Minnesota Twins

[UNLTrpt]

Anyway, I can breathe a little easier now because I got playoff tickets for Games 1 and 3 of the ALDS this morning. Wish I would have been allowed to buy Game 2, but I'll find a way to be there. I was able to get better seats than I thought they would be selling. Section 114 for Game 1 and Section 112 for Game 3, behind home plate for both games. Now I really can't wait for the playoffs to start.

Isn't game 3 a road game?

[42graystreet]

Isn't game 3 a road game?

I think he means a potential 3rd home game in the first round of the playoffs. That would be game 5 of the series and requires that we have home field advantage. I will be going to the 2nd (and potential 3rd) home playoff games, thanks to my folks having season tickets. I still say the only pro I can think of for having them in the same city as me is that I've been able to go to a ton of games this summer for free. And now the playoffs.

[UNLTrpt]

ohhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhh

[Benny003]

Yeah, when they sell playoff tickets, they label them by home game number. That's the only way they can do it since they sell all the playoff tickets before the teams (and therefore home field advantage) are established.

[Clem Haskins]

Getting warmer...

[pig494]

Pretty unrealistic but damn going 10 for 12 to finish and get those 100 wins would be unreal

[UNLTrpt]

I feel a little sad inside that if we win, and the Bitch Sox lose that we won't be able to celebrate on the field with the fans.

[Benny003]

I feel a little sad inside that if we win, and the Bitch Sox lose that we won't be able to celebrate on the field with the fans.

I feel the same way. I'm secretly hoping they let the fans at the game stay to watch the Sox game on the big screen. You know the players would be up for it ala 2006 (even if the Sox game doesn't end for 2 hours after the Twins game), but I'm guessing the biggest obstacle would be getting the workers at the ballpark to stay that long. Would be an awesome experience though if it all worked out. You know if the Twins win all the players are staying in the clubhouse to watch the Sox game anyway with the champagne on ice.

What I'm really hoping is that the Twins win tonight, the Sox also win, and the Twins win tomorrow so we can celebrate on the field after the game.

[42graystreet]

On July 15th...

Chi 50-38
Det 48-38
Min 46-43

On September 21st...

Min 90-60
Chi 79-71
Det 76-74

[handsareme]

I feel the same way. I'm secretly hoping they let the fans at the game stay to watch the Sox game on the big screen. You know the players would be up for it ala 2006 (even if the Sox game doesn't end for 2 hours after the Twins game), but I'm guessing the biggest obstacle would be getting the workers at the ballpark to stay that long. Would be an awesome experience though if it all worked out. You know if the Twins win all the players are staying in the clubhouse to watch the Sox game anyway with the champagne on ice.

What I'm really hoping is that the Twins win tonight, the Sox also win, and the Twins win tomorrow so we can celebrate on the field after the game.And I'm secretly hoping the Twins and Sox keep winning so that they clinch next Monday in KC. ;)

[42graystreet]

And I'm secretly hoping the Twins and Sox keep winning so that they clinch next Monday in KC. ;)

No, you need the Twins to lose for that to happen. If they win both today and tomorrow, they will clinch at home.

[handsareme]

No, you need the Twins to lose for that to happen. If they win both today and tomorrow, they will clinch at home.
Well I don't want that to happen now, do I? Nope.

[UNLTrpt]

I feel the same way. I'm secretly hoping they let the fans at the game stay to watch the Sox game on the big screen. You know the players would be up for it ala 2006 (even if the Sox game doesn't end for 2 hours after the Twins game), but I'm guessing the biggest obstacle would be getting the workers at the ballpark to stay that long. Would be an awesome experience though if it all worked out. You know if the Twins win all the players are staying in the clubhouse to watch the Sox game anyway with the champagne on ice.

What I'm really hoping is that the Twins win tonight, the Sox also win, and the Twins win tomorrow so we can celebrate on the field after the game.

That will a little tough to do. CWS is in Oakland. The Twins game will be almost over when that one is getting started

[Nick@Night]

That will a little tough to do. CWS is in Oakland. The Twins game will be almost over when that one is getting started
Buehrle is pitching, maybe he'll have the game done by 11 pm CST in a complete game loss and the Twins game will go to extras and win it.

[42graystreet]

I think the people downtown should flood the streets when the ChiSux lose (clinching the division for Minnesota) and storm the gates of Target Field. That would be awesome!

[UNLTrpt]

How about Valencia's blast last night? Is that the first ball to reach the upper deck in Left Field?

[42graystreet]

How about Valencia's blast last night? Is that the first ball to reach the upper deck in Left Field?

Nope. There have been a couple, I believe. I personally witnessed the shot Hart put up there for Milwaukee.

[UNLTrpt]

Jim Thome = Beast Mode

[42graystreet]

Can we just forget Mijares when we go to the playoffs? Kind of like Peter and Kate McCallister.

[PilotC150]

God I love this team!

[PilotC150]

Nice 9th inning by Capps. Sweet win

Magic number down to 1.

A's leading the White Sox 5-1 in the bottom of the 5th

[42graystreet]

THE MAGIC NUMBER is 1!!!!!!!!!

[rustysurf83]

Jim Thome = Beast Mode

Must be nice...too bad some douche bag piece of shit managers would rather go into the season with mark fucking kotsay and fucking mark three year extension for no fucking reason teahen as the fucking dh

[dontburnthe_pig]

twiiiiins baby!

[42graystreet]

9 outs from another division championship!

[UNC41]

Was hoping to see them clinch in person tomorrow, but I'd take it tonight!

[PilotC150]

I'm watching the White Sox/A's game on WGN. The sox announcers, as much as I am annoyed by them, are giving huge compliments to the whole organization right now.

Expect one of them just said: "I wish I could have a dozen golf balls for every year we have more talent than them but they still beat our butts." Well if you have more talent, then you'd be winning! I guess you don't have the talent you thought you had.

[TapNorris]

I'm watching the White Sox/A's game on WGN. The sox announcers, as much as I am annoyed by them, are giving huge compliments to the whole organization right now.

Expect one of them just said: "I wish I could have a dozen golf balls for every year we have more talent than them but they still beat our butts." Well if you have more talent, then you'd be winning! I guess you don't have the talent you thought you had.

No doubt that was Hawk Harrelson...I hate that man with a passion.

[42graystreet]

We maybe beat a Sox team with more talent once. All the other times, we were the better the team, not just a collection of ball mashers with a shitty bullpen.

[Clem Haskins]

Pretty, prettty pretttty good

[rustysurf83]

The White Sox typically have better "talent" at the beginning of the season IMO...however the Twins player development/minor league guys, coaching staff, and advanced scouts are so much better than the Sox' that the Twins continually possess better talent than the Sox by mid season. Meanwhile the Sox try to make meaningless deadline trades and waiver claims instead of just signing a damn free agent in the off season. I hope the Twins win the damn world series...hopefully that will cause hawk, Ozzie, teahen, kotsay, and walker all to have simultaneous career ending strokes.

[bigeyefish22]

The White Sox typically have better "talent" at the beginning of the season IMO...however the Twins player development/minor league guys, coaching staff, and advanced scouts are so much better than the Sox' that the Twins continually possess better talent than the Sox by mid season. Meanwhile the Sox try to make meaningless deadline trades and waiver claims instead of just signing a damn free agent in the off season. I hope the Twins win the damn world series...hopefully that will cause hawk, Ozzie, teahen, kotsay, and walker all to have simultaneous career ending strokes.

I think you make a strong argument about perceived talent at the beginning of a season, though I disagree. It may just be my Twins bias but I think the Twins roster looks consistently better (if only by a little) than the wsox. Either way it tilts, it's close.

[42graystreet]

3 outs away. I'm glad that FSN is continuing their coverage. This should be fun to watch in just a few minutes :)

[UNLTrpt]

watching it on FSNorth.com

[rustysurf83]

This may be the most drawn out 7-2 9th inning I have ever seen.

[42graystreet]

Of course it's the former Twin Breslow who is making us wait...

[rustysurf83]

Congratulations, I hope you ( fuckers :) ) win the series.

[UNLTrpt]

Central Champs!

[42graystreet]

Champs...

[handsareme]

Whooooo!

[PilotC150]

Congrats Twins!

[Ballashoes]

Woooooooooooo!

[davelk10]

Anybody going to another game soon that can pick me up a homer hankie? Should be out sometime during next series.

Ben????????

[42graystreet]

I probably will. I'll try to remember to pick up an extra.

[davelk10]

I probably will. I'll try to remember to pick up an extra.

:thumbsup

[AndySlash]

thome was one of, if not the first to go out of the clubhouse to see the fans.

guy is MONEY.

[andrewj063]

HELL YEAH!!!!!!!!

