Minnesota Twins

[AJF_41]

have you seen our next 5-6 opponents?

there's a good chance we see 5-25 to start...

[Benny003]

Did you hear Cuddyer sent a fan to the hospital today? Some lady got hit in the side of the head by a foul ball off his bat. The game had to be delayed for a little bit and she was taken off on a stretcher by way of the field. I hope she's alright. I can't imagine how bad Cuddyer must feel about it. It was his first home game in Colorado too.

[bustedstuff88]

Game wasnt as ugly as I predicted it would be today. I thought it would be a blowout for the angels.

Nonetheless, we still lost.

[Benny003]

Here's a link to some of my photos from the home opener:

http://www.flickr.com/photos/benckphotos/sets/72157629418373160/

My tickets are still available for Wednesday and Thursday. For your reference, here is the view from those seats:

http://i64.photobucket.com/albums/h184/Bluecow003/20120409-Angels-0039-small.jpg

[bustedstuff88]

Pretty much, they need pitching and they need it badly.

I know its just a bandaid and is nott he answer to our long term problems but i would like the twins to sign Oswalt mid-season. Just get somebody for a year or two that we can call our definitive ace.

Havnt had that since Johan left.

[bustedstuff88]

Here's a link to some of my photos from the home opener:

http://www.flickr.com/photos/benckphotos/sets/72157629418373160/

My tickets are still available for Wednesday and Thursday. For your reference, here is the view from those seats:

http://i64.photobucket.com/albums/h184/Bluecow003/20120409-Angels-0039-small.jpg

Two things are obvious from your photos:

1- You have a really nice camera
2- You have really great seats at TF

Kudos!

[UNC41]

I know its just a bandaid and is nott he answer to our long term problems but i would like the twins to sign Oswalt mid-season. Just get somebody for a year or two that we can call our definitive ace.

Havnt had that since Johan left.

What's the point in signing Oswalt if they're not going to be in the playoff hunt?

[bustedstuff88]

What's the point in signing Oswalt if they're not going to be in the playoff hunt?

To give us a chance at winning 1 out of every 5 games....lol.

Seriuosly tho. Our pitching is horrendous. And scoring 6 runs over 4 games isnt helping matters.

[42graystreet]

Our pitching isn't too bad. Blacky was good into the 7th and then got in trouble with a lead off walk. Our hitting is just god awful. It's early, but to see these stats is so depressing...

Runs - 30th
Avg - 29th
OBP - 28th
SLG - 30th
OPS - 30th
GIDP - 1st (as in we're the best at grounding into double plays)

[AJF_41]

Our pitching isn't too bad. Blacky was good into the 7th and then got in trouble with a lead off walk. Our hitting is just god awful. It's early, but to see these stats is so depressing...

Runs - 30th
Avg - 29th
OBP - 28th
SLG - 30th
OPS - 30th
GIDP - 1st (as in we're the best at grounding into double plays)

:lol:lol:lol

[Nick@Night]

Did you hear Cuddyer sent a fan to the hospital today? Some lady got hit in the side of the head by a foul ball off his bat. The game had to be delayed for a little bit and she was taken off on a stretcher by way of the field. I hope she's alright. I can't imagine how bad Cuddyer must feel about it. It was his first home game in Colorado too.
That old blue hair has made more solid contact with a baseball than half the Twins starting line-up.

[42graystreet]

I asked my baseball stats geek friend to find one stat that gives us hope. He came up with the goods...

BABIP (batting average on balls in play)

Historically, this should be around .300. If it's higher than that, you're getting lucky, finding holes, etc. If it's less than that, you're getting unlucky, hitting balls right to people. The Twins team BABIP is currently .184. That will definitely come up and thus lead to more hits and hopefully more runs.

[jordonh]

I asked my baseball stats geek friend to find one stat that gives us hope. He came up with the goods...

BABIP (batting average on balls in play)

Historically, this should be around .300. If it's higher than that, you're getting lucky, finding holes, etc. If it's less than that, you're getting unlucky, hitting balls right to people. The Twins team BABIP is currently .184. That will definitely come up and thus lead to more hits and hopefully more runs.

not when you hit it to the pitcher twice an inning

[42graystreet]

not when you hit it to the pitcher twice an inning

I'm sure it's a mix of suck and luck. But that number will go up for sure.

[Benny003]

My season tickets are available for the following games:

April 11 - Angels
April 12 - Angels
April 24 - Red Sox
April 25 - Red Sox
April 28 - Royals
May 8 - Angels
May 15 - Indians

$53 per ticket ($106 for the pair), Sec. 109, Row 11

[handsareme]

Scotty Baker's done for the season.

[42graystreet]

Yes. Yes he is.

[AJF_41]

Scotty Baker's done for the season.

I'll miss his 4.60 ERA.
;)

[AJF_41]

willingham!!!!

(only thing we have going)

[AJF_41]

inside the park hr???

triple post!

[handsareme]

willingham!!!!

(only thing we have going)
That was a monster.

Outside of Twins Territory? It's the free game of the day on mlb.tv.

[42graystreet]

Rally time. Come on Twins!!!!!!!!!

[42graystreet]

Fucking A mother fuckers. Tied up!

[grace2]

twins have a chance? no way

[grace2]

latroy hawkins still pitches? :lol

Nice hit casilla, my lord

[42graystreet]

latroy hawkins still pitches? :lol

Nice hit casilla, my lord

I know, can't believe it. He's got be 40 years old by now.

[42graystreet]

I fucking love this team.

[handsareme]

I know, can't believe it. He's got be 40 years old by now.
Heard them say 38.

Also, Jamey Carrol has creepy eyes.

[handsareme]

Hopefully will be saying this a lot more: Twins win!

[42graystreet]

What's this thing called "win?"

[uro55]

Ohhh ya:thumbsup

Great game!

[uro55]

Also met Tony Oliva today:thumbsup

[Benny003]

Twins win!

http://www.flickr.com/photos/benckphotos/7069860615/in/photostream

[davelk10]

We won a game yesterday, we win won today thats two in a row, we win one tomorrow thats called a winning streak. IT HAS HAPPENED BEFORE!

[handsareme]

Twins win!

http://www.flickr.com/photos/benckphotos/7069860615/in/photostream
FYI, that's a stream of all your pictures.

[AJF_41]

heading down to the game today.
looks nice out.

[uro55]

Of course the only game in the series I don't go to, it's absurdly nice out:lol

[42graystreet]

Just checked out the box score...what a day for the M&M boys! I hope the bullpen can close out another game.

[42graystreet]

The middle of our lineup (3-4-5-6-7) has 12 hits, 3 home runs and 7 RBI's.

