Curlz and Curveballs

Exhibition Game #1

2010-04-03T11:53:00.000-05:00

It might have been only an Exhibition game, but it sure felt like Opening Night! You could feel the excitement--from fans, vendors, Twins staff, and I'm sure, the players themselves! The night that Twins fans had long waited for was finally here--outdoor baseball has returned to Minnesota! I thought about that stupid countdown we've sat through the past two seasons at the Metrodome...every game counting down to how games till baseball moved outdoors. Yes, I thought it was stupid! But now, well now, I can see that this stadium is living up to its' hype!

By the luck of the draw, we got tickets to the first exhibition game. At first, I had thought it would be best to go to Saturday's afternoon game--since it would be earlier in the day, it would be possibly warmer...Well, that may turn out to be the case (beautiful now on Saturday!)--Friday night it was cold and windy. Fortunately, the rain stayed away. But even if it had rained, I don't think it would have dampened the spirit of the fans there. It was something special being there that first night.

The crowd let out quite a cheer when the tarp was removed!

Like a good number of fans, we got there early to walk around and enjoy the concourse. I can't describe how much nicer it is than the Metrodome! As you walk around, you can easily look out to the field. The amount of space is incredible!

Here's a shot of the bullpen (each team will be side by side)--

Here's a shot of Section 325 (where we sit)--the third upper deck section from the right!

Don't let that fool you--the view of the field is still awesome! Baby, this place was built for baseball!

And they call them the "Skyline View" seats for a reason--

Part of the festivities of the night included honoring former Twins' Hall of Famers--Hrbek, Killebrew, Olivia, Carew, and of course, Puckett. They were all in attendance, excluding Pucket, who left us all too soon. And they seemed to be just as thrilled as the rest of us to see outdoor baseball return!

That jumbotron screen is incredible! I am going to enjoy sitting so close to it (it is just to our left over centerfield). It helps bring the action from down on the field to us, plus it acts as a great scoreboard!

Finally, it was time to play ball! Here's Morneau and Cuddy running onto the field for the first time! Yes, I know it's a blurry photo...but the wind was blowing so bad at the time that I couldn't hold my camera still!

It was an awesome game...one that it didn't really matter that we lost...it was about enjoying the game! Span was the hero--hitting the first triple and then the first homer. Jacque Jones was warmly received by the crowd--receiving a standing ovation when he came to bat. He was clearly moved by the fans' ovation.

And in the end, the sun struggled to come out for a bit--

Hubby, aka Curveballs, woke up this morning and said, "I want to go to ALL the baseball games at Target Field!"

I couldn't agree more!

My Two Favorite Joes

2010-03-22T22:23:00.001-05:00

While it's going to be hard to be without the one this year, I'm awful glad we're guaranteed to have the other around for 9 years! And I'm hoping in 2011 they'll both be playing the game!

This is perhaps my favorite Twins commercial...it still makes me smile.

Enjoy!

Section 325, Row 8

2010-03-21T21:52:00.010-05:00

I'll admit it--I was one of those Twins fans that talked last season about actually missing the Metrodome. I mean, there were never any issues with weather and I have a lot of fond memories from the Metrodome (um, remember that marriage proposal?) But all that changed today...

Today, Curveballs and myself attended the Open House for season ticket holders. Yup, we became season ticket holders for the first time. My Christmas present to the hubby was a 20-game pack to the 2010 season.

I'm not talking the high-class seats. More like nose-bleed. Section 325, Row 8. Left Field....about as far over in left field as you can get. Honestly, I was worried about whether or not we would be happy with our seats. And I was especially afraid that I would be scared being up so high.

Well, the Open House got me all excited about baseball at Target Field. I don't think there is a bad seat in the house! And I think we'll be quite happy with our seats!

Here's the view of the field from our seats--

I had a few moments of freaking out being so high, but then I soaked it all up. It feels o.k. It feels great. They call them "Skyline View" seats and here's why--

There is an awesome view of the Minneapolis skyline. And lots of sun--which today felt good. I will be investing in a hat and sunglasses! (We do have some protection from rain). Here's the view to the left and the Jumbotron (which is huge)--we watched today's preseason game for a bit (Twins trounced on the Rays 12-3).

We had a great time checking out the whole place...let me tell you, it's so different being in a stadium that was designed for baseball (not football!).

I came home pumped up for baseball. I went over to my art studio for a few hours, came home & got on the computer to find out that--

Mauer signed!!!

That took my excitement to a whole other level...but that's a post for another day!

I'm back!

2010-03-21T21:11:00.004-05:00

I've been contemplating starting up this baseball blog again. Problem is, it's been so long that I couldn't even remember how to log into this account. Fortunately, I remembered the account log-in and I'm giving it a go again.

It's not that I stopped following baseball. Hubby and I went to quite a number of games last year and watched a great number more games on television. Life just gets a little too busy at times to juggle so many things.

So I'm not making any big promises. I'm just here sharing my thoughts (for what they're worth) and love of baseball. Especially Twins baseball.

Let's play ball!

Drama on the field

2008-07-31T21:54:00.003-05:00

Man oh man, I wish I was at tonight's game. We thought about it, but it was a busy day at work and I needed to get some things done at home. We decided that it would probably be better to go Friday night or during the weekend.

Probably. Probably not. Tonight's game has had (thus far) all the drama I love. If I were there, I'd surely come home with a sore throat and no voice. The first 5 innings didn't go all that well, but then things shifted. Morneau got a 3-run homerun in the bottom of the 5th to bring the Twins to within 1 (4-3).

And then things got really hot in the 7th. Span got hit by a pitch, but instead of being given the base the 1st base ref decided Span had attempted to punt the ball and "put himself" in the ball's way. WRONG. Gardy came out to argue the point and was ejected almost immediately. But Gardy stayed to argue his point and in my opinion, rightfully so. Gardy was fired up and the crowd got fired up too. When Gardy finally left the field, he kicked or threw his cap up in the air. A few fans responded by throwing their caps onto the field. Pretty soon, Ozzie was pulling his guys off the field. Hey, don't these guys play in Chicago? I think the White Sox face tougher crowds just taking the field at home.

Eventually order was returned and the teams took to the field once again. With just a few more throws, Span actually was walked. Sweet. Karma. All this was followed by some nice base hitting and then Kubel, with 2 runners on, hit the ball out--giving the Twins their first lead.

Of course, the Sox answered with a 2-run homerun. It just can't be easy. But like I said, it's been a night for drama. And that makes for good baseball.

Right now it's the bottom of the 8th and the Twins have added on more runs, increasing their lead again. With 2 outs, the Twins lead 10-6.

I may have things that "need to be done", but until this game is over I'm glued to my television and whoopin' and hollerin' through every run and every out.

1/2 game back and 26 home games to play

2008-07-29T23:50:00.002-05:00

Yup, only 26 home games still to play. I got me some baseball games to get to.

And I got to the one tonight. Yup, Perkins was pitching. He seemed a little shaky the first few innings. It was a rough start--with a balk called that eventually led to a run. And the Sox pitcher looked better than expected--for a while. But then Twins magic took over and we took the lead. The crowd of 36,999 stood on their feet throughout the 9th as we won to pull within a 1/2 game of first place.

The bad news is that Casilla has been placed on the DL with a torn tendon in the finger he injured on Monday night. Another f*#*ing finger injury!?! Damn it. I was worried about this. First, we do seem prone to these type of injuries this year...so when they came out to check Casilla last night, I thought--"this won't be good". And then this afternoon Curveball went to the Dome to catch players before the game (for autographs)...Casilla walked in with a soft cast on his hand.

Casilla has been hot and I would hate to see the kid miss the rest of the season. And sorry, I don't think Everett will be that sort of dynamic player.

So the division lead is on the line tomorrow. It's going to be hard to stay away for that.

Where's Perkins?

2008-07-28T08:29:00.006-05:00

I was visiting the Twins website last night and went to check the pitchers listed for the Twins/White Sox series. I found something or rather, someone missing. The Twins' Tuesday night pitcher is listed as "To be announced". Monday's pitcher is listed and even Wednesday, Thursday and Friday's pitchers are listed...so it's pretty obvious who should be pitching Tuesday...Perkins.

What's up with Perkins missing in the listing of probable pitchers? His name was there on Saturday. Is there an injury the Twins aren't talking about? Is Perkins being thrown into some trade deal in the works?

Trading Perkins would open up a spot for Liriano, and he's certainly worth more in a trade than say someone like Boof. Still I would hate to see this Minnesota kid go anywhere. I think he fits well in the organization and he certainly has talent.

While I'm speculating, let me just throw out there that I think Liriano will be brought up soon--but not before Friday. It's time.

The whole thing with Perkins--let's just hope it's an issue of someone dropping the ball and not getting the right info out there...but it certainly caught me eye.

Anyone out there care to speculate?

It's Justin, not Jason, thank you very much!

2008-07-15T19:55:00.005-05:00

I've been reading the blogs and listening to the commentary on t.v. go on and on about how Josh Hamilton should have won the Homerun Derby last night. No doubt we will be hearing about it all night during the All-star game. But enough already.

I know...I was mezmorized by Hamilton’s show as well...and his story is inspiring. A part of me would have been happy had he won.

But being a Twins fan, I was thrilled to see Morneau--the last man invited to the derby--win. Did we hear anything of Morneau's story? Nope. Hell, the State Farm corporate drone couldn’t even come up with the right first name (It’s Justin, not Jason, thank you very much). Um, Justin was the 2006 AL MVP...did anyone on ESPN even mention that? Probably not, cause those Yankees fans thought he stole the MVP from Jeters (another time Morneau didn’t get his due). How in the world could a honest, hard-working player from a nothing team like the Twins be MVP? Or for that matter, win the Home run Derby?

I know I may be singing to the choir here, but Morneau is a good guy, who always plays hard, gives back to the community...He does represent what is good about baseball--and that story should be celebrated as well. He is loyal to his team and his fans--he chose to stay here in Minnesota, rather than seek his fame and fortune in those bigger markets that we despise here in the quiet Midwest.

I’m not saying that Hamilton isn’t the same, but Morneau, without the dramatic backdrop, was not the network’s story last night. Certainly, Hamilton's performance and life story provided greater dramatic flair for the media.

Don't get me wrong--I hope Hamilton continues to have an incredible season. It certainly looks like he's headed that way. Maybe he will be the MVP this season.

But Morneau didn’t write the rules. He just played the game and came out the winner.

Who can fault him for that?

Our very own Homerun Derby Winner!

2008-07-14T22:08:00.004-05:00

Justin Morneau! Justin, last player to be invited to the Homerun Derby, claimed the Homerun Derby title tonight! Yes! Yes! Yes! I watched the derby and I know that Josh Hamilton put on a hell of a show. Hamilton hit 28 homeruns in the first round and 5 more in a shortened 2nd round (he elected not to hit the full 2nd round). Maybe Hamilton even deserved to win the title, but the rules are what they are--and the rules are that the 2 finalists start with a clean slate for the final round. Justin hit first in the final round and came up with just 5 homeruns (which is fairly typical for the final round). No one thought he would walk away the winner. But Josh Hamilton had obviously worn himself out and failed to show his earlier power--he only hit 3 homeruns in the final round.

I love it! I love that Justin won! I love that the Twins have 3 players at the All-star game (and I also love that Hunter and Santana aren't there...just for 1 year I want them to sit it out and think about the good thing they had going here in Minnesota).

So tomorrow night we can enjoy the All-star game. The Twins enter the second half of the season just 1 1/2 games out of first place. Not bad. Certainly better than what was expected of them this season.

I like this team. One striking difference between this team and last year's team--they don't give up. Whether they are down a run or a half dozen runs, they still play to win. And that attitude has won them more than a few ballgames.

I hope to be writing more the second half of the season--all the way through the Twins winning the World Series. That nasty little bug I was fighting the last time I wrote turned out to be Salmonella--yup, the same salmonella that is part of the nationwide outbreak (which happens to be called "salmonella saintpaul"). It knocked me flat for quite some time. Finally, I'm ready for dome dogs again!

Sweep! Sweep!

2008-06-22T22:05:00.003-05:00

I have been laying in bed much of the past several days, fighting off whatever nasty bug I picked up. Since I was feeling so lousy, we didn't make any games this weekend (although Curveball did make it to the autograph party). I have been watching the games on tv though (with occasional naps) and was thrilled that the Twins pulled off another sweep today! Way to go guys!

Doing their part to help us out, the Chicago Cubs just pulled off a sweep of the Chicago White Sox. Very sweet indeed. I really hope the Cubs can continue to play so well--their home record is now 32-8. Incredible.

And the best part is the Cubs and White Sox play again next weekend (this time on the Sox home field).

Go Cubs!

Go Twins! Only 1 1/2 games back!

Back to the blogging world

2008-06-19T14:19:00.004-05:00

Here we are celebrating our 1-year anniversary at a Twins game earlier in June.

I am not going to offer any explanations or excuses for my lack of blogging: it's just life getting in the way, as well as a bit of the writing doldrums. (Some days I just don't feel witty. In my defense, I do write two other blogs)

I have been watching baseball, even going to a few Twins games (last night, for example), but my lack-of-blogging guilt has kept me from reading my fellow bloggers' posts.

Sorry. I'll try to do better.

That out of the way, let me say:

Except for that nasty road trip, I am generally happy with how the Twins are playing. I am still nervous though and frustrated that we can't seem to make up any ground on the dreaded White Sox. And now the Tigers are gaining steam.

Pitching has been hard to watch at times. It seems so different from the last few seasons. Yes, I miss watching Santana pitch, but the bullpen makes me hold my breath every time they take the ball (and some of that is on the starters who have struggled of late making it through even 6 innings). I miss Neshek. While I feel bad for Rincon, I was ready to see him go. I'm also worried that Boof will not be able to find his best stuff any time soon. Is it time to cut our losses there as well?

Hitting seems to be improving...although I'm anxious for Morneau to hit a hot streak. I would LOVE to see Delmon relax a bit and hit a few homers. Hit anything really.

