Minnesota Twins

[42graystreet]

Happy Opening Day!!!!!!!!!! I can't believe we get real Twins baseball tomorrow!

[Benny003]

I've been waiting for Opening Day for so long that I can hardly believe it's actually here. By far my favorite time of year.

[UNLTrpt]

http://sports.espn.go.com/mlb/news/story?id=6276474

Morneau in the starting lineup tomorrow.

[42graystreet]

The lineup tomorrow features no big surprises. Nice to see Morneau in there.

Here is the lineup Gardenhire plans to use Friday:

1. Denard Span, CF
2. Tsuyoshi Nishioka, 2B
3. Joe Mauer, C
4. Justin Morneau, 1B
5. Delmon Young, LF
6. Jason Kubel, DH
7. Michael Cuddyer, RF
8. Danny Valencia, 3B
9. Alexi Casilla, SS

Starting Pitcher: Carl Pavano

[Nick@Night]

We have a damn good line-up, it's solid top to bottom. How far we go will hang in the balance of the pitching staff, I think they will keep us from getting over the hump when it's all said and done. :(

[42graystreet]

Damnit Nick, Opening Day is supposed to be about optimism! We'll have plenty of time to be pessimistic later on in the season.

[grace2]

Man, opening day really snuck on me. Can't wait for tomorrow.

[uro55]

I've been waiting for Opening Day for so long that I can hardly believe it's actually here. By far my favorite time of year.

Me too:hump

And I'll admit this is about 50/50 homer in me, but I think the Sox are VERY overrated. Dunn is a good pick up, but not a "game changer" if you will.

Can't fucking wait for next Friday fo sho!

Oh and to whomever asked about places for beers/burgers here som ideas.

Kierans, Smallys and 508. All are within one block, if you want to go a block or two farther then ask me again, I live like 5-6 blocks from Target Field and know the area well:)

[rustysurf83]

ALC should be fun this year.

[Clem Haskins]

Are you talking inside or outside the park?

Outside the park.

[lockman21]

And I'll admit this is about 50/50 homer in me, but I think the Sox are VERY overrated. Dunn is a good pick up, but not a "game changer" if you will.

This is a team that almost made the playoffs without their "ace", multiple guys having bad years (Quentin, Beckham, Pierzynski, Floyd) and having a head case as a closer that made it his job to blow saves.

They not only solidified the DH spot with Dunn, but also added a lefty in the middle of the lineup, something they were lacking and needed.

[uro55]

This is a team that almost made the playoffs without their "ace", multiple guys having bad years (Quentin, Beckham, Pierzynski, Floyd) and having a head case as a closer that made it his job to blow saves.

They not only solidified the DH spot with Dunn, but also added a lefty in the middle of the lineup, something they were lacking and needed.

If by almost you mean if the season had ended in July? Then sure:lol

Never said they weren't good, just not that hey are as good as some "experts" think.

[42graystreet]

This is a team that almost made the playoffs without their "ace", multiple guys having bad years (Quentin, Beckham, Pierzynski, Floyd) and having a head case as a closer that made it his job to blow saves.

They not only solidified the DH spot with Dunn, but also added a lefty in the middle of the lineup, something they were lacking and needed.

Great. Best of luck to the Sox. The Twins are a team that (hopefully) will have their MVP first baseman and 4-time All-Star closer the whole season.

[42graystreet]

I think, Nick, we're just frustrated in the Twins continually being under-appreciated when the so-called "experts" make their predictions. The Twins have some question marks (every team does), but I can make an argument that we are a significantly better team than last year (if we can stay healthy...just like every team) and yet see ourselves as the underdog to the White Sox (and Tigers in some cases) to a majority of the "experts."

[uro55]

I think, Nick, we're just frustrated in the Twins continually being under-appreciated when the so-called "experts" make their predictions. The Twins have some question marks (every team does), but I can make an argument that we are a significantly better team than last year (if we can stay healthy...just like every team) and yet see ourselves as the underdog to the White Sox (and Tigers in some cases) to a majority of the "experts."

You hit the nail right on the head Chad, I couldn't have said it better sir:)

[Benny003]

This is a team that almost made the playoffs without their "ace", multiple guys having bad years (Quentin, Beckham, Pierzynski, Floyd) and having a head case as a closer that made it his job to blow saves.

They not only solidified the DH spot with Dunn, but also added a lefty in the middle of the lineup, something they were lacking and needed.

Who also lost to a team without their all-star closer for the entire season and their MVP first baseman for the entire second half of the season. Yeah, we've got excuses too, but they didn't keep us from winning the division decisively. Should be a fun season.

[Nick@Night]

I think, Nick, we're just frustrated in the Twins continually being under-appreciated when the so-called "experts" make their predictions. The Twins have some question marks (every team does), but I can make an argument that we are a significantly better team than last year (if we can stay healthy...just like every team) and yet see ourselves as the underdog to the White Sox (and Tigers in some cases) to a majority of the "experts."
The Minnesota sports scene is so depressing as of late, it's hard not to let it carry over in to baseball season and to start off with low hopes. Nonetheless, I am excited for this season, I love the line-up we're bringing to the table. The high regards I am reading about Nishioka is very promising. Let the fucking experts furiously masturbate over Boston and the ChiSox, we'll fuck em all up.

[bigeyefish22]

I think, Nick, we're just frustrated in the Twins continually being under-appreciated when the so-called "experts" make their predictions. The Twins have some question marks (every team does), but I can make an argument that we are a significantly better team than last year (if we can stay healthy...just like every team) and yet see ourselves as the underdog to the White Sox (and Tigers in some cases) to a majority of the "experts."

In defense of whatever experts we're referring to, they probably look at it like this: the Twins didn't make an impact move in the off-season beyond a big ? in Tsuyoshi and we lost half of a good bullpen while the wsox added a big lefty (Dunn at DH for a season could CRUSH to the tune of 40+hr), filling a big hole, have a better rotation and strong bullpen. I don't blame them and I don't think our post-season performances have earned us any great respect on a season-to-season basis. Our longevity is impressive but we're like the San Jose sharks at this point, a team everyone expects to have a great regular season and become a non-factor in the playoffs.

That was all in defense of experts. I like our team better than the wsox. I love Yoshi's potential. I think our bullpen will be fine, if not very good. And I don't have a problem with the Twins post-season performance, it is what it is and every season's a new chance. I think we win the division. But 'experts' don't bother me. Nor should they you :)

[Nick@Night]

We do have a few things that other teams dont. A proven starter like Kevin Slowey beginning the season in the bullpen and ready to step in should problems arise with the rotation (either due to injury or poor performance) and essentially two beast closers when some teams don't even have a clear one. Gardy has been good about putting guys where they work best when there are holes to worry about (the line-up last year was evidence of this), what he does with the pitching this year could be his best effort yet.