[uro55]

This has been nuts offensively:thumbsup

[Nick@Night]

Did Lou Brown show up with the cutout of Rachel Phelps and now everyone is motivated to produce?

[42graystreet]

What the fuckkkkkkkk. Goddamnit. Fatty Capps is doing it again.

[UNLTrpt]

yeesh guys :lol way to almost jinx it :lol

[uro55]

Did Lou Brown show up with the cutout of Rachel Phelps and now everyone is motivated to produce?

I fucking hope so:lol

Ohhhhh Fatt Crapps had me worried today!

[AJF_41]

awesome game.

[42graystreet]

Fact: we have a better record than the Boston Red Sox.

[UNLTrpt]

Fact: we have a better record than the Boston Red Sox.

and have climbed out of the cellar of the Central

[Benny003]

Awesome game today.

How much do you think this hurt?

http://i64.photobucket.com/albums/h184/Bluecow003/20120412-Angels-0187.jpg
http://i64.photobucket.com/albums/h184/Bluecow003/20120412-Angels-0188.jpg

Judging by his face, I'd say a lot:

http://i64.photobucket.com/albums/h184/Bluecow003/20120412-Angels-0218.jpg

[Benny003]

Photos from Wednesday and Thursday's games:

Wednesday: http://www.flickr.com/photos/benckphotos/sets/72157629440726470/
Thursday: http://www.flickr.com/photos/benckphotos/sets/72157629440928736/

[davelk10]

Awesome game today.

How much do you think this hurt?

http://i64.photobucket.com/albums/h184/Bluecow003/20120412-Angels-0187.jpg
http://i64.photobucket.com/albums/h184/Bluecow003/20120412-Angels-0188.jpg

Judging by his face, I'd say a lot:

http://i64.photobucket.com/albums/h184/Bluecow003/20120412-Angels-0218.jpg

Good catch Ben

[UNLTrpt]

Awesome game today.

How much do you think this hurt?

http://i64.photobucket.com/albums/h184/Bluecow003/20120412-Angels-0187.jpg
http://i64.photobucket.com/albums/h184/Bluecow003/20120412-Angels-0188.jpg

Judging by his face, I'd say a lot:

http://i64.photobucket.com/albums/h184/Bluecow003/20120412-Angels-0218.jpg

Agreed. Great catch

[uro55]

We got it tied, keep it going Twins!!!!!

[Benny003]

At least the sun was shining? I was hoping to see Nathan, his 0-2 record, and 9.0 ERA balloon some more.

[Benny003]

Some pictures from the Friday game and Hrbek's statue unveiling:

Friday: http://www.flickr.com/photos/benckphotos/sets/72157629455033310/
Hrbek Statue: http://www.flickr.com/photos/benckphotos/sets/72157629455044814/

[Nick@Night]

Is Hrbek's statue pose from right after he caught the last out in the 7th game of the '87 World Series?

[uro55]

Is Hrbek's statue pose from right after he caught the last out in the 7th game of the '87 World Series?

It is:thumbsup

[Benny003]

Why, Perkins, why.

[AJF_41]

Why, Perkins, why.

so sad. we've got to the close the one's when we are leading in the 7th and on...

[UNC41]

Hamilton killed that one off Perkins. This season is looking like it will be even uglier than I thought.

[handsareme]

Back up on the spankees!

[uro55]

Nice to see another HR by JM:thumbsup

[Benny003]

Showing some life, I like it.

[handsareme]

Bah, run there would've been nice.

[UNC41]

I like Willingham between Mauer and Morneau. I'm a fan of not stacking lefties together in the lineup, if possible. Hopefully they can get two more innings out of Pavano to limit the bullpen's chance to blow it.

[42graystreet]

I like Willingham between Mauer and Morneau. I'm a fan of not stacking lefties together in the lineup, if possible. Hopefully they can get two more innings out of Pavano to limit the bullpen's chance to blow it.

Came in just to post this. It's a good move.

[AJF_41]

solid game tonight.

[UNC41]

Twins win!

[42graystreet]

Someone look up our Yankee Stadium record since 2005. It has to be god awful. That was a pleasure to watch tonight.

[uro55]

Someone look up our Yankee Stadium record since 2005. It has to be god awful. That was a pleasure to watch tonight.

Before tonight I think 6-27 since Gardy took over.

So any win in NY is worthy of:bounce:multi

[UNC41]

I thought they said on the post-game show that Gardy is 8-33 in New York.

[uro55]

I thought they said on the post-game show that Gardy is 8-33 in New York.

That could be right, I honestly wasn't 100% sure. Either way it ain't good:lol

[Benny003]

I got bored and decided to try something different with my photos from Sunday's Twins game. Turned out to be Jackie Robinson Day, so I think it's fitting:

http://www.flickr.com/photos/benckphotos/sets/72157629471678974/

[bustedstuff88]

So were 3-7 now.

I have been hearing alot of speculation about the twins trading Morneau. I think it is a stretch, considering his health the past years coupled with his monster contract. What do you guys think?

[Benny003]

So were 3-7 now.

I have been hearing alot of speculation about the twins trading Morneau. I think it is a stretch, considering his health the past years coupled with his monster contract. What do you guys think?

If they can find the right trade, then they might as well at least consider it. Imagine what we could do with competent pitching in exchange perhaps.

[bustedstuff88]

If they can find the right trade, then they might as well at least consider it. Imagine what we could do with competent pitching in exchange perhaps.

Who do you think would be a realistic trade for justin? Considering his recent issues, of course.

[Benny003]

Who do you think would be a realistic trade for justin? Considering his recent issues, of course.

I have no idea. I wouldn't give him away, but if someone wants to take a chance on him and what we would get in return is of value to us, then I'd at least consider it.

[uro55]

We get nothing more than a low level prospect or pick at best for Justin right now until he proves he's back to his old self, or something even close to it.

[davelk10]

It's always a good day after beating the Yanks

[AJF_41]

sitting justin today against cc. i know he hasn't done well against him....but i say let him play.

[UNLTrpt]

I want THAT Twins team from last night to show up more often. Great game.

[Benny003]

We get nothing more than a low level prospect or pick at best for Justin right now until he proves he's back to his old self, or something even close to it.

I don't know where the trade rumor came from, but what I would hope they would do is hope Justin appears to show his abilities again and then shop him. I mean the fact is Justin is a concussion away from ending his career. If he shows he can perform though, there may be a team willing to take that chance perhaps. I have no idea though. I'm not saying they should trade him or how to go about doing it, but I'd at least be open minded to it.

[Ashley J]

:lol fire up!!

