Will the Twins see ‘a completely different Livan?’
Posted on March 31st, 2008 – 11:22 AMBy Joe Christensen
When Livan Hernandez struggled early in spring training, he said the light would come on March 31. So here we are, on March 31, getting ready for his eighth career Opening Day start and his first season in the hitter-friendly American League.
Hernandez went 2-2 with a 6.38 ERA in six starts this spring, allowing 31 hits and five walks in 24 innings. On paper, the Angels would seem to have a tremendous advantage tonight, with righthander Jered Weaver on the mound. He went 5-0 with a 1.37 ERA this spring, allowing just 18 hits and three walks in 26 1/3 innings.
I have no idea what to expect, but I believe Hernandez when he talks about taking his game to a different level. Early this spring, I found an article in the Washington Post, previewing Livan’s Game 3 start for Arizona in last year’s NLCS.
It mentioned how Livan led the majors with 247 hits allowed and was second in opponent’s batting average (.308), on-base percentage (.371) and slugging percentage (.499). And it mentioned this quote by Diamondbacks first baseman Conor Jackson:
“It’s truly unbelievable because he comes into spring training, and he gets hit. He gets hit in spring training, and you’re like, ‘Oh my gosh.’ And then he gets in the regular season, and it’s a completely different Livan.”
For what it’s worth, Hernandez took the loss against the Cubs in Game 3. But the score was 1-1 entering the sixth inning. You can argue the Twins were wrong to pick Hernandez as their Opening Day starter. He might surprise and he might stumble. But whatever happens, I don’t think it’ll have anything to do with jitters.
90 Responses to "Will the Twins see ‘a completely different Livan?’"
hopefully we get a good 6 innings from the man and let the bp handle the rest…opening nite…its finally here…start off on a winning note…go twins!!! surprise em
Livan would be no more or less shaky than any other pitcher (Baker or Bonser maybe, definatly no better choice than Slowey or Blackburn)
All Livan needs to do in 08 is be a serviceable replacement for Silva. If he can do that the signing was a victory…as you got Silva performance for less than “Silva Money”.
That contract with the Mariners is going to look awefully foolish by the end of hte year. Not “Zito Foolish”…but foolish nonetheless.
i think Livan Hernandez will do better then the two sp the twins signed last year i cant think of there names
His sucking tonight won’t be caused by nerves, just his lack of ability at getting guys out.
Hopefully Guerrier is ready to pitch.
did not take long for someone to go way negative…i guess thats their right…but……just shakin my head…
Livans line after his first start last year against the NL champion Rockies 7ip 5 hits 2 runs both earned 2BB and 4K’s he got a no decision in a 4-3 loss.
I’m not excited about Livan. But with Baker not ready for opening night, Livan is the best option I suppose.
I do wish Billy the Kid Smith would have skipped the idea of signing Livan altogether and just handed the ball to our kids every day. If we’re going to be ready to contend by 2010, it’d be nice make sure Baker, Slowey, Bonser, Blackburn, Liriano, Humber, Mulvey etc.. carve out their niches now.
Well we have our “innings eater” on the mound tonight, lets hope we don’t all get indigestion!
Morneau it’s time to turn it on before you become a high paid stick boy for the Wild.
We win 85 games! Better than last year.
Any snow in the cities?
Livan will do fine tonight. Let’s get this season started off the right way.
I’ll be cheering for Livan but I wish they had started Boof instead.
Pintobean the snow is coming down thick right now - several inches on the ground already - it’s gonna be a mess tonight.
But i’m sure I will see people in shorts, t-shirts and yes, probably flip-flops at the game…idiots!
Any snow in the cities?
A lot of snow. A lot.
Since we’re talking opening day….
Who do you think scores the first run for the Twins? Who do you think knocks him in? And who do you think hits the first homerun for the Twins?
Honestly, I think it’ll be Gomez scoring on a hit by Cuddyer. Young will get the first homer.
T
All your questions have the same answer. Delmon Young will hit a solo shot to start off the bottom of the 2nd.
maybe they should think twice about not having a retractable roof ….never did understand the logic in that….this series would probably be lost this year if it were outside….thank god for the dome….
T I’m going to say Mauer scores the first run with a solo shot to left field.
I’m listening to a replay of game 7 of the 2003 ALCS and i forgot how bad Grady Little got ripped for not pulling Pedro soon enough in that game. It just occured to me that if the Mets had both Pedro in his prime and Santana now they would easily be the best 1-2 combo since Shilling and Johnson.
kc v royals in place of yankees in rain delay…go royals…lol…start the tigers fall now…..
Lets move the game to Midway.