Now just rest everyone. Home field isn't relevant, I want healthy players.

[42graystreet]

FSN talking to former Husker Brian Duensing. Love it.

[davelk10]

For all the bettors in the world, put it all on Indians tomorrow
:evil

[42graystreet]

For all the bettors in the world, put it all on Indians tomorrow
:evil

QFT. The lineup will probably resemble Rochester's from last June.

[UNC41]

Loved that coverage by FSN. Watching Dick getting doused that first time was great. The hug between Thome and Mauer was something special too.

Also, Ulger interviews about as well as he coaches third.

[handsareme]

...while Thome, a 40-year-old kid on this night, doused the entire room with garbage cans of water as techno music rattled the walls.
This made me :lol.

[UNLTrpt]

Pitching rotation is set for the playoffs:

Gardenhire confirmed on Wednesday that Francisco Liriano will be the Game 1 starter for the Twins in the ALDS. Carl Pavano is in line for Game 2 and Brian Duensing will pitch Game 3. There is still no official decision as to whether the Twins will use a four-man rotation but if that's the case, Nick Blackburn is in line right now to be the starter for a possible fourth game.

[Clem Haskins]

So today is an official Minnesota holiday, right?

[42graystreet]

So today is an official Minnesota holiday, right?

No. We've won plenty of division titles. We'll have a holiday when we actually do something in the playoffs (i.e. go to the World Series).

[Nick@Night]

QFT. The lineup will probably resemble Rochester's from last June.
Only regulars today are Span and Kubel.

[bigeyefish22]

Only regulars today are Span and Kubel.

Still not sold on Valencia? ;)

[Nick@Night]

Still not sold on Valencia? ;)
Yes, of course. In regards to his Rochester comment, Valencia would have been in with that group.

[42graystreet]

Nice comeback for the C lineup today. half-game out for the best record in baseball.

[UNLTrpt]

Good win with the scrubs

[jmudmbphan]

looks like you guys are getting rays first round...thoughts?

[42graystreet]

I'm torn. I'd take our chances against the Yankees with home field advantage in a short series. But our history with them gives me nightmares still, so I don't mind avoiding them.

[bigeyefish22]

looks like you guys are getting rays first round...thoughts?

I think the race is too close to call at this point. I think I'd rather play the Rays in the first round, give Texas a shot at knocking off our nemesis, but I think it's tough either way and the Twins will need to be on top of it to have a chance against anyone. But if they're on top of it, they have a chance against anyone.

[jmudmbphan]

I think I'd rather face Texas first round and hope you guys knock off the rays.

[bigeyefish22]

Some Twins fans weren't happy that the team surrendered Wilson Ramos in the Capps deal, but Ramos has not shown a great deal of selectivity in the minors, and we're starting to hear some Miguel Olivo (http://sports.espn.go.com/mlb/players/profile?playerId=5355)-Rod Barajas (http://sports.espn.go.com/mlb/players/profile?playerId=4207) comparisons.

http://sports.espn.go.com/mlb/columns/story?columnist=crasnick_jerry&page=starting9/100922

[Benny003]

I'm exhausted. Attending 3 weekday games in a row is very tiring, not to mention I went to the first 2 A's games over the weekend as well. I still wish they would have played the Sox game on the big screen at Target Field on Tuesday. I was going to stay for that, but since they weren't going to play the game, I didn't think they would do any on-field celebrating so I went home only to see on FSN that some people had stuck around. Oh well I guess. I had my camera and pretty good seats on Tuesday, so I'll be posting pictures in the coming days. I got video as well of the come back and everything, so that will be up too. I'm very happy the Twins were able to clinch at home though. That just felt right.

At today's game when they announced TC, he was wearing his hat backward and a Central Division Champions t-shirt. That was fun to see. I'm looking forward to just being able to relax at the Blue Jays games to end the regular season. It will be nice to be able to just enjoy those games instead of worrying about making it into the playoffs. Then the fun will really begin....

[UNLTrpt]

Well well well, look who's tied with the big bad Yankees for the best record in baseball?

[Benny003]

Nice! Definitely have a real shot at the best record.

[Benny003]

Definitely jealous:

To celebrate the milestone, the Twins selected Jill Arens of Elk River, to represent the 3,030,673rd fan through the Target Field turnstiles. Jill will receive the following prize package:
•A 2010 Twins jersey with 3,030,673 on the back
•A framed print of the F-16 flyover on Opening Day, signed by Joe Mauer and Ron Gardenhire
•The chance to throw out the ceremonial first pitch at Target Field on Saturday, Oct. 2
•Two complimentary tickets to the Twins game on Saturday, Oct. 2
•Four Commissioner's Box seats for a game during the 2011 regular season
•A 2010 team autographed bat
•A meet and greet with Twins Manager Ron Gardenhire before the ceremonial first pitch
•$100 worth of fun money from Delaware North SportService, the official concessionaire of Target Field.

[UNLTrpt]

Now I'm guessing the first tiebreaker if there is a tie for the best record is head to head?

[Benny003]

Now I'm guessing the first tiebreaker if there is a tie for the best record is head to head?

Probably. Let's hope we get it outright.

[Benny003]

Yeah, the Yankees would get it if we tied:

Every day, the tentative outlook gets more interesting. The Twins followed up their clinch-night celebration by tying the Yankees for best overall record in baseball (92-60). That could be of huge significance. The Yankees won the season series, 4-2, and would own the head-to-head tiebreaker that would decide a matchup or possible AL Championship Series home-field advantage.

http://minnesota.twins.mlb.com/news/article.jsp?ymd=20100923&content_id=14991004&vkey=news_mlb&c_id=mlb

[42graystreet]

Definitely jealous:

To celebrate the milestone, the Twins selected Jill Arens of Elk River, to represent the 3,030,673rd fan through the Target Field turnstiles. Jill will receive the following prize package:
•A 2010 Twins jersey with 3,030,673 on the back
•A framed print of the F-16 flyover on Opening Day, signed by Joe Mauer and Ron Gardenhire
•The chance to throw out the ceremonial first pitch at Target Field on Saturday, Oct. 2
•Two complimentary tickets to the Twins game on Saturday, Oct. 2
•Four Commissioner's Box seats for a game during the 2011 regular season
•A 2010 team autographed bat
•A meet and greet with Twins Manager Ron Gardenhire before the ceremonial first pitch
•$100 worth of fun money from Delaware North SportService, the official concessionaire of Target Field.

That's like 7 beers (with tips).

[Benny003]

That's like 7 beers (with tips).

You're generous if you tip 100%. ($7 x 7 = $49, that leaves $51 for tips if you spend $100 on 7 beers) ;)

[jordonh]

so who all registered for the chance to buy playoff tickets..The odds are going to be like .0001 each .

[42graystreet]

so who all registered for the chance to buy playoff tickets..The odds are going to be like .0001 each .

parents with season tickets (FTW!!!!!)

[Benny003]

so who all registered for the chance to buy playoff tickets..The odds are going to be like .0001 each .

Probably not a question of who, but how many times...

[jordonh]

Probably not a question of who, but how many times...

Its a little harder this time because the address you use to sign up must match the credit card address..but i still signed up everyone in my family

[Benny003]

Its a little harder this time because the address you use to sign up must match the credit card address..but i still signed up everyone in my family

Yeah, but what does that have to do with signing up multiple email addresses? I don't know about you, but I have 5 email addresses.

[jordonh]

Yeah, but what does that have to do with signing up multiple email addresses? I don't know about you, but I have 5 email addresses.

true..so your just using the same name and address and changing the email address...think that will count as a duplicate ?

[handsareme]

Craig Finn of The Hold Steady - Don't Call Them Twinkies (http://minnesota.publicradio.org/collections/special/columns/music_blog/archive/2010/09/dont_call_them.shtml)

[Nick@Night]

Craig Finn of The Hold Steady - Don't Call Them Twinkies (http://minnesota.publicradio.org/collections/special/columns/music_blog/archive/2010/09/dont_call_them.shtml)
That song kicks the shit out of GB Leighton's steaming pile of ear rape.

[handsareme]

I'm ready to choke a bitch.

I just looked at the postseason tv schedule and found that everything but the NLCS and WS is on TBS. I don't have cable. I don't want to pay for beer at a bar.

[42graystreet]

Next time you guys get a chance, take a look at the overall MLB standings. It's the shit :D

[GOB_]

Next time you guys get a chance, take a look at the overall MLB standings. It's the shit :D

You're welcome ;)

[Benny003]

true..so your just using the same name and address and changing the email address...think that will count as a duplicate ?

Yeah, just changing email address. Eh I don't know though if it will work or not. Can't hurt though. It says they will still accept the first entry if they do in fact decide it's multiple entries.