[Nick@Night]

Baker gets Tommy John...goodbye 2013 option being picked up.

[Benny003]

He was already out for the season, so what difference does having Tommy John done at the same time make exactly in terms of considering his 2013 option? I bet the Twins simply try to renegotiate a deal. They like Baker and considering the track record of Tommy John surgery I doubt they are overly concerned about keeping him around.

[Nick@Night]

I took it the procedure they were orginally going to do was not as long term rehab wise. Going in and saying, "Oh, hey, your shit is fucked up worse than we thought" seems would shut the door on whatever plans they may have had based on the original procedure.

[Benny003]

Rehab time is likely different now, but he was never expected to come back this season anyway if I'm remembering right. So I'm not sure it really makes much difference. It's probably a good thing that he is getting both problems taken care of at the same time.

[uro55]

Another HR JM:thumbsup

[Benny003]

Another blown lead by our starting pitcher. :thumbsdow

[AJF_41]

one more out...

[smudge1]

here we go....

[AJF_41]

here we go....

:lol:lol:lol

[UNLTrpt]

Justin with two big flies. A series win in the Bronx. Way to go Twinkies!

When is the last time we took a series in NY?

[AJF_41]

Justin with two big flies. A series win in the Bronx. Way to go Twinkies!

When is the last time we took a series in NY?

there's one more game tomorrow.

as you your question...it feels like it's been ages.

[Nick@Night]

2001 was the last year the Twins won twice in NY in the same season.

[AJF_41]

2001 was the last year the Twins won twice in NY in the same season.

i'd say 2001 was "ages" ago...

[Benny003]

2001 was the last year the Twins won twice in NY in the same season.

Yeah, that was the last series win. I'd be curious to know when the last time was they won a 4 game series.

[UNLTrpt]

there's one more game tomorrow.

as you your question...it feels like it's been ages.

Did not know they had a game tomorrow. :jinx

[davelk10]

We've taken 2 at the stadium, season was a success!!!

[UNLTrpt]

I dunno about you guys but im actually highly encouraged. Even tough we split and it took a huge effort from Granderson to beat us...I like how this team has played so far. The offense had exceeded expectations if you ask me. The pitching is obviously right about where we thought it would be (giving up 3 runs in the first inning two games in a row) but...all things considered...it could have been a lot worse.

[AJF_41]

we need pitching more than we did last year.....and we really needed it last year.

[Benny003]

we need pitching more than we did last year.....and we really needed it last year.

The bullpen was actually quite amazing last night. If our starters would just try to be ready for the game in the 1st inning instead of the 2nd inning, then we would be a lot better off.

[UNC41]

I'm not encourgaed by a 4-9 start. Willingham has been great and I really like seeing Morneau drive the ball again, but it's going to be a long summer.

[Benny003]

I'm not encourgaed by a 4-9 start. Willingham has been great and I really like seeing Morneau drive the ball again, but it's going to be a long summer.

The offense is there as I expected, it's just the starting pitching really at this point that needs to start producing consistently.

[UNC41]

The offense is there as I expected, it's just the starting pitching really at this point that needs to start producing consistently.

I don't think that will happen. The starting pitching just isn't good.

[42graystreet]

I'm not entirely discouraged yet. The starting pitching has been bad and needs to rebound, but we are starting the season with a brutal schedule.

[Benny003]

I'm not entirely discouraged yet. The starting pitching has been bad and needs to rebound, but we are starting the season with a brutal schedule.

Yeah, that needs to be remembered as well.

Orioles
Angels
Rangers
Yankees
Rays
Red Sox
Royals
Angels (again)
Mariners
Angels (again!)
Blue Jays

That's the first 5 weeks of the schedule. Only 3 of those teams (i.e. 9 games out of the first 35 games) are remotely "easy" (Orioles, Royals, and Mariners). The rest are tough if not legitimate playoff contenders. If the Twins somehow stay within 5 to 7 games back of Detroit by the middle of May, then I'd say they will be doing exceptionally well.

[42graystreet]

I think proper expectations also play a part. I'm not expecting us to go from 99 losses to 90+ wins. That kind of turnaround would be remarkable. A .500 ballclub is my realistic hope.

[tosssweep]

The offense is there as I expected, it's just the starting pitching really at this point that needs to start producing consistently.

Rosenthal had a fantastic article yesterday on this exact observation. Let's see if I can dig it up...

Edit: Found it!
http://msn.foxsports.com/mlb/story/minnesota-twins-healthy-relish-two-wins-over-new-york-yankees-in-bronx-041812

[Benny003]

The Twins have always been a pitch-to-contact club, which can work as long as the defense is solid. So far the defense has been quite good and if the pitchers can regain their confidence in the defense behind them you'll see a whole different team. When the pitchers lose confidence in their defense, they start thinking they have to strike out every guy or they have to make the perfect pitch. That's what happened last year and a pitch-to-contact system will fail miserably in that situation. I think Pavano and Marquis can be guys that will show the others how to pitch. Things like adjusting as the game goes on, missing with a purpose (i.e. not leaving it hanging over the plate), and trusting your defense. If the pitching staff can get that in their heads, I think the team will be very strong. The Twins are not short on talent, not by any means. All of their problems right now are completely mental. If they can overcome that I'm very confident in their ability to win.

One thing I disagree with Rosenthal on is he said Carroll is below average defensively. I wonder if he still feels that way after watching last night's game.

[Nick@Night]

If Carrol is below average, what do you call what the Twins have tried putting there the past few seasons? Carrol is 1.000 fielding percentage thus far. Yoshi would have 3-4 errors and other miscues that don't go against his stats by now.

[Benny003]

Willingham is amazing. Bases loaded, 2 outs, 2 strikes and he extends his hit streak with a bases clearing double to put the Twins in the lead.

[UNC41]

He has been so huge this year. He laced that to right center.

[42graystreet]

Another win. Another save for Fatty Capps. Another big hit for Willy. Let's keep this going.

[UNLTrpt]

Another win. Another save for Fatty Capps. Another big hit for Willy. Let's keep this going.

:thumbsup:thumbsup:thumbsup:thumbsup

Good stuff all around.

[UNLTrpt]

Gotta give it up to fatty Capps. He's perfect on save opportunities so far.

[handsareme]

The bullpen allowed no hits and no runs.

[bustedstuff88]

Go twins go!!!

On the postgame tonight Ron Coomer said that Jamey Carroll isnt our most talented player. I think he missed this one. Carroll is a gamer and is impressing me time and time again, especially now that his bat has come alive!

[bustedstuff88]

What will become of Frankie???

[UNC41]

Go twins go!!!