[uro55]

In defense of whatever experts we're referring to, they probably look at it like this: the Twins didn't make an impact move in the off-season beyond a big ? in Tsuyoshi and we lost half of a good bullpen while the wsox added a big lefty (Dunn at DH for a season could CRUSH to the tune of 40+hr), filling a big hole, have a better rotation and strong bullpen. I don't blame them and I don't think our post-season performances have earned us any great respect on a season-to-season basis. Our longevity is impressive but we're like the San Jose sharks at this point, a team everyone expects to have a great regular season and become a non-factor in the playoffs.

That was all in defense of experts. I like our team better than the wsox. I love Yoshi's potential. I think our bullpen will be fine, if not very good. And I don't have a problem with the Twins post-season performance, it is what it is and every season's a new chance. I think we win the division. But 'experts' don't bother me. Nor should they you :)

Also don't forget we added one of the best closets in the game and an MVP 1st basemen.

[andrewj063]

I"m beyond excited for the season to open up!

[Clem Haskins]

Also don't forget we added one of the best closets in the game and an MVP 1st basemen.

Sid Hartman? Is that you?

[42graystreet]

Gone are the days of walking up to the ticket office and buying a pair for that night's game. I was at the Twins pro shop yesterday and the guy told me that every game in May, June, July and August are essentially sold out, with only single seats or standing-room-only tickets available.

This season is shaping up to being something special.

Happy Opening Day (for the Twins)!

[TapNorris]

Good luck this year Twins fans!! Here's to you guys keeping the White Sox out of the post-season again.....and to finally taking down the Yankees!!!

[42graystreet]

Good luck this year Twins fans!! Here's to you guys keeping the White Sox out of the post-season again.....and to finally taking down the Yankees!!!

Thanks Tap! Only 3 more months before we're out of the Big 12 forever! :bounce

[andrewj063]

Gone are the days of walking up to the ticket office and buying a pair for that night's game. I was at the Twins pro shop yesterday and the guy told me that every game in May, June, July and August are essentially sold out, with only single seats or standing-room-only tickets available.

This season is shaping up to being something special.

Happy Opening Day (for the Twins)!
I can't remember the hype for the season like this... Except for last year :lol

[uro55]

Sid Hartman? Is that you?

Yes, how may I help you?:lol

Gone are the days of walking up to the ticket office and buying a pair for that night's game.

I can't lie, I wouldn't trade Target Field and this hope for anything. But I do miss those days:lol

[TapNorris]

Thanks Tap! Only 3 more months before we're out of the Big 12 forever! :bounce

Anxiously awaiting the day!! Just gotta get through the baseball/softball/track season and we're home free!!

[42graystreet]

I can't lie, I wouldn't trade Target Field and this hope for anything. But I do miss those days:lol

I completely agree. But it was nice to have that luxury. I remember taking some friends to a Monday night game against Tampa Bay in 2008. We bought seats above 1st base for 10 bucks each from a scalper.

[grace2]

I loved the dome. You could always get in if you wanted to (for a decent price) and it got so loud in there. I'm glad we have Target Field, but I really miss the dome.

[Nick@Night]

I loved the dome. You could always get in if you wanted to (for a decent price) and it got so loud in there. I'm glad we have Target Field, but I really miss the dome.
That's like missing your last Herpes outbreak.

[Benny003]

I loved the dome. You could always get in if you wanted to (for a decent price) and it got so loud in there. I'm glad we have Target Field, but I really miss the dome.

The Dome was an abomination to baseball. I HATED going into that place during the middle of a gorgeous sunny day. It was like being punished or something. I'll take Target Field on a cold rainy day over any day at the Dome. Plus, it's fun to go to games where it's sold out and the crowd is pumped. That happens every single game now at Target Field and rarely happened at the Dome. I'm sure there will be plenty of times in the future where Target Field won't be quite the hot draw and you'll be able to get tickets easily again. For now I'm enjoying what we have.

[UNLTrpt]

I will make a suggestion to everybody in here. If things don't go our way in this opening series, lets not freak out right away ok? :lol we didn't play the Blue Jays that well last year and if they hit HR's like they did last year, I can see this series not going our way.

[uro55]

I will make a suggestion to everybody in here. If things don't go our way in this opening series, lets not freak out right away ok? :lol we didn't play the Blue Jays that well last year and if they hit HR's like they did last year, I can see this series not going our way.

That's is so true! Don't forget that the Skydome (yes it's the Skydome, I've never heqrd of this fucking Rogers Centre:lol) is more or less Coors Field north:haha

[42graystreet]

Span just grounded out. We're fucked.

[Nick@Night]

Wow, rough start to this bottom half of the inning. The Jays are putting on a fundamental clinic, all they need yet is a suicide squeeze.

[Nick@Night]

Man, everything that can go wrong in this inning has been. Shake off the jitters, guys.

[42graystreet]

Can we get a do-over please? Jesus, bad luck with the ground ball singles, bad plays in the field by sushi and Mauer, a balk and rusty pitching from pavano.

[brew10]

A failed pick off, a hit batter, an error 4 runs and a balk... not a great start to 2011!

[andrewj063]

Yoshi is nervous... That was a brutal first inning.

[bigeyefish22]

I have an NL team, Cincy, and I was all fired up for their opening day. back-to-back jacks by the first two Milwaukee hitters opened their season. I think I'm bad luck.

However, a 4-run 9th, capped by a 3-run walk-off homer, brought the Reds back. So lets hope I can bring that to the table for us tonight.

[Nick@Night]

Last year they dropped the first game in unimpressive fashion then went on that tear where they won several series in a row to start the season. I'll take an ass whipping if it sets something like that in motion again.

[42graystreet]

No panicking yet. It was just the way it happened that makes you feel like shit. So many mistakes on our part. First day rust...check!

[UNLTrpt]

can we pretend that first inning didn't happen?

[42graystreet]

The Blue Jays are making a case to be our 1B nemesis.

[Nick@Night]

The dick is now completely in the ass, balls are slapping the taint in this fucking.

Edit: Classy fans there in Toronto, littering the field with shit.

[42graystreet]

I hope Pavano and Manship are still just warming up. Because the fastballs they've been sending down the plate around 85 MPH are no where near good enough. Plus Joe West is being his typical asinine self behind the plate, plus Romero is a fucking good pitcher.

I need a beer.

[AJF_41]

I just turned this on.....3 to 11. WTF?

[AJF_41]

Also, I echo all the "Dome sucked" comments....

