, put Duensing in and give one of our prospects a chance. I mean in all honesty, what would hurt? It really can't get any worse, so might as well give some fresh arms a shot. Slowey and Blackburn can go down to AAA and gain their confidence again. The biggest problem with that is simply the cost of paying 2 of our pro guys to spend time in the minors, but it shouldn't be that big of deal if it helps the team.

It's Duensing time, doubtless. Gardy marches these guys out in order over the next week and gives Slowey another start I'll be really disappointed. That said, I think Black should get one more start, one more chance, and I'd take him out of the rotation immediately after his next bad start (unless he can string like 3+ quality starts together) (god, what a sad state of affairs). Problem is we don't have (palatable) arms in the minors ready to come up and start.

[grace2]

Let's just have Pavano pitch everyday.

[handsareme]

I hope this doesn't happen against the Sox in a month when I'm there.

[uro55]

Let's just have Pavano pitch everyday.

Been saying the same thing all week:)

That or have all the pitchers grow dirty porn star 'staches!:lol

[CrashTheStone41]

It was about time Mauer was clutch. Of course Slowey stunk it up again and the Twins lost anyways. Thome struck out looking, yikes. Going to the game tomorrow. We really need to win, starting tomorrow.

Trust me... I saw a lot of that on the South Side... just happy that he is no longer in a Sox uniform

[Xmasjjm]

It's Duensing time, doubtless. Gardy marches these guys out in order over the next week and gives Slowey another start I'll be really disappointed. That said, I think Black should get one more start, one more chance, and I'd take him out of the rotation immediately after his next bad start (unless he can string like 3+ quality starts together) (god, what a sad state of affairs). Problem is we don't have (palatable) arms in the minors ready to come up and start.

The problem with Duensing going into the rotation is that he needs to be stretched out. That will take some time but right now the process must happen. I'd like to see Slowey moved to the pen. He could be valuable in a semi set-up, show up in the 6-8 inning role.

Bring up Perkins to fill Duensing's spot in the pen, say goodbye to Mahay.

Send Burnett down and start Slama time...use Slama as a specialist and work him into a set-up role.

Then get crazy and finally send Crain packing and keep Manship up as the long guy in the pen. Or, if Blackburn can't remove his head from his ass put Manship in the rotation...either way the Twins HAVE options, but they need to do something by the end of the month or be prepared to watch the playoffs.

[Nick@Night]

The problem with Duensing going into the rotation is that he needs to be stretched out. That will take some time but right now the process must happen. I'd like to see Slowey moved to the pen. He could be valuable in a semi set-up, show up in the 6-8 inning role.

Bring up Perkins to fill Duensing's spot in the pen, say goodbye to Mahay.

Send Burnett down and start Slama time...use Slama as a specialist and work him into a set-up role.

Then get crazy and finally send Crain packing and keep Manship up as the long guy in the pen. Or, if Blackburn can't remove his head from his ass put Manship in the rotation...either way the Twins HAVE options, but they need to do something by the end of the month or be prepared to watch the playoffs.
They end up watching the playoffs even when they are in them.

[grace2]

I think Duensing should be in the rotation right now. If he could pitch five or six solid innings, that would be perfect.

[Benny003]

The problem with Duensing going into the rotation is that he needs to be stretched out. That will take some time but right now the process must happen. I'd like to see Slowey moved to the pen. He could be valuable in a semi set-up, show up in the 6-8 inning role.

Bring up Perkins to fill Duensing's spot in the pen, say goodbye to Mahay.

Send Burnett down and start Slama time...use Slama as a specialist and work him into a set-up role.

Then get crazy and finally send Crain packing and keep Manship up as the long guy in the pen. Or, if Blackburn can't remove his head from his ass put Manship in the rotation...either way the Twins HAVE options, but they need to do something by the end of the month or be prepared to watch the playoffs.

Mahay was practically the only one who could pitch last night. He pitched 2 innings last night and faced 6 batters if I remember right. Crain actually did almost the same.

Sucks that Morneau is on the DL.

[bigeyefish22]

They end up watching the playoffs even when they are in them.