On the postgame tonight Ron Coomer said that Jamey Carroll isnt our most talented player. I think he missed this one. Carroll is a gamer and is impressing me time and time again, especially now that his bat has come alive!

He also holds the title of Most Likely to Molest a Child Based on His Team Picture.

[Benny003]

What will become of Frankie???

I've lost patience with him. It takes "talent" to be 2 runs down while holding down a no hitter with no errors.

[bustedstuff88]

He also holds the title of Most Likely to Molest a Child Based on His Team Picture.

I spit all over my keyboard after reading this. Bravo!
:lol:lol:lol:lol:lol

[bustedstuff88]

I've lost patience with him. It takes "talent" to be 2 runs down while holding down a no hitter with no errors.

Such a damn shame. We've all seen what he CAN do. Heres my prediction:

He either gets traded before the deadline for a prospect (which we trade anyways down the line) or he just flat out leaves after the season to another team. I think a change of scenery and management will do him worlds of good and he is the next David Ortiz sob story for the twins.

[bustedstuff88]

So Am I wrong in saying that Miguel Sano is the only "super prospect" the twins have in the farm system right now?

[Benny003]

So Am I wrong in saying that Miguel Sano is the only "super prospect" the twins have in the farm system right now?

Super prospect? Probably. You don't get good draft pick placement when you win the division and the Twins haven't been trading for a lot of prospects either (which requires trading a current super star quality player).

[davelk10]

Super prospect? Probably. You don't get good draft pick placement when you win the division and the Twins haven't been trading for a lot of prospects either (which requires trading a current super star quality player).

We waste them on pitchers who throw in the top 80s anyway

[Benny003]

They have to get one with the #2 pick in June.

[Rebecca De Mornay]

Go Twins!!!

[smudge1]

Go Twins!!!:lol here we go..

[handsareme]

"That would be OK with me."

-Liriano, on the possibility of moving to the 'pen.

[pig494]

First game of the year for me tonight. Should be a beautiful night at Target Field

[Benny003]

My season tickets are available for Tuesday's game against the Red Sox. It's supposed to be 71 and sunny, so it should be a fantastic night at the ballpark. Here is the view from those seats:

http://i64.photobucket.com/albums/h184/Bluecow003/563766_3032881743883_1318087048_32490686_139429354 3_n.jpg

[42graystreet]

My season tickets are available for Tuesday's game against the Red Sox. It's supposed to be 71 and sunny, so it should be a fantastic night at the ballpark. Here is the view from those seats:

http://i64.photobucket.com/albums/h184/Bluecow003/563766_3032881743883_1318087048_32490686_139429354 3_n.jpg

Damn...I wish I could take those off your hands. But I just don't have the extra cash right now.

[uro55]

My season tickets are available for Tuesday's game against the Red Sox. It's supposed to be 71 and sunny, so it should be a fantastic night at the ballpark. Here is the view from those seats:

http://i64.photobucket.com/albums/h184/Bluecow003/563766_3032881743883_1318087048_32490686_139429354 3_n.jpg

How much are they again man?

[Benny003]

How much are they again man?

Season ticket cost is $53 per ticket, so $106 for the pair is all I want.

[uro55]

Season ticket cost is $53 per ticket, so $106 for the pair is all I want.

Cool, I was planning on grabbing a ticket and going tomorrow since its supossed to be so nice. But let me see if I can find anyone else interested in going and if so I'll let you know man:)

[Benny003]

Cool, I was planning on grabbing a ticket and going tomorrow since its supossed to be so nice. But let me see if I can find anyone else interested in going and if so I'll let you know man:)

Sure thing, let me know. I'm still going to the game too of course, so I can meet you there if it works out.

[bustedstuff88]

Tonights loss was frustrating. Its inexcusable when you get a leadoff triple and the 3-4-5 guys cannot even get a pop fly to bring him in.

[Nick@Night]

That should have definitely been a save situation for Capps in the 9th.

[Benny003]

FYI, a guy from work bought my tickets for tonight's game.

[handsareme]

Sucks we'll be without Willingham this week, but I hope all goes well with the birth of their child.

[Benny003]

Sucks we'll be without Willingham this week, but I hope all goes well with the birth of their child.

I think he could use a break to clear his head. He's been struggling the last couple games.

[uro55]

Argghh I don't wanna miss the game tonight, but I've got a nagging cough:(

[pathetic]

yikes....

[AJF_41]

Argghh I don't wanna miss the game tonight, but I've got a nagging cough:(

hopefully you're missing this one.

[Absolute34]

worst team in the league?

[UNLTrpt]

Yeah....not good

[uro55]

worst team in the league?

Nope. KC.

hopefully you're missing this one.

Sat 7th row.

Yeah....not good

Our pitching sucks balls, our hitting is good.

[UNLTrpt]

Our pitching sucks balls, our hitting is good.

It's unreal how far they have fallen off

[Benny003]

So I picked up the Twins Yearbook and the current Twins magazine at the game (get them for free as a season ticket holder) and they used 6 different photos of mine between the two. In the table of contents of the magazine I also got a credit line for the photos (should have technically had one in the yearbook too, but oh well). Anyway, that was pretty cool considering how many photos are taken by their team photographers over the season to have 6 different ones of mine be used.

[Benny003]

A few photos from Tuesday's game:

http://www.flickr.com/photos/benckphotos/sets/72157629531184138/

[Benny003]

Frustrating. Very frustrating.

[42graystreet]

This is the end. My only friend, the end.

[pathetic]

A few photos from Tuesday's game:

http://www.flickr.com/photos/benckphotos/sets/72157629531184138/

fantastic, as always

[Benny003]

This is the end. My only friend, the end.

There really isn't any excuse to losing these games. I mean the team has talent, there aren't critical players injured like last year. I'm seriously starting to question Gardenhire's ability to motivate them to win. I think if the team has another losing season like last year, then they seriously need to start considering a new manager. I just don't think he's getting the job done in motivating the players to succeed. There is just too much complacency right now (not to mention Gardenhire's post-season record and his record in New York, I don't think he's ever prepared his teams to be mentally tough).

fantastic, as always

Thank you very much.

[AJF_41]

Frustrating. Very frustrating.

horrible end.
could have taken 2 of 3.

couldawouldashoulda

[uro55]

I was quite optimistic after last Friday's win. Amazing what less than a week can do.

I'm really actually questioning the pitching coaches and their staff more than anyone.

[UNC41]

So I picked up the Twins Yearbook and the current Twins magazine at the game (get them for free as a season ticket holder) and they used 6 different photos of mine between the two. In the table of contents of the magazine I also got a credit line for the photos (should have technically had one in the yearbook too, but oh well). Anyway, that was pretty cool considering how many photos are taken by their team photographers over the season to have 6 different ones of mine be used.