Craig Finn of The Hold Steady - Don't Call Them Twinkies (http://minnesota.publicradio.org/collections/special/columns/music_blog/archive/2010/09/dont_call_them.shtml)

They were playing that at the stadium before the game started on Wednesday and I had no idea where it came from. I had never heard it before. Pretty funny though.

Next time you guys get a chance, take a look at the overall MLB standings. It's the shit :D

:hump

You're welcome ;)

Indeed! :thumbsup

[UNC41]

Craig Finn of The Hold Steady - Don't Call Them Twinkies (http://minnesota.publicradio.org/collections/special/columns/music_blog/archive/2010/09/dont_call_them.shtml)

"Grab yourself a 3.2 beer and raise a toast to Gardy."

My love for Craig Finn is about equal to my love of the Twins. Loved it!

[bigeyefish22]

Do they sell 3.2 beer at Target Field?

[handsareme]

Do they sell 3.2 beer at Target Field?
Didn't seem like it when I was there.

[bigeyefish22]

Didn't seem like it when I was there.

:lol I'm with you on that. They did at the dome, right? I never drank beer at the dome but I was led to believe the beer was 3.2 (and makes sense with the song). What's the difference, what changed, why go from 3.2 to regular at Target Field? I clearly need to know more about this.

[42graystreet]

If they are selling 3.2 beer for $7 a cup, I'll never buy another beer at Target Field again.

[Benny003]

Everyone win the ALDS lottery?

Not looking good for the Twins right now. Luckily the Yankees are getting killed.

[Benny003]

In case anyone is interested, I got some video from the games on Tuesday and Wednesday where the Twins clinched the division.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ln1pfEzpcmw&fmt=22

[UNLTrpt]

I found some Grain Belt here in Nebraska. I am a happy man.

[phlaming lips]

I'm ready to choke a bitch.

I just looked at the postseason tv schedule and found that everything but the NLCS and WS is on TBS. I don't have cable. I don't want to pay for beer at a bar.

if you don't mind watching it on your computer, you can do the mlb.tv.playoffs package for something like 12 bucks, for all of the mlb playoff games. I did this last year, it was like being at the game (kind of ....) because of no commercials so the cameras are live the entire time, and at yankee stadium the camera guys were like paparazzi, close ups of JayZ, Kate Hudson, etc, as well as other NY people and their mistresses/hookers:lol

you can have multiple camera angles going at once, so it I thought it was worth it.

edit: Let's Go Twins!!!!!!

[phlaming lips]

so what are everyone's feelings about who will be visiting Target Field in the Divisional series?

It looks like Tampa's road to their division title is much easier with games against SEA, BAL, and KC.

Yankees have to finish this BOS series, and TOR, and then BOS again.

I would really like to see the Twins beat NY, for obvious reasons, but one in particular was the only other game I saw at TF this season besides the opener was against NY in May, and Twin Killer Nick Swisher hit a 9th inning homer to win.

[bigeyefish22]

so what are everyone's feelings about who will be visiting Target Field in the Divisional series?

It looks like Tampa's road to their division title is much easier with games against SEA, BAL, and KC.

Yankees have to finish this BOS series, and TOR, and then BOS again.

I would really like to see the Twins beat NY, for obvious reasons, but one in particular was the only other game I saw at TF this season besides the opener was against NY in May, and Twin Killer Nick Swisher hit a 9th inning homer to win.

I don't want to see NYY in the first round, I'd like Texas to take a shot at them first. They've been our nemesis in the playoffs and I don't like our chances. With home field, though, maybe an abbreviated series with home field is just what the Twins need to get over the hump.

I think the Twins best shot is Rays first round (get the speed team at a cold target field, maybe let the grass grow a little longer than usual), then maybe its Texas in ALCS. Of course, it's more likely we'd face NYY in ALCS.

[PilotC150]

Grand Slam, Danny Valencia! That was a beautiful swing.

Twins lead 5-0 in the first inning.

[Clem Haskins]

Grand Slam, Danny Valencia! That was a beautiful swing.

Twins lead 5-0 in the first inning.

Danny fucking Valencia.I was reading on ESPN, I think it was a Buster Olney article...cant find it now. Anyway Olney had been told by an anonymous GM that they had Valencia evaluated as "a guy who could be an everyday 3rd baseman on a championship caliber team." And the GM said that they felt that way in 2008. 2 years ago. Talk about patience.

[PilotC150]

Well Pavano has to go and blow the lead and give the Tigers a 7-5 lead.

Then Kubel and Valencia hit back-to-back homers to tie the game. And Kubel's was a no-doubter.

[Benny003]

Slugfest tonight. Pavano had too much rest, hadn't pitched in like 8 or 9 days. We got 5 runs in this inning though, so let's hang on to our lead now.

[Benny003]

How in the hell do we lose that game? Terrible. I'm thinking we're getting the Yankees in the first round.

[Benny003]

Here is the link to my post on my website for Tuesday's game where the Twins clinched the division if you're interested:

http://benckphotography.com/blog/2010/09/26/minnesota-twins-clinch-2010-al-central-division-championship/

[Benny003]

Swept by the Tigers. Not exactly the momentum builder after clinching I was hoping for. It's good that our playoff rotation has another set of starts before the playoffs though. Hopefully they go much better.

[handsareme]

Hopefully they can turn it around tomorrow night in KC.

[handsareme]

One day only sale: Buy one item, get 40% off a second item at the twinsbaseball.com shop. Be sure to enter FB1DAY at check out.

[42graystreet]

Did that Detroit series really happen? I know we probably let off on the gas pedal a little bit since clinching, but jeez, let's see a little fight for ALCS home field and best record in baseball.

Pavano and Liriano did nothing to quell my uneasiness of them as our 1-2 in the playoffs.

Boy...losing sure does make me pissed off and pessimistic.

[Benny003]

I feel the same way. However, Liriano was actually pitching pretty well before he was taken out because of illness. So I don't totally blame him. Pavano on the other hand. Lesson learned, don't mess with Pavano's regular start schedule. 9 days between starts is too much. 7 earned runs? Not good.

Mauer is supposed to be DH'ing I think in KC. Maybe that will wake them up. Toronto will be an important series for building some momentum. It will be nice when everything is sorted out and we finally know the playoff schedule (who we're playing, game times, etc.).

[Nick@Night]

It's seems surreal that we're down to a week left in the regular season. I'd call the Detroit series a minor set-back, if nothing else it gives Gardy some insight to things he can and can't do when it comes to dealing with his players and how they perform on the field as a unit. That loss on Saturday night was just painful to watch, especially with the way they blew it in the top of the 13th with the bases loaded and 1 out.

[handsareme]

Getting ready to head to class, then heading to KC immediately after I return home from class. Gonna be a beautiful night: Hi/lo 70/52 and clear skies, very light breeze. Should be fun from the front row of the upper deck.

[Benny003]

Getting ready to head to class, then heading to KC immediately after I return home from class. Gonna be a beautiful night: Hi/lo 70/52 and clear skies, very light breeze. Should be fun from the front row of the upper deck.

Awesome. Take pictures. :thumbsup

[andrewj063]

Good to see the Twins are bringing the C- lineup again tonight....... DAMN IT!

[Benny003]

So what did we learn Gardenhire? Don't mess with your rotation's regular start schedule!

Another first inning lead completely blown away by horrible starting pitching. This is exactly how you don't want to lead into the playoffs.

[bigeyefish22]

I foresee Delmon Young dropping a routine fly ball in the playoffs. :lol:confused

[UNLTrpt]

Would the real Minnesota Twins please stand up?

[Benny003]

Indeed. Anyone else concerned our pitching has given up 36 runs in the last 4 games? They better get back on track against Toronto.

[42graystreet]

Another throw away game littered with both pitchers and hitters who won't see the light of day come playoff time, but damnit all to hell, we screwed up another chance to get tied with Tampa for the best AL record. :BANG

[bigeyefish22]

Yanks and Rays are losing, too (it happens). I'm not worried in the least, though I wouldn't say I'm enjoying it.

[handsareme]

The loss tonight was negated by the fact that I caught a Cuddy foul ball in the first inning. Check your DVRs if you still have it. Would love to see it...

Edit: And I did it while spilling less than 10% of my beer. What I did spill went over to the lower deck.

[jordonh]

The loss tonight was negated by the fact that I caught a Cuddy foul ball in the first inning. Check your DVRs if you still have it. Would love to see it...

Edit: And I did it while spilling less than 10% of my beer. What I did spill went over to the lower deck.

ya, if it was you dick made a comment that it was a risky catch hanging over the upper deck by a fan

[Benny003]

The loss tonight was negated by the fact that I caught a Cuddy foul ball in the first inning. Check your DVRs if you still have it. Would love to see it...