Random Notes:

I like how when Slowey comes on the field to pitch, they play Slow Ride (I'm not sure that's the actual title).

While we were standing at the radio station's prize-spinning wheel last night (outside the dome) we saw Harmon Killebrew walk right in front of us to get to the radio's station trailer (to do an interview). I should say I saw Killebrew. I had to nudge Curveball. He was floating on Cloud 9 the rest of the evening because he hung around and got his autograph. He will also be going to the Autograph Party this coming Saturday.

Punto became a new daddy and Cuddy is waiting for his little one to arrive as well. I have never figured out: how come these guys don't figure out how to have babies that arrive in the off-season?

I find it humorous that crabby-faced, cantankerous Ponson has been picked up by the Yankees. He'll fit right in there.

I encourage everyone to vote for Mauer and Morneau for the all-star team. It's really easy to do (repeatedly) online.

And finally, hats off to the Twins for sweeping the Nationals! Way to go team!

Going for the sweep...

2008-05-29T20:26:00.003-05:00

The past two nights have made for interesting Twins baseball. Tuesday Blackburn pitched an excellent ballgame, only to see the lead slip away in the 9th. Blackburn's pitching has been far better than his record indicates. In the end, more specifically in the 12th inning, we pulled out a win. And that is what really matters.

Last night I have to admit to half-heartedly watching the game while putzing around & working on the computer. I was paying attention to the game, but there wasn't alot to pay attention to...that is until the the 9th inning. Down 8-3 in the 9th, I had no illusions of the Twins even coming close to tying the game, let alone winning it. But hit by hit, runners got on base and a few even crossed homeplate. And then with 2 outs and 2 on, Monroe came up to the plate--representing the tying run. It still seemed like a long shot at best, but my attention was now glued to the tv nonetheless.

And then the unthinkable happened--Monroe hit a 3-run homer--breaking his hitting slump. And with that, the impossible seemed possible--again. And true enough, Morneau came up as the first batter in the 10th and on the first pitch hit one out of the park.

That's all it took. As uplifting as these past 2 wins have been for the Twins and our fans, these 2 losses have been even more disappointing for the Royals. They have now lost 10 in a row. I sort of feel bad for Royal fans--I've been to Kauffman Stadium and the fans there are very kind to visitors. I want the Royals to win.

Right after we leave town.

I want the Twins to sweep the Royals tonight. Going into the 6th inning, the Twins lead 5-0, but after the last 2 nights I know better than to count this as a win until the final pitch is thrown.

And following this sweep, I hope the Twins come home to sweep the last-place Yankees (I love saying that "last-place Yankees").

And then the Royals can win a few games.

Fun Is Good!

2008-05-25T20:50:00.005-05:00

Joel with former Twins assistant coach (now with Fort Worth) Wayne Terwilliger.

The ump giving a feeding to the Saint's piglet.

The view from our seats--just 5 rows behind home plate!

Team mascot "Mudonna"

Joel planting one on Mudonna

I am still a Twins' fan (although lack of blogging doesn't necessarily indicate that)--but since the Twins were out of town this weekend, I surprised Joel on Friday's Date Night with tickets to a St. Paul Saints game. We have never gone to a Saints game, although we've talked about it several times.

The idea to go watch the Saints popped into my head Friday morning. I was searching for something fun to do in town for the long weekend. I wanted to enjoy the nice weather outside and with that thought catching a Saints game came in to mind.

I had no idea, however, if there would be any decent tickets available. I jumped online and went to the Saints website. I was in luck! There were plenty of seats--including 2 seats right behind home plate (5 rows up). I snatched those up in a heartbeat.

I didn't give Joel a clue until I got home later in the afternoon. I think he was pleasantly surprised. We got dressed and ready for a night of fun!

It was a lovely night for outdoor baseball (although it did get quite chilly--I was happy I brought along socks). The seats we got normally belong to a season ticket holder, who obviously had "returned" the tickets for a credit. Pretty much everyone around us were season ticket holders that knew one another by name.

I think Major League baseball could take a few lessons in fun from teams like the Saints--that is if Bud Selig could ever get the stick out of his you-know-what. There are fun antics played out on the field and stands between every inning. Fun music is played throughout. Each year the Saints adopt a little piglet (that grows into a not-so-little piglet by season's end) and piglet is trotted out on the field and even receives a feeding from the homeplate ump. For the 7th inning stretch, bags of peanuts are tossed into the stands. And controversial calls are even replayed on the teams "jumbotron"...MLB won't do that, lest the fans boo the umps. Don't you want the fans to get into the game?

The Saints lost, but it was fun nonetheless. And until 2010 we'll be catching some outdoor baseball by going to the Saints.

(I will add that I was thrilled to hear following the Saints' game about the Twins win...but what happened Saturday? OUCH!!! Today was much sweeter, with a win for Perkins and a grand slam by Kubel--a pretty sweet way to celebrate your 26th birthday! Happy Birthday Jason! The important thing is we took 2 out of 3 games and we remain in 2nd place!)

Well done!

2008-05-08T08:25:00.003-05:00

Well, it was worth waiting nearly 2 hours for last night's rain delayed-game! GoGo Gomez hit for the cycle...it was the sort of thing that you "woke up" to watch (I was starting to nod off)...and fun to see Gomez enjoy it so.

And besides all that, the Twins had about a dozen other hits, scoring 13 runs. Nice way to follow up a game where the Twins only mustered up 1 hit! And to top all that off, Hernandez pitched a complete game--only allowing one run!

Well done boys, well done!

My bad...

2008-05-06T21:58:00.003-05:00

It's my fault. The Twins' loss tonight (nearly a no-hitter for Chicago no less) is on my shoulders 'cause I started talking BIG way too early (see post below). Sorry 'bout that. There will be no more BIG talk for at least a month.

And even though it was a loss, I'm claiming a little pride in Mauer breaking up that No-Hitter.

Go down swinging. Always.

It's way too early, but...

2008-05-06T08:19:00.004-05:00

It's way too early, but...it's hard NOT to imagine what if's...what if the Twins keep this scrappy, pulled-together ballteam together and on top of the Central Division...what if Chicago, Detroit and the other Central division teams can't quite pull it together...yes, I know it's way too early to dream so big, but since I'm a baseball fool that's exactly what I do.

So here's a end-of-season scenario that I enjoy...The Twins win the division and beat the Angels (and Hunter) in the playoffs to make it to the World Series...where they defeat the Mets (and Santana) to win the ultimate prize. (I love Hunter and Santana, but I wouldn't mind proving to them that the Twins are a team that can win it all...and I don't think their former teammates would mind proving that to them either)

Yup, I know it's a long shot, but I think it's visions like that that can keep this scrappy little team eyeing the prize. Who says they're not good enough? Remember 2002? 1987?

Yes, I know it's way too early, but already this team has been winning 1-point games and even on Sunday, coming back from a 6-0 deficit. I don't recall them doing that last year.

First Place Twins

2008-05-03T20:41:00.006-05:00

I am breaking my blogging drought (sorry) to acknowledge the Twin's ascension to first place. Lord knows how long it will last, so we best savor it while we have the opportunity. (I'm not being sarcastic or fatalistic...I just think first place is going to be switching hands more than a few times this season).

And while I'm here, a few other notes:

GoGo Gomez, that was a nasty hit you took to the head on Friday night. Hope the world stops spinning soon and we see you back in center!
Condolences to Gardy and his family in the loss of Gardy's brother. We plan to carry on in your absence and put together a string of wins. Don't worry about us.
And last, but not least, Happy, Happy (somewhat belated) Birthday to Lipgloss! Celebrate with a few beers and dome dogs!

*#?!!!

2008-04-14T21:24:00.003-05:00

I can't write now. I can swear, cuss, spit...but write, no.

Except for this:

What the hell happened tonight?

Lord knows, we would have to be there when Detroit finally got their game together.

Damn it.

Topsy Turvy

2008-04-12T22:23:00.003-05:00

One thing about baseball is that it's unpredictable.

2 weeks into the season and there have been some pleasant surprises. Until today, Kansas City has been at the top of our division and Detroit at the bottom (Detroit is still in the bottom. Thanks to the Twins, KC is now tied for 2nd with the Twins. The ugly White Sox are a 1/2 game in the lead).

Weren't the so-called "experts" predicting Detroit and Cleveland to be the Central's strongest teams ... and yet, there they sit at the bottom. I like that. I know it may not last, but nothing would make me happier than Minnesota finishing first with Kansas right behind.

It's hard to know at this point what the final ranking will be. But I do know that I'm not ready to count the Twins out. Not by a long shot. GoGomez has been exciting to watch and makes you believe that there is nothing better than watching raw new talent. Tolbert has been a real surprise as well. This lineup has not been set by a long shot. It's fun seeing what the new guys can do.

And tomorrow our pitching rotation gets a shot in the arm that it has been waiting for since September 2006. Liriano returns. I don't expect greatness on his very first outing. But I am hoping that his return will take some of the sting out of losing Santana (who by the way has suffered 2 losses due in part to poor run support by the Mets. Sound familiar?).

Squeeze Play Game Replay

2008-04-05T19:41:00.004-05:00

I didn't make it to the ballpark today and the game was not televised. I was listening on the radio when Morneau broke loose with his 3-run homer. Dang. It would have been nice to see that hit.

A few hours later I was able to see a 30 minute overview of the game on FSN's "Squeeze Play". Every hit, every out was replayed. So I got to see that homerun and his double, plus Monroe's first hit (a double) as well as some fine play (again) by Tolbert, Mauer, and Nathan. Hernandez finished 7 innings and was charged with a balk. Everett committed an error and GoGomez went hitless for the first time. Most importantly, the Twins came up with a 6-4 win.

FSN followed "Squeeze Play" with an episode of "In their Own Words"--this time an interview with Delmon Young. I don't think it's the first time this episode has been broadcast and probably won't be the last. I'm impressed by this young man. Yes, he's made mistakes in judgement along the way, but more importantly, he seems to have learned and matured from those mistakes. The man is only 22 years old. At this point, he strikes me as more mature than the average 22 year old male (how much that really says about his maturity I'm not sure!)

Tomorrow the Twins play for the sweep...that sure would help erase the sting of those 3 losses!

And another little note...Detroit has lost their first five games...at home! Sweet!

Notes from the Welcome Home Luncheon and a few more ballgames

2008-04-05T09:57:00.005-05:00

It's been a busy week. And all about baseball.

Friday me and Curveball attended the Twins Welcome Home luncheon. This event is hosted by the Mpls and St. Paul Chamber of Commerces, along with several corporate sponsors. All the current Twins players (save Friday's pitcher Baker) were in attendance, along with the coaching staff.

Curveball attended these luncheons as a kid (in the 60s!). Lucky kid! This was a first for me.

Now I have to fess up that I was mistaken about one sort of major thing. I thought that a Twins player was seated at each table. Well, there were some 70 tables and only some 30-odd players and coaches. So...you know where the players sat...at the tables with the corporate sponsors. Us lowly fans just had each other to chat with. They did serve a terrific meal however. No griping...it was a great event and the money raised benefits the Twins Community Fund.

Dick Bremer emceed the event. Anthony LaPanta from FSN conducted player interviews. Two of the new players, Bass and Tolbert, were interviewed and shared a story of recent rookie hazing. Bass and Tolbert were forced to sing the "We're Going to Win Twins" song on the airplane ride to MN. Bass declared himself the Twins #1 Idol since he won the competition. (Wait until these rookies see the outfits they'll be forced to wear later in the season--on a road trip!) In other interviews, Cuddy talked about getting to try his magic tricks on the new guys, Neshek jokingly gave Mauer a hard time for stealing his air time, and Morneau actually commented about his hitless streak and said he was searching for his favorite Bertuzzi shirt (not sure on the spelling of that, but Bertuzzi is a hockey player...and Morneau wore that shirt forever in 2006). Gardy spoke for a few minutes and when asked about Gomez he joked that he doesn't understand a word he says, but he sure likes how he's playing.

So that was pretty much it. The players left for the ballpark before the luncheon was over (just a clever ploy to get them out while we were still eating). It was fun to see all the guys together in their street clothes. I don't know if there are any other markets that pull off such an event with ALL their players.

We also attended Thursday and Friday's games.

Thursday we had seats in the upper deck, just behind home plate. I love afternoon games! Our section was filled with well-behaved school groups and young kids on spring break catching a game. I love that atmosphere of folks at a ballgame because they love the game. Although we lost this one as well, it was a good game. I managed to be away from my seat when Hunter hit his homer, but I did catch Kubel's homer--the first for the Twins this season. I do hope to see Kubel play more.

And, for unfortunate reasons, I guess I will. In Friday's game, Cuddy suffered an injury to his right index finger while sliding into third. He was promptly taken out of the game (and has been placed on the DL). Kubel was brought in and had a great game. The bright points of the game: GoGomez had another awesome game complete with hits and steals, Morneau had his 1st hit, Mauer had several hits, Baker pitched well (after settling in), and WE WON THE GAME!

We may have also found out new favorite seats for the season. Nothing fancy, just the cheap seats in the upper deck right behind 2nd base. There's less people there, so you can stretch out more. I can yell and scream without bothering people...in fact, if we pick the right row I can stand all I want without blocking people behind me. And the best part: at $7 a ticket I can go to a lot more ballgames.

And that's a good thing!

Pics from Opening Day

2008-04-03T21:53:00.002-05:00

What a difference a few days make! This will be a memorable opening day for quite a few years, I imagine. I am a baseball fool, but even I'm not sure I'd sit outside to watch a baseball game in this kind of weather.

We'll see what 2010 brings!

Web Gem update

2008-04-03T08:49:00.007-05:00

Just a quick web gem update...

Last night I was sleepily watching the 11 pm broadcast of Baseball tonight...forcing myself to stay awake for the Web Gems feature at the end of the show.

The Twins were featured in 2 out of 5 web gems!

#3: Morneau's play at 1st to stop the ball and then toss it backhanded to Blackburn for the out. Great play!

And the #1 Web Gem: Yup! Punto's outstanding catch and throw to Morneau at 1st (and Morneau made a terrific catch)!