This is awesome. Congrats!

There really isn't any excuse to losing these games. I mean the team has talent, there aren't critical players injured like last year. I'm seriously starting to question Gardenhire's ability to motivate them to win. I think if the team has another losing season like last year, then they seriously need to start considering a new manager. I just don't think he's getting the job done in motivating the players to succeed. There is just too much complacency right now (not to mention Gardenhire's post-season record and his record in New York, I don't think he's ever prepared his teams to be mentally tough).

I disagree. Talent is the issue.

Mauer, Willingham and maybe Span are the only above average position players Minnesota has. Pavano is a No. 3 starter, and he's the best guy the Twins have. The bullpen is a mess.

[Benny003]

I disagree. Talent is the issue.

Mauer, Willingham and maybe Span are the only above average position players Minnesota has. Pavano is a No. 3 starter, and he's the best guy the Twins have. The bullpen is a mess.

Are you kidding on the bullpen? The bullpen has been incredible this season. That's literally the one bright spot on this team and the only reason many of these games have been close.

I agree the starting pitching sucks in general, but the real problem is hitting with RISP or lack thereof. The Twins had 13 left on base last night. That's definitely not the first game this season where they have left double digit runners on base (I wouldn't be surprised at all if the Twins are leading the league in runners left on base). The Twins are perfectly capable of scoring A LOT more runs than they have been.

The team has enough talent to win. I mean there really isn't much different between this team and the one that won the division 2 years ago.

[Benny003]

Bullpen ERA is 3.74. Maloney is the only bad reliever so far. Everyone else is looking pretty good. Perkins would look a lot better if it weren't for that one bad day where he gave up 3 ER and got no outs.

http://espn.go.com/mlb/team/stats/pitching/_/name/min/split/128/minnesota-twins

Starting ERA is 7.09! So yeah, that's horrible.

http://espn.go.com/mlb/team/stats/pitching/_/name/min/split/127/minnesota-twins

[UNC41]

Are you kidding on the bullpen? The bullpen has been incredible this season. That's literally the one bright spot on this team and the only reason many of these games have been close.

I agree the starting pitching sucks in general, but the real problem is hitting with RISP or lack thereof. The Twins had 13 left on base last night. That's definitely not the first game this season where they have left double digit runners on base (I wouldn't be surprised at all if the Twins are leading the league in runners left on base). The Twins are perfectly capable of scoring A LOT more runs than they have been.

The team has enough talent to win. I mean there really isn't much different between this team and the one that won the division 2 years ago.

The bullpen has the eighth highest ERA in the American League. So while calling it a mess may have been a stretch, so it calling it incredible.

Meanwhile, the Twins average with RISP is 10th in the American League. Not good, but not much worse than the bullpen.

I see a lot of differences between this year's team and the 2010. Frank, Pavano and Duensing all threw better than any starter has this year. You got half a year's worth of elite production out of Morneau. Valencia has regressed significantly since then. Thome was a guy who hit 25 home runs off the bench. You had four capable outfielders.

Guys haven't developed as well as we hoped they would, and in many cases have regressed, and there haven't been any impact players to come out of the farm system over the past couple years. The team just isn't very good.

[UNLTrpt]

Pitching pitching pitching. That's what our problem has been. 2nd worse ERA in the MLB. We're almost a full run behind 28th place.

30th - Boston - 6.26
29th - Minnesota - 5.76
28th - Milwaukee - 4.88

Worst Batting average against.

Our batting average is top 10.
20th in runs scored
11th in OBP

[Benny003]

Some of my photos from Wednesday:

http://www.flickr.com/photos/benckphotos/sets/72157629544721382/

[Benny003]

Well this is a little bizarre, Delmon Young was arrested in New York and may be charged with a hate crime:

http://minnesota.twins.mlb.com/news/article.jsp?ymd=20120427&content_id=29776586&vkey=news_mlb&c_id=mlb

[tosssweep]

Pitching pitching pitching. That's what our problem has been. 2nd worse ERA in the MLB. We're almost a full run behind 28th place.

30th - Boston - 6.26
29th - Minnesota - 5.76
28th - Milwaukee - 4.88

Worst Batting average against.

Our batting average is top 10.
20th in runs scored
11th in OBP

It's just so frustrating given the expectations this year.

Expectation for bats: guys returning from injury, added decent bats in Willingham and Doumit.
Result: generally improved offense in 2012. Sweet!

But...
Expectations for pitching: same 5 guys (Pavano, Liriano, Blackburn, Baker-out for season, Duensing-bullpen role), plus "savvy vet" Marquis and prospect Hendricks. Decent bullpen cobbled together on the cheap.
Results: underwhelming starters (3 quality starts in 19 games!) and decent bullpen considering they've worked the 3rd most innings at this point.

So why do we keep crossing our fingers hoping our starters will have all have a magical career year??? Are we surprised our team is 5-14 at this point???

Still going to at least 2 games this season and will be cheering our guys, but man we NEED to improve our rotation or we're going to continue to lose most of these 7-6 kinds of games.

[Benny003]

Well that's the frustrating part exactly. The starters are basically the same guys we've had in previous years where they have performed at least adequately enough to pull some wins together. They certainly weren't expected to have a combined ERA over 7. I mean we've seen these starters win plenty of games in the past. I don't really know what's different now.

[AJF_41]

Well this is a little bizarre, Delmon Young was arrested in New York and may be charged with a hate crime:

http://minnesota.twins.mlb.com/news/article.jsp?ymd=20120427&content_id=29776586&vkey=news_mlb&c_id=mlb

yup. just came to post this.
very odd.

[Benny003]

So I tried to take photos at Saturday's game, but of course it was postponed because of the rain. I did manage to make this photo though and you might notice something odd about it coming from me:

http://www.flickr.com/photos/benckphotos/6981020138/in/photostream

[UNLTrpt]

So I tried to take photos at Saturday's game, but of course it was postponed because of the rain. I did manage to make this photo though and you might notice something odd about it coming from me:

http://www.flickr.com/photos/benckphotos/6981020138/in/photostream

You were in the dugout?

[Benny003]

You were in the dugout?

Yes, I was credentialed for the first time ever for that game and unfortunately there wasn't a game.

[UNLTrpt]

Yes, I was credentialed for the first time ever for that game and unfortunately there wasn't a game.

D'oh. Pretty cool you got in. How did you score that? Going to get any more games?

[Benny003]

D'oh. Pretty cool you got in. How did you score that? Going to get any more games?