:lol
























8

[Xmasjjm]

Mahay was practically the only one who could pitch last night. He pitched 2 innings last night and faced 6 batters if I remember right. Crain actually did almost the same.

Sucks that Morneau is on the DL.

Mahay and Crain still both need to go. Hopefully Morneau is ok next week. I think that he could come off the DL on the 23rd. Very scary though...what if he has another concussion? could be really sad/bad then...

[bigeyefish22]

Mahay and Crain still both need to go. Hopefully Morneau is ok next week. I think that he could come off the DL on the 23rd. Very scary though...what if he has another concussion? could be really sad/bad then...

Fat Tire, eh?

[Xmasjjm]

Fat Tire, eh?

yeah not bad. I'm really into the Odell IPA now. I like how Target Field has good beer! Stella please!

[grace2]

Liriano, you're inconistent but when you pitch well I love you.

[Benny003]

I never thought I would say this, but thank you Jesse Crain! He really saved us last night.

[bigeyefish22]

Souhan: If the Twins want to win a playoff series, they need an ace like Roy Oswalt. If they want to win another division title, they might need no more than Brian Duensing in the rotation and a little more guts and guile from their other young starters.

Well said. Tonights kind of a big game! Pavano - Buehrle. Should be fun!

[grace2]

Yeah, this should be an interesting pitching matchup. Would be HUGE if we won, though.

[bigeyefish22]

Carl Pavano is the fuckin' man. I can't believe it but its true.

[AJF_41]

They're back!

[Benny003]

Great game! I thought for sure we were going to get nailed by the rain, but they finished the game in under 2 hours! Fun, fast game. It's nice to see Mauer look a little bit more like himself.

[grace2]

Wow, what a quick game. Pavano is the man. Let's bring it into this next series and we're back again.

[42graystreet]

Last night was awesome. A fast, exciting game. Followed by one of the worst storms I've seen in downtown Minny. Had to duck into a building near St. Thomas and wait it out.

[dontburnthe_pig]

pavano pitched so well last night. hopefully we can get this last game. blackburn makes me a little nervous, though.

[AJF_41]

pavano pitched so well last night. hopefully we can get this last game. blackburn makes me a little nervous, though.

rightfully so.

[grace2]

I thought Blackburn was going to have a solid outing there. Duensing was getting rocked that same inning, though.

[Ashley J]

I'm liking where this is going :thumbsup

[Ashley J]

Delmon FTW :hump:hump:hump

[PilotC150]

Awesome.

[UNC41]

Delmon!!

[grace2]

Delmon is sick. That was crazy

[AJF_41]

I turned it off in the bottom of the 8th!!!! F**K!!!

(better half had chores I needed to accomplish)

Woooooooo!

[Benny003]

Fun, fun game! First come back, walk-off win at Target Field. Only took 16 hits, but we got the win. Blackburn did alright, but we really need more outings from our starting pitching where they give up 3 or fewer runs. This allowing 6+ run stuff is going to kill us. It's only because our hitting has been on fire that we've been hanging in there this weekend.

[42graystreet]

The next couple weeks are against shit teams. Now's the time to rebound and get ourselves back in first place. Former Husker (I love pointing that out) Brian Duensing will hopefully enter the rotation soon.

[grace2]

We can handle a sweep agains the Indians, I think.

[rustysurf83]

I hate you Minnesota. I actually kind of like your style and think you have an awesome team...but you don't just beat the sox, you kick them in the testicles and sleep with their wife beat them. Thank God we only have six more games this year...

[Benny003]

We can handle a sweep agains the Indians, I think.

You mean the team that just swept the Tigers in a 4 game series? Those Indians? It's going to be tougher than we think I imagine, but we're at home so that should make a big difference.

I hate you Minnesota. I actually kind of like your style and think you have an awesome team...but you don't just beat the sox, you kick them in the testicles and sleep with their wife beat them. Thank God we only have six more games this year...

:lol I'm disappointed I didn't get to hear Guillen's post-game interview. I'm sure it must have been entertaining.

[handsareme]

The next couple weeks are against shit teams. Now's the time to rebound and get ourselves back in first place. Former Husker (I love pointing that out) Brian Duensing will hopefully enter the rotation soon.
Believe he's also from Kansas. :D

[UNLTrpt]

Went to Target field Friday. A-MAZE-ING! Just awesome. Good win that day, good win today as well. Hopefully with this series win and the easier schedule coming up we can get our mojo back.

