Saturday, June 28th

I am back i was on vacation seeing some family and friends for the last 6 weeks in Minnesota. I just got back last night and it was so nice to sleep in my own bed last night. The weather is beautiful here and so glad to be home. Enough of that im excited to get back into Twins organization baseball. Give me a break though because i may not be up on everything that happened so give me your patience as i get caught up.



Twins Talk

Twins 7 Milwaukee 6

Twins 44-36 0.5games back

• POG: Joe Mauer- Joe continued his hot streak with the Twins by going 2-4 with a HUGE homerun in the bottom of the 8th inning to lead the Twins to the victory. With the 2 hits it raised Joe's average to a very good .326 on the season and with the homerun it was the 3rd homerun of the season. With the rbi with the homerun it brings his total to 32 on the season which ranks 4th on the team. Joe really is the heart and soul of the Twins and i know people criticize his lack of homeruns, but i will take his .330 any day of the week and if he hits 10 homeruns it is good enough for me.


• The Twins found a way to win a game that they trailed throughout and were behind 6-3 in the 5th inning. With the win it extends the Twins season high winning streak to 10 games. The thing about this streak that i really like is the fact that everyone is contributing with it. From your usuals of Mauer and Mourneau to surprising players in Harris and Buscher so its totally a team effort.


• Nick Blackburn had the worst start he has had in a very long time only making it 4.2 innings and gave up 6 runs on 10 hits with 4 homeruns. With the 6 runs allowed it raised his ERA to 4.05 on the season. I am not worried at all about Nick becuase i look at it as an anomaly and not something he will make a habit of doing. You could tell early on that Nick did not have it because he was not getting his trademark groundballs. But, in his defense Milwaukee has a very powerful lineup and any pitcher could get beat up a bit with that lineup.


• Tonight, the Twins continue their 3 game series with the Brewers at the Metrodome. Gametime is at 6:10 with Livan Hernandez getting the start for the Twins as they try to extend their winning streak to 11 games and will be going against Manny Para of the Brewers.

Rochester Wrap

Pawtucket 4 Rochester 2

Rochester 37-46 15.0 games back

• POG: Danny Graves- Danny probably had his best start of the season last night, but was a tough luck loser. Danny went 6 innings and only gave up 2 runs on 9 hits while not walking a batter and striking out 2. With the 2 runs it lowered Danny's ERA to 5.10 on the season for the Red Wings. Danny is what he is he is not a great pitcher and I really think the Twins need to make a decision on him one way or another. If they want him to come to the majors move him to the bullpen, but if they are not going to do that they miles well just release him and let some young guy get a chance at the AAA level someone like Ryan Mullins.


• The guy that most everybody gave up on a while ago is Randy Ruiz who struggled mightily early in the season and has come on like crazy the last 2 months. Last night Randy had 1 of the Red Wings 4 hits with his 11th homerun of the season along with his 46th rbi of the season. Those are really good numbers along with a .298 averag with the 11homeruns and 46rbi's. He has been very good this year for the Red Wings and if something happened to Justin Mourneau or Jason Kubel i would have no problem giving Randy a chance with the Twins to see how he can do at the major league level. I admit at the beginning of the season i was not much of a fan but he has proved me wrong and deserves a chance at the major league level.


• I have been really disappointed in Trevor Plouffe since his promotion to AAA hitting only .241 so far with the Red Wings. I really thought he was ready for the promotion, but im beginning to think that he is not ready. I was a big believer in him as the shortstop of the future and now i am having my doubts about that too. I hope im wrong and he turns it around and makes me look stupid, because that is something i will be happy to be wrong about.


• Tonight, the Redwings continue their series with first place Pawtucket in Rochester. Gametime is at 6:05 with Kevin Mulvey getting the start for the Redwings

New Britain Rockcats

New Hampshire 3 New Britain 2

New Britain 33-45 13.5 games back

• POG: Zach Ward- Zach made a spot start for the Rockcats and was very good giving them a chance to win. Zach went 6 innings and only gave up 1 earned run on 4 hits while walking 1 and striking out 5. With the good 6 innings it lowered Zach's era to a very good 2.41 on the season. I am a big Zach Ward supporter I think he is ready to make the jump up to AAA and help the RedWings win some games. However, if you are going to keep him in AA keep him in the bullpen that way he can concentrate on one thing instead of wondering if he is a starter or a reliever and his future is out of the bullpen. Zach has not been lights out like he was early in the season teams have got to him a little bit, but he has rebounded nicely of late to put up good numbers and he is someone we should keep an eye on.
• The new additions for the Rockcats have really struggled to get going and that has really surprised me. Danny Valencia got only his 2nd rbi since his promotion last night and is only hitting .211. Brian Dinkelman is hitting a robust .189 and Rob Delaney gave up a homerun last night. I don't have any doubts that they will figure it out, but i guess i was expecting them to hit the ground running. I think by the end of the year they each will be doing what they do and this rough start will be just an afterthought.
• It was good to see Luke Hughes make his return to the Rockcats lineup after missing 24 days due to a pulled hamstring swinging on a cold night. I think he brings a dimension to the New Britain lineup that is just missing when he was not in there. It will be interesting to see how they mix and match Valencia, Dinkelman, Tolleson, and Hughes at 2nd,ss,and 3rd. But besides that he had a successful return going 1-4 with 2 runs scored for the Rockcats.
• Tonight, the Rockcats continue their series with New Hampshire in New Hampshire. Gametime is at 6:05pm as the Rockcats try to break out of their 5 game losing streak. Kyle Aselton will be on the mound for New Britain

Fort Myers Musings

Fort Myers 2 Brevard County 1

Fort Myers 3-6 2.5 games back

• POG: Cole Devries- Cole showed his good stuff once again by going 6 shutout innings for the Miracle. In the 6 innings he only gave up 2 hits while walking 4 and striking out 5 on the night. With the 6 shutout innings it lowered his ERA to a very good 2.77 and brought his win total up to 6 on the season. Cole has really impressed me all year he has probably been the most consistant pitcher that is currently on the Miracle's roster. I think he is ready for a promotion to AA but i dont think he will get one so all he can do is keep dominating the FSL until he gets the promotion he deserves.
• Eli Tintor was the only Miracle hitter who was able to do anything as he went 2-2 with 2 doubles and a rbi along with a run scored. With the 2 hits it raises his average up to .220 on the season and could be a sign of things to come. I am not a big Eli Tintor fan I dont think he is very good but if he keeps hitting like this I could be wrong.
• Anthony Slama pitched the last 1.1 innings to pick up his team high 15th save on the year so far. With the outing he lowered his crazy era down to a minischule 0.43 on the season. He struck out 4 of the 6 batters he faced to bring his strikeout total up to 72 in only 42 innings of work. I have been high on Anthony all season and he keeps getting better and better as the season goes on. I think they need to promote him at some time this season and when they do i think he will dominate their also.
• Tonight, the Miracle continue their series with the Mantanees in Fort Myers. Gametime is at 6:05 with Jay Rainville getting the start for the Miracle

Beloit Beat

Cedar Rapids 8 Beloit 5

Beloit 7-2 First Place

• POG: Greg Yersich- Greg probably had his best game of the season last night in the loss. He went 3-3 with a double and a rbi along with a run scored. With the 3 hits it raised Greg's average to .195 on the season and his Rbi total up to 14 on the season. Greg has really struggled all season at the bat that is why he has lost playing time to other players that is why it was so important for him to have a night like that to get the confidence of the players and coaches.
• It is good to see Ben Revere back in the lineup even though it is just as a DH. Ben went 1-4 to lower his average to .412. The Snappers did something interesting that i want to see if they will continue they hit him 3rd in the lineup. It is a risk with his speed to not being on base at the beginning of the lineup, but the way he is hitting there is a logical reason to have him hit 3rd and drive in some more runs.
• The Snappers pitching was dreadful last night especially Steven Hirschfeld and Chis Anderson. Combined between the 2 they went 5 innings and gave up 11 hits and 7 runs and they need better pitching if the Snappers are going to continue their run.
• Tonight, the Snappers continue their series with Cedar Rapids in Beloit. Gametime is at 7:00pm with Mike Tarsi getting the start for the Snappers

E-town trials

Johnson City 14 Elizabethton 4

Elizabethton 8-3 First Place

• POG: Alex Soto- Alex got the start at catcher for the Twins and didnt disappoint. He went 1-3 with his 4th homerun of the year along with 3 rbi's and a run scored for pretty much the only offense for the Twins. I look for Alex to get more and more playing time for the Twins and should split time with Danny Rams catching and give them a potent 1-2 punch behind the plate for the Twins.
• Dan Berlind was the opposite to Alex Soto he had a game that he would just as soon forget. In only 2.1 innings he gave up a whopping 11 runs on only 7 hits. He walked 5 batters along with 4 strikeouts. With the terrible outing it raised Dan's era to 10.13 on the season. For someone who is trying to get back to Beloit it is not a real appealing outing, however it will be easy to forget about and can go out next time to get back on track.
• Angel Morales had another outstanding game going 2-4 to raise his average to a team high .361 on the season. I am really high on him and look forward to see how he does going forward and if he can keep getting better and better.
• Tonight, the Twins continue their series with Johnson City in Johnson City. Gametime is at 6pm with Brad Tippett getting the start for the Twins.

Wednesday, June 11th

Sorry I haven't been on the last week lifes been crazy. I will try to add stuff more often now that i got a little more time. Today I am going to start a series on comparing Twins organization players to see who the better player is. Today I am going to start with Kevin Slowey vs Scott Baker. I welcome your comments to let me know if you agree or disagree.

• Kevin Slowey: Major League Numbers: 19 starts 6-7 4.89ERA
• Minor League Stats: 55 starts 21-13 1.94 ERA

• Scott Baker: Major League Stats: 56 starts 19-21 4.56 ERA
• Minor League Stats 78 starts 27-23 3.01 ERA

They both had very good minor league careers with Kevin Slowey much better in the minor leagues. The only problem I see with Slowey is i do not think he has a strikeout pitch and he pitches it down the middle way too often he won't pitch inside. He is a control pitcher that pitches to contact, who has very good control and did all he could in the minor leagues. Scott Baker on the other hand has that good slider to get hitters out and he throws a little bit harder than Slowey. I don't think there is a big difference between the 2 of them but i see Scott Baker as a Brad Radke clone and i see Slowey as a backend of the rotation guy. They are both good pitchers but I see more upside with Baker than I do with Slowey. With Baker when he came up he thought he could get hitters out up here with his high fastball and quickly found out that hitters in the big leagues thrive on that. It took him a couple of years of up and down in the minors for him to get it. Some time last season he got it and ever since he has been awesome for the Twins. A groin injury slowed him down this year but i think the sky is the limit for Scott Baker. Kevin Slowey on the other hand I dont see him getting a whole lot better then he is now. I don't really have alot of facts to base it just a gut feeling. Don't get me wrong I look at him as a major league pitcher but he will always give up alot of hits and will have to get out of alot of jams. He is a AAAA pitcher because he is not elite in the Majors, but there is no sense putting him in the minors because he dominates down there. I would consider if the Twins could get the right offer to trade Slowey for some good prospects because I think alot of teams value him and you could get a nice return.