A relatively new company contacted me to shoot Twins games for them. To start I'm going to try to do at least one game per series, but I can do more if I choose.

[AJF_41]

A relatively new company contacted me to shoot Twins games for them. To start I'm going to try to do at least one game per series, but I can do more if I choose.

can you disclose said "new company"?
congrats!

[Benny003]

can you disclose said "new company"?
congrats!

It's called Gameday Gold. It's made up of some guys that did radio station work for a long time and they decided to make their own company that provides sports reporting content to smaller radio stations. They were looking to add photo content to their written game reports and asked if I wanted to help them with that. So it's a start anyway.

[42graystreet]

It's called Gameday Gold. It's made up of some guys that did radio station work for a long time and they decided to make their own company that provides sports reporting content to smaller radio stations. They were looking to add photo content to their written game reports and asked if I wanted to help them with that. So it's a start anyway.

The only way to progress is taking that first small step through a door of opportunity. Congrats Ben! Hope it leads to bigger and better things.

[Benny003]

The only way to progress is taking that first small step through a door of opportunity. Congrats Ben! Hope it leads to bigger and better things.

Thanks, we'll see where it goes.

[UNC41]

That's awesome Ben. How was the press spread at Target Field? The Xcel had the best food for the press that I ever had.

[Benny003]

That's awesome Ben. How was the press spread at Target Field? The Xcel had the best food for the press that I ever had.

Well I went into the lounge, but I really wasn't sure how it worked. I just looked around it for like 30 seconds. There were only like 4 other people in there. In my few glances I only saw beverage machines. I didn't notice any food, but I know there must have been some somewhere or maybe I got there late because I know I've heard about there being a media meal before. I'll have to ask about it next time.

[bustedstuff88]

Twins are fucking killing me.

I pitch to my seven year old at our town diamond. Maybe the twins could sign me.

[UNLTrpt]

Twins are fucking killing me.

I pitch to my seven year old at our town diamond. Maybe the twins could sign me.

Against that line up? That was probably one of out better pitching performances of the year :lol Nicky made one bad mistake against Torii and it cost us the game. I dont care who ypu are. You don't fall behind CJ Wilson 4-0 and win too many games.

[Benny003]

Game really wasn't bad at all. CJ was just dominating. If I had the option of giving up no more than 4 runs every single game, I'd probably take it in a heartbeat.

[handsareme]

Aaaaaaaand Franky's melting down again.

Ahem (http://extreme2sports.blogspot.com/p/ch1.html). Gotta say the Angels announcers aren't too bad.

[Nick@Night]

Has the Frank ship sailed? Maybe the guy just needs a change of scenery.

[uro55]

He needed to go the bullpen 2 years ago.

[Nick@Night]

Why do they keep saying his start was promising? Are they just trying to convince themselves he should be starting games because they have so few options for the rotation?

[Benny003]

Liriano needs to go. I can't believe how bad the team looked last night. It's amazing it was only 4-0. The Twins seem to be the cure for other struggling teams.

[uro55]

I'd toss him in the bullpen ASAP (or get a time machine and do it two years ago) see if he's got any value there. And if not, or not a lot, trade him in July to someone hoping or desperate he can regain his old form.

[uro55]

This fucking pitching staff:BANG

[Benny003]

I can't even watch anymore. Between the 25 minute Angel half innings and the 5 minute Twins half innings there is no entertainment value at all.

[uro55]

I can't even watch anymore. Between the 25 minute Angel half innings and the 5 minute Twins half innings there is no entertainment value at all.

After the last run scored I switched to a Friends rerun.....

I wish I was joking:lorraine

[Benny003]

Weaver would have a perfect game going if it weren't for that passed ball that let Parmelee steal 1st. :lol

[Benny003]

Please Twins, you've already embarrassed yourselves enough. Don't get no-hit too.

[Benny003]

And we've hit bottom.

[uro55]

And we've hit bottom.

You literally beat me to me same thought/post:lorraine

[AJF_41]

:lorraine
fuck

[Nick@Night]

The countdown to 100 losses is now on. I'm going to the game on Tuesday, I can only imagine the tone around the ballpark by then is going to be drab. They are good seats anyways, sec. 109, Row 7.

[42graystreet]

If this continues, are we looking at a mid-season firing of Gardy?

[pig494]

If this continues, are we looking at a mid-season firing of Gardy?

I can't see this one happening... Name me an above average pitcher on our team and take away Mauer, Willingham, and Span. Gardy doesn't have much to work with.

[UNC41]

I'd clean house on the scouting staff and get rid of Bill Smith all together before firing Gardy.

[AJF_41]

yeah. i think gardy is around at the end of this year.

[Benny003]

The countdown to 100 losses is now on. I'm going to the game on Tuesday, I can only imagine the tone around the ballpark by then is going to be drab. They are good seats anyways, sec. 109, Row 7.

Those are great seats, 4 rows in front of my season seats.

The Twins scored a total of 3 runs in the series (only scored in 1 out of 27 innings). They only got 3 hits in the last 2 games combined. They can't blame injuries right now. The pitchers we have are essentially the same pitchers we had in 2010 (Liriano, Pavano, Blackburn at least). 3 pitchers who were at least effective in 2010 are almost worthless right now. It's the job of the coaching staff to get the best performance out of the players the Twins have. We know the players the Twins have are capable of performing to at least be effective (not dominating of course, but effective). We've seen them do it before. I wouldn't mind seeing the coaching staff go through a house cleaning. I just think the team is getting too accustomed to losing. If you don't make a change soon it becomes a pattern of losing.

[uro55]

Not a snowballs chance in hell Gardy gets fired mid season. I'd bet my life on it.

[uro55]

Let's keep this going boys!!!!!

[UNC41]

Those are great seats, 4 rows in front of my season seats.

The Twins scored a total of 3 runs in the series (only scored in 1 out of 27 innings). They only got 3 hits in the last 2 games combined. They can't blame injuries right now. The pitchers we have are essentially the same pitchers we had in 2010 (Liriano, Pavano, Blackburn at least). 3 pitchers who were at least effective in 2010 are almost worthless right now. It's the job of the coaching staff to get the best performance out of the players the Twins have. We know the players the Twins have are capable of performing to at least be effective (not dominating of course, but effective). We've seen them do it before. I wouldn't mind seeing the coaching staff go through a house cleaning. I just think the team is getting too accustomed to losing. If you don't make a change soon it becomes a pattern of losing.

The talent is really bad. I feel like you are in denial of this.

It's great to see the Twins gifted three runs tonight rather than giving them away. Hopefully they can hold on.