Say all you want about Punto's lack of hitting ability; he can't be beat defensively. Out on the field he gives 150%. He may not get on base as often as you would like, but he makes outs that others miss. Plays like the one he made last night makes baseball an exciting game.

GO PUNTO!

Web gems among the slop

2008-04-02T21:17:00.003-05:00

I am watching tonight's game from the comfort of my living room. My hips simply cannot take 3 nights in a row of sitting in those seats (even though me and Curveball got new nifty Twins seat cushions at Target for $15...but I digress). Before I review tonight's game, a few brief notes about last night's debacle.

Boof had a rough start, but did improve. But that didn't really matter, when the hitting and fielding sucked. Oh and the bullpen was pathetic.
Hunter remained hit less, but got beaned in the 9th by Rincon. He did receive his Gold Glove though.
I do believe that sitting in the cheap general admission seats is better than sitting in the HomeRun Porch seats when they run a ticket special. It seems more people come to party than watch the game. Sorry, that annoys me. No, I don't want to do the wave or toss a beach ball when they're on 2 on with 2 outs--regardless who is hitting.
It was an ugly loss. Every positive from Game 1 was erased in Game 2. But it's a long season.

Tonight's game was a far better game, but with no better result. Blackburn had his stuff and deserved a win for his efforts. Different lineup and far better defensive play.

I have to give a shout out: GO PUNTO!!! I was happy to see him play. Oh you naysayers--He did get a hit and displayed classic-Punto defensive plays, including that WEB GEM throw from 3rd to 1st late in the game. Man, he can throw with speed and accuracy.

Not to be ignored was Morneau's amazing play at first with his throw back to Blackburn earlier in the game. Awesome stuff (and another potential web gem)!

I'll be heading to tomorrow's afternoon game...which isn't televised! I'm looking forward to an afternoon of baseball.

And BIG news: Me and Curveball are attending the Twins Welcome Home luncheon on Friday! It is being held in St. Paul this year near our home. We have no idea what member of the Twins organization will be sitting at our table, but I am PSYCHED! And of course, I'll share all the little details here.

But first, I'll be rooting for a Twins win tomorrow to even the series.

GO TWINS!

Player of the Game

2008-03-31T23:31:00.005-05:00

Gomez was definitely Player of the Game. One can only hope he will continue to hit and steal as he did tonight. If such is the case, fans will soon be saying "Torii who?"

It was a strange start to the opener...the snow and cold put quite a damper on the festivities. Me and Curveball arrived early (3:30pm) to pick up our tickets and get underground parking. All thoughts of wandering around the plaza quickly disappeared with the cold. It was nasty. We ended up walking the long way around to enter the dome. I daresay if it hadn't been the home opener the crowd would have been quite smaller. Actually, if this had been 2010 the game would have been postponed. Tonight it was wonderful sitting under the dome roof.

And because we were sitting under a dome roof the fans came out in full force...some 49,000 plus. It was full even in the upper deck general admission seats where we sat. Folks were eager to cheer on our new team members, as well as welcome back former favorites--even those who played for the. Torii was well-received by the fans, receiving more than one standing ovation. It was nice to see him play, but I was just as thrilled that he didn't score a run. He is an Angel after all.

I think our guys played with enthusiasm. Gomez was certainly exciting to watch. He will certainly give pitchers reason to look over their shoulder. The bottom of our lineup produced some hits as well. That was a welcome sight. And Hernandez did well overall. He struggled some in the 5th, but came back in the 6th and pitched well.

So there you have it, our first win.

161 games to go. No excuses.

Just For Today

2008-03-31T12:18:00.006-05:00

Look outside. Look at it. It's snowing like it's the middle of football season for chrissake. Does it look like Baseball Opening Day-type weather? I guess if you live in Minnesota it does. I am one Twins fan that is thankful for a roof today!

This baseball fool is not going to let the weather dampen my enthusiasm (I may however pick a parking lot closer to the dome this afternoon). I am ready to start the season with optimism and glee (Knowing myself, I'll probably end the season the same way). Today I am not about to ponder what the Twins' standings will be mid-season or where they will place in the division. I do not care to debate how strong our pitching rotation is or if our lineup will produce the hits necessary for a winning season.

No, Just For Today, I am going to celebrate the start of a brand new season where anything is possible. Truly. Remember 1987?

Just For Today, I am going to cheer & scream for every new Twins player like they are our hope for a future title. They are.

Just For Today, I am going to walk in that monstrosity of a dome (that I admit I love) and let all the tension in my body evaporate as a state of baseball bliss overcomes me.

Just For Today, win or lose, I am going to savor every minute of the game and the joy of watching live baseball.

This day cannot be spoiled by weather or nearly anything else. This day is all about baseball and nothing else. Soon I will be pulling on my new Pat Neshek jersey and heading to the dome. Me and Curveball will be claiming our seats early (just general admission seats tonight) and I'm excited just thinking about sitting there and soaking up the atmosphere.

There's a lot more baseball to come, but Just For Today, I'm going to enjoy the greatest game on earth.

Baseball fool

2008-03-18T03:28:00.004-05:00

Two weeks.

Finally. In just two weeks the baseball season will officially begin. I can't wait.

I know I've been a bad baseball blogger. I know it doesn't show, but I have been keeping my eye on spring training...staying updated on how we're doing, learning more about the new players and getting a sense of this "new" team.

But I'm holding back my enthusiasm for the season opener.

And then I will be there. In the flesh.

I bought my tickets for the opening season at Twinsfest. They are sitting in the drawer where I stash my Twins tickets. I am dreaming about that first day. I'm psyched because I have that week off at work, so I can be a baseball fool full-time that week. I've thought about attending the breakfast on the plaza that first day, but I'm not sure I'll roll out of bed that early. I do think I'll make the Noon rally though.

Thinking about it, I can almost feel the excitement on the plaza before the game that night. I can hear myself screaming for my team as the players, new and old, are announced. No doubt, I will leave that game with little voice left. And I'll be back there the next night.

Ah, to be a fool for baseball again!

The Sandlot...featuring guess who?

2008-02-03T22:52:00.000-06:00

Take a look at the new Twins commercial revealed during the Super Bowl (the only real reason to watch the Super Bowl). Did you catch the great ending with T.K. (note the shirt worn by the other guy).

Word is that one of the other commercials features Pat Neshek and another features Delmon Young and the "Three Wise Men". Want to guess who they are?

(And hey, what former local football "hero" wasn't enough of a hero tonight?)

A letter to Mr. Santana

2008-01-31T17:09:00.000-06:00

Dear Mr. Santana (Johan if I may),

The news from New York is that negotiations are not going smoothly. Those bastards--don't they realize what you are worth? They obviously don't deserve your greatness.

If that 6th year is a sticking point, maybe you would like to consider staying with the Twins for 5 years? Or, even stay one more year and see how another Cy Young kind of year will increase your worth.

I know that the Twins organization has a few bastards of their own, but they did sign Morneau, Mauer and Cuddy for the next several years. With you as our #1 pitcher (not to mention Liriano following you), we are still contenders. We can make this happen. You have the unwavering support of Twins fans everywhere. I personally pledge to attend every home game that you pitch! I'll be one of the standing, screaming fans every time you take the field. (Remember, New York fans have a tendency to be fickle and the Mets sort of choked last year).

Anxiously waiting for your reply (and hoping to see you throw the opening pitch for the Twins 2 months from today!),

Curlz

Say it isn't so

2008-01-29T21:49:00.000-06:00

Say it isn't so.

I'm not ready to say goodbye to the best pitcher this franchise (and maybe the whole league) has ever seen.

I'm not ready to say goodbye to a player who was just incredibly fun to watch, who made your joy and even, pride in the sport grow each time he threw the ball.

I know it may be so...but until that contract is signed, I'm going to sulk a little, no a lot and even then I expect a certain extended period of pouting to be observed.

I bought my tickets for the opening game on Friday with the hope that I would again experience the joy of seeing Santana throwing the opening pitch.

Scott Baker, opening day pitcher?

Say it isn't so.

Sunday at Twins Fest

2008-01-28T17:18:00.000-06:00

Banners were hung around the dome welcoming Twins fans, while the jumbotron played 2007 season highlights as well as player profiles.

We chatted with Al Newman at his booth. He was so willing to talk and enjoyed looking at Curveball's cards from the good ol' days. I had the feeling that he would sit down with you for the whole afternoon and tell stories...how fun would that be!

Boof signing autographs--although this photo doesn't really show it, Boof obviously has dropped a few pounds (about 20). It sounds like he took the concerns of the coaches seriously and didn't want to be sitting in the bullpen any longer. Let's hope the weight loss improves his consistency and durability. (Boof was another player who proposed to his sweetie during the off-season).

Former Twin Dave Goltz signing a card for Curveball.

Delmon Young and Baker signing graphs.

Twins Fest is a great place to bring the kids. There's plenty to do--including the inflated T.C. Bear jumping "mini-dome" (geez, I forget, what do you call these things?)

These two might not be Twins today, but maybe someday?

One of the many young fans enjoying the day!

Fast Fun Facts from Twins Fest

2008-01-27T16:24:00.000-06:00

Both Punto and Cuddy are joining the "New Daddy" club during the season; Cuddy will become a dad in June; I believe Punto is expecting his "little girl" earlier (Cuddy actually gave out the actual due date--you could tell both are quite excited about becoming dads).
Sorry ladies, it was confirmed by the man himself: Morneau proposed to his girlfriend "sometime in October or November" while they were in Hawaii; Mauer still remains eligible, but quickly changed the subject when asked about his dating scene.
There seemed to be a number of players getting sick with colds or stuff during Twins Fest; Liriano was sent home on Saturday and didn't make it on Sunday, Punto was also ill and Delmon Young was coughing all day Sunday
Delmon Young actually extended his stay in MN to participate in Twins Fest on Sunday; he did additional autograph signing and also sat down for a radio interview with KSTP today. He is not a fan of Minnesota's cold weather (maybe we should put together a MN care package for him!) Other players are raving about his potential and his openness to learn and become "part of the team"... hmm, let's hope he's the next great thing in baseball.
Koskie was sighted at Twins Fest on Saturday--but as a spectator. He lives out in Hamel, MN and hasn't signed with a team as of yet. Koskie is a class act and he didn't play last year due to a head injury (caused by being hit by a ball during the '06 season). Let's hope we see him in a uniform again.
Al Newman was present...with his own booth promoting his new fundraising ventures for nonprofits. He was very personable and willing to take time talking to the fans.
Former MN Viking Chuck Foreman was also present on Sunday signing some autographs. Um, did someone fail to mention this was a baseball event? (Although I did sight a number of folks walking around with Wild and Viking shirts on...no Timberwolves though)

More pictures from Twins Fest will be coming soon!

Opening Night of Twinsfest in pictures

2008-01-26T20:59:00.000-06:00

Lots of people, lots to do!

Looking out over Twinsfest

Justin and Joe getting ready to do a radio interview before the crowd.

Justin seemed in good spirits!

Radio interview conducted by Dan Gladden with Rod Carew answering the questions.

Autograph lines--that's Liriano with his head down signing away.
His line was very long!

Two young fans manning the autograph lines

Curveball with Gladden

Curlz getting a picture with Neshek at the photo booth.
Can you believe they spelled his name "Neshak"?!?

That's Wayne Hattaway walking by.

There's lots of fun stuff for the kids--including this space
for "batting practice".

Opening Night of Twinsfest 2008 was loads of fun! There's so much to do that we're going back on Sunday. I'll write a wrap-up then.

Twinsfest here we come!

2008-01-25T10:06:00.000-06:00

The anticipation has been building for weeks. The day has finally come. I woke up this morning and was anxious to pull on my outfit for the day. Twinsfest is here and I'm outfitted in Twins garb (I'm sporting the new Neshek jersey Curveball got me for Christmas and a new Twins zipped sweatshirt hoodie).

Curveball gave me 4 tickets to Twinsfest for Christmas. Two years ago Curveball tried to lure me to Twinsfest to meet him for the first time. For reasons that make no sense now, I put him off. We were, however, attending ballgames together by the time the baseball season opened that year.

Last year was my first Twinsfest. Curveball is a veteran. I enjoyed walking through the stadium, spotting players and watching some of the radio interviews with players. Curveball, as always, enjoyed getting autographs of players new and old.

Our plan is pretty much the same this years. Thanks to cell phones we'll be able to go our separate ways and both have a good time. I'll be buying tickets and cruising around taking in the sights. In fact, I'm so excited about buying tickets that I'm staying here at work till 5:30 so I can buy tickets online before we go!

For me, Twinsfest signifies the beginning of a new baseball season. I promise that my blogging drought is over. I'll be back here soon with news and pictures from Twinsfest 2008.

Hope to see you there!

Watching Baseball Tonight

2007-12-05T22:49:00.000-06:00

Watching a bit of Baseball Tonight...aah, to hear that theme music, to listen to a show dedicated to baseball...it brought back the thrill of the baseball season (How many days to season opener?). Of course, the focus is on the winter meetings and especially on the rumors/possibility of a Santana trade. Man, watching the Santana highlights...I have been coming to terms with the very real possibility that Santana will be gone...but the thrill of watching that man pitch will never go away. I will watch Santana pitch wherever he goes...even if it's for the freakin' Yankees.

Thank you Bill Smith for not making that stinkin' trade on my birthday (although actually keeping Santana would have been the best present of all)!

For Pete's sake...

2007-12-02T18:17:00.000-06:00

My husband, the ever-enchanting Mr. Curveball, has been taunting me all weekend by coming up to me while I'm busy cooking or engrossed in a t.v. program and giving me "updates" about the Santana trade situation. The only problem is his updates are highly exaggerated and contain only a small kernal of truth. Of course, he offers up that kernal first so I'm hooked and think I'm about to hear that Santana is gone.

When, and if, it does really happen...well, I am going to be in one foul mood. Wednesday is my birthday and a Santana trade is not on my Wish list.

Frankly, I don't really want to contemplate any potential trades until it's a done deal. I'd rather dig my head in the snow and remember the joy of watching Santana pitch (ah, that little butt wiggle).