Overall I would take Scott Baker in a heartbreak I look at him as a #2 starter and Slowey as a 4 or 5 and with Baker's potential him and Liriano could make up the new version of Santana and Radke.

part 2 of roster changes

Fort Myers Miracle

C. Wilson Ramos

1st Johnny Woodard

2nd Steve Singelton

SS Yancarlos Ortiz

3b Daniel Berg

Lf Juan Portes

Cf Ben Revere

Rf Edward Ovalle

DH Whit Robbins

Reserves
Allan de se Miguel C
Rodolpho Palacious C
Danny Santiesteban OF
Eli Tintor OF

Pitchers
1. Deolis Guerra
2. Tyler Robertson
3. Alex Burnett
4. Cole Devries
5. Santos Arias

Relievers
Blair Erickson
Matt Fox
Jose Lugo
Frank Mata
Matt Williams
Charles Nolte
Loek Van Mill

Beloit Snappers
C Greg Yercich
1st Chris Parmalee
2nd Yangervis Solarte
ss Ramon Santana
3b Garrett Olson
Lf Ozzie Lewis
cf Joe Benson
rf Mark Dolenc
DH Jair Fernandez

Reserves
SS Chris Cates
C Daniel Lehman
inf Paul Kelly
inf Andrew Thompson

Pitchers
1. David Bromberg
2. Michael Tarsi
3. Dan Berlind
4. Brian Kirwan
5. Mike Mccardell

Danny Hernandez
Steve Hirschfeld
Spencer Steedley
Bradley Tippett
Mark Hamburger
Omar Alcala
Daniel Latham


These 2 teams were very difficult to figure hopefully someone with more knowledge then me can put a better light on this because these are just guesses.

May Awards

Minnesota Twins

• Pitcher of the Month: Nick Blackburn- Nick had another very good month in his rookie campaign for the Twins. Nick went 2-2 with a 3.24 ERA in May. In 5 starts Nick went 33.1 innings and only walked 5 batters and struck out 10. Nick has been the biggest surprise for the pitching staff this season. Not many people myself included thought he would make this type of impact on the team and man has he. Through the first 2 months he is 4-3 with a 3.32 ERA which are very good numbers and should put him in the discussion for Rookie of the Year if he can keep it up. Previous: Nick Blackburn

• Hitter of the Month: Justin Mourneau- Justin had another really good month for the Twins. Justin hit .336 in May with 4 homeruns and 20 rbi's. He also had 4 doubles and a triple with a obp of .405 and a ops of .901. The ridiculious thing is it is just the tip of the iceberg for Justin he is capable of so much more. That is saying alot since he has way better numbers this year than he did in '06 when he went on to win the MVP award. Justin means so much to that Twins lineup and with Mike Cuddyer starting to get going it is going to mean better and better pitches for Justin and look for his numbers to keep going up as he chases another MVP award. Previous: Justin Mourneau

Rochester Red Wings

• Pitcher of the Month: Francisco Liriano- Liriano has shown some real signs that the Twins are getting back The Francise of old. Liriano went 0-1 with a 3.46 ERA in May with 10 walks and 27 strikeouts in 39 innings for May. The biggest thing is he brought his walk total down and his strikeout total up. In May he averaged less then 3 walks per 9 innings which was huge for him because in April that was his big problem. I think Liriano has 1 more full left in Rochester before he joins the Twins sometime after the All-Star break. The biggest thing for him is he is walking less which allowed him to go deeper into games which is huge when you get back to the show. In May he averaged 6 and a half innings a start which is getting higher every start and has been the stopper the Red Wings have sorely needed. Previous: Kevin Mulvey

• Hitter of the Month: Jose Morales- Now this is something I did not see coming because I was not a huge Jose Morales supporter and he proved me wrong. In May he hit .382 with a homer and 6 rbi's along 4 doubles and a triple. In May he had a .402 obp and a pretty decent .885 ops. Jose will never be a power hitter but he is a singles machine who if he could improve defensively could have a job with the Twins someday as Joe Mauer's backup. Previous: Jason Pridie

New Britain

• Pitcher of the Month: Jay Rainville- Now this was a surprise for me because I had all but given up on the tall righty. I think I was justified by Jay's 10.12 April ERA. However, Jay rebounded in May and went 4-2 with a much better 3.42 ERA. In 6 May starts Jay went 34.1 innings and only walked 9 and struck out 24 along with holding the other team to a .237 oba. I really think Jay has turned the corner and will have a very good season with the Rockcats and along with Ryan Mullins and Anthony Swarzak will make up a very good top of the rotation. Previous: Anthony Swarzak

• Hitter of the Month: Steve Tolleson- Steve had a phenomenal May after a pretty good April. In May Steve hit a awesome .375 average with 2 homeruns and 21 rbi's along with 10 doubles and a triple. In May Steve had a .460 obp and a phenomenal 1.023 ops. Steve really turned the corner and May and should be considered for a promotion to Rochester with his good start of the season. I look for him to someday be wearing a Twins uniform and it is probably time for a new challenge for the Rock Cats 2nd baseman. Previous:


• Luke Hughes

Fort Myers

• Pitcher of the Month: Cole Devries- Cole really turned it around for himself in May. He was not awful in May but he had the best month for the Miracle and thats saying alot with the good months put in by Jeff Manship and Tyler Robertson. He was ok in April with a 5.08 ERA and majority of that was in a couple bad outings. However, in May Cole was awesome going 2-1 with a 2.40 ERA. In 5 starts he went 30 innings with only 8 walks and 14 strikeouts. The best part was he held opponents to a .250 oba. Cole is a very interesting prospect because he doesn't have shutdown stuff, but he finds a way to get hitters out and really thats all you want out of your starter to give yourself a chance to win the game. I'm not sure he will ever have Major League stuff, but overall he is a very good pitcher who will probably help Fort Myers compete for a league championship this season. Previous: Jeff Manship

• Hitter of the Month: Danny Valencia- No big surprise here as he won the award last month also. He had a .286 with 19 rbi's and then in May he just exploded. In May he hit .402 with 2 homeruns and 25 rbi's along with 12 doubles and 3 triples. His obp was a whopping .431, but thats nothing compared to his slugging at .663 for a ops of 1.094. Danny is a doubles machine who impresses me every night when I hear about his game. Danny will be up in New Britain in a couple weeks after the All Star game i guarantee you. The only thing that he has major work on his defense which is adequate, but he has the size and arm strength to be a very good defensive 3rd basemen. I think he will be with the Twins in 2010 when that new ballpark opens and will be the starting 3rd basemen for the Twins for years to come. Previous: Danny Valencia

Beloit Snappers

• Pitcher of the Month: Dan Berlind- Dan had a very solid month to go on top of his solid April. In April he had a 5.40 ERA and exploded in May. In May he went 2-2 with a 2.97 ERA with only 10 walks and 20 strikeouts. The best part was he help opposing batters to a .202 average off of him. Dan put together a good month and could be in line for a promotion to Fort Myers with a few good starts in June because not only does he deserve it, but I think there is going to be some openings in the Fort Myers rotation. I don't know how he grades as a prospect, but all I know is he gets batters out and thats all thats important he reminds me of Cole Devries and if he can do that he will be fine. Previous: Spencer Steedley

• Hitter of the Month: Ben Revere- Really was there any doubt who would get this award. Ben came onto the scene at the end of April after spending the first month in EST after being the Twins first round draft pick in 2007. Ever since he arrived he has tore it up and unlike some people I think this is a big deal and deserves a promotion to Fort Myers. In May Ben hit .433 with 1 homerun and 18 rbi's along with 14 stolen bases. He hit an awesome 11 doubles and 5 triples for the month. His obp is crazy at .469 and an ops that is out of this world at 1.1o2. Ben has done everything that was expected out of him and more.

Minnesota Twins organization Player and Pitcher of the Month

Player: Ben Revere

Pitcher: Jay Rainville

everyone let me know what you think

The Future

I thought it would make for some good discussion so I am going to fast forward the Date for a month until July 1st and who i predict will be on what teams. I look forward to your opinions on this.

Twins
C- Joe Mauer
1st- Justin Mourneau
2nd- Alexi Casilla
SS- Nick Punto
3b- Mike Lamb
LF- Delmon Young
Cf- Carlos Gomez
Rf- Michael Cuddyer
Dh- Jason Kubel

Bench
C- Mike Redmond
of- Craig Monroe
inf- Matt Macri
inf- Brenden Harris

Pitchers
1. Glen Perkins
2. Nick Blackburn
3. Scott Baker
4. Kevin Slowey
5. Francisco Liriano

Bullpen
Boof Bonser
Craig Breslow
Brian Bass
Dennys Reyes
Jesse Crain
Matt Guerrier
Joe Nathan

Juan Rincon- Released, Livan Hernandez- Traded

Rochester Red Wings
C- Jose Morales
1st- Brock Peterson
2nd- Steve Tolleson
SS- Sergio Santos
3b- Luke Hughes
LF- Darnell Mcdonald
CF- Denard Span
RF- Jason Pridie
DH- Brian Buscher

reserves
inf Howie Clark
C- Ryan Jorgenson
Released- Randy Ruiz, Garrett Jones, Tommy Watkins, Chris Basak

Pitchers
1. Brian Duensing
2. Kevin Mulvey
3. Philip Humber
4. Ryan Mullins
5. Danny Graves

Bobby Korecky
Tim Lahey
Mariano Gomez
Casey Daigle
Heath Totten
Ricky Barrett
Carmen Cali
Zach Ward
Released- Julio Depaula

New Britain
C- Drew Butera
1st-Erik Lis
2nd- Brian Dinkelman
SS- Trevor Plouffe
3b- Danny Valencia
LF- Matt Moses
CF- Brandon Roberts
RF- David Winfree
DH- Dustin Martin

Promoted- Brock Peterson, Steve Tolleson, Luke Hughes
Bench
inf Felix Molina
C- Jeff Christy
inf Toby Gardenhire

Pitchers
1. Jay Rainville
2. Oswaldo Sosa
3. Yohan Pino
4. Jeff Manship
5. Anthony Swarzak

bullpen
Robert Delaney
Kyle Aselton
Anthony Slama
Ben Julianel
Robert Gabino
Jay Sawtaski
Jason Miller


Thats half of my projections I will have the other half later let me know what you think