[Benny003]

Well I figured if we come out of this road trip 2-5 I'll consider it a success given who we're playing. So I'll just chalk this game up to one of the 5 losses I'm expecting. Tomorrow's game starts 0-0, so just forget this game. We weren't going to win every game anyway.

[UNC41]

Nowhere to go but up from here. Everything that could have gone wrong did in the bottom of the first, and it didn't get better from there.

[handsareme]

161 more games in the season. amiright?

[UNLTrpt]

Again, Toronto last year gave us fits all year. I was worried at the end of last year if the division would have still been in doubt by the last series of the year that Toronto would have been a serious road block in us getting in the playoffs. Thankfully it was over by then. They are much like the Yankees in that they are a very very good hitting team and we just don't face up well against those kind of teams.

[bigeyefish22]

I just turned this on.....3 to 11. WTF?

3 to 11? sound like my mother...

kidding, kidding

[42graystreet]

I am getting so sick of every blue jay and their dog hitting home runs against us.

[brew10]

Would you prefer pinch-hit, 2 RBI doubles?

[grace2]

Wow, pretty uninspiring effort thus far

[Benny003]

Why do the Twins always look like a high school team when they play the Blue Jays? Seriously they didn't get a hit until like the 6th? It's just pathetic how completely ineffective they are at absolutely everything against them. The games look identical to the games at the end of last season. I guess they didn't learn anything from the beating they took over 4 games to end last season.

[42graystreet]

nothing else needs to be said. we have come out of the gate slow, rusty, and just plain bad. Awful at the plate. I didn't mind struggling against their good lefty, but today's performance at the plate was atrocious. I was looking for us to get 3 wins on this season-opening road trip, now I'm not sure we'll get 2 what with 4 games coming up at Yankee Stadium.

[Nick@Night]

As I heard them say on the broadcast, by the end of May all the away games against AL East teams will be done.

[Benny003]

As I heard them say on the broadcast, by the end of May all the away games against AL East teams will be done.

With that said, any guesses how many games out of first we'll be by then? Since the first 2 months should be the toughest part of the schedule apparently.

[AJF_41]

ughh.....

[grace2]

With that said, any guesses how many games out of first we'll be by then? Since the first 2 months should be the toughest part of the schedule apparently.

Going into June, I bet we'll be like nine, ten games out.

[42graystreet]

Tolbert might have just screwed us. Didn't get over to 2nd in time to be in the best position to tag McCoy.

[42graystreet]

Com'on Joe!!!!!!!!!!!! We fucking need this.

[42graystreet]

Twins win!!!!!!!!!! Joe with the save!

Thank god, for a second there I thought we might go 0-162.

[UNC41]

Twins Win!

[Benny003]

Wow, I had some sweaty palms on that one. Nice to finally see a win and I'm glad the offense finally showed up. Good note to go into New York on.

[42graystreet]

Wow, I had some sweaty palms on that one. Nice to finally see a win and I'm glad the offense finally showed up. Good note to go into New York on.

Ironic, because it took Gardy's "B lineup" to get the offense going :lol

[grace2]

That game was awesome. So glad to get the win. Time to take it into New York.

[Benny003]

Ironic, because it took Gardy's "B lineup" to get the offense going :lol

Yeah, it took the near-rookie to show them how to hit it over the fence. Hopefully they can keep it going and relax a little.

[AJF_41]

Hopefully some other guys can join Span in hitting the ball...

[Nick@Night]

Some very underwhelming stuff going on here, I hope this series in NYC doesn't get ugly.

[uro55]

I wouldn't give it too much thougt yet, the Jays (and the Yanks of course lol) seem ot often have our number :lol

[42graystreet]

It was nice of the ChiSux to lose one to the Injuns. Now we're only 1 game behind them heading to Yankee Stadium. (Yes, I'm looking at the standings already).

[Nick@Night]

It's amazing that the BoSox and Rays are 0-3 and the Orioles are 3-0.

[uro55]

It's amazing that the BoSox and Rays are 0-3 and the Orioles are 3-0.

Orioles = underrated me thinks.

[Nick@Night]

It would be awesome if the Orioles and Jays could win the division/wild card and keep the Yanks and BoSox out of the playoffs.

[uro55]

It would be awesome if the Orioles and Jays could win the division/wild card and keep the Yanks and BoSox out of the playoffs.

I'd go bonkers if that was the case:lol:hump

[Benny003]

It was nice of the ChiSux to lose one to the Injuns. Now we're only 1 game behind them heading to Yankee Stadium. (Yes, I'm looking at the standings already).

Don't look now, but the Royals are leading the division. :lol

The first series of the year is virtually meaningless as far as predicting the season outcome. The 1998 Yankees started off 0-3 and finished with 114 wins.

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/1998_New_York_Yankees_season

[Nick@Night]

This is a good read, it's a re-cap of how the 2011 season will play out.

With the Padres in town for interleague play, Ron Gardenhire makes headlines when he attempts to go to the mound to remove Pat Neshek from the game. Padres manager Bud Black, while agreeing that Neshek "throws funny," refuses to let Gardenhire bring in a new pitcher

http://www.twinkietown.com/2011/4/4/2088824/the-minnesota-twins-2011-season-in-review

[Benny003]

This is a good read, it's a re-cap of how the 2011 season will play out.



http://www.twinkietown.com/2011/4/4/2088824/the-minnesota-twins-2011-season-in-review

That was pretty funny, thanks for sharing.

[42graystreet]

Funniest part:

Ron Gardenhire announces that Tsuyoshi Nishioka’s career may be over before it can begin, as a team of scholars Gardy hired at great personal expense is unable to translate the phrase "battle your tail off" into anything that makes sense in Japanese. "The closest we got was ‘Tofu battle,’" report the scholars.

[scrock25]

Go Yanks!!

Amirite Dan???

[scrock25]

Orioles = underrated me thinks.

Not THAT underrated.

[Nick@Night]

Here we go again...

[bigeyefish22]

We look so bad at the plate so far this year.

In the last, I don't know, 5 years, 8 years, maybe 3... whatever but the Twins have established that they're lost at the plate when facing pitchers they haven't seen before, right? I'd like to see stats on the first time a starter faces the Twins; I'd bet we have the worst stats in that case of any team in the league.

[42graystreet]

I have no idea wHt the stats are for the Twins, but the pitcher always has the advantage first time out.

I'm done being pissed at the Yankees. I'm officially pissed at the Twins. It has to be our fault. We've been a good team every year in the last 5 years and there is no excuse whatsoever to have such a pathetic record against one team, no matter how good they are. At this point, it's all mental.