And for pete's sake, don't trade him to the Yankees!

Hunter as an A--

2007-11-29T09:23:00.000-06:00

An Angel, of course.

A scene we're sure to see more of in coming days...former Twins acting the fool for their new fans.

Hmm...I hate that monkey.

Freaking morons

2007-11-26T22:03:00.000-06:00

Speculation has been growing each day on the fate of Santana as a Twins' pitcher. Now word is out that the Twins and Yankees are talking about Santana's future...as a Yankee.

Damn.

It was bad enough to hear on THANKSGIVING that Hunter was no longer a Twin, but this...announced on the Twins official site...

To be an honest with you, even though I am a dedicated Twins fan, such a trade would have me seriously considering my allegiance...not to the players, certainly not to the game, but to the Twins management and owners.

I ask the owners/management:

ARE YOU FREAKING MORONS?

I guess the players had it figured out before this past season was over...that when Castillo was traded and the Twins didn't go out and get the hitting power they needed to be contenders it wasn't just that the management had given up on the 2007 Twins...they had given up on the Twins. Period. Exclamation point!

Ryan bailed because he was tired of being the bad guy, of being unable to sign the talent needed (or keep the talent we already had)--because Pohlad wouldn't free up the money needed. Ryan knew it was only going to get worse.

There was no real effort to keep Hunter. And now the Twins seem poised to get rid of the biggest talent in the league.

Morons. Freaking morons! (and feel free to substitute a different f-word for "freaking")

The fans are being duped. The fans got behind the new stadium because they wanted to watch great baseball outdoors. The Twins dangled in front of the fans the promise of being able to watch their favorite players when the new stadium open in 2010.

That supposedly included Hunter and Santana, two of the more popular players to grace the Twins' playing field.

Now I am no baseball naivete that expects my baseball team to remain constant. I get that players changing teams is part of the deal. It happens every year and sometimes it happens to your favorite players. It changes the nature of a team...and yet somehow a new team emerges, often better than the team that was previously in place. I have watched in awe year after year as the Twins put together contending teams, generally relying heavily on their farm system. It's part of what I love about the Twins management.

But this wholesale hemorrhage of Twin veteran players and fan favorites is asinine. Given past behavior, I have no reason to believe that the Twins would let Hunter go and then trade Santana with the plan to spend the bucks to bring in comparable talent. What history would show us is this is just another lame attempt to keep the payroll budget low.

It's all about Pohlad keeping a few more bucks in his back pocket. The new stadium is being built so who needs those star players?

We do. The fans. Yes, we want a new outdoor stadium, but we also want to watch a quality baseball team. No, we don't expect to win the division every year, but it would be nice to be in the running.

And in case you haven't figured it out Mr. Pohlad, winning baseball teams sell tickets...and that formula is needed new stadium or not.

I am thankful for...

2007-11-21T20:59:00.000-06:00

I am thankful for the joy that baseball brings me. And family and friends too, of course! May the holidays find everyone enjoying peaceful, happy time with family and friends...and a quick and productive (for Twins fans) end to off-season wheeling and dealing.

Crossing to the other side

2007-11-20T09:13:00.000-06:00

The news is increasingly pointing to the likelihood of Hunter becoming a White Sox outfielder.

Fine. But that move will have me hating the Sox even more (and my love for Hunter waning!). I say bring it on...the Twins will be out to conquer the Sox in 2008.

White Sox, you'll be at the bottom of the division next year...which is appropriate since you're bottom feeders.

Hunter's interview

2007-11-10T20:26:00.001-06:00

Torii Hunter recently had an interview with a Chicago radio station (check out the story). Reportedly, Hunter is meeting with the White Sox GM on Sunday. Of course, this doesn't necessarily mean anything, but I hate the thought of Hunter playing for the White Sox. I can understand thinking about the Rangers--they're close to his home--or maybe some contending team. But NOT the Yankees or some other Central Division team--especially the White Sox.

Say it ain't so.

Hunter's fate

2007-11-10T08:46:00.000-06:00

2000 Hunter card

1993 Hunter card

2004 Hunter card

First off, I pulled these cards from Curveball's Twins baseball card collection, which you can all take a gander at if you click on the top favorite baseball link to the right (Twins cards--Curveball's collection...). It's really an amazing site that has not only Curveball's massive collection available for your perusal, but another collection as well. It's also quite impressive what you can do there...search for a particular player, build a dream team, look up player stats...C'mon it's the offseason...what else do you got to do? And since it's the offseason, I have the time to feature some of these cards here on this blog...along with my baseball ramblings.

My lack of writing here does not truly indicate a lack of interest or focus on the baseball world. Yes, there are no current games to be watched (thank you Lipgloss for tipping me off to the fact that FSN North is now carrying classic games from 2007), much is still happening in the baseball world. It's that quiet, somewhat behind the scenes stuff that makes me nervous.

Like, what will be Hunter's 2008 fate be? Will he be in a Twins uniform? Lord, I hate thinking about it. Hunter, along with Silva, filed for free agency as soon as that was an option. No big surprise there. And it will probably be no big surprise when it is announced that he will be playing for some other team. I don't like it, but I fear it will be so. I don't like it and I think it's bad for the Twins. Hunter is still in his prime (he won his 7th consecutive gold glove this week). He's a fan favorite and a leader in the clubhouse. Hey, whatever happened to the Twins organization promotion for the new stadium that claimed all our favorite players--Hunter, Mauer, Morneau, and Santana to name a few--will be there in 2010 when the new stadium opens? I don't think so. And I think the Twins organization is taking the Twins fan support for granted. This "build a stadium and they (fans) will come" mentality is outrageous. Yes, I'm a loyal fan and I will be there, win or lose...but I would rather be winning...and I betcha there are whole lot of fans who feel likewise. And when my favorite players are traded off with seemingly no concern for winning a title, but saving a few bucks, then I'm a little pissed.

You don't even want to get me going on all the talk about Santana being on the trading block (really, my blood pressure rises more than a few points).

So I am watching and waiting to hear, with a fearful heart, what will be happening with the free agent market this offseason. I am sure there will be twists and turns.

I'm hoping to see a 2008 Hunter Twins baseball card.

Something to look forward to

2007-10-18T09:08:00.000-05:00

I know I have been a horrible baseball blogger, but once the Twins season ends I go into a silent mourning stage for a while. I'm still taking in baseball news and such, have watched a few postseason games....BUT finally there is something to look forward to in Twinsland. The tentative 2008 Twins schedule has been announced.

We open and end the season at home! (We open the season against the LA Angels--But as Curveball said why does a warm climate team play a dome team at the beginning of the season. Does anyone remember Cleveland this past year?)

So now that the schedule has been announced I can start planning my 2008 spring/summer. Honey, I'm thinking a trip to Milwaukee the middle of June.

A final wave of the cap

2007-09-23T19:55:00.000-05:00

Today me and Curveball took in the Twins 2007 final home game. I knew that I would be emotional today, just because it was the last game this season--but when Torii was introduced and I could feel a few tears welling up...well, I knew I was in trouble.

It was a wonderful game...Slowey pitched a wonderful game (9 strikeouts), Jones hit his first major league homerun, and Cuddy had a 4-RBI day. Oh ya, we also won the ballgame! But the focus of today's game was letting Torii know how much we appreciate him and how much we want him to stay (I will not say it was about saying good-bye).

I think it was an emotional day for Torii as well. It would have been nice to see Torii hit one more long ball, but that wasn't in the cards today. The crowd came to their feet each time Torii came up to bat, especially in the 7th when it looked like it would be Torii's last at bat for the day. Ozzie's decision to intentionally walk Hunter then drew a hearty round of boos (that decision cost them a run later). Hunter nearly came up to bat again at the bottom of the 8th, but it was not to be.

When Torii narrowly missed that final at-bat, it felt like we were denied the opportunity to cheer on Hunter one last time this season. But Gardy had other plans. Hunter came running onto the field as usual the top of the 9th. Nathan was warming up on the mound. Just as Nathan was ready to throw his first pitch, Tyner came running into centerfield. At first, I was like "what the heck?"...and then I caught on to Gardy's wisdom. He was giving us our chance.

The crowd came to their feet, chanting "Torii, Torii!!!" I don't think I was the only fan who shed a few tears (Lipgloss text me that it was a sobfest at her house) Torii tipped his hat to us as he left the field, but that was not enough for us. Scenes of Torii hugging his teammates played on the jumbotron, but we were still chanting "Torii". And then Torii came out and gave the fans one final wave of his cap.

Final?

I hope not.

Pics from the bullpen

2007-09-23T10:07:00.000-05:00

Bullpen conversations

Nathan warming up

Garza's pre-game stretches

Blackburn signing before the game...he's a hottie!

Neshek coming over before the game...he's truly a great guy (and cuter than you think)...rest that arm and come back even stronger next year!

The bullpen standing during the Anthem

The final homestand

2007-09-19T23:50:00.000-05:00

I apologize for my lapse in posting. I was in a bit of a baseball funk. I needed some time to accept that our baseball season will end at the end of the baseball season. No postseason for the Twins this year. No hopeful frenzy for fans. Instead we'll be sitting home watching the Yankees once again in the postseason. To be honest with you, right now I'm more interested in what national league teams are going to make it in.

Life has been busy and I thought September might sort of fade into the sunset with Curveball and I only taking in one last game at the dome this season. Fortunately, Curveball has helped me remember the thrill in end-of-the-season baseball, even when "you're not in it". Call it the return to baseball bliss.

Monday afternoon I came home exhausted from a busy day at work. I really didn't think I had it in me to go to the game. But Curveball asked, and well, it never takes much arm-twisting to get me to go.

We traded in a promotional coupon for two general admission tickets for $1. Yup. One dollar. 100 pennies. Curveball did throw in a bonus though--he bought tickets for Wednesday's game right by the bullpen--in the first row of section 136.

Back to Monday:

It was a small, somewhat pathetic crowd in terms of size. But the crowd more than made up for it in their devotion (vocally and emotionally) to the game. What I love about games at this time of year (when your time is "out of it") is the fact that the crowd that comes to those September games come because they love baseball. They come with knowledge of the game. They come to enjoy the game (not to party or do "the wave").

We sat up is section 212--right behind Cuddy. They offered a great view--the only thing you couldn't see were plays in the right field corner. It was an entertaining game with twists and turns. There was the weird play at 3rd when Hunter had to practically run over the 3rd baseman to get home (he had stolen 3rd and then got to go home following a bad throw by the pitcher). Even stranger was the play at 1st when the ump made a horrible call--not giving Bartlett 2nd when the 1st baseman held him captive. I would have liked to see that one on replay. Gardy came charging onto the field and the drama was on. I'll admit it--I get excited about that stuff. I was standing at the railing, yelling & cheering on Gardy and dissing the ump.

There were also some stupid plays by both teams...and it actually seemed fitting that we won in the way that we did. A win is a win. And hey, we hit two homeruns! I haven't seen that at a game, since...

On a funny side note to Monday's game...Curveball and I were watching the Jumbotron greetings in the 5th inning and he was joking with me about not wishing him a happy birthday on the board (another year, Hon!)...and then I saw on the board something along the lines "Congrats newlyweds Lois Vossen and Jay..." Lois is an old high school friend that lives in California (but was obviously at the game). It's a small world. Congratulations Jay and Lois!

So Wednesday's game...

Curveball decided to spend the better portion of the day outside the dome trying to collect autographs from players on their way into the dome. As big as a autograph collector that he is, this is the first time he has done this. It paid off--he got lots of players to sign, including Gardy, Neshek, Tyner, Bartlett...and actually had a few brief conversations with a few players. I talked to him just as a few players were arriving and he sounded like a kid in a candy store. Ah, the simple pleasures in life!

Oh ya, one other sweet thing that happened while I was slaving away at work--I got a call from the Twins promotional office and I won tickets to Sunday's game for answering a trivia contest at Monday's game. The tickets are sweet too--section 135 (above the bullpen) in row 27.

Well, I was thrilled to bring the workday to an end and head to the dome. Curveball and I had decided to go into the dome earlier than we normally do in order to enjoy our sweet seats.

We've sat nearly everywhere in the dome, but never so close to the bullpen. We were in the first row right at the end of the pen. It was thee best place to watch the bullpen action. It was a horrible place to actually watch the game (I could barely see the batter), but every now and then I think this is a fun place to sit. I snared a few autographs on a baseball (Neshek and Boof) and took lots of pictures. It was interesting to see what the pitchers do while the game is ongoing. They do like to eat sunflower seeds and spit quite a bit (the fascination with spitting is something I've never really understood...at one point Guerrier took a swallow of water and then with great focus and attention, watched the water spray out of his mouth). Guerrier seemed very nice to the fans, Rincon too. Boof sat at the very end of the pen and at times was a little short with those wanting him to sign (I understand not wanting to sign the whole game, but kids don't always get that). Neshek came over and signed my baseball and let me take a picture. He is, beyond a doubt, a GREAT guy that is having a ball and appreciates this opportunity to play in the big leagues...and I think he appreciates the fans, because I don't think he's forgotten what it's like to be one). Word is that his shoulder is pretty sore...I hope he gets some rest and there's nothing to worry about.

The only downer to these seats was the two women sitting next to me. Total snobs with their designer purses. They were so irritated with the autograph seekers and yet, they apparently sit in these seats frequently. (It did seem o.k. with them, however, to get Rincon to sign a ball for them). They rolled their eyes every time I took a picture. Really, I wish I had turned to them and said "Who made you the fan police?" And they were, in my opinion, lousy fans. They never really cheered during the game. They rarely clapped.

But I ignored them best I could and enjoyed another winning game. Again, 2 homeruns by the Twins!! And (drumroll, please) Garza won his FIRST HOME GAME! Way to go, Matt.

So, with a joyous and yet heavy heart, I will be at the dome on Sunday to watch the final home game of the season. I can't believe the season is about to end. In a few weeks it will be time to review the season. The highs and the lows. And while I wish the Twins were continuing into the playoffs, for these next few weeks, I'm just going to savor the thrill of the game--and hold onto that feeling till next year.