[phlaming lips]

great way to win the series! D-Y is the only Twin that I can actually call "Clutch."

I don't care how you win against the Southside Rats, who have forgotten their 9 game win streak for their current 3 game losing streak.

God I hate Chicago:D

[Benny003]

Couple pictures from the July 2nd game that had the fireworks. I'm not terribly happy with how the fireworks ones came out, but it was a learning experience. I picked a bad spot to shoot from, but by the time I realized it I was all setup with my gorilla-pod and didn't have time to move. I'll know better for next year though.

http://www.benckphotography.com/Twins/Misc/

I still have pictures from Thursday's and Sunday's games against the White Sox to work on. Probably be a few days at best.

[grace2]

You mean the team that just swept the Tigers in a 4 game series? Those Indians? It's going to be tougher than we think I imagine, but we're at home so that should make a big difference.

I didn't realize they swept them. It'll be tough, but I still think we can do it. And let's give some major credit to JJ Hardy for being white hot since returning :thumbsup :thumbsup :thumbsup

[Nick@Night]

Hopefully this is finally the turning point win of the season, they have wasted the Kubel grand slam off Rivera and that comeback against the Phillies so far.

[Benny003]

Hopefully this is finally the turning point win of the season, they have wasted the Kubel grand slam off Rivera and that comeback against the Phillies so far.

The pitching isn't that much better though. I mean they still gave up 16 hits yesterday. It's only because the offense is on fire that we were able to win.

[Nick@Night]

The pitching isn't that much better though. I mean they still gave up 16 hits yesterday. It's only because the offense is on fire that we were able to win.
Right, I just mean turning point that it's a kick in the ass that the team as a whole performs better and the pitching gets on track.

[42graystreet]

Blackburn needs to go faster than a step-child to boarding school.

[monkeyman420]

Sox fan here, was in the Cities this weekend and went to Friday's game. Have to say, the park is beautiful. We walked around a bunch before the game checking out different areas and I don't think there is a bad seat in the place. Plenty of bars inside the park, and I like the areas where you can walk in and grab a drink and watch the game, the ones I am referring to are on the 200 level behind home plate. Hated the result of Friday's game obviously, but it was nice to watch baseball outside in Minneapolis. Going to be a fun 2nd half of the season, I don't think any team is going to run away with the division.

[Benny003]

Sox fan here, was in the Cities this weekend and went to Friday's game. Have to say, the park is beautiful. We walked around a bunch before the game checking out different areas and I don't think there is a bad seat in the place. Plenty of bars inside the park, and I like the areas where you can walk in and grab a drink and watch the game, the ones I am referring to are on the 200 level behind home plate. Hated the result of Friday's game obviously, but it was nice to watch baseball outside in Minneapolis. Going to be a fun 2nd half of the season, I don't think any team is going to run away with the division.

I'm glad you enjoyed our new home! I'm very happy with it too. I've been to 29 games there this season and I love going every single time mostly because of how great the ballpark is.

[dontburnthe_pig]

great series over the weekend, but too bad it isn't carrying over. baker is just terrible.

[42graystreet]

It's all very confusing. With Rick Anderson at the helm, pitching has so rarely been a problem in the last decade. But this season has been a goddamn nightmare.

[bigeyefish22]

It's all very confusing. With Rick Anderson at the helm, pitching has so rarely been a problem in the last decade. But this season has been a goddamn nightmare.

Thats a good point. I've been getting frustrated with Anderson, reflexively, this year because of the performance of the starters but he's probably earned more than enough trust to get him through this.

Question remains: what the fuck?! :lol I mean, geeezz... come on, you fuck faces. A "quality start" is pretty liberally defined: 6 innings, 3 runs. Shit, just get us 6 innings at this point, give up 4-5 if you must, and we'll still have a chance if the bullpen is going good.

[handsareme]

C'mon Mauer, that would've been the perfect time for a two-run shot. Oh wait...it's 2010 and you got your contract.