Edit: And I did it while spilling less than 10% of my beer. What I did spill went over to the lower deck.

Nice!

ya, if it was you dick made a comment that it was a risky catch hanging over the upper deck by a fan

Yeah, I heard that too. The crowd seemed to get worked up about it and Dick commented on it. They never showed it though because on the next pitch Cuddy got a double if I remember right. I was waiting for a replay of the foul ball catch since they commented on it, but they never showed one. They didn't show it live either.

[Benny003]

Just letting out some frustration, I fucking hate those virtual waiting rooms!

[42graystreet]

The loss tonight was negated by the fact that I caught a Cuddy foul ball in the first inning. Check your DVRs if you still have it. Would love to see it...

Edit: And I did it while spilling less than 10% of my beer. What I did spill went over to the lower deck.

Nice!!!! Too bad you had to watch a shitty pitching performance. Gardy was pissed afterwards.

Just letting out some frustration, I fucking hate those virtual waiting rooms!

I'll be in section 205 for home games 1 and 3 in the ALCS :)

[Benny003]

I'll be in section 205 for home games 1 and 3 in the ALCS :)

You'll be right above me, I'll be in 104. I got into the waiting room as soon as it possibly let me and I still couldn't buy tickets until almost 12 minutes after 9AM because it apparently wasn't my turn yet. I think I just got spoiled with the ALDS pre-sale. I got into that one 3 minutes after it was supposed to start and got seats behind home plate on the main level for 2 out of the 3 games. 104 isn't that bad, it's just frustrating to sit in that waiting room for 20 minutes knowing other people are buying up tickets while you wait.

If the Twins make the World Series, sitting in that waiting room for tickets is going to be absolute torture.

[handsareme]

ya, if it was you dick made a comment that it was a risky catch hanging over the upper deck by a fan
:D, sweet! It actually sliced over and I missed it, but it bounced off the guys glove who was behind me. If it wouldn't have been for me, it was going back downstairs.

[Nick@Night]

What the hell is going on with this team's pitching?

[Benny003]

With how things are going, it doesn't look like I'll have to worry about getting tickets for a possible Home Game 4 of the ALCS since if we do make it the ALCS we won't have home field advantage. Our starting pitching looks like a complete joke right now. Giving up 44 runs in 5 games to the Tigers and Royals?! This is who is pitching for us in the playoffs? These Toronto games with our playoff rotation getting one more start each better go stellar or we're screwed.

[Benny003]

A Tropicana Field crowd of 17,891 watched as the Rays (94-63) earned their second postseason berth in three years while also maintaining the best record in baseball.

:freak Unbelievable. Playoff clinching game that also maintains the best record in baseball and they get like the same attendence as a Cleveland Indians game.

http://mlb.mlb.com/news/article.jsp?ymd=20100928&content_id=15188040&vkey=recap&fext=.jsp&c_id=mlb

[42graystreet]

Everyone just look away until they come back to Target Field.

[GOB_]

A Tropicana Field crowd of 17,891 watched as the Rays (94-63) earned their second postseason berth in three years while also maintaining the best record in baseball.

:freak Unbelievable. Playoff clinching game that also maintains the best record in baseball and they get like the same attendence as a Cleveland Indians game.

http://mlb.mlb.com/news/article.jsp?ymd=20100928&content_id=15188040&vkey=recap&fext=.jsp&c_id=mlb

About the same size (18,108) as when the Twins clinched a playoff spot in '06.

http://www.kare11.com/news/news_article.aspx?storyid=135372

The small crowd of 18,108 at the Metrodome cheered when Chicago's game was final, saving more screaming for the real party about 90 minutes later.

I would just like to add, that I hope the Rays have the same experience as you guys had this year with the new stadium.

[Benny003]

About the same size (18,108) as when the Twins clinched a playoff spot in '06.

http://www.kare11.com/news/news_article.aspx?storyid=135372

I would just like to add, that I hope the Rays have the same experience as you guys had this year with the new stadium.

Good point. With this year being what it is, I've really forgotten what it was like at the Dome. Now that I think about it, I remember thinking games had a really good crowd going when we topped 30,000 and an incredible crowd when it got over 40,000. Most games were a little over 20,000 last year. I remember at the beginning of this season thinking that I would never get used to dealing with such large crowds with every game being a sell out. Now it's hard to remember what it was like when you saw empty seats all over the place even though it was just last year.

[GOB_]

Good point. With this year being what it is, I've really forgotten what it was like at the Dome. Now that I think about it, I remember thinking games had a really good crowd going when we topped 30,000 and an incredible crowd when it got over 40,000. Most games were a little over 20,000 last year. I remember at the beginning of this season thinking that I would never get used to dealing with such large crowds with every game being a sell out. Now it's hard to remember what it was like when you saw empty seats all over the place even though it was just last year.

Was the Metrodome that bad? Do you think the Twins will continue drawing the same numbers next year?

[bigeyefish22]

Was the Metrodome that bad? Do you think the Twins will continue drawing the same numbers next year?

No, it was worse than that.

Same numbers? God knows. Maybe, if the Twins have another good year.

[Nick@Night]

Was the Metrodome that bad? Do you think the Twins will continue drawing the same numbers next year?
Yeah, it was that bad. Depending on where you were sitting, the viewing angle wasn't suited for baseball and the place is just a sterile dump. It's the big inflatable toilet. The place was only useful when it came to the big games (87 and 91 series, game 163 last year).

I'm sure the attendance will carry over to next year at minimum as those who haven't gone or want to go more will still keep the demand for tickets up. Plus on a nice Minnesota summer evening the environment alone will bring in more people than the metrodome ever did on a mid-week game night.

[Benny003]

If the Twins do something respectable in the playoffs this year, it will definitely push the attendence up next year. I mean the Twins season attendence record (until this season) was set in 1988, the year after they won the World Series. So if the Twins do something great in the playoffs (at least make it to the second round), next year will look like a lot like this year for attendence.

Otherwise, attendence will definitely drop off some next year. I'd expect probably 30,000 on average instead of 40,000 like this year. 2 years from now assuming the Twins don't win the World Series or something, the average attendence will probably be in the mid to upper 20,000's I would guess. I don't think it will ever be as bad as the Rays pulling in less than 20,000 unless the Twins completely start to tank a few years from now.

[AJF_41]

Benny, do you have photo stiching software?

Long story short, I was able to walk out on the warning track of Target Field a few weeks ago...I snapped a bunch of picture with my iPhone (I wish I had my D50 with me)....wondering what they would look like stiched together and cleaned up.

Let me know.

[42graystreet]

I expect next year to be a lot like this year, attendance wise. We're going to field another competitive team and Target Field will still be in its honeymoon phase. Should we do something amazing, like win the world series, we'd probably sell out every game next year.

[UNLTrpt]

God damn. Finally we show a little fire.

[Benny003]

We allowed fewer than 10 runs!!! We allowed fewer than 10 runs!!! :rolleyes

Finally a win though. Let's get on a nice little roll here. Mauer DH'ing tonight, Thome will be DH'ing tomorrow night. Our playoff starters should be pitching all weekend.

Morneau has had 4 symptom-free days in a row and he's doing a full workout with the team tonight. They say if progress continues he could be available for the second round of the playoffs. Wouldn't that be exciting?


Benny, do you have photo stiching software?

Long story short, I was able to walk out on the warning track of Target Field a few weeks ago...I snapped a bunch of picture with my iPhone (I wish I had my D50 with me)....wondering what they would look like stiched together and cleaned up.

Let me know.

Yeah, I use Photoshop. It does a pretty good job. First two here are stitched:

http://benckphotography.com/galleries/Minneapolis/index.html

#10 here is also stitched:

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

[tosssweep]

I had a dream last night (or maybe two nights ago?) that Morneau made the playoff roster but rode the pine almost entirely. That is, until he was called upon to pinch hit in the World Series and smacked the game winner for us!!


KFAN made a couple good points the other regarding best record and home field advantage.
1) In the standings we are 1.0 behind the Rays, but that really means we are 2.0 games behind since we need to finish with an overall better record in order to secure home field (the Rays hold the season tiebreak).
2) Home field for the Twins really only refers to the ALCS since we are all but guaranteed to host the Wild Card in round one and the NL won the All-Star Game, giving them home field for the World Series.

[42graystreet]

And if you're disappointed that we put on the brakes and probably won't get home-field advantage in the ALCS...here's some food for thought.

Since the League Championship Series were extended to 7 games in 1985, the team with home-field advantage is 24-24.

[Nick@Night]

And if you're disappointed that we put on the brakes and probably won't get home-field advantage in the ALCS...here's some food for thought.

Since the League Championship Series were extended to 7 games in 1985, the team with home-field advantage is 24-24.
As far as sports go homefield means the least in baseball.