Wednesday, May 28th

Twins Talk
Minnesota 4 Kansas City 3 12 innings
Minnesota 26-25 2.0 games back

• POG: Nick Blackburn- Nick had by far his best start of the year last night its just too bad he didn't get credit for a win because he definatly deserved it. Nick went 8.1 innings and only threw 92 pitches and only 17 balls. Nick gave up 2 runs on 8 hits along with no walks and 4 strikeouts. With the awesome outing it lowered his ERA to 3.39 on the season. Nick has been a pleasant surprise this year probably the most consistant pitcher on the staff. I was always a big Blackburn supporter that just needed a chance to shine and with the chance he has shown how good he can be. Some critics didn't think he would be good because he doesn't strike out alot of people, but Greg Maddox doesn't strike out alot of people and he has been pretty successful. I really think Nick is going to remain in the Twins rotation for years to come and will keep getting better and better.
• Here is the situation runners on 1st and 2nd with no outs in 9th and Joe Nathan facing Mark Teahan and he hits a slicing line drive and Delmon Young in left slides to catch the ball and he misses it and Teahan ends up with an inside the Park 3 run HR to tie the game. After the game there was alot of badmouthing of Delmon Young and i seriously don't get it. Granted he should of played it conservatively with the 3 run lead, but when has it been a bad thing to give all out hustle and give up your body to try to help your team win. I will take that from Young all year long and for the haters would you rather him not try and them tieing the game anyway cause it would been a 2 run double and a guy at 2nd with no outs. For me I will take that aggressiveness anyday and some days it pays off and some it don't, but i'll take it.
• Seems like Michael Cuddyer is starting to come out of his slump a little bit as in the last 2 games he is 4-9 with 2 rbi's. Last night he went 3-6 with 2 rbi's including the game winning single in the 12th inning. I know Mike is only hitting .237, but I still have alot of faith in him and will take him any day of the week.
• Tonight, the Twins continue their 3 game series with the Royals in Kansas City. Gametime is at 7:10 with Livan Hernandez getting the start for the Twins vs Zach Greinke for the Royals.

Rochester Wrap

Rochester 12 Charlotte 0

Rochester 21-32 12.0 games back 2game winning streak

• POG: Philip Humber- Philip had his best start of the season last night for the Red Wings. Philip went 6 shutout innings and only gave up 3 hits along with 4 walks and 5 strikeouts. With the 6 shutout innings it brings Philip's ERA down to 5.19 There is no doubt about it Philip has underacheived this season so far alot more was expected out of him and to be honest he hasn't gotten the job done. However, in his defense the defense has been horrible and I'm not talking about the errors I'm talking about the balls that should be gotten too that the no range infield doesn't get too. I really hope this is the start of good things for Humber because he has way too much talent to be pitching like he is and I think he will be fine.
• Randy Ruiz had his finest game as a Red Wing as he went 4-5 with 2 doubles also a rbi and 3 runs scored. With the 4 hits it raised his average to still a really bad .266 on the season. I am not a Ruiz fan at all yeah he had a good game, but he needs to go. Brock Peterson actually has a future unlike Ruiz and they should be giving him the atbats against better competetion not an old guy who can't hit. Granted Ruiz had a good game last night and helped the Red Wings to a big win.
• The Red Wings finally got the bats going scoring 12 runs on 16 hits led by Randy Ruiz, Brian Buscher, and Sergio Santos. Basically everyone contributed and its about time because it seemed like the Red Wings were in a season long slump. Hopefully, the Red Wings can build on this and improve their hitting because the pitching has really not been the problem.
• Tonight, the Red Wings continue their series with Charlotte in Rochester. Gametime is at 6:05 with Danny Graves getting the start for the Red Wings as they try to extend their winning streak to 3 games.

New Britain Business

Connecticut 6 New Britain 4

New Britain 24-27 9.0 games back

• POG: Dustin Martin- Dustin had his best game in quite a while last night in the Rockcats tough loss. Dustin went 2-4 with 2 rbi's and a double. With the 2 hits it raises Dustin's average back up to .311 on the season. After a monster start Dustin really cooled down in his last 10 games he is only 9 for his last 35 a .257 average. Dustin is a very good player who went into a little bit of a slump but is starting to come out of it a little bit. I really like him as a player and hope he gets a promotion sometime this year and see how he can do against better competition.
• Oswaldo Sosa was decent not great, but ok. Sosa went 5 innings and gave up 4 runs on 6 hits along with 3 walks and 5 strikeouts. With the 4 runs it raises Oswaldo's ERA to a very bad 6.46 on the season. Oswaldo Sosa has to be one of the more disappointing players this year as he was expected to do alot more than he has done. It's early in the season so he has a chance to get back to where he is expected to be at, but he hasn't lived up to the billing we all thought he would do this year.
• The Rockcats have really struggled after a fast start as they have now lost 3 straight to drop a season high 3 games under 500. They have the hitting, but the pitchers really haven't done their part and right now they are not a very good team.
• Today, the Rockcats continue their series with Connecticut in New Britain. Gametime is at 9:35am with Ryan Mullins getting the start for the Rockcats.

Fort Myers Musings

Fort Myers 5 Sarasota 0

Fort Myers 33-18 First Place 2 game winning streak

• POG: Cole Devries- Cole had another outstanding start and his last 2 or 3 starts have been very good. Last night Cole went 6 shutout innings and only gave up 4 hits along with 2 walks and 3 strikeouts. With the 6 shutout innings it lowered Cole's ERA to 3.70 on the year. Cole is a very good pitcher on a good staff. I don't know what kind of future he has because he really doesn't have plus pitches he just finds a way to get people out and really thats all that is important is getting people out. It will be interesting to see if he can move up this season or anchor the Miracle staff this season and possibly move up next season.
• Yancarlos Ortiz had an outstanding game going 2-3 with a walk along with 2rbi's and a run scored. With the 2 hits it raised his average up to .268 on the season. Ortiz has been very steady at shortstop and anything he gives you offensively is a bonus. I really don't see much of a major league future for Ortiz until he develops more of a all around game and not rely just on his defense. If he can do that he will be a good prospects becuase defensively he is very good.
• Eli Tintor made his debut last night for the Miracle. He went 1-4 at the plate as he served as the DH last night. Tintor was suspended 50 games for drugs and last night was his first game back so he is someone worth keeping an eye on to see how he will do.
• Tonight, the Miracle continue their series with Sarasota in Fort Myers. Gametime is at 6:05 with Jeff Manship getting the start for the Miracle.

Beloit Beat

Beloit 28-23 9.0 games back

• The Snappers had the day off yesterday and take on Clinton tonight in Beloit. Gametime is at 7:00pm with Santos Arias getting the start for Beloit.

Tuesday, May 27th

Twins Talk
off day
Minnesota 25-25 3.0 games back

• The Twins had yesterday off before they play another 21 games in 21 days starting tonight in Kansas City. The Twins begin a 3 game series with Royals tonight with gametime at 7:10 with Nick Blackburn getting the start for the Twins vs Brian Bannister for the Royals.

Rochester Wrap

Rochester 7 Charlotte 6 10 innnings

Rochester 20-32 12.0 games back

• POG: Garrett Jones- Everytime you are ready to give up on Garrett and send him packing he has a game like that which makes him such a tease. Garrett has alot of talent he just doesn't show it on a consistant basis, but when he is on he is a solid AAA player. For example last night he went 3-5 with his 4th homerun of the year along with 2 rbi's and a run scored. With the 3 hits it raises his average back over the mendoza line at .202 on the season. With the 2 rbi's it brings hit season total up to 18. He is a very hard person to figure out because he can look terrible for a week adn then have a couple games like this to keep his job. The Twins are waiting for him to put it together more consistantly, but i dont think its going to happen and I dont think he will make the year as a member of the Red Wings. My view is when they are ready to bring up some of the AA guys Jones will get his release and reach his potential with another team.
• Francisco Liriano made a start for the Red Wings and it didn't go so well. Liriano gave up 6 runs on 6 hits in 6.2 innings along with a walk and 4 strikeouts. With the 6 runs it raised his era to 4.61 on the season. The question is this a step back for Liriano as he tries to come back from Tommy John surgery? My gut feeling is no it is not and im not being a homer by saying that, granted im a big Liriano fan, but i think he made one mistake and it made his start look worse than it really was. The thing about Liriano is he was throwing 43% sliders when he was dominant in '06 when he hurt his arm. So going into spring training this year they wanted to limit how many sliders threw so he was throwing alot of changeups when he got his callup, but he couldn't place the fastball. So they sent him down and he found his fastball, but i think he is getting too dependent on his fastball right now. Thats the reason he is getting hit a lil more and not as many strikeouts. I don't know if he can't feel his slider yet or if it hurts when he throws it, but until he finds that slider he will only be a average pitcher. I think he will find it eventually and I was wrong they shouldn't bring him up now they should wait till he finds his slider. Im glad he found his control, but thats only half the battle because even minor league hitters can hit a 91 mile per hour fastball thats why he needs that good slider to get them out. My gut feeling is he will be up by the all star break and be a very good pitcher for the Twins.
• After struggling quite a bit of late the Red Wings bullpen really came up big. Mariano Gomez and Tim Lahey pitched 3.1 perfect innings with no walks and 4 strikeouts. Those are probably are 2 best relievers for Rochester and if you can get them the ball with a lead late in the game they are going to win pretty much every time.
• Tonight, the Red Wings continue their series with Charlotte in Rochester. Gametime is at 6:05pm with Philip Humber getting the start as he tries to rebound from an awful start his last time out.

New Britain Business

Portland 15 New Britain 11

New Britain 24-26 9.5 games back

• POG: Erik Lis- Erik had an outstanding game for the Rockcats in a tough loss again to Portland. Erik went 2-3 with his 4th homerun of the year along with 3 rbi's, 3 walks, and a run scored. With the 2 hits it brings Erik's average up to .293 on the season. With the 3 rbi's it brings his season total up to 20. I am a really big believer in Erik he has Power and discipline in the batters box. The only problem with him is defensively he has work to do so if he is going to make it probably it will be as a DH for the Twins. Do i think he has that kind of ceiling, actually i do he does alot of things very well and I think his power will continue to develop because he is only 24 years old and his power will continue to develop. I think Erik is a good propect and if he can work on his plate disipline he has a chance to make it with the Twins.
• Errol Simonitsch got really rocked yesterday in his 3rd start of the year. Errol went 4.1 innings and gave up 10 runs on 11 hits along with 3 walks and 4 strikeouts with 2 homeruns. With the 10 runs he gave up it brings his ERA up almost 4 runs to now a very high 10.67 on the season. Was it a bad start yes it was, but it was only 1 start and you can't base things off of one bad start. He was decent in his first 2 and should be given a little more time to show what hes got before they make a change. He should keep in mind though that Jeff Manship and Tyler Robertson are breathing down his neck and if he has another start or 2 like this there won't be much future for him with the Twins based on results and the fact that he is 26 years old and only in AA and the fact there are a line of guys getting ready to pass him so get it going Errol or you will be looking for work.
• The Rockcats offense came out of a little slump to put out 11 runs on 15 hits led by Steve Tolleson, Trevor Plouffe, and Erik Lis who all had 2 hits apiece. Even though they lost the game the Rockcats should look at it as somewhat of a positive that they were able to hit good Portland pitching that well and that bodes well as they move forward.
• Tonight, the Rockcats begin a series with Connecticut at New Britain. Gametime is at 5:35pm with Oswaldo Sosa getting the start for the Rockcats.