[bigeyefish22]

C'mon Mauer, that would've been the perfect time for a two-run shot. Oh wait...it's 2010 and you got your contract.

oh, the cynicism!

I would advise you to relax, my good man :) I don't disagree that Mauer's lack of clutch hitting AND power hitting has been frustrating. But he took 2 homerun swings in that at-bat.

[handsareme]

oh, the cynicism!

I would advise you to relax, my good man :) I don't disagree that Mauer's lack of clutch hitting AND power hitting has been frustrating. But he took 2 homerun swings in that at-bat.
Just a wee bit. :)

I probably would have noted the swings...but they don't tell you that watching the box score update on Yahoo. Yay Kansas/no cable!

[handsareme]

...hope I can eat my words soon.

edit: nevermind.

[bigeyefish22]

...hope I can eat my words soon.

edit: nevermind.

nevermind, indeed :mad

Well, we still got the ninth!! 7 runs ain't no thing.

[Benny003]

Going to that game last night was painful. 4 hours of getting our asses kicked and watching the pitching run themselves into the ground (again). Way to go on killing any momentum we had! :BANG

At least Detroit lost, but the Sox won. I really don't know how to explain how so many of our pitchers are doing this bad right now. I mean it's like an epidemic or something in our pitching staff. We gave up 20 hits last night. The other sad thing is that our offense left 13 runners on base despite having 12 hits.

[Nick@Night]

I am glad I decided to turn off the game in the 5th inning and watch Major League in honor of James Gammon (Lou Brown) instead.

[grace2]

The Indians were hitting absolutely everything, it wasn't all the pitching. Hope they aren't that hot tonight.

[AJF_41]

They better win tonight (my presence should be enough to push them over the edge). :shrug

[bigeyefish22]

I am glad I decided to turn off the game in the 5th inning and watch Major League in honor of James Gammon (Lou Brown) instead.

Never a bad call.

The Indians were hitting absolutely everything, it wasn't all the pitching. Hope they aren't that hot tonight.

I think you're right. They might just be hot as #uck right now. Let us hope not, for the next 2 at least.

They better win tonight (my presence should be enough to push them over the edge). :shrug

For all of our sakes!

Bring a sign: Circle Me Bert on one side, picture of Slowey (draw on the fucking douchey, amateur-ass mustache) with a fucking gas can in his hand on the other (preemptively, cause chances he starts the mound afire tonight are high).

[AJF_41]

:lol:lol

[bigeyefish22]

Thats the best I can do.

edit: :lol

[42graystreet]

Thats the best I can do.

edit: :lol

I don't know why, but that picture is hilarious :lol

[bigeyefish22]

I don't know why, but that picture is hilarious :lol

Probably because it looks like a genuine effort from a 5-year old..? Or someone using a computer in a foreign language? Took me like 25 minutes, too.

[dontburnthe_pig]

god damnet

[UNLTrpt]

we just can't keep anything going.

[bigeyefish22]

we just can't keep anything going.

uh, yeah we can: losing, bad starting pitching, hitting into double plays, absence of clutch hitting, our #3 hitter, reigning mvp & 3-time batting champ to whom we gave the 3rd or 4th richest contract in baseball history last off-season bunting with runners on 1st & 2nd and 1 out in the 7th inning of a tie game.................................. .................................................. .... ...................................

We can keep a lot of things going. Just not the things we would want.

[AJF_41]

our middle relief sucks balls.

[AJF_41]

i agree...that mauer bunt call was dumb as hell to. kubel had struck out twice tonight, why not give mauer a chance to drive in a run? dumb.

[UNLTrpt]

uh, yeah we can: losing, bad starting pitching, hitting into double plays, absence of clutch hitting, our #3 hitter, reigning mvp & 3-time batting champ to whom we gave the 3rd or 4th richest contract in baseball history last off-season bunting with runners on 1st & 2nd and 1 out in the 7th inning of a tie game.................................. .................................................. .... ...................................

We can keep a lot of things going. Just not the things we would want.

I meant anything positive going...but thanks.