A proposal on the jumbotron

2007-09-07T20:26:00.000-05:00

A year ago on this Friday night (the date was actually Sept. 8th, but it was a Friday), Curveball (Joel) and I were at the Twins game. I have to previce this story by saying that he had been slightly annoying me all week...not for any real reason, other than he had been sort of weird, not himself...I couldn't put my finger on it but he wasn't himself. It wasn't anything major, but when he showed up at my place "late" (by this I mean he arrived about a half hour later than he had planned on arriving), I was even more in a tizzy. I'll admit it, I sort of laid into the poor guy. We were taking the city bus down to the Dome from my place in south Mpls and I always liked to arrive plenty early. But as we were waiting for the bus, I told him not to worry about it, I wasn't still mad. In fact, in an attempt to demonstrate my love and relax the guy, I told him that I had actually bought his birthday present that day.

We arrived at the dome and Joel had to pick up the tickets. Joel had arranged to buy tickets for "good seats" behind home plate. He said something about getting these seats for our "anniversary" (we had been dating 6 months). I didn't think anything of it...hey, I'll take good seats anytime I can get them!

We settled in. There was a family with two young boys sitting next to us...they were really cute and wearing "Joe Mauer sideburns". I did notice Joel being sort of fidgety at one point, playing with a straw or something in a way not typical of him. I almost made a smart comment like, "Nervous or something?", but I didn't want to resurrect the tension between us from earlier in the evening.

Garza was pitching that night, but not having his best outing. We were behind in the 5th inning and it looked like Garza may already be done for the night. Before the Twins came up to bat in the 5th, I looked up to the Jumbotron and read "Risa, I love you. Will you marry me? Love, Joe."

Now the first thing I want to point out is that it read "Joe". The man sitting next to me is named "Joel". He never goes by Joe. I read it a second and probably third time. My heart started racing. I'm thinking...how many other Risa's could be here...did they mean Joel? (Note: this is not the sort of thing you want to be wrong about). It really was one of those surreal moments, when time takes on a different dimension. Everything became a little fuzzy. I finally realized the woman next to me (who Joel had clued in while I was in the bathroom) was asking me if it was "yes" AND Joel was trying to get on his knee and get the ring out of his pocket AND there was a cameraman right in front of us.

The second thing I want to point out is that the answer was always, without a doubt, "YES". Joel asked me exactly how I wanted to be asked--at a Twins game on the jumbotron. I love baseball. I think it's very romantic (as long as you both love baseball--Joel had actually "found" me on match.com by typing "twins baseball" in the common interest search). And I think any man who will ask that question in front of 40,000 people...well, you don't have to doubt their committment.

Obviously, I wasn't expecting a proposal that evening. He didn't give me any hint that he was going to propose that night...and after the fact, I realized that his "weirdness" all week was due to his nervousness. He had spent the night before (a rare evening we were not together) posting on one of the baseball blogs about his plans to propose.

Back to the proposal...

It was wonderful. We were on the jumbotron, but the cameraman had a hard time capturing it because a hotdog vendor had decided our row was the place to set up shop (and Joel was too nervous to tell him to go away). Joel had a wonderful engagement ring for me...a 1987 World Series ring (a replica for fans). Both of us were shaking when the whole thing was done.

Shortly after the proposal, I got a cellphone call from my boss. I said to Joel, "I can't believe work is calling me right now. I am so not dealing with problems at work." But on the other end, Sue was asking, "Did you say 'yes'?" One of my co-workers was at the game, saw it all and had called Sue. Then Joel asked me if I was going to call Julie, my best friend (who lives in New York).

I was dying to call her, so I went out to the concession area...made the call and got her voicemail. I left a message something like, "Umm, we're at the Twins game and Joel just sort of proposed..." Julie picked up the phone before I could finish and laughed, "he sort of proposed..."

It was a magical evening. The Twins came up to bat in the bottom of the 5th and started hitting. Neshek started pitching and got the win.

Really though, I think I was the winner that night.

Oh ya, one final..."I (meaning "moi") was such a dope for being mad at you" moment...when we got back to my place, Joel went to his car and opened up the trunk and pulled out a dozen roses. That's why he was a half hour late that night...he had stopped to buy roses for me and hid them in the trunk, so I wouldn't see them till post-proposal. The whole proposal tells you why I love the man...he pays attention, he really tries to do those things that matter.

So yup, we got married June 3rd. It wasn't a baseball-themed wedding, but we did have Twins mini-helmuts on the cake. I think, as Joel said that evening a year ago, we'll have lots of fun growing old together. And that will include lots of baseball games!

Baker pitches a gem!

2007-08-31T21:19:00.001-05:00

I'm siting at home this Friday night watching the Twins game as I recover from having a tooth extracted earlier today. At the start of the game I wasn't feeling too hot still and my thinking really was that if the Twins play like they did earlier today, I'm not sure I could stomach watching the whole thing. My attention to the game was half-assed at best (o.k. I'll admit I was flipping to What Not to Wear on TLC during the first several innings).

But as the game wore on, the Twins actually scoring some runs grabbed my attention and then...

one of our pitchers was doing something brilliant again...and it wasn't Santana, it was Baker. Going into the 9th, Baker had a perfect game going. Unfortunately, he walked a man at the top of the 9th and gave up a hit...but in the end, pitched a complete, shutout game.

Awesome. Incredible. I love watching pitching gems like that.

Pitchers are interesting creatures. Coming off the field in the 5th and 6th inning, Baker looked like the most miserable man on the field. No one dared to sit next to him dare they mess with his mojo (it's common practice to leave the pitcher alone in the dugout, especially when they have a perfect game going on).

Has anyone noticed that our pitchers come back to pitch incredible games after they have experienced the birth of their child? Remember Silva's gem earlier this season? Maybe our pitchers should become fathers more often!

Win or lose, games like these make baseball a great game.

Way to go, Baker! (And hey, congrats on becoming a Daddy again!)

Crap!

2007-08-28T20:55:00.000-05:00

Damn it. Crap. I'm sorry, the bullpen didn't do their job tonight. It's not entirely their fault. Would it have helped to keep Gardy in the dugout? Couldn't hurt. And the starting pitchers could have put less stress on the bullpen. I mean with Crain (remember Crain?) and Reyes on DL, Rincon totally sucking...We're extremely lean in the bullpen. You can only go to Neshek so many times. And I'm sorry, but Boof, lose some weight!!! Get in shape! You're a professional athlete...maybe it's time you look the part. I know it's not about "a look"...but obviously the endurance & stamina isn't there as the game and season wears on...and better conditioning certainly couldn't hurt.

I like that the guys didn't say die in the 9th (even when the bullpen allowed 2 more runs). Buscher got his first major league home run, Tyner got his 4th run of the night and we made it a 1-run ballgame again (of course, if Cali hadn't put on those 2 runs...those would have been winning runs).

Oh, and FSN...quit sending Marnie out to interview the Indians (or other opposing players) after the game! Geez, I don't want to hear from the other team. It's like rubbing salt in an open wound (make that a gaping wound)!

Bottom of the Eighth

2007-08-28T20:34:00.000-05:00

Hunter's catch was the #3 Web gem on Baseball Tonight.

Punto's catch was #1!!!

Bottom of the 8th inning. 3-4 game. 1 run behind. There's no more time to lose 1-run games. Somehow we need to find a way to win this game. We have to beat Cleveland.

There have been sensational plays tonight. Tyner's catch at the wall in left. Punto's mid-air bare-handed catch and throw to Morneau--who managed to catch the ball while doing the splits. Hunter's catch in center that involved hitting the wall so hard that the collision could be heard.

Get the job done, boys. We need a win.

State Fair vs Twins

2007-08-24T23:18:00.000-05:00

It's that time of year when the State Fair challenges the Twins for top billing. I'm almost glad the Twins are out of town so it's not such a dilemna picking which activity to enjoy.

We did "enjoy" Tuesday's home game. I use the term "enjoy" loosely, because it was not a very entertaining game. Entertaining in the stands perhaps, but not on the field. It was Lutheran night at the dome, which brought the attendance up to 42,000 for a Tuesday night (there were also half-price homerun porch seats). Bethel College football team was seated below us. They don't drink and lead organized cheering fests. And for you single ladies out there, they are also pretty buff. Book tickets for Lutheran Night 2008.

It also seemed to be "Beachball Night". The Santa usher in my section had a hard time with this. He was not satisfied until he was able to snag a beachball and deflate it.

And then it was also the night Dick and Bert were broadcasting from Section 140 (we were two sections over). We couldn't really see much of what was going on there during the game. I wonder how it sounded on t.v., since it was pretty loud at the Dome. We did see Dick on his way in. More like "heard". I heard his voice behind me and instantly recognized that voice. We did manage to get a few pics of Bert before the game. Curveball lost an opportunity to snag a few autographs.

We did manage to combine our love for the Fair with a little Twins baseball. We were at the Fair on Day 1. We saw T.C. in the parade. Curveball got T.C. to do his little wiggle. Later we went by the FSN booth...Anthony LaPlanta and Roy Smalley were there, since the Twins were playing. I was bashful, but Curveball got his pic taken with Roy (I was the photographer).

I did manage to watch most of last night's game while hanging out with friends. It was great to see the Twins pull off a late-game rally--for the second night in a row. AND, Morneau hit a homerun!

Hope springs eternal!

Santana is my man-ah!!!

2007-08-19T19:29:00.000-05:00

"You don't have that many chances to do
something very special like that. I was living by the moment but at the same time, I was enjoying everything I was doing out there."
Pitching Ace Santana on his record setting day

Santana was brilliant today. It's just incredible to watch him pitch on a day like today and I was thrilled to be there. In the 7th inning, my friend visiting from California asked what his record was and I said I thought it was 15 (turns out it was 14 set last season).

New record. Santana came out in the 8th with 99 pitches and first tied the club record of 15 and then went on to establish a new record of 17. It was crazy being there...the fans went wild. Santana tipped his hat to the crowd on his way into the dugout. We would have screamed till he came back out.

We wanted him back in the 9th, but since the score was 1-0 cooler heads prevailed. Santana I think was fine with that. We needed the win. There will be another day to set new records.

Friday's '87 Reunion pregame events

2007-08-18T11:48:00.000-05:00

'87 insignia painted on field

View of the field from upper deck

T.C. Fun

Curveball (in hat) in autograph line

More autograph hounds

In my book, there's no better way to let go of stress from the work week than by taking in a baseball game. This week was no exception. Not only did Curveball and myself get to enjoy a great game, but we also also enjoyed the pregame activities.

We were anxious to arrive for Friday's game earlier than we normally do. Curveball was planning to snag a few autographs from '87 players. We made it to the plaza about 4:45--45 minutes before the autograph stations even opened! No big surprise--the lines at the 4 autograph stations were already growing long. I let Curveball join the ranks of the autograph seekers while I roamed the plaza.

I'm the type that's always ready to get to the game early and soak up the atmosphere. Last night I was anxious to see the pregame festivities celebrating the '87 season. As I roamed the plaza, I caught sight of a few '87 players making their way to the autograph stations (with security folks by their sides). The people watching was pretty good. It's amazing the things people will bring to have players sign. The most interesting thing I saw was a child's rocking horse.

I also was able to make it through the gate with each of our tickets (2 separate trips) to get the pack of baseball cards of the '87 team. With that done, I decided I might as well head into the stadium and watch the pregame action.

Our seats were located in the upper club section just slightly to the right of homeplate (section 224). Not bad. The field was decorated with special insignia for the '87 World Series. The jumbotron was playing highlights of the '87 season. Two guys sitting a few seats down from me were enjoying the highlights and quizzing each other on '87 trivia.

Just after the autograph stations closed at 6:30, the '87 players started making their way to the field. It was interesting watching as old teammates/friends greeted each other with slaps on the back and hugs. This team shared something special together...a life-defining event. And as the players themselves have said, the fans were a part of that event as well.

Once the players were gathered, top plays from the '87 season were played chronologically...and with each play, another '87 player was introduced. I love this stuff. I'm the fan typically standing up and yelling. Sometimes I get goosebumps as well. It was great to see Gaetti, Viola, Herbie, Bruno...all those guys take the field.

Something special was saved for the end. Jeff Reardon, the closing (and winning) pitcher of the '87 World Series (every bit as good as Nathan), was the last Twins player to be introduced. When Reardon was introduced, much of the crowd stood to welcome him with loud applause.

The fans were trying to send Reardon a message. "Hey, we know it's been rough, but we're still here for you." Reardon has seen hard times these past few years--one of his 3 kids died of a drug overdose. Life seemed to fall apart for Reardon following this tragedy and slowly, he is getting his life back on track. Reardon has started a foundation, in his son's name, to help other kids overcome drug problems.

Reardon was joined by his family on the field. His fellow '87 teammates presented a check to Reardon for that foundation in the amount of $100,000 (the money was raised from the sale of the '87 bobbleheads). Man, it was a great thing to see.

The festivities were over and the game began...with the memory that this little team that no one thought could win it all did just that...20 years ago.

87 World Series Reunion

2007-08-17T09:43:00.000-05:00

I've been waiting for this series since I first heard about it during Twinsfest. I know some may argue that the '91 World Series was better, but for me, nothing can compare to the '87 World Series.

I'll admit it, I was not much of a baseball fan before the '87 playoffs. But as the '87 season progressed, I started watching more and more games. When they started winning in the postseason, I was hooked.

To borrow a famous line from literature, "it was the best of times, it was the worst of times"... as the Twins were entering the playoffs, my first marriage was ending. It was watching the Twins win that year--on a small black & white t.v. with my two young children (ages 3 & 1) beside me, that helped me escape for a few short hours the misery that was pervading my life at that time. It worked. The Twins' underdog championship season gave me the inspiration I needed to rise above the mud and muck that life was slinging my way.

O.k. maybe I'm being a little dramatic...but truly, baseball carried me through a hard time...and when they won the World Series, I vowed I would be a fan for life, whether the Twins were winning or losing.