Fort Myers Musings

off Day

Fort Myers 32-18 First Place

• The Miracle had yesterday off as they are set to begin a 3 game series with Sarasota in Fort Myers. Gametime is at 6:05 with Cole Devries getting the start for the Miracle.

Beloit Beat

Burlington 12 Beloit 8

Beloit 28-23 9.0 games back

• POG: Jair Fernandez- Jair Fernandez has really been a surprise for the Snappers after they acquired him in a trade this spring when the Twins allowed the Mariners to keep pitcher R.A. Dickey in the Rule V draft. I was not expecting much out of him, but he has easily exceeded my expectations for him. Yesterday, Jair went 3-5 with 2 runs scored to raise his average to a very good .341 on the season. Jair needs to work on his defense but he is very good offensively and he is only 22 years old which is good for his level. If he can become more consistant defensively I think he can develop into possibly a backup catcher with the Twins in a few years.
• Brian Kirwan did not have a very good start yesterday which surprised me since he had been so good so far this year. Yesterday, he went only 4 innings and gave up 7 runs on 8 hits with 6 of the runs earned to raise his era to 5.13 on the season. I think it was an anomaly and he will rebound his next start and give the Snappers what they had been expecting out of him which is 6 innings and 2 or 3 runs.
• Ben Revere rebounded from his only hitless game of the year with another ho hum 2-5 day with a double, an rbi and his 15th stolen base of the year. With the 2 hits his average stays at .405 on the season. It just amazes me how consistant he is still hitting over 400 with 116 at bats so its not even a hot streak its being consistant day in and day out and thats all the Twins want out of him. I disagree with people that say Joe Benson is as talented as Ben becuase i look at Ben as a special player who will be starting for the Twins in a few years and i look at Benson as an underacheiver who will probably never reach his potential. I will always take the sure thing over the maybe any day of the week. Even if Benson did reach his potential i would still take Revere becasue i look for him to win batting titles in the big leagues and steal many bases. The only thing really he needs to work on is his defense and I think that will come with more playing time.
• The Snappers have today off before they begin a series with First Place Clinton tommorrow night in Clinton.

Monday, May 26th

Twins Talk
Minnesota 6 Detroit 1
Minnesota 25-25 2.5 games back

• POG: Glen Perkins- This was a tough choice to pick between Perkins and Jason Kubel, but i think its a bigger story how well Perkins is pitching. I really did not see this coming from Perk because everything i was hearing from Rochester was he couldn't find the plate and when he did he was getting hit pretty hard thats why i wasn't expecting this. I am glad to admit that i was wrong about Glen because he is pitching as good as anybody in the major leagues and its a pleasure to watch him pitch. Yesterday, he went 7.2 innings and only gave up 1 run on 7 hits along with 2 walks and 4 strike outs. With the 1 run allowed it lowered him Starter low ERA to 2.77 in 5 starts. Right now he is the best starting pitcher the Twins have and im surprised but very pleasantly surprised. He always had good stuff with a fastball at 93-94 with a good curveball and a decent changeup he always had talent just couldnt put it together. Since he came up he has been a different pitcher getting ahead to almost every batter and when he gets ahead he is filthy because you have to look for that curveball and just when you do that he sneaks that fastball by you. If Glen Perkins can continue to get ahead in the count and not fall behind hitters he will win alot of games and will be in the Twins rotation for many years.
• Jason Kubel had a huge hit yesterday going deep for a grand slam, his 6th homerun of the season, to break a 1-1 8th inning tie. I don't think you can understate how big of a hit that was for the psyche of a young team. When you have as many young players as the Twins have it was huge to get a win yesterday after the debacle on Saturday. With the bases loaded and 1 out Michael Cuddyer struck out and if Kubel had not gotten a hit and the Twins had lost who knows where they go from here. But Kubel probably got the biggest hit of the season so far for the team. Jason has been a key member of the Twins this year with 6 hr and 25 rbi's and if it was up to me i would play him against lefty's too.
• Carlos Gomez and Alexi Casilla are so exciting to watch out there. They make their fair share of mistakes, like bunting with 2 strikes, but they make things happen. Case in point in the 9th inning with 2 outs Gomez got a rare walk, then he stole second and scored on a Casilla base hit to get an important insurance run. Those 2 will make mistakes but the good far outweighs the bad.
• The Twins have today off before they begin a series against the Kansas City Royal in Kansas City tommorrow night.

Rochester Wrap

Pawtucket 11 Rochester 1

Rochester 19-32 13.0 games back

• POG: Chris Basak- There was hardly anything to feel good about in a day when they were only able to muster 4 hits against a very good Pawtucket team. Clay Buchholz was making a rehab start for Pawtucket so you knew hits would be at a premium and they definatly were. The best one was probably Chris Basak who went 1-3 driving in the only run for the Red Wings. With the 1 hit it brings Chris' average up to .239 on the season and his rbi total up to 9. Chris has really struggled this year and will see his playing time diminish even more with either Howie Clark or Matt Macri coming back to the Red Wings. The thing i like about Chris is his versatility though thats why he gets in the lineup just about every day because he can play anywhere.
• Brian Duensing had one of his few bad starts and when he gets hit he gets hit. In 4.2 innings he gave up 8 runs on 9 hits along with 2 walks and 5 strikeouts and 2 homeruns allowed. With the 8 runs allowed his ERA jumped by over a run to 4.50 on the season. I dont think you can put too much into this start everybody has them every once in a while. If he consistantly got hit it would be one thing but Brian has been the most consistant pitcher on the Rochester staff and he is allowed a mulligan every once in a while we should give him a break on this one. However, it is something to keep an eye on to see if he can rebound his next start in which i am pretty confident he will because he is a very good pitcher.
• Julio Depaula got drilled again raising his ERA to 5.20 on the season. Will someone please explain to me why he is still in the Twins organization. He either walks everybody and when he throws it over the plate he gets drilled. If you ask me the best course of action with Julio Depaula is to just flat out release him.
• Today, the Red Wings host Charlotte in the Memorial Day game. Gametime is at 3:05 with Francisco Liriano getting the start for the Red Wings.

New Britain Business

New Britain 6 Portland 3

New Britain 24-25 8.5 games back

• POG: Luke Hughes- Luke came off the disabled list a week ago and was rusty which was to be expected given he was out about 2 weeks. Yesterday, may be the return to form for Luke as he went 3-4 with a walk and 3 rbi's along with 2 runs scored. With the 3 hits it raises Luke's average back up to .356 on the season. With the 3 rbi's it brings his total up to 25 on the season. Luke seems to have his swing back and that is good for the Rock Cats because when they won 8 games in a row earlier this season they were led by his bat along with others. I still think he is ready for a promotion to AAA I think the Twins made a mistake when they promoted Felix Molina to AAA and not Hughes. What that tells me is they are waiting for Hughes' bat to heat up and then they will bring him up. Molina i don't see being with Rochester very long because when they feel Luke is ready he will be coming up and Molina will return to the Rock Cats.
• Another Phenomenal start by Jay Rainville yesterday as he went 6 shutout innings and only gave up 2 hits along with 3 walks and 3 strikeouts to lower his era to 6.61. Jay is on fire as of late after this start he has a 13 inning scoreless streak going as he will try to extend it his next start. How has he done it? In my opinion its pretty simple better control of the fastball. He is hitting his spots so much better and like i have said before when any pitcher hits his spots he is tough to hit. I look for Jay to continue to get better and better as the season goes on and it will be interesting to see how long his scoreless innings streak can last because he has really good stuff who was underperforming and now is showing why so many people were so high on him.
• News Flash Zach Ward gave up a run. I know you are shocked by that but a homerun in the 8th inning was all it took to end his recent trend of scoreless innings. Zach has now only given up 2 runs in 32 innings still very good and it looks like he has found his niche as a reliever and I think there is a future for him as a setup man possibly with the Twins if he keeps pitching like this.
• Today, the Rockcats finish off their series with Portland in New Britain. Gametime is at 12:00 with Oswaldo Sosa getting the start for the Rockcats.

Fort Myers Musings

Fort Myers 10 Palm Beach 2

Fort Myers 32-18 First Place

• POG: Tyler Robertson- Tyler continued his strong pitching of late by notching his second consecutive really good start. Tyler went 6 innings and only gave up 2 runs on 3 hits along with 2 walks and 4 strikeouts. With the 2 runs his ERA still sits at 3.04 on the season. Tyler has really turned the corner as of late based on his last 2 starts he has only given up 2 runs in his last 13 innings along with 5 walks and 8 strikeouts. Im starting to think that maybe Tyler might be ready to take the jump up to AA. He is dominating good lineups in the FSL and i think he might be ready. I would not have a problem if they kept him in Fort Myers for a while longer but if he continues to pitch the way he has lately his days in the FSL are certainly numbered.
• Wilson Ramos continues to show power that i didnt realize that he had as he connected with his 7th homerun of the year a grandslam that put the Miracle on their way. I really was not very high on Ramos as my player rankings would attest too, but maybe i was wrong about him. I don't see him as a catcher for the Twins with Joe Mauer around, but i could see him making it with the Twins as a backup Catcher/DH type if he continues to hit with this kind of power. It will be interesting to see if he can become a better hitter because power does you no good if your only hitting .220. He is definatly someone that all Twins fans should keep their eye on to see how he will do.
• Danny Valencia had another outstanding game for the Miracle going 2-3 with 2 more Rbi's. With those Rbi's it brings his team leading total up to 41 rbi's on the season along with his .344 average. Is there any doubt that Danny is ready for the step up to AA to see how he can do against better competition. I think he is more ready than Tyler Robertson and if you want to see continue to improve you need to put him up against better competition.
• Today, the Miracle are off before they begin a series with Sarasota in Fort Myers. That series begins Tommorrow night.

Beloit Beat

Beloit 4 Burlington 3

Beloit 28-22 8.0 games back 5 game winning streak

• POG: Joe Benson- Joe had another outstanding game going 2-4 with his third homerun of the year along with 2 rbis and a run scored. Seems ever since Ben Revere got onto the scene players like Benson and Ozzie Lewis have played with a chip on their shoulders because they dont want to get passed up. Joe is a 5 tool player who has not played like one this season and was in danger of getting passed up. He still might but he is playing alot better now than he was earlier in the year. I look for Revere to get promoted to Fort Myers soon and for Joe to take over center again and hopefully he can show that he can be as good as his potential says he can be. Joe has just as much potential as Revere does he just hasn't lived up to it yet and if he could ever get there he would be an outstanding outfielder either for the Twins or someone else.
• The Snappers recent trend of great starting pitching continued as Dan Berlind had another awesome start. Dan went 7 innings and only gave up 2 runs on 5 hits along with 2 walks and 6 strikeouts. With the 2 runs it brings Dan's ERA down to 3.77 on the season. Dan has really come on as of late and the starting pitching has been contagious as the Snappers have played much better as of late and will stay in contention all year if they continue to pitch like this.
• Ozzie Lewis continues to raise his average day by day as he went 2-5 with a double and an rbi single in the 11th inning that sent the Beloit fans home happy. With the 2 hits it raises Ozzie's average to still crappy .173 on the season. However, if you look at how bad it was you can see life out of him and I look for his average to continue to go up and up as he gets more comfortable and gets more playing time.
• Today, the Snappers finish off their series with Burlington in Beloit. Gametime is at 1:00 with Brian Kirwan getting the start for the Snappers as they try to extend their winning streak to 6 games.