[bigeyefish22]

i agree...that mauer bunt call was dumb as hell to. kubel had struck out twice tonight, why not give mauer a chance to drive in a run? dumb.

that was Mauer's decision, not Gardy's, as per the Strib: Joe Mauer's decision in the seventh inning, with the go-ahead run on second, helped end a rally.

and, I know, untltrplrtp, I was just using your quote to get my point across; nothing personal and I wasnt disagreeing with you :)

edit: I was shocked to see Mauer catching in the 8th (or, I wanted to be shocked). If he's going to do that I'd sit his ass down so fast that his head would spin so hard that he'd be on the DL with Morneau. Fucking UN-BeliEVable. Gardy needs to grow a ball. I'm fed up.

[grace2]

Why on earth was Rouch in the game yesterday? I know I'm a little late, but I didn't understand that at all

[bigeyefish22]

Why on earth was Rouch in the game yesterday? I know I'm a little late, but I didn't understand that at all

They wanted to a) get him some work and b) get him back in to a non-threatening situation after blowing it his last time out ..... I thought, could be wrong.

[Nick@Night]

that was Mauer's decision, not Gardy's, as per the Strib: Joe Mauer's decision in the seventh inning, with the go-ahead run on second, helped end a rally.

and, I know, untltrplrtp, I was just using your quote to get my point across; nothing personal and I wasnt disagreeing with you :)

edit: I was shocked to see Mauer catching in the 8th (or, I wanted to be shocked). If he's going to do that I'd sit his ass down so fast that his head would spin so hard that he'd be on the DL with Morneau. Fucking UN-BeliEVable. Gardy needs to grow a ball. I'm fed up.
I don't think it's something you punish the guy for. If Gardy had to discipline his players for stupid on the field decisions Carlos Gomez would have been sitting on the time-out stool in the corner 24/7 last year.

Edit: If that move works for Mauer and Kubel comes up and crushes a homer, the decision is praised as the turning point in the game.

[bigeyefish22]

I don't think it's something you punish the guy for. If Gardy had to discipline his players for stupid on the field decisions Carlos Gomez would have been sitting on the time-out stool in the corner 24/7 last year.

Edit: If that move works for Mauer and Kubel comes up and crushes a homer, the decision is praised as the turning point in the game.

Yeah, you're right, I was just pissed.

But re: the edit: no way! His decision to bunt was weak, limp. No marbles. That would get pointed out regardless of the outcome.

[Nick@Night]

Yeah, you're right, I was just pissed.

But re: the edit: no way! His decision to bunt was weak, limp. No marbles. That would get pointed out regardless of the outcome.
Yes, it would have been. When gambles pay off they get far less flack than when they fail. I agree it was a stupid move on Mauer's part, but writer's would be spending less time talking about the act now had it gotten him on base.

[42graystreet]

It doesn't need to be said, because he's getting trashed in the papers, radio, everywhere...but Mauer's play was asinine, ridiculous, stupid and pathetic. I don't EVER want to see our best hitter, from the 3-hole, down by a run, late in the game, with 2 runners on base, lay down a bunt. EVER :mad

I can't tell you how pissed off I am right now. Gardenhire needs to send Mauer down the lineup if he's going to do this shit while he's "not feeling that great at the plate." Move Delmon up to 3rd and put Mauer 7th.

edit: game was tied, same difference

[bigeyefish22]

It doesn't need to be said, because he's getting trashed in the papers, radio, everywhere...but Mauer's play was asinine, ridiculous, stupid and pathetic. I don't EVER want to see our best hitter, from the 3-hole, down by a run, late in the game, with 2 runners on base, lay down a bunt. EVER :mad

I can't tell you how pissed off I am right now. Gardenhire needs to send Mauer down the lineup if he's going to do this shit while he's "not feeling that great at the plate." Move Delmon up to 3rd and put Mauer 7th.

edit: game was tied, same difference

Dude, thats funny, I thought the exact same thing immediately: Delmon 3rd, Mauer dropped!

[Benny003]

Mauer was looking like his old self again the first couple games after the All Star break, but now it seems he's back to slumping. Not fun.

[42graystreet]

With Thome at the plate and 1 out, Cuddyer is caught stealing 3rd. This after being gifted 2nd thanks to a throwing error. If these asinine plays by the Twins don't stop I'm going to start cutting myself.