[UNLTrpt]

We allowed fewer than 10 runs!!! We allowed fewer than 10 runs!!!

There was a shot near the end of the game last night of some guy taking a picture from the 3rd row. I wondering if it was you.

[Benny003]

I had a dream last night (or maybe two nights ago?) that Morneau made the playoff roster but rode the pine almost entirely. That is, until he was called upon to pinch hit in the World Series and smacked the game winner for us!!


KFAN made a couple good points the other regarding best record and home field advantage.
1) In the standings we are 1.0 behind the Rays, but that really means we are 2.0 games behind since we need to finish with an overall better record in order to secure home field (the Rays hold the season tiebreak).
2) Home field for the Twins really only refers to the ALCS since we are all but guaranteed to host the Wild Card in round one and the NL won the All-Star Game, giving them home field for the World Series.

We locked that up 2 nights ago actually. We are guaranteed home field advantage for the first round of the playoffs.

And if you're disappointed that we put on the brakes and probably won't get home-field advantage in the ALCS...here's some food for thought.

Since the League Championship Series were extended to 7 games in 1985, the team with home-field advantage is 24-24.

That was mentioned similarly on Mike and Mike this morning too. You can go all the way back to 1965 or something too and in the league championship series the team with home field advantage actually has a losing record by 2 series or something. I don't think we would have won the WS in 1987 without it though. We didn't win a single road game in that series, right?

That being said, I bet the ticket offices for the Twins and the people who run the budgets are rooting hard for home field advantage. They are probably hoping every series goes to the tie-breaking game too! :lol

There was a shot near the end of the game last night of some guy taking a picture from the 3rd row. I wondering if it was you.

Nope, they were in Kansas City last night. I didn't go to the games. Maybe some year I'll make it down there. Now for the next 4 nights though, if you see a guy with a big black camera lens in the seats near the Twins dugout that's probably me. I'm in Section 3 tonight and tomorrow, section 4 on Saturday, and Section 2 on Sunday.

[42graystreet]

^^actually, it doesn't matter. Another stat I dug up today...

Home-field advantage team had more games at home: 24 times
Home-field advantage team had same number of games at home: 30 times
Home-field advantage team had less games at home: 24 times

[Benny003]

^^actually, it doesn't matter. Another stat I dug up today...

Home-field advantage team had more games at home: 24 times
Home-field advantage team had same number of games at home: 30 times
Home-field advantage team had less games at home: 24 times

Interesting. I bet it's because of the 2-3-2 format of 7 game series. There are 2 possible series-clinching games away before the teams go back to the home-field advantage team's ballpark.

[42graystreet]

Interesting. I bet it's because of the 2-3-2 format of 7 game series. There are 2 possible series-clinching games away before the teams go back to the home-field advantage team's ballpark.

Yep. And if people think that's only the case because the home-field advantage team had won the first couple games and then clinched on the road, they can look at that 24-24 record. It's incredible how home-field advantage, at least in the League Championship Series, has virtually no impact.

[Benny003]

Yep. And if people think that's only the case because the home-field advantage team had won the first couple games and then clinched on the road, they can look at that 24-24 record. It's incredible how home-field advantage, at least in the League Championship Series, has virtually no impact.

Still don't like our chances in Yankees Stadium though.

[42graystreet]

Still don't like our chances in Yankees Stadium though.

Ahhhh...the perceived curse. I couldn't agree more. I love numbers in baseball, but until they actually do it, I may never believe that we can beat the Yankees in the playoffs.

[Benny003]

Ahhhh...the perceived curse. I couldn't agree more. I love numbers in baseball, but until they actually do it, I may never believe that we can beat the Yankees in the playoffs.

If we face the Yankees in the playoffs and Rivera comes into a game at Target Field, I plan on having a giant sign that simply says, "REMEMBER MAY 16, 2010?" If it doesn't rattle Rivera, maybe it will at least fire up the Twins.

http://mlb.mlb.com/mlb/gameday/index.jsp?gid=2010_05_16_minmlb_nyamlb_1&mode=wrap

[42graystreet]

The unbalanced schedule does us no favors. We only play the Yanks once at home. Once at Yankee Stadium. The Yanks are the Yanks and the defending champs. They are still the team to measure yourself against. We only get to do it twice in a season. I wish the schedule would let us play teams outside our division a little more.

[UNLTrpt]

If we face the Yankees in the playoffs and Rivera comes into a game at Target Field, I plan on having a giant sign that simply says, "REMEMBER MAY 16, 2010?" If it doesn't rattle Rivera, maybe it will at least fire up the Twins.

http://mlb.mlb.com/mlb/gameday/index.jsp?gid=2010_05_16_minmlb_nyamlb_1&mode=wrap

The best part of that video is the gasp from the crowd.

[scrock25]

The best part of that video is the gasp from the crowd.

I like the bolded parts... Dan.

Minnesota's 2003, 2004 and 2009 playoff games against New York have been a succession of exasperations, featuring arguably the three most painful postseason losses in Twins history:

No. 3 would be Game 2 of the 2004 ALDS, which Minnesota lost 7-6 in 12 innings. The Twins came from behind to force extra innings and then took a 6-5 lead on Torii Hunter's 12th-inning homer.

But closer Joe Nathan -- clearly out of gas in his third inning of work -- gave up two walks, an RBI double to Alex Rodriguez and a game-winning sacrifice fly to Hideki Matsui in the bottom of the 12th.

No. 2 would be Game 4 of the 2004 ALDS, which the Twins lost 6-5 in 11 innings.

Minnesota took a 5-1 lead into the eighth, only to see it dissolve when 847-year-old Ruben Sierra hit a three-run homer off Juan Rincon to cap a four-run rally.

Kyle Lohse then wild-pitched home the winning run in the 11th, ending the series.

No. 1 would be Game 2 of the 2009 ALDS, a 4-3 Yankees win in 11 innings.

Joe Mauer led off the top of the 11th with what should have been a double, but umpire Phil Cuzzi called Mauer's fly ball down the left field line foul even though it landed fair by a foot.

Mauer then singled, and the Twins got two more hits to load the bases, but failed to score -- the last of 17 runners they stranded in the game.

Mark Teixeira hit a walk-off homer off Jose Mijares in the bottom of the 11th, effectively ending the series.

The Yankees have owned the Twins -- partly because of their confidence and track record of postseason success, but mostly because they've simply been the better team.

[grace2]

If we face the Yankees in the playoffs and Rivera comes into a game at Target Field, I plan on having a giant sign that simply says, "REMEMBER MAY 16, 2010?" If it doesn't rattle Rivera, maybe it will at least fire up the Twins.

http://mlb.mlb.com/mlb/gameday/index.jsp?gid=2010_05_16_minmlb_nyamlb_1&mode=wrap

That would be sick if you actually made that

[UNLTrpt]

I knew I hated this matchup

[42graystreet]

[dry heave]

[Benny003]

That would be sick if you actually made that

Oh I'm doing it. I was thinking about how best to do it. Thinking maybe say "Hey Mariano, remember May 16, 2010? WE DO!!!" then somehow have a picture of Kubel's homerun swing on the sign. I'll work something up in Adobe Illustrator and have it printed at Kinkos (now Fedex Office).

Kubel owns the Yankees. Has anyone else noticed that? The only game we won against them at Target Field this year Kubel hit 2 homeruns. Add that on top of the grand slam in May in Yankee Stadium.

[Benny003]

Oh yeah, game tonight. PA-THET-IC! If this continues over the weekend, it will be safe to say that my playoff expectations will be at an all-time low.

Good news I heard today is that Morneau has had 4 symptom free days in a row and it's been said he could possibly be available for the ALCS if we get there.

[42graystreet]

Don't think that sign will have the impact you're hoping for. I didn't know what you were referring to until I clicked on the link and watched the highlight.

[scrock25]

Not to mention that I'm pretty sure that professional athletes don't really respond to things like that. Cuz you know, they'll be able to pick out a sign in the middle of 50,000 people, read what it says, and then get scared. You realize even if somebody did pick it out, they'd probably just laugh?

[bigeyefish22]

Not to mention that I'm pretty sure that professional athletes don't really respond to things like that. Cuz you know, they'll be able to pick out a sign in the middle of 50,000 people, read what it says, and then get scared. You realize even if somebody did pick it out, they'd probably just laugh?

Do you mean to imply that Benny's sign referencing "May 16, 2010" wouldn't both intimidate Mariano Rivera and spark extra inspiration in the Twins??

If so, well, then you just must not know much about the psychological make-up of professional athletes like Mariano Rivera and..... Jason Kubel.

[scrock25]

Sarcasm?