Sunday, May 25th

Twins Talk
Detroit 19 Minnesota 3
Minnesota 24-25 2.5 games back

• POG: Matt Macri- In an awful performance by the Twins the only one that stood out for anything good was Matt Macri who was making his major league debut. Matt went 2-3 with a walk and a rbi along with a stolen base. Matt really stood out for the Twins in a game that got out of hand in a hurry. I look for him to stay with the Twins even after Nick Punto comes back on Tuesday and will platoon with Mike Lamb playing against left handed pitching as long as he continues to hit.
• If i had to pick a word to use to describe Boof Bonser last night it would be Dreadful and even that doesn't seem like a strong enough word to describe how bad he pitched last night. He went 3+ innings and gave up 9 runs on 7 hits along with 2 walks and 2 strikeouts. With the 9 runs his era went up to a huge 6.16 on the season. In the Month of May he is 0-2 witha 9.56 era. The question has to asked what do you do with him becuase it is definatly not working for us with him in the starting rotatiion. I think there are a couple options first, try sending him to the minors, but he is out of options and some team would for sure claim him so I dont think that is very smart thing to do. Second, is send him to the bullpen to work on things . I think thats the best choice because when he is right he is a decent pitcher and the bullpen needs some help. The only problem with that is they don't have another pitcher to take his place. Scott Baker is currently in Florida rehabbing and they think he is a week to a week and a half away from being ready so we will be forced to watch another trainwreck on Friday night against the Yankees. My advice is make alternate plans for after the game gets out of hand.
• Alexi Casilla continued his recent power surge by tying the game at 2 in the 3rd inning with his second homerun of the year. With the 2 rbis it brings his total up to 9 on the season. He has been much better than i thought he would be and if he can play good defense we might of found our second basemen of the present and future.
• Today, the Twins finish off their 3 game series with the Tigers in Detroit. Gametime is at 12:05 with Glen Perkins getting the start for the Twins vs Justin Verlander of the Tigers.

Rochester Wrap

Pawtucket 9 Rochester 1

Rochester 19-31 13.0 games back

• POG: Kevin Mulvey- Kevin had his best start in quite a while last night for the Red Wings. The final score may be a little deceiving on how well he actually pitched and that was very well. Kevin went the first 5 innings and gave up only a run on 6 hits along with 2 walks and also 2 strikeouts. I don't knwo the reason he was taken out after 5 innings because he only threw 81 pitches. However, it was much better than how he was pitching and if he can keep this up he will have a successful year and possibly a September callup by the Twins organization. With the 5 good innings he lowered his era to a respectable 4.10 on the season.
• The real problem was that Rochester bullpen look at these numbers. They went 3 innings and gave up 8 runs on 6 hits along with 7 walks and 2 strikeouts. The main culprit was Julio Depaula who got 1 out and gave up 3 runs on 3 hits with 2 walks and a strikeout to bring his ERA up to 4.44 on the season. Games like that are the reason Depaula will never be with the Twins because he is so inconsistant and walks too many batters and those are things that are not cool with the Twins.
• The only real brightspot was Darnell Mcdonald who is coming back from a hamstring injury and slowly, but surely is getting back his hitting stroke. He went 2-4 to bring his average back up to .326 on the season. If the Red Wings are able to be respectable it will be because of Mcdonald one of only a few good players that are there and someone who can make a difference offensively.
• Today the Red Wings finish off their series with Pawtuckett in Pawtuckett. Gametime is at 5:05 with Brian Duensing getting the ball for the Red Wings.

New Britain Business

Portland 4 New Britain 1

New Britain 23-25 8.5 games back

• POG: Anthony Swarzak- In a game the offense was only able to muster 2 hits against the other pitcher Anthony kept the team in the game until he tired late in the game. Alot of people will look at the 4 runs allowed and say it was a bad start but i thought he really showed some improvement. He went 6 innings and only gave up 4 runs on 6 hits and 3 of those runs came in the 6th when he was running out of gas. With the 4 runs it raises his era to 4.29 for the season. Im sure you can look at the negatives but the way i look at it going into the 6th inning he only gave up 1 run on 2 hits against a good Portland team so I take it as a good start.
• There is not alot of good things offensively as they were only able to push across 2 hits against very good Portland pitching. The two guys with hits were Dustin Martin and Toby Gardenhire. Steve Tolleson scored the only run that the Rock Cats were able to push across.
• The Rock Cats have really struggled losing 3 in a row to drop a season high 2 games under 500. They are not playing well as a team right now it seems like when they pitch good they cant hit and when they hit the pitching does not go good. They need to figure some things out if they are going to make a run and there is too much talent on this team for them to play this bad.
• Today, the Rockcats finish their series with Portland in Portland. Gametime is at 12:00 with Jay Rainville getting the start for the Rockcats.

Fort Myers Musings

Palm Beach 6 Fort Myers 3

Fort Myers 31-18 First Place

• POG: Juan Portes- Juan had a very good at the plate in a losing cause for the Miracle. Juan went 2-4 with a run scored to pace the Miracle's attack. With the 2 hits it bring's Juans average up to .275 on the season. Juan has really been one of the pleasant surprises for the Miracle and a big reason that they find themselves in first place. He doesn't have much power but he is a very good singles hitter who finds a way to get on base and score runs.
• Alex Burnett was good again last night. He went the first 7 innings and only gave up 3 runs on 5 hits along with 2 walks and 2 strikeouts. With the outing it brings his ERA up to 3.27 on the season. Alex is really underated if you ask me and does not get the credit he deserves because he has been the most consistant pitcher on the Miracle starting staff. He reminds me of a young Pedro Martinez in that he is short in stature but finds a way to get hitters out. Im sure Alex would take the kind of career Pedro was able to put together and he is definatly worth watching.
• Jose Lugo had a rough outing last night going 2 innings and giving up 3 runs on 4 hits along with 2 walks and a strikeout. With the outing it brings Jose's era up to 6.00 on the season. He was doing a good job of late and then he had an outing like that im sure it was a little disconcerting for the Miracle coaching staff.
• Today, the Miracle conclude their series with Palm Beach in Fort Myers as they go for the series split. Gametime is at 12:05 with Tyler Robertson getting the start for the Miracle as he tries to build off his awesome last start.

Beloit Beat

Beloit 8 Burlington 0 7 innings

Beloit 3 Burlington 1 7 innings

Beloit 27-22 8.0 games back

• POD: Ben Revere- Ben's amazing start to his career continued in a doubleheader by going an amazing 5-8 in the 2 games. He added a double and a triple along with 3 runs scored and 2 stolen Bases. With the 5 hits it brought his season average to a crazy .425. People say its easy to hit that way when you dont have very many at bats but Ben has over 100 at bats so its a good sample size. In his last 10 games Ben is hitting 20-43 a .465 average with a homerun 6 rbi's, 5 stolen bases and 8 runs scored. He fills the box score up like nobody i have ever seen I would love to watch him play live im sure he's alot of fun to watch. I was always a proponent of having him stay at Beloit all year becuase look at the difference he has made with the team. They were really struggling before he came and now they are hitting their stride and winning almost every night and are in 3rd bearing down Kane's neck and waiting for Clinton to slip up. However, if he hits like this for another month you almost have to move him up to Fort Myers because you want to protect these kids but at the same time you dont want to limit them and thats what you would be doing by keeping him in Beloit if he continues to dominate and when hes ready for a new challege.
• The Snappers got a couple good pitching performances by Michael Tarsi and Mike Mccardell. Tarsi's start stood out as he went 6 shutout innings and only gave up 2 hits while striking out 8 batters in his best start of the season. Mccardell hadn't made a start in a month so he was only able to go 3.2 innings but he only gave up 1 run on 1 hit along with a walk and 5 strikeouts. The biggest difference in the Snappers since they started winning has been their starting pitching. Tarsi if he can build off of this will make it so much better becuase he has the best stuff out of anybody on the Snappers staff and if he can keep it up the Snappers should continue to rise.
• The Snappers have been playing some really good ball as of late winning 4 games in a row to get within 8 games of first place. I remember early in the season they were really struggling and people were getting hurt people were predicting a last place finish. If Deibinson Romero can come back and hit like we know he can the Snappers will keep putting pressure on Clinton and might get a chance to defend their Midwest League title.
• Today, the Snappers continue their series with Burlington in Beloit. Gametime is at 1:00 with Daniel Berlind getting the start for the Snappers as they try to extend their winning streak to 5 games.

Saturday, May 24th

Twins Talk
Minnesota 9 Detroit 4
Minnesota 24-24 2.5 games back

• POG: Mike Lamb- Mike came out of a season long slump by going 2-3 with his first homerun of the season along with a triple and a rbi and 4 runs scored. With the 2 hits it raises Mike's average to still a bad .232 on the season. With the Rbi it brought his total up to 20 on the season. Mike really needs to step it up and he is very capable based on what he did in Houston and with me living in Texas i saw alot of Astros games on Tv last year and he was way better than this so i still have confidence that he will get it going and be the hitter that we were expecting when we signed him. He is too good of a hitter to hit like this and it seemed like when he hit that homerun last night he just relaxed and you could tell when he got back to the dugout he exhaled and all the pressure came off and now he can just relax and hit. Honestly, I have been pleasantly surprised with his defense at 3rd it hasn't been gold glove quality but it has been definatly decent. I look for Mike to really take off now and put up the type of numbers we are expecting out of him.
• Kevin Slowey pitched a pretty good game last night going 6 shutout innings and only giving up 4 hits along with 3 walks and 2 strikeouts. With the 6 shutout innings he picked up his first win of the season and lowered his era to a decent 4.21 on the season. For what his ERA was after that first start before he got hurt he has pitched very good since to get it down in the 4's and hopefully he can keep it going. My only problem with Kevin is he nibbles to much so his pitch count is elevated and he tires in the 6th inning. For example last night he cruised through 5 and then they started hitting him in the 6th. He gave up 2 hits in the 6th and everything was hit hard. The reason is his pitch count was up because of his nibbling earlier in the game. If he can just show the same aggressiveness late in the count as he does early in the count he would lower his pitch count and be able to pitch in the 7th and 8th innings. Until he does that it will put alot of pressure on our bullpen a bullpen that has really struggled this season.
• Justin Mourneau continued his hot start to the season by going 2-4 with 2 doubles and 2 run batted in. With the 2 hits it brought his average up to a very good .306. With theh 2 rbis it brought his total up to 39 on the season which ranks him 3rd in the American League. I had someone say that Justin is not clutch and i totally disagree I think he is totally clutch. This is baseball you are not going to do it everytime but i have alot of confidence that when there are runners on base Justin is going to find a way to ge them into score.
• Tonight, the Twins take on the Tigers in game 2 of their 3 game series in Detroit. Gametime is at 6:05 with Boof Bonser having a huge start as he tries to stay in the rotation. Nate Robertson gets the start for the Tigers.