[uro55]

Off to the 'pen!

http://sports.espn.go.com/mlb/news/story?id=5398523

[42graystreet]

Liriano's line today was 7IP, 6H, 0R, 0ER, 4BB, 8K

Thank you, Franky, for showing the rest of the rotation how it's done.

[handsareme]

I know Mauer's not in the game, but Young's in the 3-spot.

[42graystreet]

And he did what a 3-holer should be doing. 3 hits, 3 RBIs. Twins win 6-0! That was nice to see Anthony Slama make his major league debut. He had been killing AAA batters. Hopefully he can give us a dependable arm in the bullpen.

[bigeyefish22]

And he did what a 3-holer should be doing. 3 hits, 3 RBIs. Twins win 6-0! That was nice to see Anthony Slama make his major league debut. He had been killing AAA batters. Hopefully he can give us a dependable arm in the bullpen.

No way Gardy puts Mauer at 3 and Delwin at 7 next game! If he does, I don't ever want to see him again. It's over between him and me.

Souhan says it well here: http://www.startribune.com/sports/blogs/98939239.html?elr=KArksi8cyaiUo8cyaiUiD3aPc:_Yyc:a ULPQL7PQLanchO7DiUr

Nick, you've changed your mind, right? You can accept the gravity of the situation, no? :D

[42graystreet]

That is a brutally honest assessment of our 184 million dollar hometown hero. It made me cringe because I love Mauer and what he's done for this franchise, but I agreed with it 100%.

[UNC41]

Nothing more needs to be said about that abortion of a bunt last night, but Souhan's little rant at the end bugged me. It is more of gossip, rather than news. If there is an ongoing leadership issue with Mauer or if you've got a column indicating that he's not holding his own after the face of the franchise, let's hear it. But the way he approached it with "media insiders" seemed more TMZ than journalism.

I do love checking the box score during an afternoon at work and seeing Liriano put up 0s inning after inning. It'd just be nice to get a quality start out of someone other than him or Pavano.

[Nick@Night]

No way Gardy puts Mauer at 3 and Delwin at 7 next game! If he does, I don't ever want to see him again. It's over between him and me.

Souhan says it well here: http://www.startribune.com/sports/blogs/98939239.html?elr=KArksi8cyaiUo8cyaiUiD3aPc:_Yyc:a ULPQL7PQLanchO7DiUr

Nick, you've changed your mind, right? You can accept the gravity of the situation, no? :D
No, I just think this whole thing has been blown out of proportion.

Edit: As for Souhan, I'm 50/50 on the guy. The article in the quote accomplishes nothing. Kirby and Torii were/are super type-A personalities, Joe isn't. I couldn't care less if he doesn't make himself available right away (or at all), that's his choice. It's time to let go of this bunt-gate ordeal and concentrate on beating the worst team in baseball.

[bigeyefish22]

No, I just think this whole thing has been blown out of proportion.

Edit: As for Souhan, I'm 50/50 on the guy. The article in the quote accomplishes nothing. Kirby and Torii were/are super type-A personalities, Joe isn't. I couldn't care less if he doesn't make himself available right away (or at all), that's his choice. It's time to let go of this bunt-gate ordeal and concentrate on beating the worst team in baseball.

Agreed on all counts, time to move on. Souhan's a provocateur. Thats the state of sports "journalism". :shrug

[42graystreet]

Nick - why did you fuck my mom's ass?

[Nick@Night]

Nick - why did you fuck my mom's ass?
Because Joe Mauer bunted, I took out my frustrations on her anus.

[Benny003]

That is a brutally honest assessment of our 184 million dollar hometown hero. It made me cringe because I love Mauer and what he's done for this franchise, but I agreed with it 100%.

I don't think that whatever is going on with Joe will be a long term thing. I think he's just been taking a beating behind the plate and it's finally affecting his hitting. I refuse to believe Joe will be hitting like this for the rest of his career. Most hitters have off years or slumps during seasons. However, it might be time to seriously consider taking Joe out from behind the plate sooner than later. Catching isn't really doing him or anyone else any good.

[42graystreet]

Because Joe Mauer bunted, I took out my frustrations on her anus.

understandable