[Benny003]

Oh come on, I'm not saying it will spark some revolution, but people bring signs all the time as a way to convey a message to the other fans at the game or to the players somehow. If anything it will get me on TV. :lol However, it helps that my seats for Games 1 and 5 of the ALDS are behind home plate, so it's conceivable that Rivera would see it. I'd plan on making it readable from a good distance.

[bigeyefish22]

Sarcasm?

yes.

Oh come on, I'm not saying it will spark some revolution, but people bring signs all the time as a way to convey a message to the other fans at the game or to the players somehow. If anything it will get me on TV. :lol However, it helps that my seats for Games 1 and 5 of the ALDS are behind home plate, so it's conceivable that Rivera would see it. I'd plan on making it readable from a good distance.

just include circle-me-bert

[Benny003]

Wow, you guys are a lot of fun. Sarcasm? Yes.

[Nick@Night]

Sort of off topic, but relevant to the fact the Jays are in town and the guy bombed two more out of the park last night: Is Bautista on something? He's doing his best Brady Anderson impression, why the glut of homeruns all of a sudden at 30 years old?

[42graystreet]

I'm pretty sure baseball saw what he was doing and got a "random" drug test on him. Since nothing's been said about it, I can only think he passed that test and is just having a remarkable season.

[Benny003]

I think Mike and Mike were talking about it the other day and they basically said the same thing that everyone is tested and he apparently must be passing the tests. I was telling my wife last night that I was surprised how small he is. He looks about the same size as J.J. Hardy.

[Benny003]

I'll be posting pictures from last night's game sometime early next week (I should have pictures from all 4 games), but I wanted to show you these couple now. I got a great shot of Bautista's grand slam (3-1 count, bases loaded for the league leading HR hitter, I had to have the camera ready in that situation...) and another picture is Ron Coomer trying to bribe one of the grounds crew to eat a giant 2-inch long bug they found crawling on the field. I included a picture of the bug. It was literally at least 2 inches long.

http://i64.photobucket.com/albums/h184/Bluecow003/DSC_3862.jpg

http://i64.photobucket.com/albums/h184/Bluecow003/DSC_3680.jpg

http://i64.photobucket.com/albums/h184/Bluecow003/DSC_3690.jpg

[grace2]

I'll be posting pictures from last night's game sometime early next week (I should have pictures from all 4 games), but I wanted to show you these couple now. I got a great shot of Bautista's grand slam (3-1 count, bases loaded for the league leading HR hitter, I had to have the camera ready in that situation...) and another picture is Ron Coomer trying to bribe one of the grounds crew to eat a giant 2-inch long bug they found crawling on the field. I included a picture of the bug. It was literally at least 2 inches long.

http://i64.photobucket.com/albums/h184/Bluecow003/DSC_3862.jpg

http://i64.photobucket.com/albums/h184/Bluecow003/DSC_3680.jpg

http://i64.photobucket.com/albums/h184/Bluecow003/DSC_3690.jpg
:thumbsup Very, very nice. First picture is awesome.

[Nick@Night]

I'm pretty sure baseball saw what he was doing and got a "random" drug test on him. Since nothing's been said about it, I can only think he passed that test and is just having a remarkable season.
I bet he doesn't top 25 next year.

[AJF_41]

http://minnesota.publicradio.org/collections/special/columns/music_blog/archive/2010/09/dont_call_them.shtml

[handsareme]

http://minnesota.publicradio.org/collections/special/columns/music_blog/archive/2010/09/dont_call_them.shtml
Few pages back.

:)

[Benny003]

Better game tonight. If it wasn't for Crain's collapse, we were right in there. Plouffe even made the 9th a little exciting.

Holy cow did it get cold there toward the end though. The wind really picked up and it felt really cold. Reminded me of the beginning of the season. It's exciting to be watching baseball in the fall again though. I can't wait for next Wednesday and the fun really begins.

[handsareme]

Watching the 9th inning on yahoo's gamechannel was a nail biting experience.

[42graystreet]

Now, does everyone feel better? Casilla is one of the greatest players in the history of baseball getting game-winning singles.

[dontburnthe_pig]

Now, does everyone feel better? Casilla is one of the greatest players in the history of baseball getting game-winning singles.

:lol:thumbsup:thumbsup

i haven't been keeping up the twins as much as i should. i'm ready for the playoffs.

[Benny003]

It always seems like Casilla comes up with the big hit. With a game on the line, honestly, he's the one I want up to bat when all we need is a base hit.

So if anyone has gone to the final home games of a season before you know all the Twins players come out before the game starts and they toss signed baseballs into the crowd. Well I swear Kubel was looking at me since I was the only one in my area within 15 feet of me with a glove on and he threw the ball my way (I was about 7 rows up from the Twins dugout, so pretty easy to see he was looking at me). He threw it a little short, but I could have still caught it because there was nobody in the row in front of me. Well some guy 2 rows in front of me reaches out and snatches the ball before it can get to me. I was thoroughly disappointed.

Oh another story from Friday. I was in Section 3 second row from the field and it's right near where the Twins run by on their way out to stretch and warm up. OK, so Danny Valencia walks by and to this kid who is about 12 years old in the front he gives him his actual bat. It has the tape on the handle and everything, so it was game used probably. I've never seen a player just randomly give away a baseball bat like that. Danny didn't even stop or anything, just handed it to him as he was running by. That's one lucky kid for sure. It was pretty cool.

I can't believe tomorrow (Sunday) is the last regular season game. This season has been one hell of a ride. Ready or not, playoffs are coming. We'll know tomorrow who we're playing finally. This week is going to be very exciting.

[Benny003]

Video of Alexi Casilla's walk-off hit on Saturday taken from our seats if anyone wants to take a look:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FvtReLLQUDQ&fmt=22

[42graystreet]

Thank god, that brutal last week+ of the season is over. We obviously took a (well earned) mental and physical break. Now, the real season begins and it looks like it'll be the fuckin' Yankees.

LET'S PLAY!

[Benny003]

For those of you who look at the pictures I take at the games, can I ask what types of things you enjoy seeing the most? I'm just trying to get an idea of what I should focus on when I take pictures at the games. Most of the time I try to have more of a "comprehensive" gallery of pictures from the games that show pre-game stuff and the action in the game itself of course. I sort of try to give you a sense of what it was like to be at the game. Do you like seeing them warming up or funny things I catch them doing before the game? Do you like when I try to get pictures around the ballpark or are the action shots what you enjoy the most? What would you like me to try to get pictures of if you have an opinion? I'm just trying to make sure I include pictures of things people actually want to see and hopefully leave out some of the pictures that people don't really care about. I'd appreciate the feedback.

I took lots of pictures at all 4 games this weekend, so I just want to make sure I put up pictures people will be interested in. Thanks!

[Benny003]

Playoff game times posted, all night games of course since it's the Yankees.

Game 1 on Wednesday is scheduled to start at 7:37.
Game 2 on Thursday will start at 5:07.
Game 3 from New York will start at 7:37 (all time Central).

[Benny003]

Wednesday's Game 1 is almost a must win. If we win that game, we have an incredibly good chance of winning the series. I thought I heard that CC has an ERA over 6 when pitching on 7 days rest, which is what his rest will be coming into Wednesday. We can't let CC pitch a complete game or even 8 innings. I think we'd be in a little bit of trouble if we let him go that long. This is going to be fun though. I can't wait to see Target Field all in a frenzy. There's nothing like playoff baseball.

[Xmasjjm]

Just got 2 tickets to a potential game 4 of the ALCS. Section 313, row 9. My wife is going to kill me...

[42graystreet]

Just got 2 tickets to a potential game 4 of the ALCS. Section 313, row 9. My wife is going to kill me...

Awesome! I hope you will actually use those tickets and not get a refund for them.

[Nick@Night]

It sucks we have to wait until Wednesday for this shit to get going, but I'm glad they actually get some time to rest and prepare for the Yankee match-up this time (and don't have to start on the road).

[jordonh]

I got 4 to potential ALCS game 2...section 125 (expensive..came to $83 a ticket)

[bigeyefish22]

I just found out I have a thing I can't get out of on Wednesday night. And I don't have tivo, or whatever. Guess I'll be picking the game up about the 4th-5th inning. F.M.L.

[UNLTrpt]

Wednesday's Game 1 is almost a must win. If we win that game, we have an incredibly good chance of winning the series. I thought I heard that CC has an ERA over 6 when pitching on 7 days rest, which is what his rest will be coming into Wednesday. We can't let CC pitch a complete game or even 8 innings. I think we'd be in a little bit of trouble if we let him go that long. This is going to be fun though. I can't wait to see Target Field all in a frenzy. There's nothing like playoff baseball.

If we get to their bullpen, we've got the advantage.

[jmudmbphan]

If we get to their bullpen, we've got the advantage.