Rochester Wrap

Rochester 6 Pawtucket 4

Rochester 19-30 13.0 games back

• POG: Danny Graves- Danny continues to impress out of the Rotation showing a veteran guile to get hitters out that pitchers like Philip Humber need to take heed of. It doesn't matter how hard you throw the key is being able to get the hitters out. Danny went 6 innings, his longest outing of the season, and gave up 3 runs on 4 hits along with 2 bases on balls. I just love the way Danny pitches his fastball has good movement on it and has rediscovered his good slider. If Danny keeps pitching like he is and if the Twins bullpen continues to struggle it wont be long until Danny gets a well deserved callup to the big club and i really think he can help them.
• Sergio Santos had his finest day as a member of the Red Wings by going 3-4 with 2 doubles and 2 runs scored. With the 2 hits it raised Sergio's average to a still bad but getting better every day .202 on the season. He is hitting .258 wiht the Red Wings a big improvement from what he was doing with Toronto which led to his release from the Blue Jays organization. I see alot of talent in him and if he keeps working on his game he could be a decent shortstop. He was a first round pick so you know there is talent and maybe a bad Red Wings team is a perfect way for his game to come together lets hope so.
• I was going to write an article on this but decided to use the time here to write about it. The Twins organizationo have really screwed up Rochester. They take all their best players and dont replenish the players with other players of equal value. Rochester signed a 2 year extension with the Twins so they have no bargaining power with the Twins. They have lost Howie Clark, the team leader, Matt Macri, Alexi Casilla, Denard Span, Kevin Slowey. Who have they gave them Danny Graves, Sergio Santos and Felix Molina. Nothing against those players but they are not players up to that par. I would like to have seen Trevor Plouffe, Luke Hughes, Erik Lis and Anthony Swarzak getting the call instead to see how they would do. All i know is the Rochester coaching staff does not have much of a chance to win consistantly with those players. Pretty much all of them are journeymen who will never make it to the Bigs and all have something they dont do will. All i know is its going to be a long season in Rochester and i hope eventually the Twins wise up and give them something to work with.
• Tonight, the Redwings continue their series with Pawtucket in Pawtucket. Gametime is at 5:05 with Kevin Mulvey getting the start for the Red Wings trying to rebound after a few bad starts.

New Britain Business

Portland 7 New Britain 6

New Britain 23-24 7.5 gams back

• POG: Matt Moses- In a game that the Rock Cats only managed to get 6 hits in the game Matt was 1-3 with a walk along with his 3rd homerun of the season. He walked once drove in a run and scored 2 runs With the 1 hit it brought Matt's average up to .253 on the season. With his rbi it brought his total to 19 on the season. Matt is a key to the Rock Cats offense along with David Winfree and when they hit the Rock Cats have a chance to win and when they dont they almost always lose so it is key for Matt to swing the bat well something that he really has not done on a consistant basis this year. I do think he can get better and better and the Rock Cats are counting on him being the force in the middle of the lineup that will drive in runs and be a consistant tough out.
• Ryan Mullins should of stayed home last night. He went 4 innings and gave up 6 runs on 7 hits along with 2 walks and 3 strikeouts. The thing that really hurt Ryan is Portland connected for 4 homeruns off of him which took out any chance for the Rock Cats to get the win. Ryan has been the most consistant pitcher for the Rock Cats all season and every pitcher has a day where nothing works and they are smashing everything you are throwing up there. Im sure he wishes he could go out today and get that bad taste out of his mouth and not have to wait 5 days. With the rough outing it brought Ryan's ERA to 3.81 on the season. I really believe next time out Ryan will put this start behind him and show exactly what kind of pitcher he is and throw good innings.
• I can't get over how well Zach Ward continues to pitch out of the Pen. In 30 innings this year he has only given up 1 earned run for a ERA of 0.30 on the season. I would like to see him get the promotion to AAA to see if he has a future in the bullpen and if he can a chance with the Twins next season or if he is just hot right now.
• Today, the Rock Cats continue their series with Portland in Portland. Gametime is at 12:00 with Anthony Swarzak getting the start for the Rockcats.

Fort Myers Musings

Fort Myers 5 Palm Beach 3

Fort Myers 31-17 First Place

• POG: Danny Valencia- Danny continues his hot string by going 3-3 with an rbi and a run scored. With the 3 hits it brings Danny's average up to a team high .346 on the season. With the rbi it brings his team high to 39 on the season. He has been especially hot in his last 10 games by going 21-38 a ridiculous .553 average with 2 homeruns and 12 rbi's along with 6 doubles and 2 triples. Danny is dominating the FSL so much that you almost have to promote him to AA to see what he can do. I think he definatly is the future 3rd basemen for the Twins and a new level of competiton is what Danny needs to see where he is at. I look for him to dominate that league too and look for him to be playing 3rd base for the Twins when the new ballpark opens in the 2010 season.
• I dont know how to describe the start for Deolis Guerra yesterday. On one hand he only gave up 2 runs on 2 hits in 5 innings, but he also walked 7 batters which is awful and thats why he only lasted 5 innings. With the 2 runs it lowered Deolis' ERA to 4.56 on the season. We just have to hope his wildness was just an abberation because his stuff is too good for him to be walking 7 in a game adn i really believe he will get that walk thing under control after this start. Other than the Walks he was very good holding a good Palm Beach lineup to only 2 hits in 5 innings so its hard for me to be too hard on him because they really didn't hit him very hard and if he can get the walk thing under control he will be fine.
• The Combo of Slama and Delaney continued to impress going the last 2 innings and only gave up 1 hit and 1 unearned run in relief. Between the 2 of them they have went 51 innings and only given up 5 earned runs. They have walked 12 batters and struck out 71 batters. I think they both have a future with the Twins and it maybe time to move 1 of them up to see how they can do against better competion.
• Tonight, the Miracle continue their series with Palm Beach in Fort Myers. Gametime is at 6:05 with Alex Burnett getting the start for the Miracle.

Beloit Beat

Beloit 7 Burlington 4

Beloit 25-22 8.5 games back

• POG: Ben Revere- Big surprise Ben had another ho hum game going 2-4 with his first homerun of the year along with 2 runs scored. With his 2 hits he raised his average up to .408 on the year. It is no fluke either because he has 98 at bats so pitchers have had a chance to make adjustments against him and he is still hitting like this. It amazes me how well he has come on this year coming in midseason to help the Snappers get into contention in the Midwest league. I think it would be an injustice to him to move him up to fast I would let him dominate at Beloit this year and next year move him up to Fort Myers to see how he does and that allows him to keep his confidence up. I seriously did not see this coming i thought he would be a good player but i didnt think he would dominate so early in his career and it will only be a few years until he is patrolling the outfield for the Twins. Can the imagine the outfield speed out of Revere and Carlos Gomez wow.
• David Bromberg had an ok outing not great and not bad. He went 5.2 innings and gave up 3 runs on 6 hits along with 5 strikeouts without a walk. David has really come on lately to lower his era to a respectable 4.70 on the season. That probably seems high but how he was pitching earlier in the season i will take it. David is a very talented pitcher and when he can get his slider over the plate he is downright dominent. I look for him to stay in the rotation and keep getting better as the year goes along.
• The surprise of the team has to be Ozzie Lewis who went 2-4 with his 3rd homerun of the season along with 2 rbi's and a run scored. Since he came off the DL he has hit 5-15 a .333 average much better than his average before. Slowly but surely Ozzie is getting his average up after the disaster begging of the season. His average now sits at .137 and goes up every day and i think he will be just fine.
• Tonight, the Snappers continue their series with Burlington in Beloit. Gametime is at 5:00 with Michael Tarsi getting the start for the Snappers as they try to continue their strong play of late.

2011 Minnesota Twins

Here is a fun look who I think will make up the 2011 Minnesota Twins see if anybody agrees or disagrees.

C- Joe Mauer
1b Justin Mourneau
2b Alexi Casilla
SS Trevor Plouffe
3b Danny Valencia
Lf Ben Revere
Cf Carlos Gomez
Rf Delmon Young
DH Jason Kubel


1. Carlos Gomez
2. Ben Revere
3. Joe Mauer
4. Justin Mourneau
5. Delmon Young
6. Jason Kubel
7. Danny Valencia
8. Trevor Plouffe
9. Alexi Casilla

Reserves
Jose Morales C
Denard Span OF
Matt Tolbert IN
Luke Hughes IN

Pitching
1. Francisco Liriano
2. Deolis Guerra
3. Tyler Robertson
4. Anthony Swarzak
5. Kevin Mulvey

Bullpen
LP Glen Perkins
RP Pat Neshek
CL Joe Nathan
RP Anthony Slama
RP Jesse Crain
RP Robert Delaney
RP Philip Humber

everyone let me know what you think

2011 Minnesota Twins

Thursday, May 22nd

This is my big 40 game Twins prospect top 50 list that i have been working on for quite a while so i hope you all enjoy. I plan on having one every 40 games or so lets see how it changes.