My appreciation for the game has grown over the years. I am not some fair-weather fan. I am not a casual spectator. I have been accused of being a baseball geek and I can handle that.

Baseball is pure bliss for me. There's nothing like walking into the stadium (even the Metrodome) for the first game of the season. On even the worst day, baseball makes life a little better. I swear it lowers my blood pressure (and when a game is going badly, sometimes raises it a few degrees).

So with joy in my heart, I'm making my way to two of the games this weekend. I am sure to have goosebumps when '87 highlights are played and the '87 team is introduced.

I'm still a fan. And I will be for life.

Feast

2007-08-15T22:05:00.000-05:00

The Twins must be pushing themselves back from the table, having gorged on Seattle pitchers for 28 hits in the past two games. 18 hits on Tuesday, with a final score of 11-3. 10 hits today, with a final score of 6-1. It was looking today as if the Twins were repeating past mistakes--following a day of fantastic hitting with poor production--that is until Torii Hunter hit a grand slam in the final inning of the game. 3 homeruns were hit these past 2 days, including the first HR by White this year. Watkins had 2 hits today as well.

As I've said, it's been feast or famine when it comes to Twins' hitting this year...but let's hope we're eating at the buffet table for the remainder of the season.

A roller coaster ride

2007-08-13T21:40:00.000-05:00

Fox Sports North just went out...wait, maybe that's FSN's way of sparing Twins' fans from viewing another ugly loss. Drats, the Twins are back on...and even have 2 runners on the bases...but hey, we have 2 outs, so there's no way we're bringing those two home.

Excuse the sarcasm. I am usually an optimistic fan. That's one of the things that I love about baseball...until that final out, there is always hope. But this season has been a bit of a roller coaster ride for Twins' fans and I'm starting to feel nauseous. (Yup, Casilla just struck out). Just when the fans are ready to give up on the Twins, they come back strong and seem to be in the thick of things (it helps that Detroit and Cleveland have been playing sub-par as well). When the pitching is great, the hitting is nonexistent. All season it's been feast or famine when it comes to hitting and I think most would agree the Twins have been starving of late.

They're playing a late game tonight and I know I won't be able to stay awake for it. I'm just hoping the morning paper brings news of a winning score.

New lineup

2007-08-11T20:07:00.000-05:00

New lineup tonight:

Casilla
Bartlett
Mauer
Morneau
Hunter
Cuddyer
Kubel
White
Punto

Not sure what magic a new lineup may bring, but god knows it can't hurt. The thought is that Mauer will get some better pitches to hit...that would certainly be a good thing. Off to a good start...Bartlett just hit a triple in the 1st.

Fathers and Sons

2007-08-09T17:20:00.000-05:00

My dad passed away on Wednesday. 85 years a Minnesotan.

I wish I could say he was a big baseball fan. In minor ways he was. He went to the old Saints and Miller games as a kid, with his aunts and uncles saving Wheaties box tops, which with two and a dime you got a ticket to a ballgame.

I actively collected baseball cards starting in 1962 when you got one with a gum for a penny. My dad would tell me stories of the neighborhood corner store where the owner opened all packs and put the cards in one jar and the gum in another and you could pick the cards you wanted and take a corresponding piece of gum.

I learned about early era baseball players when I unearthed my dad's 1933-1935 Goudey cards in the attic...yes, he had them all -- Ruth, Gehrig and the gang. He did sell them in the late '70s. They weren't as glamorous as the Topps photo cards of my youth, but showed the charm of baseball -- small gloves and big bats. When every man could play the game with a modicum of skill.

My dad was never a big fan of catch or playing ball. We went to few games, my live action attendance mostly with friends of the family. But he religiously listened to WCCO radio and both my parents fueled my baseball interest on our yearly cross country trips by driving to baseball stadiums, letting me get postcards of the parks, going on the tour of the then new Astrodome, and even waiting outside Fenway Park when this 13-year-old got his own seat down the line from the "Green Monster" all by hisself in this strange land knowing that when the last out was recorded the family station wagon would be waiting outside the garage door exit.

My dad was a good dad. Yes, I miss not playing catch more with him more...but it was the afternoons of hitting balls to other kids in the park, playing tennis ball baseball in the alleys, and always afternoon little league games that parents of that generation could not attend because of the working environments.

I remember my parents getting me one of those bounce back nets to perfect my non-existent pitching skills. I placed it with its back to the alley on the first day of use, anchoring it to the grass, wound-up and threw the ball. The bounce came back high and hard and just missed breaking the kitchen window. I quickly reposition the net now facing the alley, then side-armed a wild pitch missing the net and cracking a basement window. You can't win some days.

The game was always on the radio in those days, during sunny afternoons, when out doing yardwork, travelling the roads. My dad knew the players (his work shared the same physician as the Twins team and a co-workers son was the Twins public relations guy during the early days of the franchise). He would bring home photos of the players, used game balls, Twins souvenirs.

And he listened to my fascination with stats, my gaining knowledge of home run records and pitching feats. And I'm sure he loved his own days as a kid, sitting on the plank bleacher seats of the hometown teams cheering on your everyday working stiffs playing a little baseball.

I'm going out to the park with my glove and a ball and loft a pop up high towards the sky. And when it comes back down, I'll catch it!

What's wrong with this picture?

2007-08-06T15:42:00.000-05:00

The Great Escape

2007-08-05T22:04:00.000-05:00

I suppose it's time to get back to this baseball blog. Blogging, and even baseball, hasn't been of the highest priority this past week. My aunt died this past week, my father-in-law entered the hospital and is in serious condition and then there is the tragedy of the bridge collapse--all these have contributed to baseball being put on the back burner. It is a game after all.

Prior to the bridge collapse, much hoopla was going on in the Twins baseball world in regards to trades...Castillo was traded and no one, at least no one ready to help this season, was acquired before the trade deadline. Santana, along with other players, were perhaps, rightfully, upset. It hasn't gotten any better in the past few days...Cirillo was picked up off waivers by the Diamondbacks. I'm not sure how big a loss that is, but it does seem to indicate that Terry Ryan is more focused on downsizing the payroll than bringing on board some new bats.

I'll admit there have been times in recent days that I've been frustrated. I think the Twins are contenders this year. I think the current players need to stay focused and play their best ball. It may not be a perfect world, but hey, they are playing major league ball. How bad can that be?

And Pohlad needs to quit worrying about his pocketbook and open up the pursestrings so Terry Ryan can actually do something to help this team get stronger.

So, this week I hope to get back to enjoying baseball...perhaps with the perspective that the world won't end if we drop a game...much worse things can happen.

But oh the joy to be found in the game...because finding bliss in 9 innings of baseball have made this game the great escape...and I'm quite sure we all could use a little of that right now.

Consolation prize

2007-07-31T09:42:00.000-05:00

Lost in all the bitter disappointment over the Castillo trade was the joy in a pretty sweet win at the Dome last night. It was nice to see the Twins get off to a quick start--with Tyner getting on base in the first inning as the leadoff man. Bartlett followed with another nice single and Mauer brought both Bartlett and Tyner home. It seems like a long time since we've had something to cheer about in the first inning.

Tyner had a great night. 3 hits. One of those hit the baggie in center field and Tyner turned it into a triple. The throw to 3rd was off the mark and for a moment there I thought Tyner was going to make it home. I swear, if Tyner gets another homerun this year--one at the Dome, I'm celebrating by buying a Tyner shirt.

Baker pitched a gem. 8 innings. 7 strikeouts. No walks. 2 hits and only 1 earned run. He definitely deserved the win.

Mauer had 2 nice hits. We need Morneau, Hunter, & Kubel to produce more runs, but if we string together more games like last night we have a shot. My hope is that TR actually acquires a bat for us today and the players feel a bit better about Castillo's trade.

A series of wins would sure help console fans and players alike.

So long, Castillo. We'll miss you.

2007-07-30T22:41:00.000-05:00

The opportunity to see Castillo in a Twins uniform again is gone. Castillo was pulled out of batting practice this afternoon and given the news of his trade to the Mets. I was at the game and no such announcement was made to the fans in attendance. The trade was widely known by game time however. I understand that we were not likely to keep Castillo next year, but if we are expecting to make a serious run for the playoffs, Castillo will be sorely missed.

I hate this part of baseball. Baseball players gone without a goodbye.

Who will be next? One can't help but wonder.

Obviously, the players are not happy to lose a veteran .300 hitter for players that won't help this year. Just hours before a game they had to say goodbye to a friend who they knew always played hard. Yes, it's a business. But sometimes these decisions suck.

As a fan, I will miss watching Castillo's incredible acrobatic catches in the field and his ability to find a way to get on base.

So long, Castillo. We'll miss you.

In Uniform

2007-07-30T15:14:00.000-05:00

Tonight we're headed to the game to see the Twins take on the Royals. I wouldn't take the Royals lightly these days--they have the best record in the division since the All-star break. They took series in Boston and Detroit this month. I think it's quite possible that they WON'T end up in last place this year. (I would enjoy seeing Chicago take that honor.) They are hitting well, more consistenly than the Twins it seems. Still, I think the Twins know they need to keep winning...so it will hopefully be a good series going in our favor. (It's a 4 game series and a split ain't good enough...it has to be 3 out of 4 at least).

It occurs to me that tonight could be the last time I see some players in a Twins' uniform. Hopefully, the wins in Cleveland have put off any fire sale. We don't need to get rid of anyone. We could use a quality bat and even a relief pitcher (Rincon of yesteryear seems to be gone).

It's obviously on the minds of the players. Hunter was quoted as saying: "I look around and see Johan [Santana] walk in and think, 'Maybe that's the last time I joke around with him like that. I look around and see Joe Nathan, Justin Morneau and Joe Mauer -- both who I've watched grow as hitters. I mean, it's tough. This might be the last time I play with these guys."

In the past two days, rumors have perhaps been the strongest about trading Castillo. Castillo has commented, "It hurts a little bit, the trade rumors. I want to stay with the team and try to finish my year here. I don't have any control over that. I just try to still be focused on winning the game, but I have to be ready if something does happen."

Why, in god's name, would we want to trade one of the few players who has been consistently hitting .300 or better all season? This man plays with such heart, such intensity...I know, it's about looking forward...we're not going to keep him next year...Blob, blob, blob. Are we making a trade for someone who can help us today? I don't think so. That, my friends, is stupid.

Hopefully I'll see these guys (and the rest of the roster) in Twins' uniforms tonight. And many more nights to come. I'll be standing up and screaming my lungs out when they take to the field tonight!

On a side note: Has anyone noticed of late that the St. Paul Pioneer Press seems to have a better sports section, at least baseball coverage (compared to the Mpls paper)? The Sunday edition definitely gives a better overview of player/team stats, not just of the Twins, but the entire American & National leagues. Today inside the front page of the sports section they featured a fun interview with Neshek. It's better in print, but otherwise, check it out here.

A reason to smile

2007-07-28T21:57:00.000-05:00

There were actually many reasons to smile tonight.

Starting with Tyner's homerun. It was a fun moment for a dugout that has had little to smile about on this roadtrip. Tyner's homerun loosened up the team and it was a nice reminder that while team wins are what they're gunning for right now, it's always good to celebrate the individual victories. Hats off to Tyner for playing a great game and giving Twins fans the first something to smile about in a long time. (Plus I think Tyner at least tied the throw on that punt, so that should have been Tyner's 3rd hit.)

Santana. Santana pitched a quality start. 12 strikeouts. 4 hits. 2 earned runs. I think I saw some some ass shaking tonight.

Buscher. Buscher is showing some promise in his first 2 starts. His game-winning RBI brought home the winning run in the 9th inning. How long has it been since we've won a game in the 9th? It feels like an eternity. Welcome to the majors.

The Twins bullpen. After some dismal outings of late, the bullpen kept us in the game tonight--actually brought us the win. Neshek was back to his stellar self and Nathan got the job done without drama. Way to go.

It wasn't the most convincing of wins, but I sure feel a whole lot better than I have after the past 5 games. It's a tough road ahead, but with 5 games against Cleveland in the next 10 days, we have the opportunity to pull closer to Cleveland.

And that's how it's done--one game at a time.

Tyner hits 1st career homerun!

2007-07-28T18:49:00.000-05:00

There has been little to cheer about during recent Twins games, but such a moment came in tonight's game. In the 3rd inning, Tyner hit his first career home run! What joy for Tyner, his fans, and the team! Everyone can use that little morale boost.

It was fun watching the team congratulate Tyner when he made it to the dugout. The smile on Tyner's face told the story--how good it must feel to have that monkey off his back. The camera shot I liked best was tiny Wayne Hattaway giving Tyner a huge bear hug in the dugout.

Way to go Tyner!

Let's hope the rest of the team takes your lead tonight!

Season Countdown

2007-07-26T10:35:00.000-05:00

2007 Baseball Calendar

(remainder of the season)

07-27-2007 - Hall of Fame Induction Weekend Begins 1 Days

07-31-2007 - Non-Waiver Trade Deadline: 5 Days

08-31-2007 - Postseason Eligibility Lists by Midnight: 36 Days

09-01-2007 - Active Roster Expands from 25 to 40: 37 Days

09-30-2007 - Final Games of the 2007 Regular Season: 66 Days

10-23-2007 - 2007 World Series Begins: 89 Days

Wow...this baseball season is winding down faster than I would like. And even if the Twins don't make it to the playoffs, I want to enjoy what baseball is left. I'm actually anxious to get past the trade deadline and not have to wonder any longer who's staying and who's leaving.

On Sunday I bought tickets for 3 future Twins games. The first game is next Monday when they come home from Cleveland (where they have hopefully been shaking some ass). And then I bought tickets for 2 games in mid-August against the Texas Rangers. I picked those games not because we're playing the Rangers, but because that weekend we're celebrating the '87 World Series title. A reunion of the '87 players is planned--and I can't wait to see who's all there. Too bad Puckett isn't around to be part of the festivities.

Like I've said, win or lose, I plan to enjoy all the baseball I can before the end of the season. The losses since the All-star break have been painful--in part, because they make it more improbable we will make the playoffs. They were also painful because they were just such awful games for the Twins. 13-1 vs Toronto? Ouch.