Are you serious right now?

Kerry Wood has given up 2 earned runs since joining the yankees over 2 months ago...
Joba has had a 2.25 ERA since August 2nd....
Dave Robertson has given up 8 runs since July 4th in 34 innings...
Boone Logan has given up 5 since June 16th in 30 innings...
Mo is Mo.

[davelk10]

Just got back from honeymoon in St. Maarten. Missed out on a ton of sports, but lots of beaches and beers.

Well, I guess it couldn't happen any other way for us. We always get the Yankee's first.
I actually like our chances this year. Would love to end their title defense.

Anybody going to another game soon that can pick me up a homer hankie? Should be out sometime during next series.

Ben????????
I probably will. I'll try to remember to pick up an extra.

Were you able to grab an extra, or anyone else have one they may want to sell?

[jmudmbphan]

Are you serious right now?

Kerry Wood has given up 2 earned runs since joining the yankees over 2 months ago...
Joba has had a 2.25 ERA since August 2nd....
Dave Robertson has given up 8 runs since July 4th in 34 innings...
Boone Logan has given up 5 since June 16th in 30 innings...
Mo is Mo.

reposting not to be a dick, but to generate a little convo..how does your bullpen compare? I really didnt feel like looking up your guys as well....lulz.

[Benny003]

reposting not to be a dick, but to generate a little convo..how does your bullpen compare? I really didnt feel like looking up your guys as well....lulz.

It's generally accepted that the Twins have one of, if not the, best bullpens in the AL this year. Against left-handed batters, Fuentes (a former all-star closer with the Angels, now one of our setup men) has something like a .115 OBA. Rauch was our closer at the beginning of the season and saved something around 24 games before we picked up Capps (an all-star this year). Until last Friday, Crain had only allowed 2 earned runs since June. Slowey was one of our starters this year and is now our long-reliever for the playoffs.

http://minnesota.twins.mlb.com/news/article.jsp?ymd=20101003&content_id=15405522&vkey=news_min&c_id=min

MIDDLE RELIEVERS
Yankees
RHP Kerry Wood: 47 G, 3.13 ERA ERA
RHP Dave Robertson: 64 G, 3.82 ERA
RHP Joba Chamberlain: 73 G, 4.40 ERA
LHP Boone Logan: 51 G, 2.92 ERA
RHP Dustin Moseley: 16 G, 4.96 ERA
RHP Ivan Nova: 10 G, 4.50 ERA

Twins
LHP Brian Fuentes: 48 G, 2.81 ERA
RHP Jesse Crain: 71 G, 3.04 ERA
RHP Matt Guerrier: 74 G, 3.17 ERA
LHP Jose Mijares: 47 G, 3.31 ERA
RHP Jon Rauch: 59 G, 3.12 ERA
RHP Kevin Slowey: 30 G, 4.45 ERA

Don't be fooled by the fact that the Twins finished eighth in the Majors with a 3.50 bullpen ERA, just behind the Yankees' 3.42 mark. Minnesota is top-heavy in its bullpen, and their top five middle relievers -- Fuentes, Crain, Guerrier, Mijares and Rauch -- all have enough talent to close out games. Need more proof? Fuentes and Rauch are former closers.

The Twins also boast something that the Yankees do not: two legitimate left-handed options out of the 'pen. Yankees manager Joe Girardi enjoyed that luxury last season with Phil Coke and Damaso Marte, and he knows how important it can be. Now it's Ron Gardenhire's turn.

[bigeyefish22]

Is Rauch active for the first round?

[bigeyefish22]

LaVelle: Rauch, whose right knee needed draining and a cortisone shot over the weekend, is doing better but will throw in the bullpen Monday to prove his fitness. Lefthander Glen Perkins will be on call in case of an injury.

[bigeyefish22]

http://www.nytimes.com/2010/10/05/sports/baseball/05twins.html?src=un&feedurl=http%3A%2F%2Fjson8.nytimes.com%2Fpages%2Fs ports%2Fbaseball%2Findex.jsonp

[Benny003]

http://www.nytimes.com/2010/10/05/sports/baseball/05twins.html?src=un&feedurl=http%3A%2F%2Fjson8.nytimes.com%2Fpages%2Fs ports%2Fbaseball%2Findex.jsonp

Yeah, it is a strange ballpark. Almost every time I see a hard fly ball hit to left-center field, I say that's the place where homeruns go to die. Homeruns to that area have to be line drives. At Target Field, anything high up in the air, except right down the lines, is going to be an out almost guaranteed.

[PilotC150]

Regardless of the outcome, Mauer may be stuck playing in a stadium that is not suited for him, something he never anticipated when he signed an eight-year, $184 million contact extension last spring.

How is it not suited to him? He's not a power hitter. It lets him hit doubles and the occational triple. That's Joe's game. The park fits him perfectly.

[Benny003]

How is it not suited to him? He's not a power hitter. It lets him hit doubles and the occational triple. That's Joe's game. The park fits him perfectly.

I actually think it took him some getting used to. I mean last year he hit how many opposite field home runs at the Dome? I'm sure he spent the first half trying to figure out how to repeat that at Target Field. I think he's got it figured out now, but it may have had something to do with his struggles in the first half.

[42graystreet]

It doesn't suit him, only from the standpoint that he had found a power swing last year, hitting 28 home runs, and now it's not there anymore playing at Target Field. That power made him an MVP, instead of "just" a batting champ.

[42graystreet]

Were you able to grab an extra, or anyone else have one they may want to sell?

I do have an extra. You want it?

[bigeyefish22]

I do have an extra. You want it?

if he's not, I'd be interested in seeing the price :)

[UNLTrpt]

I don't think Mauer should be hitting home runs to be honest. I'd rather him single and double everybody to death, drive in a run or two and then have Morneau or Thome or Cuddy or whoever be the one who drives him in with the HR. Last year was a spike for him in HR's.

The key is to have someone hitting behind Mauer who can protect him.

[Benny003]

I don't think Mauer should be hitting home runs to be honest. I'd rather him single and double everybody to death, drive in a run or two and then have Morneau or Thome or Cuddy or whoever be the one who drives him in with the HR. Last year was a spike for him in HR's.

The key is to have someone hitting behind Mauer who can protect him.

What's wrong with having another homerun threat in the lineup? I mean with Mauer it's not like you have to trade average for power like you do with the Blue Jays lineup. He's capable of doing both. It's just a problem now that opposite field homeruns at Target Field are almost unheard of unless your name is Thome and Mauer is almost strictly an opposite field hitter.

[bigeyefish22]

Anybody know the Twins ticket prices for the alds? Buddy said he might be able to get lowers, 1st base side, so I'm curious.

[jmudmbphan]

I don't think Mauer should be hitting home runs to be honest. I'd rather him single and double everybody to death, drive in a run or two and then have Morneau or Thome or Cuddy or whoever be the one who drives him in with the HR. Last year was a spike for him in HR's.

The key is to have someone hitting behind Mauer who can protect him.


yeah...I don't understand this either...

Personally, if he were on my team, I'd rather him hit for power (well hes not quite as powerful) like arod, pujouls, etc. as well as for average. Why give up a homerun threat if hes going to hit for average either way?

[42graystreet]

yeah...I don't understand this either...

Personally, if he were on my team, I'd rather him hit for power (well hes not quite as powerful) like arod, pujouls, etc. as well as for average. Why give up a homerun threat if hes going to hit for average either way?

I question whether Mauer could do what he did in 2009, year after year. He was incredible in 2009, just stupid good. There's a fear that if we rely on him to hit for power, if he intentionally starts pulling the ball to get more power, that his average and on-base will suffer.

[uro55]

MAN, I want to go to the game tomorrow!!!!!

[jmudmbphan]

I question whether Mauer could do what he did in 2009, year after year. He was incredible in 2009, just stupid good. There's a fear that if we rely on him to hit for power, if he intentionally starts pulling the ball to get more power, that his average and on-base will suffer.


i hear you. guess all you guys would really need to do is bring in a nice big bat via free agency.

...oh, wait...

[Benny003]

Anybody know the Twins ticket prices for the alds? Buddy said he might be able to get lowers, 1st base side, so I'm curious.

http://minnesota.twins.mlb.com/min/ticketing/postseason_info.jsp

Depending on section, between $50 and $120.

[Benny003]

I question whether Mauer could do what he did in 2009, year after year. He was incredible in 2009, just stupid good. There's a fear that if we rely on him to hit for power, if he intentionally starts pulling the ball to get more power, that his average and on-base will suffer.

I don't think Joe likes how his power numbers are down this year compared to last year. Something tells me he'll be working on that in the off-season preparing for next year. I just can't believe he would ever be content with only hitting 1 homerun at home in a season again.