1) Tyler Robertson P
2) Deolis Guerra P
3) Kevin Mulvey P
4) Ben Revere CF
5) Anthony Swarzak P
6) Danny Valencia 3b
7) Jeff Manship P
8) Luke Hughes 3b
9) Trevor Plouffe SS
10) Denard Span CF
11) Brian Duensing P
12) Deibinson Romero 3b
13) Ryan Mullins P
14) Alex Burnett P
15) Brian Dinkelman 2b
16) Wilson Ramos
17) Philip Humber
18) Rene Tosoni
19) Erik Lis
20) Anthony Slama
21) David Bromberg
22) Cole Devries
23) Brock Peterson
24) Steve Tolleson
25) Joe Benson
26) Zach Ward
27) Dustin Martin
28) Jose Morales
29) Johnny Woodard
30) Steve Singelton
31) Chris Parmalee
32) Oswaldo Sosa
33) Mike Mccardell
34) Drew Butera
35)Yohan Pino
36) Yancarlos Ortiz
37) Jay Rainville
38) Eddie Ovalle
39) David Winfree
40) Juan Portes
41) Michael Tarsi
42) Robert Delaney
43) Brandon Roberts
44) Matt Moses
45) Brian Kirwan
46) Tim Lahey
47) Jair Fernandez
48) Danny Lehman
49) Dan Berlind
50) Garrett Olson

thats my top 50 let me know what you think

Tuesday, May 20th

Twins Talk
Minnesota 7 Texas 6 12 innings
Minnesota 22-22 1.5 games back

• POG: Bobby Korecky- In one of the crazier games you are ever going to see on a baseball field a reliever gets player of the game honors. Something that probably won't happen ever again, but did Bobby earn the honor. Bobby came into a bases loaded 1 out jam in the 11th and got out of it with a pop up and a strikeout. Then he came up to bat because Brenden Harris, who began the game as the DH, had to come in a play defense so they lost the DH and he got a hit unbelievably. Then he pitched a scoreless 12th to pick up his first major league win along with his first major league hit. Bobby Korecky is a guy that is not going to overpower you, but just knows how to get people out and has done it for a long time. He was the closer for Rochester for a good amount of time before getting his chance with the Twins. The Twins haven't used him a whole lot so far, but hopefully this is something that will gain their confidence to use him in more clutch roles becuase i believe he can do it given a chance.
• Another unlikely hero was Howie Clark who entered the game in the 10th inning as a defensive replacement. He came up with Carlos Gomez on 2nd with 1 out in the 12th with the pitcher hitting next so he knew he would get a good pitch to hit and took advantage of it. He belted a line drive over the center fielder's head to send all the fans at the Dome home happy. I know i have been critical of Howie Clark being in the Mitchell report, but it took alot of guts by him to keep playing in the minor leagues and to show that type of determination is a credit to him as a person so good for him.
• Last night was one of the craziest games i have watched in a long time, but i think Gardy should be questioned a bit for using everyone up so the pitcher had to hit. It worked out good but lets say if clark flies out and then the pitcher would of had to hit and he got out and we lost the game gardy would be getting murdered, but it didn't happen so like the old saying goes alls well that ends well so a great win by the Twins to get back within a game and a half of first place Chicago.
• Tonight, the Twins take on the Rangers in game 2 of their 4 game series at the dome. Gametime is at 7:10 with Glen Perkins getting the start for the Twins.

Rochester Wrap

gm 1 Syracuse 5 Rochester 0

gm 2 Rochester 7 Syracuse 6 8 innings

Rochester 18-28 12.0 games back

• POD: Matt Macri- Matt Macri who came off the disabled list last weekend came out hot as he went 3-8 over the 2 games which is a .375 average. He had a double along with 2 additional singles to pace the Red Wings attack. With the 3 hits it brought Matt's average up to .255 on the season. Matt has had his up and downs this season for the Red Wings and just when it looked like he was getting his swing down he pulled his groin and was out about 3 weeks. Now that he is back slowly but surely he is getting the feel at the plate again and i think he will be a big member of the Red Wings lineup as they try to rebound from an awful start. Do i think he will make it to the majors probably not but he is a good solid Minor League player.
• Randy Ruiz finally showed a little power at the plate in the second game yesterday as he belted his 3rd homerun of the year, a 3 run shot, that helped the Red Wings get a win in the 2nd game. Randy had a very good spring and there were some people that thought he should of made the Twins, but he went to Rochester and has really struggled. I dont know if it is a hangover from not making the team or what but he needs to put it together because there are guys below him ready to take his spot so hopefully he can get it done offensively and help the Red Wings win some games.
• Jose Morales has really come on at the plate as of late. Early in the season he was hitting a meager .218 and after a good streak he has his average up to .290 on the season. Look at the last 10 games to show how well he has hit he has gone 15-33 a .455 average to bring his batting average up to .290.
• Today, the Red Wings take on Syracuse in the final game of the series. Gametime is at 10am with Francisco Liriano getting the start for the Red Wings.

New Britain Business

New Britain 5 Harrisburg 1

New Britain 22-21 5.5 games back

• POG: Jay Rainville- Jay had one of the best outing of his career last night. Jay went 7 innings and only gave up an unearned run along with 3 hits. He didn't walk a batter and struck out 8 to get his 3rd win of the year. With the no earned runs it lowered Jay's ERA to a still high but better 7.53 on the season. This was the kind of start the Twins have been waiting to see out of Jay it just reinforces how talented this kid is and that they are right to be patient with him. He is a tease he will be very good and then be average for a few starts and then bam he will be awesome. My hope is that he can build off of this game and come out next time and do it again because he has proved that he is sure capable of being a very good pitcher.
• Trevor Plouffe had another good game as he continues his hot hitting as he brought his average up to .294 on the season. He has especially been hot the last 10 games in which he has hit 13-38 a .342 average along with 3 doubles and a triple. Trevor did like he usually does and gets better as the season goes along at the plate. What he really needs to work on though is his defense as he committed his 6th error of the season and if he is going to play with the Twins he is going to have to cut down on the errors or he wont make it, but i think with his work ethic it will be fine.
• Drew Butera finally showed something at the plate going 1-3 with a double and 3 rbi's to pace the Rock Cats attack. He is very good defensively and calls a good game so anything he can give you offensively is a plus so hopefully he can keep it going.
• Tonight, the Rock Cats continue their series with Harrisburg in New Britain. Gametime is at 5:35 with Oswaldo Sosa getting the start for the Rock Cats.

Fort Myers Musings

Jupiter 4 Fort Myers 2

Fort Myers 28-16 First Place

• POG: Daniel Berg- In a game where the Miracle bats went silent with only 6 hits in the game. One bright spot was Daniel Berg who went 1-3 with a walk and an rbi driving in 1 of the Miracle's 2 runs. With the 1 hit last night it brought Daniel's average up to .250 on the season. Daniel is a good all around player who has come in handy with the injurys to Valencia and Tosoni becuase he can play anywhere and do a good job no matter where you put him. I look for Berg to get more and more playing time as the season goes on and for his average to continue to rise.
• Alex Burnett was ok not great but not horrible. He went 6 innings and gave up 3 earned runs along with 9 hits. He walked noone and struck out 4. It was not one of Alex's better starts but he got through 6 innings to make it a quality start and he does atleast that every time out.
• The Miracle defense continues to hurt them as they committed 2 more errors to bring their season total up to 42 errors in only 44 games and if they continue to do that they will see a difference in their wins and losses.
• Tonight, the Miracle continue their series with Jupiter in Jupiter. Gametime is at 5:35 with Tyler Robertson getting the start for the Miracle.

Beloit Beat

Beloit 6 Clinton 5

Beloit 23-20 7.5 games back

• POG: Ben Revere- Ben continued his torrid pace for the Snappers as he had 3 more hits and 2 more rbi's. With the 3 hits it brought his average up to a unbelievable .432 on the season. With his 2 rbi's it brought his total in that to 11 on the season. I have never seen a start for someone taking a jump up in competition like he is doing by going into A ball less than a year after being drafted. There is some thought that maybe he is ready for the big jump up to high A in Fort Myers. I think he would do fine there but why rush him he is only 20 years old and he can continue to dominate the Midwest league and then next year move him up. With that said if he keeps hitting like he is now i dont see how you can keep him away from Fort Myers especially with the injury to Tosoni, but if i had a choice i would keep him in Beloit for the season.
• Michael Tarsi had another so so outing for the Snappers. He went 5.1 innings and gave up 4 runs on 9 hits. Along with 4 walks and 3 strikeouts to add to his crummy start. With Mike Mccardell back in the fold i think Tarsi could be the one that goes to the bullpen because he has been pretty unimpressive this year going 1-6 with a 6.84 era. I think maybe it would help him to be in the bullpen to get some confidence back because he is probably the most talented pitcher on the team and when he gets his confidence back watch out.
• Garrett Olson also had a big game going 3-4 at the plate to bring his average up to .276 on the season. It will be interesting to see what they do with Olson when Romero comes back in a month or so becuase you need to get both their bats in the lineup.
• Tonight, the Snappers continue their series with Clinton in Clinton. Gametime is at 7pm again with Daniel Berlind getting the start for the Snappers.

Monday, May 19th

Twins Talk
Colorado 6 Minnesota 2
Minnesota 21-22 2.0 games back

• POG: Justin Mourneau- Justin was one of the few bright spots on the dreadful day for the Twins. Justin went 1-4 with his 8th homerun of the year along with 2 rbi's to bring his total up to 34 on the year that ranks 4th in the American League. With the 1 hit it brought Justin's average to .306 on the season. Justin has been one of the bright spots from a struggling offense all year and he is putting Justin Mourneau numbers up. Some were worried that he would struggle after getting the big contract i.e. Michael Cuddyer but he has not he has done everything expected of him. I really think that by seasons end he will do his usual 35 and 120 again.
• Kevin Slowey continues to do his usual. He is such a tease becuase he has good stuff and wil be good for 4 or 5 innings and then bam he will lose it about 90 pitches. Yesterday he went 5.2 innings and gave up 7 hits and 3 runs to drop his record to 0-4 on the young season. With the 3 runs it lowered his era to 5.49 on the season. Kevin nibbles to much in my opinion which gets his pitch count up and then runs out of gas and gives up runs late in his outings. The biggest thing he needs to start doing is to continue to attack the strike zone with 2 strikes. Its like he gets up on the hitter and then nibbles and nibbles and that may create strikeouts but it also gets his pitch count up.
• Yesterday was a day that Twins fans are not accustomed to seeing out of the Twins players as they struggled to move guys along, situation hitting, and defensively they commited 3 errors and thats not a Twins team. Before the Twins can win on a consistant basis they need to get their defense up to par because we have an expection to live up to and that is to play defense and not beat ourselves.
• Tonight, the Twins try to get back on track as they Host the Texas Rangers at the Metrodome gametime is at 7:10 with Boof Bonser starting for the Twins vs Kevin Feldman for the Rangers

Rochester Wrap

• The Red Wings game vs Syracuse in Cooperstown to celebrate the International League's 125th anniversary was suspended in the 2nd inning because of rain and will be made up today at 4pm. The regularly scheduled game with Syracuse will follow at 6 with Brian Duensing getting the start for the Red Wings.

New Britain Business

Portland 7 New Britain 6

New Britain 21-21 6.0 games back

• POG: Steve Tolleson- Steve continued his hot streak at the plate by going 3-5 with a double and a rbi his 26th of the season. In Steve's last 10 games he has went 17-43 a .395 batting average with 3 doubles, a triple and a homerun. Steve really stepped it up when Luke Hughes went down to keep the Rock Cats afloat. I really love his flexibility in that he can play infield or outfield and hits wherever you put him in the lineup he can hit leadoff or he also can hit in the middle of the order. I really like him as a player who brings alot to the table for the Rock Cats and will be a key player if the Rock Cats are going to get back on track.
• Anthony Swarzak was what he has been his last 4 or 5 starts and that is ok. Not bad but not real good either. Yesterday he went 5.2 innings and gave up 3 earned runs and 6 hits while walking 2 and striking out 2. With the 3 runs it brings his era up to 4.06 on the season. Anthony started out like a banchy but has come back down to earth after starting off so well. But the key is when he gets the ball down he can abe downright dominant and when he figures out how to do that watch out.
• David Winfree drove in another run in a late pinch hitter appearance and got a hit to drive in his team leading 35th run of the year. David's average has not been what we were hoping for but his run production has by belting a team high 10 homeruns along with the 35 rbi's.
• Tonight, the Rock Cats begin a series with Harrisburg in New Britain. Gametime is at 5:35 pm with Jay Rainville trying to build on a quality start his last time out.