As a baseball fan, I am an optimist; but at a certain point, also a realist. If we are eliminated from the playoff picture (and I'm not ready to throw in the towel yet), then I can move on and still enjoy baseball. Playoff-bound or not, I hope the guys can still play quality baseball.

Many times the integrity of a team is revealed more in how they deal with defeat, than in how they deal with victory. Look at Kansas City--even though this season finds them in the bottom of the pack (again), they are still going out there and shaking some ass. They played well against Detroit and Boston--teams that are considered much better than them.

I just want the Twins to play with the same integrity they've played all season. I take pride in the fact that they are a team that never says "die". I take pride in the fact that they still play with heart, even when they're losing. Yes, being swept by Detroit and Toronto was ugly. But there is no time to lick our wounds. Tomorrow we open a series in Cleveland, a team we have lost 5 games to this season (the only 5 times we've faced them).

We need to go out there and Shake some ass!

Shake some ass!

2007-07-23T21:30:00.000-05:00

I can just hear it now...the media is going to have a field day with Santana giving up 4 homeruns. The bloggers probably will go to town as well. Man, all I know is that it is so discouraging to see Santana struggle on the mound. Word has it that Santana wasn't feeling 100%...which isn't hard to believe given how he pitched. Has Santana ever given up 4 homeruns in a game? He just didn't seem to be his usual self. He was pitching hard, but didn't have his usual finesse. He didn't seem to be in "the zone"...that place he goes to when he's throwing like blazes, mixing up his pitches and fooling the batter to swing wildly at a pitch. You can tell he's in the zone when you see that little butt wiggle before he throws the pitch. I'm not the first one to notice that butt wiggle...a co-worker mentioned it today.

I love seeing that little butt wiggle...it means we have a good chance of winning the game.

On the positive side of things, our favorite Canadian had a good night--2 homeruns for Justin Morneau. I believe these were the first homeruns Morneau has hit in Canada. Hunter also got a homerun. That makes 28 for Morneau and 21 for Hunter. It would be nice to see them both break 30 again this year. I think Morneau has a good chance to reach 40 homeruns.

But what was that ugly play with Tyner and Punto in the 5th? If you ask me, that was the deal breaker. If we had been able to bring them home, I think we could have pulled out a win.

I do not feel witty following a Santana loss. Morose would sum up my mood. I want to sit aound and pout about the loss. I think I might. I'm going to sulk until the Twins can pull out a win. Hmmm...there better be some butt wiggling going on out there tomorrow night. That's right, shake some ass, get in the zone, and make some magic.

Win or lose

2007-07-20T14:46:00.001-05:00

It was good to see the Twins win last night. Again, the bats came alive and that made all the difference. And geez, how does Kansas City beat Detroit in Detroit? Kansas loves to be the spoilers and more power to them, but I hope they're not so hot when they come to town at the end of the month.

In reading many of the other blogs, it seems the sweep by Detroit has many a fan writing off the Twins for the season. I won't say that it wasn't like a self-inflicted shot in the foot. It hurt. But all hope is not lost. The season isn't over by a long shot.

And till the end, even if the Twins are mathematically out of the playoff picture, I'll be watching the games rooting the team on. I'll be watching the game for the pure joy of it. November and the end of the baseball season comes soon enough. Until then I'll be lovin' every minute of it, win or lose.

For me the joy of basball cannot be found in nitpicking how poorly the game was played, who screwed up or who should be traded. Yes, I will on occasion bemoan lack of hit support and a pitcher's lack of prowess on the mound. I will definitely bitch and moan about the Twins' management not keeping or acquiring talent that would help the team win (Pohlad, open up your wallet. We all know you've got the money. This team is your legacy). But I do not find joy in focusing all of my attention on the win/loss column.

Baseball is woven into the fabric of my life. Sometimes the baseball season becomes a marker for what was happening in my life. In '87, the Twins' post-season ride to the World Series title carried me through a pretty dark period in my life (the initial weeks of my separation from my first husband...it was ugly). What I choose to remember from that time, is the joy and hysteria that was felt in this town as the Twins kept winning. I played hooky from work and went to that incredible ticker tape parade. I still get goosebumps when I remember it.

I remember attending one of the closing series against the Brewers a few years back ('05 I believe). The Twins were already "out of it" but I attended the game knowing that my opportunity to enjoy a ballgame would soon be gone until the next spring. I sat behind 2 dads with their young sons--Brewer fans. Normally I hate having opposing fans sitting next to me (at least vocal ones). But this was different. It was a joy to watch these dads enjoying the game with their young sons--obviously on a roadtrip to take in this game. The Brewers led most of the game, but in the late innings the Twins mounted a rally (initiated by Shannon Stewart) and won in the bottom of the 9th. That day those boys learned that the game is never over till the last out. And I was reminded that a comeback win is exciting whether you're going to the playoffs or not.

In one of those last games that season, I was also present to witness Morneau's first career grandslam. That is a goosebump memory as well.

And of course, my ultimate goosebump baseball memory--being proposed to on the Jumbotron on September 8, 2006 (that story is coming). Matt Garza was the starting pitcher, but not doing so hot (we were losing). Around the time of the proposal, Garza was pulled and Neshek came in. The bats came alive and we won (Neshek getting the win). I think it would have been a sweet game whether we won or lost, but the victory made it sweeter.

So there it is--I'm in it for the long haul. Yes, I will be grouchy when we lose games. And my mood will take a lift when we're winning. But I plan on watching game #162, playoff bound or not. And when that game is over, I'll be counting the days until the Twins take the field again.

(For an excellent blog on "watching the game when the going gets rough, check out Thursday's entry at A Fan's View from Section 220-- http://www.startribune.com/blogs/sinker/ )

Twins Unplugged

2007-07-19T22:30:00.000-05:00

Well, me and Curveball forego last night's game, but tonight made it to Baseball Unplugged at Champs in Burnsville. Cuddy hosted and was accompanied by Garza and Neshek.

It was the first time we've gone to this event and we learned a few things. First, be there at least 2 hours before "the show". The place was packed! We got to the restaurant an hour before the festivities were to start and it was standing room only. We waited 45 minutes for a table on the patio. We ate our dinner on the patio while listening to the "interviews" and then questions from fans. Following the question period, there was a trivia contest, complete with prizes, followed by more door prizes. (The final door prize was an autographed Harmon Killebrew bat! Not shabby at all!)

At 8:30 p.m. an autograph line was started. We practically sprinted to the line, but was still quite a ways back. Due to the injury to his thumb, Cuddyer was not signing autographs--but was willing to take pics with fans. Garza and Neshek were signing--one item per fan. At 8:45 we had moved all of 6 inches--the line was pretty bunched up in front. I was starting to wonder if we would ever make it to the front...sure enough, a Twins representative soon arrived announcing that the signing would end at 9 p.m. Optimistically, we stayed in line...which was starting to move a little faster. We got closer and closer and finally were able to take the steps up to the Twins' table. And then the Twins representative reappeared...first declaring that we were the last 2 through and then allowing the 2 fans behind us to go through the line.

Whew! I was thrilled to be able to make it through the line...not that I'm a big autograph person (that would be Curveball), but after that wait...I managed to snap a few pictures and get a few graphs. I had Neshek sign a "card" of his appearance in a "witch" costume last year (part of rookie hazing).

All the players were generous with their time, good-natured, and willing to take pics...but it had been a long day--that started early with an afternoon game that didn't end up in our favor...and it was easy to see they were tired and ready to call the day done.

Tomorrow there's another game...a start to another tough series. Man, we need those guys to come back to the field fresh. We're behind you guys. We know you're playing hard. Go for it.

Happy Birthday Torii!

2007-07-18T15:47:00.000-05:00

Happy Birthday Torii!

Today is Torii's birthday. Let's hope he has a fantastic birthday filled with homeruns (a grandslam would be nice!) Maybe the Twins could throw in a birthday present...like a new contract perhaps!

Here's a link to a nice slideshow about Torii's rise to "the top" in baseball. Check it out--

http://www.startribune.com/slideshows/rich_media/993127.html

Baseball Unplugged

2007-07-17T09:56:00.000-05:00

Besides going to Wednesday's game (Santana pitching), me and Curveball are considering going to Baseball Unplugged on Thursday night. Michael Cuddyer hosts, with Matt Garza and Pat Neshek as his guests that evening. It's held in Burnsville from 7-9pm. More information can be found at the official Twins site-- http://www.twinsbaseball.com/

It's an afternoon game, so they will be done with Detroit at that point. Hopefully, we'll be celebrating another sweep.

Quote of the Day 7-16-07

2007-07-16T22:57:00.000-05:00

Castillo in reference to his triple hit Sunday in the 9th inning--

"When I come in today, I think I have the day off, but we don't have any more time. I tell these guys, sometimes I hit a ground ball right to second base, shortstop, and I don't run hard, so I got reserve when I need to do it. I know my knees bother me a little, but when the play came, I forgot everthing and I did something for the team."

Thank you, Castillo!

Get the job done

2007-07-14T09:18:00.000-05:00

"They take everything they can get
and give nothing in return."
--Rod Carew, regarding the Twins management

Rod Carew said the above at the time he left the Twins. I think Hunter (and a great many Twins fans) may be thinking the same in regards to Hunter's situation. I'm growing weary of the debate. There should be no debate. This thing should have been done a long time ago. Hunter should stay and the Twins need to find a way to way to make that happen. And it is becoming abundantly clear that the longer the Twins wait, the more it is going to cost them. It may already be out of their reach.

I've been a proponent of keeping Hunter long before this career-breaking year. Besides his quality performance game after game, Hunter provides much, much more to the team. It is something quite hard to put a pricetag on. Hunter provides leadership in the clubhouse and on the field. He plays with a love for the game and the fans know it. Last night when I was at the game and waiting for the players to run out on the field, I noted that Hunter, as usual, led the team onto the field. As he was running onto the field, he caught a ball with his usual aplomb. The fans love it. I couldn't help but wonder how much longer we'll be able to enjoy that show.

Hunter has made it clear that he would like to stay with the Twins. I think if Ryan would have pursued negotiations into the start of the season, this thing could have been taken care of. And we no doubt, could have signed Hunter for what now would be considered a steal. But I can see with each series that Hunter is more and more open to the possibility that he will be playing elsewhere. And I think Hunter is feeling so jerked around by the Twins that he no longer is so sure he wants to stay with the Twins.

Who can blame him? As we were preparing to leave Chicago last week, the White Sox signed Buehrle. While I would rather Buehrle play for the National League and not be a thorn in our side, I thought it was a good move for the Sox and the fans (let alone Buehrle). Get the drama over with and make the deal. They did what they needed to do. Come up with the money to sign a player who helped the team win. And they managed to it with the season in full swing. Amazing. See, Terry Ryan, it can be done.

Now, Seattle has done the same thing and signed Ichiro Suzuki to a five-year deal. What they're paying him and whether he's worth it, is a whole other story. But they got the job done. In fact, Seattle signing the deal just made it a whole lot harder for the Twins to get their job done.

And they have nobody to blame but themselves.

Home Run Derby

2007-07-09T22:26:00.000-05:00

Justin Morneau may have come up short in the Home Run Derby tonight, but the Twins still had a homerun winner. T.C. Bear pulled off a repeat victory in the Mascot Home Run Derby. T.C. took the prize with 9 homeruns, beating out Bernie Brewer who had only 6 homeruns. T.C.'s win garnered tickets to the Homerun Derby for this lucky Boy's Club member.

You're the prize slugger, T.C!

Slugfest!

2007-07-06T22:21:00.000-05:00

I just returned from a bit of R & R with the hubby, which thankfully spared me of some of the fiasco in New York. Happily I was back home tonight in time to catch Game 2 of the Twins' slugfest in Chicago.

How sweet to see Morneau hit 3 homeruns tonight...the first Twins player to do so since 1973. 6 homeruns total for the Twins in Game 2 and a shutout to boot. (Kubel hit a Grand Slam in Game 1!) Garza did o.k. I think. He put some people on base, but managed to keep his cool and get the outs when he needed.

The low point of the game was seeing Red taking that nasty hit from Thome's bat (Red needed 7 stitches). Seems like the White Sox should have lost their DH as well, but I guess we managed to survive that little disaster. I wouldn't be surprised to see Red catch tomorrow, but I think he should take at least a day off. The question is: Can we make it to the All-star break without calling up Heintz?

Early game tomorrow. Let's hope the Twins' bats show up to win again!

Neshek montage

2007-07-03T12:32:00.000-05:00

Here's a link to a fun youtube Neshek montage.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZS260CNwIxA&mode=related&search

and

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CU62w7JUcRk

Have you voted yet?

Let's go team!

2007-07-03T11:25:00.000-05:00

#350. Hmmm. I can respect 350 wins by Clemons. But not on our time. We gave Thomas his 500th homerun. Yay! Rah Rah! But enough! Let the opposing teams earn their milestones against some other team. Granted, it gives us a little bit more attention on Baseball Tonight, but for all the wrong reasons.

And now: Boof. Boof, I love ya. I love the fact that you legally changed your name to Boof. I love how you pitch the first 5 innings of the game. But what happens in the 6th? The game runs 9 innings, so asking you to pitch through 6 or 7 isn't asking for much.

And Rincon. What's up? Last year I stayed nice and relaxed when you came into the game. Now I get tense wondering how many runs you might give up.

And to all the hitters: Let's start swinging the bats. Make the Yankees bring out their relievers! Get some men on base and bring them home! Show those Yankees up!

Silva, this is not the time to falter. Pitch like you have your last two outings. Show them your stuff! I think you have another complete game in ya!

Oops! I mistakenly wrote this entry on my other blog, so it is doing double duty. Never can have too much baseball blogging!

All-Star team selection

2007-07-01T21:34:00.000-05:00

I thought the Twins may have pulled off another sweep. I found it a disappointing loss. Baker pitched great and deserved a win. But alas, it's hard to win ballgames when you can't get anyone across the plate. I hate those kind of losses. I mean if we play like shit, we deserve to lose. I can get fired up about that and feel sort of pissy about the lousy effort or mistakes even. But when we play well and a win is within our grasp--well, that kind of loss just doesn't set well. I can pout about that all night.