[bustedstuff88]

Well I'll be goddamned! WE WON!!!!

:thumbsup:thumbsup:thumbsup

[uro55]

The talent is really bad. I feel like you are in denial of this.

I disagree, there is a lot of talent on this team. It's reaching that talents potential that's the issue.

[Absolute34]

worst team in the league?

I knew I was right.

[UNC41]

I disagree, there is a lot of talent on this team. It's reaching that talents potential that's the issue.

Where? The staff is awful, the bullpen is mediocre and the lineup is in the bottom third of the AL,

[Benny003]

The talent is really bad. I feel like you are in denial of this.

It's great to see the Twins gifted three runs tonight rather than giving them away. Hopefully they can hold on.

Who won the division in 2009 and 2010 if it wasn't these guys then? The Twins apparently traded away all the guys that won those division titles and the guys they currently have never helped win those titles? I must have missed that I guess.

[bustedstuff88]

I think the twins ship has sailed

[uro55]

I think the twins ship has sailed

It's never sailed for me:thumbsup

[bustedstuff88]

It's never sailed for me:thumbsup

It sailed when we sunk our hopes and dreams into 2 guys who became about as durable as a chinese condom

[uro55]

It sailed when we sunk our hopes and dreams into 2 guys who became about as durable as a chinese condom

No offense, but I hate this argument.

For the first two and a half years of Justin's contract he was not just earning it, but exceeding it. And it's fairly safe to say he still would be if he hadn't got hurt. Which his injuries you can't blame management over. One cause he wasn't injury prone before, and two you can never predict or expect a concussion.

And with Mauer, did they over pay for him? Well yes it's safe to say they probably did. But there's a few other things to factor in. One, he as well was not injury prone at the time they signed him. Two, at the time he was putting up numbers on a level that was historic and beyond comprehension for a catcher. And three? They had to sign him for PR reasons (no matter what people think of the importance of that). Minnesota sports has had a nearly century long history of losing players, teams etc to other cities and situations due to money or similar situations. So to lose (at the time the best catcher hands down and one of the top 5-10 players in baseball) the hometown boy and the heir to the franchise to another team (also the year they opened the new park that partially saved the team from leaving Minnesota) would have been baseball suicide.

So to sum it up, have things worked out as we expected a few years ago? Nope. But to drop all the blame on the M&M signings is ignorant.

P.S. No matter whether this team wins 100 games or loses 100 games, they're still my favorite sports team ever and I'll never quit on them, nor stop cheering my lungs out for them:thumbsup

[bustedstuff88]

No offense, but I hate this argument.

For the first two and a half years of Justin's contract he was not just earning it, but exceeding it. And it's fairly safe to say he still would be if he hadn't got hurt. Which his injuries you can't blame management over. One cause he wasn't injury prone before, and two you can never predict or expect a concussion.

And with Mauer, did they over pay for him? Well yes it's safe to say they probably did. But there's a few other things to factor in. One, he as well was not injury prone at the time they signed him. Two, at the time he was putting up numbers on a level that was historic and beyond comprehension for a catcher. And three? They had to sign him for PR reasons (no matter what people think of the importance of that). Minnesota sports has had a nearly century long history of losing players, teams etc to other cities and situations due to money or similar situations. So to lose (at the time the best catcher hands down and one of the top 5-10 players in baseball) the hometown boy and the heir to the franchise to another team (also the year they opened the new park that partially saved the team from leaving Minnesota) would have been baseball suicide.

So to sum it up, have things worked out as we expected a few years ago? Nope. But to drop all the blame on the M&M signings is ignorant.

P.S. No matter whether this team wins 100 games or loses 100 games, they're still my favorite sports team ever and I'll never quit on them, nor stop cheering my lungs out for them:thumbsup


I think thats the bottom line for us all.

And I do see your logic. You have to admit though that our hands are pretty much tied with these two contracts. It wouldnt be nearly as bad if things hadnt gone the way they did last year, but, unfortunately, it did.

[UNC41]

Who won the division in 2009 and 2010 if it wasn't these guys then? The Twins apparently traded away all the guys that won those division titles and the guys they currently have never helped win those titles? I must have missed that I guess.

This year's team isn't even comparable to those two teams. Just because you have some of the same guys doesn't mean they are who they were then.

Mauer and Morneau are still Mauer and Morneau, but they're not close to the same players they were back then. Kubel, Cuddy and Nathan are gone. Baker is injured. Liriano was great in 2010, and he's currently a complete disaster. Young finished 10th in MVP voting in 2010, and he's off with the Tigers making a much stronger statement with his antisemitism than his play.

[uro55]

This year's team isn't even comparable to those two teams. Just because you have some of the same guys doesn't mean they are who they were then.

Mauer and Morneau are still Mauer and Morneau, but they're not close to the same players they were back then. Kubel, Cuddy and Nathan are gone. Baker is injured. Liriano was great in 2010, and he's currently a complete disaster. Young finished 10th in MVP voting in 2010, and he's off with the Tigers making a much stronger statement with his antisemitism than his play.

That doesn't mean the talent isn't there, it means the talent is producing like it could.

And actually on the offensive side of things they actually are.

[UNC41]

That doesn't mean the talent isn't there, it means the talent is producing like it could.

And actually on the offensive side of things they actually are.

I don't think Mauer and Morneau ever get back to where they were in 2010. Injuries have limited what their talent is capable of. Liriano has been lost for almost a year and a half, and I'll be surprised if he ever gets back on the right track.

The Twins have scored the second fewest runs in the AL. The offense is almost as bad as the pitching.

[uro55]

I don't think Mauer and Morneau ever get back to where they were in 2010. Injuries have limited what their talent is capable of. Liriano has been lost for almost a year and a half, and I'll be surprised if he ever gets back on the right track.

The Twins have scored the second fewest runs in the AL. The offense is almost as bad as the pitching.

I disagree, I think they can both come back. Mauer for sure, Morneau, well that depends on his head, both mentally and concussed way.

Again tough, that doesn't mean the talent isn't there, that means the talent isn't producing as I've said, I understand which might be some what semantics, but there's no basis to say there isn't talent on this team.

They're not a great team as is, but they're not a lot away from being a decent respectable.

[UNC41]

I disagree, I think they can both come back. Mauer for sure, Morneau, well that depends on his head, both mentally and concussed way.

Again tough, that doesn't mean the talent isn't there, that means the talent isn't producing as I've said, I understand which might be some what semantics, but there's no basis to say there isn't talent on this team.

They're not a great team as is, but they're not a lot away from being a decent respectable.