[42graystreet]

http://espn.go.com/mlb/team/stats/batting/_/name/min/minnesota-twins

Span's mug is everywhere. We need to get some other bats going. Particularly Mauer's. 1-10? Come on dude.

[Nick@Night]

Span has been cloned!

[42graystreet]

Nick, what's with the avatar and signature? You sellin' out?

[AJF_41]

yikes...

[42graystreet]

Well, I actually feel good. Seeing Baker settle down and pitch a good game, and for our bats to make it interesting was nice.

[Benny003]

Just our regular dose of Yankee medicine. Close but no cigar as usual.

[handsareme]

I just realized my wife and I will be in California in June when the Twins are in SF. Now to convince my wife...

[Nick@Night]

Nick, what's with the avatar and signature? You sellin' out?
I sold my soul a little bit to give some attention to my man Archer, especially after his cancer rampage episode.
I just realized my wife and I will be in California in June when the Twins are in SF. Now to convince my wife...
Are you the bread winner? Threaten divorce if she gives even the slightest disapproval to the idea that popped in to your head.

[Benny003]

Are you the bread winner? Threaten divorce if she gives even the slightest disapproval to the idea that popped in to your head.

Good luck defending that in divorce court without a pre-nup! :lol

[handsareme]

Are you the bread winner? Threaten divorce if she gives even the slightest disapproval to the idea that popped in to your head.
We're young and I'm still a student. So...no. But she'll be going back to school and I'll be getting a job, so our roles will be reversed and I can buy things I've been wanting. Like mlb.tv and a sausage stuffer. Two very necessary things.

[AJF_41]

I'm going to try to make opening day on Friday. If anyone hears of two tickets...let me know.

I've looked on craigslist and stubhub, they are out there...

[Benny003]

I'm going to try to make opening day on Friday. If anyone hears of two tickets...let me know.

I've looked on craigslist and stubhub, they are out there...

Should have let me know you were looking, they have been releasing massive amounts of tickets the past few days for opening day. I could have practically had my pick of sections, but I was only looking for very specific seats since I already have my season ticket seats. What section would you prefer (basically what's your price limit)? If I see some come up in your section I'll pick them up for you.

[Benny003]

I'm going to try to make opening day on Friday. If anyone hears of two tickets...let me know.

I've looked on craigslist and stubhub, they are out there...

Check your PM's. :cool

[AJF_41]

Just got back to my desk. I'll do that now...

[grace2]

I'm not liking this Duensing vs. Sabathia matchup tonight

[Benny003]

Why is Sabatia playing on their 5th game? Who's the #5 starter that is getting bumped?

[grace2]

Why is Sabatia playing on their 5th game? Who's the #5 starter that is getting bumped?

I thought it was Freddy Garcia, but maybe they're just going with four.

[Nick@Night]

Yanks had an off day already, so CC can start today and still be on 5 days rest.

[Benny003]

Yanks had an off day already, so CC can start today and still be on 5 days rest.

Yes, so that means their number 5 starter will be going on 10 days rest? Kind of odd, don't you think?

[Xmasjjm]

Yes, so that means their number 5 starter will be going on 10 days rest? Kind of odd, don't you think?

What's more important: Give your #5 regular work or keep your #1 on track? You also gain another start out of your #1. Teams that have legit #1's try to build them up. The success of the season usually revolves around the performance of the ace, not the last guy in the rotation.

[AJF_41]

I see Yanks had another good first.

And Twinkees still can't hit the ball. I'll give 'em a pass since it was CC

[Benny003]

Wow, I'm glad I kept watching. Tie game!

[AJF_41]

That was a solid inning.

[42graystreet]

I suck at life. Gave up, turned the channel and missed the 8th inning comeback. Back on now...

[42graystreet]

Biggest hit yet for sushi.

[Nick@Night]

It's good to see them really putting up a fight, they played nothing close to this level in Toronto.

[Benny003]

Finally showing some life. It's just looked like they have been asleep for a majority of the season so far. I sure hope they can finish this off and give the Yankees a taste of their own medicine.

[rickyh24]

Twins keeping the Sox season alive. I like it.

[scrock25]

Finally showing some life. It's just looked like they have been asleep for a majority of the season so far. I sure hope they can finish this off and give the Yankees a taste of their own medicine.

A taste of their own medicine?? You realize that the Twins have won a grand total of 6 games against the Yankees since Gardenhire took over, right??? 6 games. 6.

[Benny003]

A taste of their own medicine?? You realize that the Twins have won a grand total of 6 games against the Yankees since Gardenhire took over, right??? 6 games. 6.

Yes, I was talking about a late inning come-back victory.

I think it's more than 6 too. That's less than 1 win against them per year. They had 2 against them last year alone.

[scrock25]

6. Just sayin'.

[schreiber89]

6. Just sayin'.

I thought it was more like 16

[Benny003]

This ump is calling the strike zone super tight. I like it since he seems to be pretty accurate.

[scrock25]

That's correct, 16-50, my mistake.

[Benny003]

Wow, the sweet taste of victory. Down by 4 in the 8th with last season's AL saves leader on the mound and Rivera waiting in the pen and they come back to snatch the win. That is satisfying.

[uro55]

Wow, the sweet taste of victory. Down by 4 in the 8th with last season's AL saves leader on the mound and Rivera waiting in the pen and they come back to snatch the win. That is satisfying.

That was beautiful stuff man:thumbsup

[AJF_41]

Awesome come back

[grace2]

That. Was awesome!!!!

Some pretty good pitching by Duensing actually. He gave up the two home runs right away and was getting behind in the count, but later in the game he was pitching pretty solid. Good to see.

[Benny003]

It wasn't even an impressive come back either, but they did the things needed to get the job done. I mean they scored 4 runs on 2 hits and the game tying hit was a bloop to right field with 2 outs. With less than 2 outs there is no way Mauer scores. A little luck went a long ways there, but they took advantage. A win is a win, let's hope this carries over to more of them.

[UNC41]

Twins win! They've still got to start hitting the ball hard, but I'll take what I can get right now!

[grace2]

Does anyone else get nervous when a groundball is hit to Nishoyka?

[Benny003]

Does anyone else get nervous when a groundball is hit to Nishoyka?

I do a little bit. I can see that he's really talented, but I just think he's trying too hard at this point. I think when he relaxes and finally gets comfortable with playing in the Major Leagues he'll be a great fielder.

[UNLTrpt]

Great W tonight. Looks like after the first two innings Duensing settled down nicely.

[Benny003]

The Royals had a huge come-from-behind win tonight over the White Sox winning in the 12th inning. :lol

The White Sox started their season off against the Indians and the Royals, Twins started off against the Blue Jays and the Yankees, but the Twins are only 1/2 game behind the White Sox. I'm liking it.