Hitting throughout the series was good overall. Mauer even hit his first career grandslam on Friday night (another pitching delight by Santana). The bats need to stay alive going into New York. I can't stand it when we lose to the Yankees. Even when they're playing bad, we seem to let them get to us. Enough! I want to go into New York and kick some butt. Maybe then we won't have to listen to the ESPN announcers drooling over Jeters and all the other Yankees. Oh ya, right, they're the blessed Yankees, baseball immortals. We are just the lowly Twins, with the reigning MVP, batting champ, and Cy Young winner on the roster. C'mon Twins--we have more baseball royalty on our team. Play like you own the Yanks! Let's kick some ass!

On a different note--The All-star team was named today. Something just isn't right about how this team is selected. The Twins have 3 players going--Morneau, Hunter, and Santana--but none of them were selected by fan votes. Big market players definitely have the edge. I could gag over the fact that the Yankees have 3 players on the team when they are definitely playing only mediocre ball. I love David Ortiz, but he's selected as the first baseman when he's only started seven games at first base all season. Um, anyone hear of Morneau--2006 MVP and first baseman extradinaire. It's nice to know that the players themselves selected Hunter & Morneau. Leyland selected Santana. Mauer is not on the team, which I can almost understand with his lengthy stint on the DL.

I'm not even sure the timing of the All-star game makes sense. Ya, it's nice to have a "break" mid-season, but there are two big disadvantages to this as well. First, any player on the All-star team takes a risk of suffering an injury that could hurt their team for the remainder of the season. That's part of my relief that Mauer isn't on the team--let him rest. Second, since the game is mid-season, the accomplishments of the prior year seem to have already been forgotten. And yet, we don't really know who will have that MVP season or who will be the batting champ or who will pitch like a Cy Young winner.

Hey, we still have the chance to name one more Twin to the All-star--Neshek is in the Final Vote consideration. I think Nathan deserved a shot as well, but it would be mighty fine to see Neshek enjoy his chance to be an All-star. Here's the link to the voting--
http://www.mlb.com/mlb/events/all_star/y2007/fv/ballot.html

Women Who Love Baseball Men

2007-06-27T23:12:00.000-05:00

Curlz and Curveballs in Kansas City for a game last year

This is the first entry written by my better half, the best damn curveball that life has ever thrown me! He showed it to me after coming home from Wednesday's game (see the exploits of that adventure at my other blog-- http://www.curlz1205.blogspot.com/ ) Sometime soon I'll post the story of our proposal--which took place at a Twins game!

For the luv of the game, every true male baseball fan’s dream is to come across someone (hopefully) of the opposite sex who doesn’t find the game of baseball boring, silly, or just likes to attend to look at the players in their short pants, flexing their muscles when they bat, and doing the "million-dollar smile" thing.

I’m your typical aging baseball fan, too big for Metrodome seats, happy with dollar dog night, graying at the temples, talking stats and history and follow the game in a relaxing manner. My days of playing the sport are long gone as my speed is non-existent, my power underwhelming, and my ability to lean over and field a grounder, much less throw a bullet to the bag, just won’t happen.

Being a divorcee with two kids who got a lot of my time, I stayed out of the "dating" field for nearly 15 years, and then re-entered the wondrous world of computer dating. Match.com – signing up and going thru the pages was like being in a candy store. So many styles, shapes, flavors. Happily, the first lady I ventured out to meet set me straight, as we spent most of our lunch talking journalism shop. She was blunt: no expectations. Just do it to meet people and see where it goes from there. Everyone wants someone smarter, prettier, richer, dynamic, perfect. Good luck, she said, the major majority have issues, are aging, and dream of the lottery. Those that ride bikes, run marathons, climb mountains and sit on beaches are fakes. If they did those things, when would they have time to date, let alone love.

Well, true to form, the lunches and dinners and dramas were enjoyable but, yes, expectations by so many are so far-fetched that you wonder "why" does one put up with such endeavors. But at my age, it was a far more enjoyable experience than the bar scene, church socials, and 10-minute chat and dates.

But I took one hunch...typed in "Minnesota Twins", and lo and behold met the perfect woman. We typed, communicated, but I couldn’t get her to meet at TwinsFest 2006 – thought it would be the perfect informal setting where we could drift towards each other, exchange some time, and part our ways amongst the crowded world of Minnesota Twins mania. But, no, wasn’t to be. It was twisting her arm just to think about meeting. So I continued to meet other women, and finally talked Risa into a quick bite in her neighborhood a few weeks later. She was beautiful. It was sweet, comfortable.

It wasn’t long after I brought her home "to look at my autographed Twins baseball card collection" that we decided to become a couple. I proposed on the scoreboard at the September 8th Twins game, started by Matt Garza who was going to be "our pitcher" but he wasn’t doing so well. All I remember is that we were losing before the moment happened, and won after I slipped the replica ‘87 World Series ring on her finger amidst the applause of those around us. Pat Neshek won the game, so he is now "our pitcher."

Yes, there is far more to our relationship than baseball (we wed June 3rd). But it’s a man’s dreamworld when Baseball Tonight is more important than the local news, when you are told to stand and clap when TC Bear circles the stadium on his 4-wheeler, when she knows the standings and the stats better than...well, most people.

Amazingly, we have to fight for control of the large-screen television when my mid-20s son is over (he can’t understand the fervor for the game). Sometimes we win, sometimes it is futile and one retreats to the smaller set in the secondary bedroom.

Yes, our marriage is still quite young. And as we grow old together, we will always have a love for the diamond game of baseball. Two people who have found each other and do enjoy baseball. A time to relax and enjoy (in 2010) the great outdoors as the game plays itself out over nine innings. Or a time to stand and shout and applaud and scream as the hometown Twins (this old fart has been following them since Day One) win or lose.

Going to leave you with some words from out wedding ceremony:

"We are gathered together here in the presence of friends and family to celebrate the love which Risa and Joel have for each other; to give social recognition to their decision to commit their lives and accept each other completely; to learn how to help and understand each other; and together, to travel through life and share their love of baseball.So what’s baseball got to do with this? Well, baseball and marriage aren’t all that different! Both require a lot of hard work, a lot of running, and a lot of learning and analyzing mistakes and starting over, every morning is a new day, a chance to make it better – as long as you are committed to make it better. A good game, and a good marriage – don’t just happen. It takes love to get started, and sheer determination to make it through. And in spite of all the curveballs life throws you, it is a wonderful experience with which we grow and in which we fulfill an important part of who we are and who we become.

Before we continue, if any of you has anything to say that might change their minds, they don't want to hear it. However, they do want to hear from you that you are their village, that you will always be their friends, and that you will always support and encourage them as they build the skills and work up the commitment and dedication needed to make marriage work. You are here as fans, coaches and team members. I realize each of you comes from one side, so I would encourage you to embrace both of them and support them in their journey."

An OT Win

2007-06-26T23:20:00.000-05:00

Just got home from the game...a nail-biter that went 12 innings. Baker pitched a great game--9 strikeouts. It should have been a win for him, but Toronto's pitcher did his job as well. We ended up winning in the 12th--bases loaded (due to an intentional walk of Red) and then Cirillo was brought in as a pinch hitter. He got the hit that was needed...although it looked like it possibly could have been caught. Doesn't matter...it was our game to win. (Twins' pitching overall was great).

Interesting tidbits...

--Castillo sucked it up and played tonight. The guy brings an intensity to the game that I love watching.

--Gardy was ejected, protecting Hunter from the same potential fate. Was Hunter safe? I'm hoping to catch the highlights on Baseball Tonight.

--Two twentysomething female fans, undoubtedly intoxicated, decided to make their major league debut by running onto the field during the extra innings. They were no threat to security.

--There are new jumbotron intros for our relief pitchers. New video and new music. For Neshek the B-52s "Love Shack" is played (Get it--Nee-shack). For Rincon, music from the Clint Eastwood movie "The Good, the Bad, the Ugly". It works. I always think they can do more to fire up the crowd (like hire me to lead a cheering section).

--The sno-cones are not worth it. Trust me. The orange dreamsicle smoothie at the roasted corn wagon is.

And best of all...

I won tickets for tomorrow's ballgame at the KSTP's booth before the game. I have never taken a spin at their prize wheel until tonight. When we arrived at the plaza there was only 6 in line, so what the hey...

Take me out to the ballgame...again tomorrow!

OUCH!

2007-06-26T10:36:00.000-05:00

Castillo rolling over in pain after having his hand "spiked"

The Twins' loss came with a pricetag. Castillo suffered a nasty injury at homeplate, when his hand was stepped on by Toronto's catcher. Not intentionally, but nasty all the same. Castillo stayed in the game--until the 9th when his at-bat came and his hand was too swollen to swing. Having watched that replay a few times, it's hard to imagine he'll be playing tonight. Cirillo, having covered first base since Morneau's injury, is experiencing knee pain. The question remains whether he'll be playing tonight as well.

On a brighter note: 4 out of 5 "web gems" (from Baseball Tonight) were from the Twins-Toronto game. Top web gem: Punto's amazing catch in the dugout (also featured as the top play on Sports Center).

Regardless of who's playing, I'm planning to be at tonight's game, cheering on the battle-weary, bruised boys of baseball.

Twins take care of Marlins

2007-06-24T18:56:00.000-05:00

Overall, it was a good series against the Marlins, with more interesting interleague play. Here are some memorable moments:

Friday, June 22nd: Without question this was the most costly game of the series. Not just because of the loss, but even more so due to Morneau's injury. A scary injury with Morneau still in the hospital and no word yet when he'll return to the line-up. This is not good news when we are at the beginning of a 17 game stretch without a day off. Heal quickly Morneau! You're not Wally Pipp! (Late in the Twins game Saturday, Morneau sent a simple text message "Wally Pipp--referring to a player who lost his position to Lou Gehrig when he was injured).

Saturday, June 23rd: Lots of hitting and good pitching from Silva. Hunter, hitting a triple, double, and single, came just short of hitting for the cycle. Why aren't we signing him?

Sunday, June 24th: Another jewel from Santana. This time, Santana, the hitter, connected for a stand-up triple. I love seeing the smile on his face that tells you the guy is having a good time. The smile was there when he hit the triple and then with each strike-out that he threw. Mauer hit 2 home runs and Bartlett stole 2 bases. Interesting line-up trying to compensate for injuries...and later for Cuddyer and Gardy's ejections. For a moment there in the 4th, I thought Santana was going to get in trouble with the ump.

Now the Twins return home for just 4 home games. Then they're off for Detroit, Yankees, and Chicago. It seems set to be a pivotal road trip.

But first, let's take care of Toronto.

Bert

2007-06-21T10:41:00.000-05:00

A bit of fun preceded Thursday's Twins game. Santana made Blyleven make good on his bet to shave his head if Santana pitched a shutout complete game. Santana did the honors. (A video of the "haircut" can be viewed on www.foxsports.com/mlb).

I think Bert as an announcer has brought a lot of fun to the Twins broadcasts. It doesn't matter where the Twins are playing, there is sure to be someone in the stands with a Circle Me Bert sign. (I love seeing the signs on t.v. but I hate sitting behind one at a game) Bert definitely knows the game and is a good commentator.

The questions remains--Why is Bert not in the Hall of Fame? It baffles me. The statistics below bear the prove that Bert is Hall of Fame worthy.

287 wins - 24th on the All-Time list.
250 loses - 10th on the All-Time list.
4,970 innings pitched - 13th on the All-Time list.
3,701 strikeouts - 5th on the All-Time list.
685 career starts - 8th on the All-Time list.
242 Complete games - 90th on the All-Time list.
60 shutouts - 9th on the All-Time list.

"Bert (Blyleven), forget the wins and losses. You finished almost five thousand innings. You pitched in 700 games. You struck out almost four thousand guys. What more does one arm have to do, to prove to people that this was a gift from God, and a guy who busted his butt for 22 years, and completed 242 games, and shut out sixty teams?" - Pitcher Rob Dibble

AMEN.

Santana wins shutout!

2007-06-20T10:11:00.000-05:00

"I don't talk. I just let what I do talk for myself." - Johan Santana on ESPN.com (November 18, 2006)

I'm not ordinarily a fan of NL rules, but I have to admit it was fun seeing Santana hit a double last night. The guy likes to give it everything he's got--even when it comes to swinging the bat. I do believe if the play at 2nd had been close, he might have tried sliding into base. That I don't want to see--because I don't want our Ace to get hurt.

If you were watching the game till the end last night, you know that Twins announcer (and former player) Bert Blyleven threw down a little challenge to Santana before the game...Bert agreed to have his head shaved if Santana pitched a complete shutout game. Santana did just that.

So now Bert (who pitched something like 60 suutout games--I ask why is he not in the Hall of Fame?) will get his head shaved before tonight's game.

What can Bert shave if Santana does it again? Hell, make that any Twins pitcher.

Santana got the job done, but not in his usual manner. He had only 1 strikeout that came in the last inning. Santana went out there and pitched a great game. He kept his pitch count down (possibly because he wasn't going after the strikeouts). He got run support. HE GOT RUN SUPPORT! What a huge difference that makes.

I'll be watching the head shaving tonight.

An introduction from Curlz

2007-06-19T22:59:00.000-05:00

I recently created a personal blog (http://www.curlz1205.blogspot.com/) -- a place to write about lots of changes going on in my life, such as getting married, changing jobs, and just handling the curveballs that life keeps throwing my way. As baseball is one of my passions, I found myself writing about baseball from time to time--especially Twins baseball. It only made sense to start a baseball blog.

I started kicking around the idea of a baseball blog with my then fiancee (now husband--we got married June 3rd). We've decided to start this blog as a joint venture. We are both baseball fanatics. In a sense, baseball brought us together. It was our common interest in baseball that brought us together. We eventually got engaged at a baseball game--with the proposal on the jumbotron (it was my dream come true!).

Bear with us as we get this blog underway.