Fort Myers Musings

Fort Myers 12 Jupiter 10

Fort Myers 28-15 First Place

• POG: Deolis Guerra- In a 12-10 game you may be surprised that i am picking the starting pitcher for player of the game honors. However, Deolis had his best outing in quite a while last night going 6 strong innings and only giving up 2 earned runs on 6 hits along with only 1 walk and 4 strikeouts. He didn't get the win but it was a step forward for Deolis as he works on his mechanics and delivery. With the 2 runs allowed it lowered his ERA to 4.67 on the season. I think its funny how everyone is giving up on the kid and hes just 18 years old and has a world of potential and when he gets ahead in the count its almost over for the hitter. Look for him to get better and better as the season goes on, but i dont think he will be promoted this year i think they are going to take their time with this guy to make sure he gets to his potential.
• The Miracle are really on a roll right now especially their offense even with Danny Valencia nursing a sore hand they cranked out 17 hits at the game. They were led by Johnny Woodard's 4-5 at the plate with 4 rbi's and Wilson Ramos' 2 homeruns along with Danny Santiesteban who drove in the game winning runs in the top of the 12th to seal the vicory.
• In Roster news the Miracle placed Rene Tosoni on the 7 day DL and recalled Yangervis Solarte from extended Spring Training to help out in the infield with Valencia hobbled.
• Anthony Slama pitched the bottom of the 12th inning to pick up his 8th save of the season in relief. Anthony is 24 years old and still in high A so i think a combo of his age and his ridiculious stuff makes him a prime candidate to get moved up to New Britain. The Rock Cats need a closer and Anthony's 0.37 era would fit in very well there and would let Robert Delaney get all the saves for the Miracle.
• Today, the Miracle continue their series with Jupiter in Jupiter. Gametime is at 6:05pm with Alex Burnett getting the start for the Miracle.

Beloit Beat

Beloit 5 Peoria 4

Beloit 22-20 8.5 games back

• POG: Joe Benson- Joe is really coming on of late going 14-38 a .368 average in his last 10 games with 6 doubles and 2 triples along with 7 rbi's and 4 stolen bases in that span. Yesterday he went 3-4 with a double and 3 rbi's along with his 10th stolen base of the season. With the 3 hits it raises Joe's average to .263 on the season. With Joe and Ben Revere in that outfield right now the Snappers have alot of speed and the way they both have been hitting is a big reason that the snappers have been on such a role as a team lately to get over the 500 mark. I think Ben Revere probably has passed Joe Benson in the eyes of the Twins, but thats not to take anything away from the resurgence of Joe Benson who I still think is a good prospect and will have a future in the major leagues if he can cut down on his strikeout total which i think he can if he is just a little more selective at the plate.
• Another big reason for the revival of the Snappers has been their great starting pitching. David Bromberg continued that by making another quality start by going 6 innings and only giving up 2 earned runs along with 7 hits. He walked 2 and struck out a nice 6 batters to get the win. If the Starters can keep doing what they are doing the Snappers are going to continue to rise in the standings.
• In a Roster move the Snappers activated Mike Mccardell off the disabled list and released Ben Petsch who was a 19th round draft pick in the 07 draft. Ben had alot of talent their just was not enough at bats for him so they decided it was best to let him go somewhere else to get the at bats he needs.
• Tonight, the Snappers begin a series with first place Clinton in Clinton. Gametime is at 7pm with Michael Tarsi getting the start for the Snapper.

Howie Clark debate

You know what i think of Howie Clark being recalled, but i want to know what you all think. Do you think its ok for the Twins to have someone in the Mitchell report who has admitted to taking steroids. Before i get a comment about Juan Rincon it was different that was a banned supplement that was not steroids so give me your opinion on this issue.

Saturday, May 17th

Twins Talk
Minnesota 4 Colordao 2
Minnesota 21-20 0.5 games back

• POG: Delmon Young- Delmon really snapped out of his slump in a big way by going 3-4 on the night with 2 doubles and 2 runs scored. With the 2 hits it raises Delmon's average to .276 on the year. Delmon has struggled with power still searching for his first homerun of the year, but he is hitting .276 and that is a respectable average. Jim Souhan in the Star Tribune said yesterday that all he is a singles hitter and even if he is that i have no problem with that its not like he is making alot of money. However, I don't think he is going to stay a singles hitter i look for him to develop his power this season we just need to be patient. I look for him to end up hitting 15-20 HR's and I think he will hit alot of doubles and if the people ahead of him get on he will have alot of rbi's by the end of the year. Some guys just start off slow and mash the ball after that and thats what i think Delmon Young is and we should all stop worrying.
• Nick Blackburn continued his strong season by going 7 solid innings and only giving up 2 runs on 6 hits along with 5 strikeouts without a walk. With the 7 innings it lowered his Era to 3.77 on the season. Nick is just a solid middle of the rotation starter and has been everything we have been expecting and more.
• Justin Mourneau continued his recent hot string by going 2-4 with a walk to raise his average to .307 on the season. Justin got off to a slow start but has really been raking the ball of late to bring his average over .300 on the season.
• Tonight, the Twins take on the Rockies in game 2 of their series in Colorado. Gametime is at 7:05 with Livan Hernandez(6-1 3.93) getting the start for the Twins vs Rookie Greg Reynolds(0-1 6.35) getting the start for the Rockies.

Rochester Wrap

Columbus 5 Rochester 4

Rochester 17-26 12.0 games back

• POG: Philip Humber- Philip had his best start of the year by far by going 6.2 innings and only giving up 3 runs on 6 hits along with 3 walks and 1 strikeout. With the 3 runs allowed it lowers his ERA to a still bad 5.09 on the season. This was a start Philip really needed not only for the team but also for his own psyche. He had really been struggling to throw strikes and get batters out. Granted it was not a great start but it was a good one as he kept the Red Wings in the ballgame and thats all you can ask from a pitcher. I'll be honest i was expecting more out of him this year. I thought him being the 2nd year out from Tommy John surgery he would really take off and that obviously hasn't happened. He is right where he belongs in AAA and hopefully can keep working to possibly get a September callup with the Twins because they need to see him up here because after this year he will be out of options and they need to figure out if he can help them next year or if they should try to trade them instead of getting nothing in return.
• Brian Buscher had another outstanding game going 2-4 with his 6th homerun of the young season along with 2 rbi's and 2 runs scored to pace the Red Wings. With the 2 hits it raised Brian's average up to a very good .325 on the season. I know Brian is very disappointed today which ill explain in a minute but all he can do is keep hitting and wait for his chance to get back to the big leagues and when he gets there do enough so he won't have to go back.
• After the game Last Night it was announced that Twins infielder Matt Tolbert was put on the DL with a torn ligament in his thumb and the Twins purchased the contract of Howie Clark to replace him. Ill admit my first thought was Howie Who? The more i thought about it the more it irritates me not only because i think there are more deserving people to be in the majors and he is not even good he doesn't belong on a AAA team let alone a major league one. The major reason it irritates me is he is everything the Twins are not about. In case you didn't know this Howie Clark was named in the Mitchell Report for taking illegal steriods. He is not the type of guy that i want with the Twins he cheated to keep his spot. I know I know he won't play much but really do you want to send that message to the kids watching the Twins that its ok to take steroids it will allow you to make it to the majors I know i don't.
• Tonight, the Red Wings begin a series with their bitter rivals from Syracuse. Gametime is at 6:00pm with Danny Graves getting another start for the Red Wings

New Britain Business

New Britain 20-19 5.0 games back

• New Britain had their game rained out and is playing a day night doubleheader today in response to a earlier rainout with Portland in New Britain. Game 1 with start at 12:05 with Ryan Mullins getting the start. Game 2 is at 5:35pm with Anthony Swarzak getting the start for the Rock Cats

Fort Myers Musings

Tampa 3 Fort Myers 2 11 innings

Fort Myers 26-15 First Place

• POG: Cole Devries- Cole had by far his best start of the season and it is something that has been a long time coming. Cole went 7 innings and only gave up a run on only 4 hits along with only 1 walk and 6 strikeouts. With the 1 run allowed it lowered Cole's era to 4.56 on the season. It was a really good sign for Cole that he was able to shut down that lineup like that and shows that he belongs at that level and hopefully next time he can follow it up with a better start.
• Brian Dinkelman was one of the few Miracle hitters that could solve the very good Tampa pitching. Brian went 2-4 with a walk and a doulbe also. With the 2 hits it raises Brian's average to a very good .324 on the season. I think him and Valencia will be battling for the team lead in average all season long.
• The Miracle's bullpen struggled getting anybody out yesterday. In 4 innings of work they allowed 2 runs and 3 hits along with 4 walks to blow the game. Its pretty obvious there is an A team part of the bullpen with Delaney, Slama, Vais, and Lugo being apart of the A team and everyone else on the B team.
• Tonight, the Miracle continue their series with Tampa in Fort Myers. Gametime is at 6:05 with Jeff Manship getting the start for the Miracle.

Beloit Beat

Beloit 6 Peoria 3

Beloit 20-20 8.5 games back

• POG: Brian Kirwan- Brian continued the recent strong pitching performances by the Snappers starting pitchers. Brian went 6 innings and only gave up 2 runs on 8 hits along with 2 walks and 2 strikeouts. With the 2 runs Brian lowered his era to a very respectable 3.68 on the season. Brian has been very consistant all year long keeping his era in the 3's and has continued to find a way to get people out. I would probably say he has been the most consistant pitcher on the staff and if he keeps it going he will have a high quality season and possibly a promotion to Fort Myers.
• Joe Benson had a outstanding game overall going 3-4 with a single, a double, and a triple all he needed for the cycle was a homerun. He also had an outfield assist in the outfield along with a run scored. It was by far the most complete game of the season for Joe and he needs to show more consistancy to hold off the hard charging Ben Revere as starting center fielder for the Snappers.
• Ben Revere is so consistant going 2-5 with a run scored to pace the Snappers 11 hit assault. With the 2 hits it brings Ben's average back to where it was when they began the day at .397 on the season. Seems like every game Ben is 2-5 with atleast a run scored and most of the time a stolen base. My view on him though is not push him too hard he just graduated high school last year so let him dominate the Midwest league this year and move him up to Fort Myers next year.
• Tonight, the Snappers continue their weekend series with Peoria in Beloit. Gametime is at 6:30 again with Santos Arias getting the start for the Snappers