[scrock25]

Great W tonight. Looks like after the first two innings Duensing settled down nicely.

I agree, Dan.

[uro55]

Sweet :lol

http://sports.espn.go.com/chicago/mlb/news/story?id=6299383

[Benny003]

Sweet :lol

http://sports.espn.go.com/chicago/mlb/news/story?id=6299383

He's only missing 5 days? You have an organ removed and you only miss 5 days?!

[uro55]

He's only missing 5 days? You have an organ removed and you only miss 5 days?!

I have no idea, it boggles my mind......

I had mine removed in 2002 and I missed almost a month of work and school.

[UNLTrpt]

First 1 run win by the Twins against the Yankees in New York since May 10, 2001.

[AJF_41]

First 1 run win by the Twins against the Yankees in New York since May 10, 2001.

Wow, good stat.

[Benny003]

That's correct, 16-50, my mistake.

The 6 win thing was the number of wins under Gardenhire in New York. So you weren't far off base (6-31, until last night). So yeah, that's pretty pathetic, but it was nice to finally give the Yankees a taste of a late-inning loss especially at their home ballpark.

[jordonh]

Anyone want 4 tickets to saturdays game? Face Value $40 ea Section 126 Row 24 ...PM Me..can meet saturday


Thanks

[Benny003]

My season ticket pair is available for Sunday's game. Section 108, Row 8, season ticket price of $53 each ($9 less than face value and also no fees).

[Benny003]

They are also available for Friday, April 22 against the Indians. Same price.

[Nick@Night]

It kind of sucks that we have to play the Yanks for that make-up game so late in the season.

[jubes02]

It kind of sucks that we have to play the Yanks for that make-up game so late in the season.

i agree, would have loved to see the momentum of the W from tuesday night carry over to yesterday's game...


i'm debating on trying to avoid all media this afternoon and just catch the 6:30 rerun tonight without knowing the outcome so i can grill and drink while i watch...

[bigeyefish22]

i agree, would have loved to see the momentum of the W from tuesday night carry over to yesterday's game...


i'm debating on trying to avoid all media this afternoon and just catch the 6:30 rerun tonight without knowing the outcome so i can grill and drink while i watch...

Sounds worth a try. I love going full media blackout: it's like you've got your own game to play all day, your own little competition, and victory is a legitimate thrill, really satisfying :haha Should be like 60+ in the cities today, too.

Gotta make sure whatever people might usually send you a text or email with a comment about the game know what you're doing, I've lost that way a few times. Thats really the only way to lose though, other than mindlessly checking strib.com or the like... If you're locked in there's no way you make that mistake.

[Nick@Night]

Have you guys ever seen the Scrubs episode where Dr Cox has to work the night of a Lakers/Heat game (game of the year!) and he threatens anyone in the hospital not to tell him the score or what happened? He tapes the game on Dr Kelso's TV in his office, gets home and pops the tape in right as the game is starting Dr Kelso comes on the screen and tells him the score and how the game ends.

[42graystreet]

It's an interesting discussion. I think SI even had a light-hearted commentary on it. Basically, the point was that for the people who try to do this, it is up to them to broadcast it to the world that they are blacking themselves out of a particular game. In the 24/7, connected world we live in today, we just have to assume every knows the score of the big game and you can't blame someone for walking up to you and asking "hey, did you see the [insert team name] won!"

[Nick@Night]

Maybe we should start selling t-shirts that say "Shh! Don't tell me the score."

[bigeyefish22]

Maybe we should start selling t-shirts that say "Shh! Don't tell me the score."

Not bad. They should make a filtering app that filters out all info, including text messages, etc., when you turn it on for a specific game. That would work. Ah, I should be at Apple today, I just made an app. If that already exists I'll $hit myself.

[42graystreet]

Nice to see Liriano is being himself with a typical first inning.

[bigeyefish22]

Pretty bold move by the ump disagreeing with Mauer on balls/strikes. And, of course, the call was brutal. Mauer doesn't strike out looking.

They should just let Mauer call his own balls and strikes.

[Nick@Night]

Where was the pitch in question?

[42graystreet]

Wow, we're a doubles machine all of a sudden! Nicely done Kubes.

[Nick@Night]

Frank is shitting the bed here in the 4th.

[42graystreet]

83 pitches through 4. He'll be lucky to finish the next inning. Bad start to the year for Franky.

[Benny003]

Where was the pitch in question?

It was outside and not that close.

Mauer got screwed in his first at-bat too. He foul tipped a 2-strike pitch into the dirt that the catcher picked up off the bounce, but the ump said the catcher caught it without hitting the ground. So Mauer was called out even though the replay clearly showed dirt flying everywhere right behind the plate. I'm surprised they couldn't see the crater where the ball hit.

[handsareme]

What happened to Yoshi?

[Benny003]

Wow, another 1-run loss to the Yankees. I guess that's how I know all is normal in the world.

Side note, I find it hilarious that the supposed 100-win team Red Sox are 0-6 now.

[Benny003]

Oh shit, get ready to see A LOT more of Tolbert. Nishioka broke his leg in today's game:

http://www.startribune.com/sports/twins/blogs/119424104.html

[Benny003]

Suddenly picking up Michael Young doesn't sound like a bad idea at all.

[grace2]

If we can get Michael Young for a good deal, then hell yeah.

[uro55]

If we can get Michael Young for a good deal, then hell yeah.

Yes, and....

Suddenly picking up Michael Young doesn't sound like a bad idea at all.

Yes!

I know it was a clean play, but it still makes me hate Swisher and the Yanks even more:lol

But I'LL BE AT TARGET FIELD TOMORROW:hump

You getting excited Benny?:D

[AJF_41]

I know it was a clean play, but it still makes me hate Swisher and the Yanks even more:lol



agree....

[UNLTrpt]

I know it was a clean play, but it still makes me hate Swisher and the Yanks even more:lol

well he should catch one in the back next time they come to Target. For whatever revenge you can exact by beaning someone.

[bigeyefish22]

well he should catch one in the back next time they come to Target. For whatever revenge you can exact by beaning someone.

I've never liked Swisher but he was very apologetic :)

[Benny003]

But I'LL BE AT TARGET FIELD TOMORROW:hump

You getting excited Benny?:D

Yeah, I'm definitely getting excited. The start to a long season. I currently have tickets to 67 games for the season. It's almost a little intimidating, but it should be a lot of fun.

well he should catch one in the back next time they come to Target. For whatever revenge you can exact by beaning someone.