[UNC41]

Tomorrow is going to be huge. Frank has got to bring it.

[UNLTrpt]

Maybe I said that wrong. His focus should be hitting singles and doubles instead of HR's. He's much better at the former than the latter. To me, last year was a spike. We're going to see a lot more years like this and previous years instead of years like last. Would I like him to hit more HR's? Absolutely. But I don't think he should think of himself as a power hitter.

[Benny003]

I guess what I think is that Mauer is capable of hitting for both average and power. Doesn't really bother me either way though. I definitely get grumpy when I see him batting below .300 though.

[bigeyefish22]

http://minnesota.twins.mlb.com/min/ticketing/postseason_info.jsp

Depending on section, between $50 and $120.

thanks :)

[42graystreet]

i hear you. guess all you guys would really need to do is bring in a nice big bat via free agency.

...oh, wait...

We'll essentially be getting that next year when Morneau comes back.

[davelk10]

I do have an extra. You want it?

Yep, pm sent

[42graystreet]

the homer hanky is gone folks. better luck next time. :D

[Benny003]

100 Reasons to Love the Baseball Postseason

http://sports.espn.go.com/espn/page2/story?page=schoenfield/101005&sportCat=mlb

25. Joe Mauer's sweeter-than-a-freshly-baked-cupcake swing.

44. The chance for snow to fall during a World Series game in Minneapolis.

45. Carl Pavano's moustache.

46. Matt Capps. Yes, the Twins are relying on a closer who spent his first 5½ seasons with the Pirates and Nationals. Not that there's anything wrong with that. Pitching for the Pirates and Nationals, that is.

61. Jim Thome. He'll be playing in his ninth postseason but still seeks his first ring.

94. The Twins winning in their first year in their beautiful new ballpark. They've won six AL Central crowns in nine seasons, but have lost four straight times in the division series -- three of those to the Yankees. (Twins fans: You know you wanted the Rays in the first round. Admit it. It's OK.)

:D

[Benny003]

Did you guys hear the catwalk rules at Tropicana Field changed for the post-season because the Rays bitched and complained that they lost that game to the Twins earlier this year because of the catwalk?

http://espn.go.com/blog/dallas/texas-rangers/post/_/id/4855191/rules-change-for-catwalks-at-tropicana-field

So why didn't they change the rules when the Twins got screwed over on the rule in 2007? :rolleyes

[Benny003]

I didn't know this:

Yet as his ninth career postseason appearance dawns, Thome will be chasing a much more cherished goal -- a World Series ring. If he gets it, we might be tipping our cap one last time to Thome, who would love to go out on top.

The first step is facing his former Indians teammate, Sabathia, against whom Thome has just four hits.

Of course, all four of those hits are home runs.

http://minnesota.twins.mlb.com/news/article.jsp?ymd=20101005&content_id=15436480&vkey=news_mlb&c_id=mlb

[Benny003]

I made a post on my website about the final regular season weekend at Target Field if you want to take a look:

http://benckphotography.com/blog/2010/10/05/the-inaugural-regular-season-at-target-field-comes-to-a-close/

[bigeyefish22]

I'm sure I'm not the only one who read this at Strib today, but it's kinda jarring (last years playoff line-up v. this years:

Last year: Denard Span, Orlando Cabrera, Mauer, Michael Cuddyer, Jason Kubel, Delmon Young, Brendan Harris, Matt Tolbert and Nick Punto.

This year: Span, Hudson, Mauer, Young, Thome, Cuddyer, Kubel, Danny Valencia and Hardy.

[Benny003]

I'm sure I'm not the only one who read this at Strib today, but it's kinda jarring (last years playoff line-up v. this years:

Last year: Denard Span, Orlando Cabrera, Mauer, Michael Cuddyer, Jason Kubel, Delmon Young, Brendan Harris, Matt Tolbert and Nick Punto.

This year: Span, Hudson, Mauer, Young, Thome, Cuddyer, Kubel, Danny Valencia and Hardy.

I forgot about that. How in the hell did we make the first 2 games in New York so close?

[42graystreet]

I love this Randy Moss story. It's awesome, and it's keeping my mind off the Yankees so I don't sit here and just be a nervous wreck all day.

[andrewj063]

I love this Randy Moss story. It's awesome, and it's keeping my mind off the Yankees so I don't sit here and just be a nervous wreck all day.
I still honestly, objectively believe the Packers are the team to beat in the NFC north.

[42graystreet]

I still honestly, objectively believe the Packers are the team to beat in the NFC north.

Nope. Not anymore. Not when Rice is back and we literally have about 15 pro-bowlers on the field.

[andrewj063]

Nope. Not anymore. Not when Rice is back and we literally have about 15 pro-bowlers on the field.
All speculation... Favre clearly isn't who he was last year. He's making plays/throwing picks that he would never have last year. I know the receiving corps isn't there, but 2TDs/6INTs is fairly alarming.

[42graystreet]

^lets' take it to the Vikings thread.

[Nick@Night]

Who is going the commentating for TBS for this game?

[AJF_41]

Thought you guys may enjoy this.

I used to work with Brian and remain good friends with him. Watch the last minute of the interview - - that's what I wanted to show you guys...

http://www.cnbc.com/id/15840232/?video=1608066414&play=1

[Benny003]

Target Field named Ballpark of the Year:

http://minnesota.twins.mlb.com/news/press_releases/press_release.jsp?ymd=20101006&content_id=15439072&vkey=pr_min&fext=.jsp&c_id=min

Seriously, could we have been any luckier with the stadium we got? I have some really minor gripes about it, but overall the place is just unbelievable. Hard to be much happier.

[davelk10]

Who is going the commentating for TBS for this game?

http://www.washingtonexaminer.com/sports/blogs/Watch-This/TBS-Broadcast-crews-set-for-the-MLB-Playoffs-104267604.html

Looks like we got their #1 crew: Ernie Johnson, Ron Darling, John Smoltz, and that knucklehead Craig Sager on the field

[Benny003]

Thought you guys may enjoy this.

I used to work with Brian and remain good friends with him. Watch the last minute of the interview - - that's what I wanted to show you guys...

http://www.cnbc.com/id/15840232/?video=1608066414&play=1

Haha, that's awesome. I like how it's totally random in the middle of the interview.

[hbktonyb]

It is becoming an annual thing that I enter this thread :lol

[Benny003]

It is becoming an annual thing that I enter this thread :lol

I've always wondered, as a Yankees fan, when a team with less than half your annual payroll beats you, is it embarrassing? Serious question. I mean when the Rays win the division, that's got to be pretty embarrassing for a franchise like the Yankees.

[UNLTrpt]

http://www.washingtonexaminer.com/sports/blogs/Watch-This/TBS-Broadcast-crews-set-for-the-MLB-Playoffs-104267604.html

Looks like we got their #1 crew: Ernie Johnson, Ron Darling, John Smoltz, and that knucklehead Craig Sager on the field

ernie johnson :thumbsup

[Nick@Night]

http://www.washingtonexaminer.com/sports/blogs/Watch-This/TBS-Broadcast-crews-set-for-the-MLB-Playoffs-104267604.html

Looks like we got their #1 crew: Ernie Johnson, Ron Darling, John Smoltz, and that knucklehead Craig Sager on the field
Awesome, we should get them. I'm glad Fox is out from broadcasting this series so we can all be saved from Joe Buck for a while.

[bigeyefish22]

I still honestly, objectively believe the Packers are the team to beat in the NFC north.

Totally. Vikes fans claiming the contrary today are just a little juiced up. It happens.

[42graystreet]

One untouchable AL East pitcher down today....one more to go!

[jmudmbphan]

I hate you all so very much. I hope you lose a terrible, one-sided series that brings you and your mothers to tears.

[42graystreet]

I hate you all so very much. I hope you lose a terrible, one-sided series that brings you and your mothers to tears.

Won't happen. I'm immune to losing to the Yankees by now. In fact, I can't be sure we haven't lost to them already. :freak

[PilotC150]

I hate you all so very much. I hope you lose a terrible, one-sided series that brings you and your mothers to tears.

So this is what it's like to be a Yankees fan and get these kinds of comments all the time?

[AJF_41]

I hate you all so very much. I hope you lose a terrible, one-sided series that brings you and your mothers to tears.

ass clown

[AJF_41]

cuddy!!!

[AJF_41]

whiiiiffffff!!

(am i alone in here)

[canes101190]

I love seeing A-Rod strike out. That was awesome.

Good to see Liriano with some good stuff tonight. I've always loved his game and it's good to see it pan out in his first postseason.

[hbktonyb]

I'm here :lol

[42graystreet]

I'm here. Just too nervous to type at times. :lol

[PilotC150]

That run was a direct result of Sabathia being fat and slow. :lol