I could see Mauer possibly getting back to where he was a couple years ago, but am not confident in him doing so. Outside of Mauer though, Willingham is the only guy on the roster I could ever see making an All-Star team. That's why I think there is a huge lack of talent.

[Benny003]

I'm going to be working the game on Tuesday, so I have 2 pairs of tickets available:

Sec. 109, Row 11 (season tickets) = $100 for the pair
Sec. 3, Row 1 (the seats I normally photograph from) = $196 for the pair

Let me know if you're interested.

[bustedstuff88]

Twins so far = :BANG

[Benny003]

If anyone is at all interested in my tickets for tomorrow or if you know someone who might be, I'm open to offers. I really don't want them to go to waste.

[42graystreet]

I'm going to be working the game on Tuesday, so I have 2 pairs of tickets available:

Sec. 109, Row 11 (season tickets) = $100 for the pair
Sec. 3, Row 1 (the seats I normally photograph from) = $196 for the pair

Let me know if you're interested.

During the day, can't help ya out. I also probably would've offered just $50-$75 for either of the pair. Market forces are at work and the expensive seats are as bad of an asset right now as a home in the suburbs that was "worth" 500k in 2007. The trib had an interesting story today about the secondary ticket market for the Twins right now.

[Benny003]

It would help if the weather wasn't so crappy every game I get a credential for. Seriously, first game was postponed because of rain and now the only 2 games this week that I requested credentials for weeks ago it is supposed to rain. When I bought the tickets obviously I thought I was going to be using them.

[Ashley J]

Still love that Torii Hunter smile

[UNC41]

I was listening to Barriero on my way home from work today and he made two points during a discussion with Coomer that I really agree with. First, there just aren't a lot of competitive guys on the team. Second, Mauer needs to stop being so selective at the plate and go after some pitches he can drive. You don't pay a guy $23 million to just hit singles.

[bustedstuff88]

I was listening to Barriero on my way home from work today and he made two points during a discussion with Coomer that I really agree with. First, there just aren't a lot of competitive guys on the team. Second, Mauer needs to stop being so selective at the plate and go after some pitches he can drive. You don't pay a guy $23 million to just hit singles.

Im getting tired of seeing mauer hitting into inning ending double plays

[bustedstuff88]

And does anyone else think management will take a hint now that target field is only half full for most games?

[Benny003]

Mauer's batting average has dropped 60 points over the last week. Anyway, here are some of my photos from Dozier's MLB debut:

http://www.flickr.com/photos/benckphotos/sets/72157629630561006/

Not much of a game otherwise.

[Nick@Night]

I hate to say it, but going to the game tonight seems like it's going to be a miserable time. Short of the good seats, the weather sucks, the team sucks...fuck.

Edit: Plus on top of that, I'm trying to find someone who wants to fill the 4th seat we have.

[Benny003]

I don't disagree.

[uro55]

I do, to me there's no such thing as a bad day at the ball park. Just much better ones:)

[42graystreet]

What a fall from grace. Ever since Sept 22, 2010, the day after they went 32 games over .500 and clinched a 6th division title in 9 years, the Minnesota Twins are 72-131. The average attendance this year is down 15% from last year's April/early May attendance numbers.

Our club is dying a slow death.

[Nick@Night]

Anyone read Souhan's article in the Trib today?

http://www.startribune.com/sports/twins/150534185.html

[uro55]

Minnesota sports fans are the most moody and fickle in the world. It can be incredibly frustrating sometimes:lol I wish like hell we we're better right now, but almost every team in any sports have peaks and valleys. We had a decade long peak, and ya we're in a valley, and hopefully one that we're not in for a long time.

[42graystreet]

This isn't just a valley, though. This is history in the making (and not in the good way). From Souhan's article:


Before Monday, they had managed 14 hits over their previous five games. According to the Elias Sports Bureau, that tied the Twins with the 1961 Red Sox and 1993 Reds for the fewest hits for a major league team over a five-game span during baseball's modern era.

[uro55]

1961 Sox had 76 wins, and the 1993 Reds had 73. So while not great win totals, also not epically terrible.

[UNC41]

2012 Twins are not going to win 60 games.

[Nick@Night]

They could even push the loss record. There's no signs of any encouragement here. None.

Frankie needs to go, he's in Tarvaris Jackson territory now of just being a waste of a roster spot.

[uro55]

There's none? While this is a very bad team right now, that's just not true.

[uro55]

Also the all time loss record is 120 games, I'll bet everything I own that they don't reach that:lol

[Nick@Night]

There's none? While this is a very bad team right now, that's just not true.
Where do you feel there is?

[uro55]

Where do you feel there is?

The past week or so aside (I can't make any explanation for that:lol) a good majority of the offense.

Listen, I'm not saying this is a great or even good ball club. But it's not quite as bad as the past 7-10 days has showed.

[UNC41]

The past week or so aside (I can't make any explanation for that:lol) a good majority of the offense.

Listen, I'm not saying this is a great or even good ball club. But it's not quite as bad as the past 7-10 days has showed.

You think we're moody and fickle. We think you're unrealistically optimistic. :lol:lol:lol

[uro55]

You think we're moody and fickle. We think you're unrealistically optimistic. :lol:lol:lol

Show where I've been optimistic?

I'm not just gonna bail and shit on my favorite team cause they're sucking or they're in an funk, even if its an epic one. I don't care what anyone says, that's often a huge MN thing to do.

[UNC41]

Show where I've been optimistic?

I'm not just gonna bail and shit on my favorite team cause they're sucking or they're in an funk, even if its an epic one. I don't care what anyone says, that's often a huge MN thing to do.

Maybe optimistic wasn't the right word. You didn't agree with there being no signs of encourgament, which is what I was getting at. I don't think there are.

I'm going to Milwaukee to watch the Twins play in a week and a half. I'm hosting a bachelor party over Memorial Day weekend that is centered around going to a couple of games. I'm not bailing on the team, but rather am realistic about how good it is.

[uro55]

Sorry, I didn't mean to say you personally were bailing, or this thread per say. It was just more of a general fandom statement.

[UNC41]

I don't think that trend is limited to Minnesota. It encompasses pretty much any fanbase I've ever been around.

[uro55]

I don't think that trend is limited to Minnesota. It encompasses pretty much any fanbase I've ever been around.

To an extent yes, but it's wayyyy more prevalent and comes about/on much faster in MN than most places.

[42graystreet]

To an extent yes, but it's wayyyy more prevalent and comes about/on much faster in MN than most places.

That's just because MN sports is turrrrrrrrrrible.

[42graystreet]

I guess we just have to bitch a lot and they'll win. Nice debut for Diamond.