It's too bad the Yankees won't be coming to Target Field for another 4 months. This will probably be forgotten by then.

[scrock25]

well he should catch one in the back next time they come to Target. For whatever revenge you can exact by beaning someone.

It was a totally clean, legal play there Dan. Let's not get spiteful here because the team you root for can't turn the corner on a perennially superior team. Your second baseman himself acknowledged that it was clean.

[bigeyefish22]

It was a totally clean, legal play there Dan. Let's not get spiteful here because the team you root for can't turn the corner on a perennially superior team. Your second baseman himself acknowledged that it was clean.

change your profile picture, it disgusts me.

[UNLTrpt]

I've never liked Swisher but he was very apologetic :)

Still doesn't mean we can't put one in his back the next time we see them.

[bigeyefish22]

Still doesn't mean we can't put one in his back the next time we see them.

well, if you wanna be like that...

:lol

[Nick@Night]

Yoshi should fuck Swisher's gf.

[scrock25]

change your profile picture, it disgusts me.

:lol :lol

[uro55]

It was a totally clean, legal play there Dan. Let's not get spiteful here because the team you root for can't turn the corner on a perennially superior team. Your second baseman himself acknowledged that it was clean.

No one said it wasn't clean.

I think Yankees fans arrogance is compensating for something;)

[scrock25]

No one said it wasn't clean.

I think Yankees fans arrogance is compensating for something;)

Yep, was simply reiterating.

[bigeyefish22]

:lol :lol

Really though, what is that thing?

[uro55]

Yep, was simply reiterating.

Not nesserary when that was already clearly admitted and poitned out.

But thanks for good work!

[scrock25]

Not nesserary when that was already clearly admitted and poitned out.

But thanks for good work!

Sure thing dad.

[scrock25]

Really though, what is that thing?

I honestly have no idea... was sent to me years ago and have always loved it because it's a picture of pure, unadulterated joy.

[uro55]

Sure thing dad.

You're welcome sport:lol

[scrock25]

Don't call me sport, guy.

[42graystreet]

we'll call you whatever we want, bud, while you're in our thread.

[42graystreet]

We need to get pumped, today is the HOME OPENER!!!

[uro55]

Don't call me sport, guy.

Sure thing grumpy pants!

[scrock25]

C'mon guys, it's from South Park... I'm fucking around.

[uro55]

We need to get pumped, today is the HOME OPENER!!!

I woke up early today I was so excited:multi:thumbsup

[uro55]

C'mon guys, it's from South Park... I'm fucking around.

Ohhhh sorry:thumbsup

[scrock25]

Any of you fools going to the game?

[bigeyefish22]

I honestly have no idea... was sent to me years ago and have always loved it because it's a picture of pure, unadulterated joy.

:lol:lol

well, you put it that way, I kinda like it now, too :lol

[uro55]

Any of you fools going to the game?

Yep!

Heading to the bar for around 11 to pre-game:thumbsup

Man its sweet to haw Target Field:hump

[scrock25]

Enjoy.78

[uro55]

Enjoy.78

Thanks man!

Hey I saw your sig said home of the garbage plate. Is that like garbage plate the food?

[scrock25]

Yessir!!!

[uro55]

Yessir!!!

Awesome:thumbsup

I haven't had one in years! It's nine am here, but I'd hurt people for a garbage plate right now:lol

[scrock25]

Besides my family, it's one of the only reasons I'd never move away from Rochester.

[Nick@Night]

This garbage plate sounds intriguing.

[scrock25]

This garbage plate sounds intriguing.

Delicious!! (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Nick_Tahou_Hots#Garbage_Plate)

[uro55]

This garbage plate sounds intriguing.

It's beyond delicious!

I'd be temped to trade my home opener tix for a good proper right now:lol

[jubes02]

Home opener day!!!!!!!!!!!!! i'm kicking myself for not having tickets to the game........... fuck

[jubes02]

It's beyond delicious!

I'd be temped to trade my home opener tix for a good proper right now:lol

:goesandbuysnickagarbageplate

[Nick@Night]

Delicious!! (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Nick_Tahou_Hots#Garbage_Plate)

It's beyond delicious!

I'd be temped to trade my home opener tix for a good proper right now:lol
Jack right off, that looks amazing.

[scrock25]

And tastes just as...

[Benny003]

Home opener day!!!!!!!!!!!!! i'm kicking myself for not having tickets to the game........... fuck

Could have had tickets, I had an extra pair up until yesterday morning. They were releasing tickets almost every day all week too.

[jubes02]

Could have had tickets, I had an extra pair up until yesterday morning. They were releasing tickets almost every day all week too.

i'm looking on craigslist right now and coming up with an excuse to get outta work :lol:lol fuck

[uro55]

i'm looking on craigslist right now and coming up with an excuse to get outta work :lol:lol fuck

Hey Jules! If you find tickets send me a text or something. I'm heading to the bar around 11 to pregame:thumbsup

[uro55]

And tastes just as...

It tastes like sunshine, freedom and happiness:D

[Benny003]

i'm looking on craigslist right now and coming up with an excuse to get outta work :lol:lol fuck

I got a single up on the Twins website right now, Section 114, Row 7, great seat right behind home plate. Want it?

[scrock25]

And pure, unadulterated joy.

[uro55]

And pure, unadulterated joy.

YES!

You sig pic must be after that person just ate a garbage plate:lol

[Benny003]

i'm looking on craigslist right now and coming up with an excuse to get outta work :lol:lol fuck

I got a single up on the Twins website right now, Section 114, Row 7, great seat right behind home plate. Want it?

I can hold it for like the next 10 minutes. If you can commit to buying it (via paypal), I'll buy it and email you the print-at-home ticket. Let me know. Seriously, it's a great seat for face value.

[jubes02]

Hey Jules! If you find tickets send me a text or something. I'm heading to the bar around 11 to pregame:thumbsup

sounds good buddy, me and AJ are talking about heading down!!! :D :D so excited

[jubes02]

I can hold it for like the next 10 minutes. If you can commit to buying it (via paypal), I'll buy it and email you the print-at-home ticket. Let me know. Seriously, it's a great seat for face value.

no im' good, thanks tho man, appreciate it a lot

gonna email a few peeps on craigslist or just head down there with a buddy and find a pair :thumbsup:thumbsup

[Benny003]

no im' good, thanks tho man, appreciate it a lot

gonna email a few peeps on craigslist or just head down there with a buddy and find a pair :thumbsup:thumbsup

Alright, sounds good.

[uro55]

sounds good buddy, me and AJ are talking about heading down!!! :D :D so excited

Sweet I'm at Kierans right now, beer in hand :hump

[uro55]

Also the ticket scalpers are already out in full form. There's a huge heard of them on the corner.

[jubes02]

Also the ticket scalpers are already out in full form. There's a huge heard of them on the corner.

lol

see you in a little bit maybe/hopefully!?!?!

so pumped!!

[UNLTrpt]

Have fun at the game guys. I'd love to be there.

[AJF_41]

upset i'm not going today....perfect day out.

have fun all..

[bigeyefish22]

It is a perfect day in MN! I just roller-bladed (yes, you read that right) around Calhoun w/ the dog. Roller-blading is an odd thing. I moved to Cincy for a few years and most people had literally never heard of it ("you mean, like, roller skates?"). I haven't roller-bladed in like 6-8 years until once earlier this week, and today. It's not bad. Dog likes it (thats him on the left).

Anyway, yeah, perfect day :)

[handsareme]

Lucky fuckers....

[AJF_41]

Great win today.

[UNLTrpt]

Great W. Pavano pitched awesome. Some good clutch hitting late in the game. That's Twins baseball right there.

[Benny003]

I'm convinced mother nature is a Twins fan now. After last year's perfect home opener and now another one, that's just too much of a coincidence for early April in Minnesota. :lol

Strange game today. It was actually really boring until the 8th inning, then the crowd finally got into it when the offense finally showed up. Sure was great to see Nathan finally take the mound in Target Field! It sure looked like it really meant a lot to him.

Seems like good news on Nishioka that he doesn't need surgery or even a cast. Gardenhire thinks 4 to 6 weeks is all, but they are waiting until the swelling goes down until they make a real prediction. Hopefully we see him back by June. In the mean time I think Hughes will be fine. Too bad he's not as fast, but he certainly has more power.

[bigeyefish22]

Outside his on-field performance, what do you guys think of Pavano? You like what you'd deem to be his personality, or demeanor?

A larger question, how do we feel about any other Twins? I started thinking about this when the players were introduced before the game. Some clear differences among the responses from the crowd. Loved the greeting we gave Nishi, by the way; sounded like the loudest, and certainly the most sustained, applause of all the Twins. We want to love him...

[Benny003]

Outside his on-field performance, what do you guys think of Pavano? You like what you'd deem to be his personality, or demeanor?

A larger question, how do we feel about any other Twins? I started thinking about this when the players were introduced before the game. Some clear differences among the responses from the crowd. Loved the greeting we gave Nishi, by the way; sounded like the loudest, and certainly the most sustained, applause of all the Twins. We want to love him...

Ah yeah, considering his interpretor got a huge ovation. :lol

[Benny003]

Did you see the White Sox were up by 3 runs in the 9th inning against the Rays (the 0-6 Rays) and they gave up 5 unearned runs to lose the game by 2? :lol

[Benny003]

Video of Joe Nathan's first Target Field save: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6kuz0aEYNMc&hd=1

By the way, that's the view from my season ticket seats, which are still available for Sunday's game. ;)

[uro55]

Getting ready to head off to game 2 of the year soon!

And yes to the mother nature comment. Shit y'all remember the 2008 opener I think it was when it ease a blizzard :lol

[UNLTrpt]

Video of Joe Nathan's first Target Field save: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6kuz0aEYNMc&hd=1

By the way, that's the view from my season ticket seats, which are still available for Sunday's game. ;)

you're bluecow on DP?

[Benny003]

you're bluecow on DP?

Yep, that's me.

[UNLTrpt]

runs are at a premium this series I guess

[Nick@Night]

It's nice to see the starting pitching efforts going better this time through the rotation, but the bats need to get their shit together.

[Benny003]

Blackburn gets the loss despite giving up zero runs. I don't know what Casilla's deal was today, but he just didn't look confident in his throwing abilities. I can't believe the grounder to him that should have ended the inning wound up being the winning (and only) run on his error.

I read today that Baker is something like 5-0 against the A's in his career, so hopefully the offense decides to show up Sunday and help him out.

[AJF_41]

It's nice to see the starting pitching efforts going better this time through the rotation, but the bats need to get their shit together.

for realz

[uro55]

Blackburn gets the loss despite giving up zero runs. I don't know what Casilla's deal was today, but he just didn't look confident in his throwing abilities. I can't believe the grounder to him that should have ended the inning wound up being the winning (and only) run on his error.

I read today that Baker is something like 5-0 against the A's in his career, so hopefully the offense decides to show up Sunday and help him out.

2 games and zero earned runs, I'll take that. But I'd like some runs on our side:thumbsup

[Benny003]

My photo of Thome knocking #590 over the batter's eye in today's game:

http://i64.photobucket.com/albums/h184/Bluecow003/20110410-OaklandAthletics-0630-2.jpg

[UNLTrpt]

My photo of Thome knocking #590 over the batter's eye in today's game:

http://i64.photobucket.com/albums/h184/Bluecow003/20110410-OaklandAthletics-0630-2.jpg

great photo and my goodness that was a bomb.

[Nick@Night]

I just watched a video clip of Thome's homerun, I love the sound made when he makes contact on a bomb.

[UNLTrpt]

I just watched a video clip of Thome's homerun, I love the sound made when he makes contact on a bomb.

I love watching his HR's. For obvious reasons is that they are good for the Twins but his swing is just awesome. And like you said, the sound it makes is a different sound than any you've heard.

[grace2]

He killed that ball! Straight away center, everyone was going nuts. I love our fans.

[42graystreet]

We suck. I'm keeping an "I'm not really concerned about our slow start" face to all my AL Central friends, but deep down, I'm deeply concerned. The only hope I'm hanging onto is that guys like Mauer, Morneau and Cuddyer had limited springs and are still "finding their rhythm" and will "flip the switch" at some point in the next couple weeks.

And for those of you finding reassurance in our pitching over the weekend, I thought it was good as well, but remember that it was against one of the worst offensive ball clubs.

That's it. Carry on.

[bigeyefish22]

We suck. I'm keeping an "I'm not really concerned about our slow start" face to all my AL Central friends, but deep down, I'm deeply concerned. The only hope I'm hanging onto is that guys like Mauer, Morneau and Cuddyer had limited springs and are still "finding their rhythm" and will "flip the switch" at some point in the next couple weeks.

And for those of you finding reassurance in our pitching over the weekend, I thought it was good as well, but remember that it was against one of the worst offensive ball clubs.

That's it. Carry on.

You're losing hope 9 games in? Cleveland is 7-2; should they start selling playoff tickets? Way too early for all that.

Main reason you should relax a little: our hitters aren't hitting, but they will. Just look at the BA's. Span and Kubel are the only guys on the team whose BAs might look the same at the end of the season as they do now. Nobody (Kubel a little, but negligible, IMO) is producing at a higher rate than they would through a full season: every other hitter on the team is below or way below their career stats:

Mauer: .233
Delmon: .188
Valencia: .194
Cuddyer: .107
Thome: .167
Morneau: .258
Casilla: .167

Those BAs are all essentially guaranteed to move closer to career averages, meaning they're all going up. So chill, brah. Take a game off. Rest your head. Twins will be fine soon :)

[Nick@Night]

Boston is sucking it up too, there's no way they underachieve with that line-up for a full season. Same with the Twins.

[UNLTrpt]

3-3 in one run games to start the year. That tells me we're right there. We'll be fine.

[Benny003]

Yeah, I'm not too concerned, although it is really frustrating to watch right now. However, Kubel had a nice rip yesterday, so did Mauer, Thome had the homerun, and Morneau was what 3 for 3? There is life in their bats. It's just a matter of time before they start heating up.

[Nick@Night]

This is why you want guys like Jim Thome on your ball club. See bolded:


The Target Field batter's eye in center field is 36 feet high and several feet behind the center field wall. It takes quite a poke to clear it.

On Sunday, it was within Jim Thome's range.

Thome energized the crowd with a two-run homer in the eighth inning Sunday that cleared the batter's eye for one highlight in what turned out to be 5-3 loss to Oakland. For the future Hall of Famer, it was career homer No. 590. The two-run shot also gave him 1,629 RBI, moving him past Harold Baines and into 29th on baseball's career list.

It also led to some second-guessing, because many in the press box felt the ball traveled farther than the announced 444 feet. The Twins baseball communications department has a map of the stadium with distance markers throughout the outfield to help with estimates.

Still, it's always fun to argue about how far a baseball was hit.

Thome was asked if it was one of the longest home runs he's hit.

"It was right there," Thome said.

Doesn't 444 feet seem a little short?

"I don't know," Thome said. "I wish it would have tied the game."

[Benny003]

Yeah, he's good to have on the team. Wasn't the flagpole shot last year like 483 feet? Yesterday's was well short of that in that case. Side note, have any of you seen Miguel Cabrera take batting practice? That guy puts on a show. Last year he was consistently parking balls in the seats behind the batter's eye and in left-center. So anyway, Thome's shot yesterday was long, but definitely not altogether surprising.

[Benny003]

So is everyone familiar with Rob Arra's photography? He's famous for making stadium panorama's. He makes these ridiculous panoramas for absolutely every major sporting event (World Series, every new ballpark opening, etc.). He made a panorama for Target Field's inaugural opening day last year and the season ticket holders were all given a copy of the print (anyone can buy it on his website too of course). Anyway, I noticed that his photo was taken from very close to where my season ticket seats are this year, so I decided to take a shot at making my own version this year.

Here is his version from last year:
http://robarracollection.com/product/MN-273.html

and here is my version from this year:
http://i64.photobucket.com/albums/h184/Bluecow003/20110408-OpeningDay-0292-2.jpg

Rob had the benefit of it being fairly cloudy last year, so he didn't really have to deal with shadows at all. That's a huge help to photographers. Obviously this year was much sunnier, so the shadows and bright areas are much different.

Using a standard print quality of 300 dpi (dots per inch, 300 dpi is high quality), my photo would come out to be about 23" wide x 8.5" tall. I could probably use some enlargement in Photoshop and easily get a very nice 30" print. I still need to tweak some stuff on that version you see there, but I wanted to at least get something up right now until I get the software I need to fix up some things. Let me know what you think. I had been planning this shot all winter, so it was a big deal to me that I think it came out pretty good so far.

[uro55]

So is everyone familiar with Rob Arra's photography? He's famous for making stadium panorama's. He makes these ridiculous panoramas for absolutely every major sporting event (World Series, every new ballpark opening, etc.). He made a panorama for Target Field's inaugural opening day last year and the season ticket holders were all given a copy of the print (anyone can buy it on his website too of course). Anyway, I noticed that his photo was taken from very close to where my season ticket seats are this year, so I decided to take a shot at making my own version this year.

Here is his version from last year:
http://robarracollection.com/product/MN-273.html

and here is my version from this year:
http://i64.photobucket.com/albums/h184/Bluecow003/20110408-OpeningDay-0292-2.jpg

Rob had the benefit of it being fairly cloudy last year, so he didn't really have to deal with shadows at all. That's a huge help to photographers. Obviously this year was much sunnier, so the shadows and bright areas are much different.

Using a standard print quality of 300 dpi (dots per inch, 300 dpi is high quality), my photo would come out to be about 23" wide x 8.5" tall. I could probably use some enlargement in Photoshop and easily get a very nice 30" print. I still need to tweak some stuff on that version you see there, but I wanted to at least get something up right now until I get the software I need to fix up some things. Let me know what you think. I had been planning this shot all winter, so it was a big deal to me that I think it came out pretty good so far.

Amazing man! Said this a bunch last year, but you're a hell of a photographer! :thumbsup

[AJF_41]

^^ That's a great picture Ben. You mentioned the shadows, which is tough to combat. The only other real difference is what's on the jumbotron. The flag stands out a little more in his picture, but I don't think it's a big deal. You could removed some of the shadowing in the lower part of the crowd couldn't you?

[jubes02]

So is everyone familiar with Rob Arra's photography? He's famous for making stadium panorama's. He makes these ridiculous panoramas for absolutely every major sporting event (World Series, every new ballpark opening, etc.). He made a panorama for Target Field's inaugural opening day last year and the season ticket holders were all given a copy of the print (anyone can buy it on his website too of course). Anyway, I noticed that his photo was taken from very close to where my season ticket seats are this year, so I decided to take a shot at making my own version this year.

Here is his version from last year:
http://robarracollection.com/product/MN-273.html

and here is my version from this year:
http://i64.photobucket.com/albums/h184/Bluecow003/20110408-OpeningDay-0292-2.jpg

Rob had the benefit of it being fairly cloudy last year, so he didn't really have to deal with shadows at all. That's a huge help to photographers. Obviously this year was much sunnier, so the shadows and bright areas are much different.

Using a standard print quality of 300 dpi (dots per inch, 300 dpi is high quality), my photo would come out to be about 23" wide x 8.5" tall. I could probably use some enlargement in Photoshop and easily get a very nice 30" print. I still need to tweak some stuff on that version you see there, but I wanted to at least get something up right now until I get the software I need to fix up some things. Let me know what you think. I had been planning this shot all winter, so it was a big deal to me that I think it came out pretty good so far.

really awesome picture man :thumbsup