The Angels are used to playing outdoors.
kc vs tigers
i know this is kc but why did they pull David dejesus in the 3rd
MLB is run by morons. Cubs, Yankees, Reds, Orioles, Indians, Tigers, Phillies, and Cards all open at home while “warmer” weather teams or teams with roofs on their stadiums open on the road…Brewers, Jays, D-Backs, Rays, Angels, Astros, Rangers, and Giants.
C’mon Bud. Figure it out. It’s not that difficult.
Does anyone know who’s doing the play by play tonight? God i hope it’s no Jo Morgan.
Good call, Brasky.
Love how the NFL can’t help itself today….releasing that Vikes v. Pack will be the first Monday Night game next year….
The NFL is absolutely without shame.
MLB.TV is disappointing folks right out of the gate… bummer. Gotta listen to the audio of KC @ Det for now I guess. Verlander starting strong with 0er over 3ip and 3so. Good luck KC!
As far as seeing Livan go today, I’m excited to see how he does. Will he have any gas left in the tank? Will the fans in the blogs go nuts ripping the man? Is there any hope for him? As far as I’m concerned this season is not about wins and losses. Livan is a space filler but I think he can do the job the Twins want him to do.
I think it is Joe Morgan…they said they would be in Minnesota for the game tonight during the telecast last night.
you got that right Bill Brasky! bad move..what are they thinking? i suppose they “have” to have the yanks host an opener this season….yawn….not a good reason. should be at the jays.
Yeah, I’m pretty sure it’s Joe Morgan and Jon Miller.
Come on, do you think Joe Morgan would ever pass up a chance to drool over Torii Hunter on national television? I love Torii, but even I would get annoyed with Morgan’s absurd praise/hero-worship of the man sometimes.
That being said, I’ll be at the game tonight, driving up two hours from college to be there. Let’s make it worth the drive Twins! I don’t like Livan, but I’ve got faith he can pull off a decent start. If Ramon Ortiz could shut down the Yankees in his first Twins start last year, Livan can take the Angels. Let’s hope our offense makes Jered Weaver look like his older brother!
I guess i’ll turn the radio up and the TV sound down tonight. Did you guys notice the Tigers have Inge playing CF? Damn is there any position that guy can’t play?
Will we even be able to see the game on ESPN tonight since the game is being carried locally? Normally those games are blacked out on cable and you can only watch the local channel.
It mentioned how Livan led the majors with 247 hits allowed and was second in opponent’s batting average (.308), on-base percentage (.371) and slugging percentage (.499). And it mentioned this quote by Diamondbacks first baseman Conor Jackson:
“It’s truly unbelievable because he comes into spring training, and he gets hit. He gets hit in spring training, and you’re like, ‘Oh my gosh.’ And then he gets in the regular season, and it’s a completely different Livan.”
What exactly is Conor Jackson seeing that is completely different?
it will be on fsn to dick and bert arent to bad
Musk21,
Livan lowers his ERA from 9 to 5 when the season starts.
I’m anxious to see Livan go out there and work his magic and wish him well. I too will have to refrain from puking while listening to Joe Morgan regale us with all of Torii Hunter’s wonderful plays and hits. He’s an Angel now (by his choice - follow the money) and we’re Twins’ fans. Don’t boo him but I don’t think I will cheer for him. Go Twins!!!!!!!!!
Gee, what a surprise.
Jays at Yankees rained out
Brewers at Cubs in rain delay
D-backs at Reds in rain delay
All 3 of these games would be played if they just flip-flopped venues.
Nice Call Mr. Selig. how you still have a job I’ll never figure out.
5 things i think
1. i’ll never be excited to see livan pitch, he’ll be gone by end of june.
2. gomez will get benched at least twice for long stretches.
3. baker will end up the ace and buffet will be in aaa by july.
4. harris and lamb will be border line in the field and punto will start 60 gms and hit .205
5. mauer will hit .325 good yr and morneau will not have a good yr (by mvp stanards), 25hr. .260 90 rbi.
No kidding, Brasky.
Egg on MLB face….
Will Mauer learn how to pull the ball this year? I have never seen a guy his size slap the ball as much as he does. He’s a 6′5″ Ichiro.
Mauer .310 8 HR 70 RBI
Morneau .290 37 HR 120 RBI
Cuddyer .260 13 HR 75 RBI
Young .280 23 HR 95 RBI
I have no idea about Monroe or Kubel because I have no idea how much either will play.
Oh, and Punto sucks.
harris and lamb will be border line in the field and punto will start 60 gms and hit .205
If Harris and Lamb stuggle expect Tolbert to take over and somebody from AAA to get called up.
Punto’s starts will be a result of emergency situations (gametime scratches) Any other play time he’ll get will come as a result of in-game emergency (injury replacement, NL double switches, unusal situations)
I fully expect Tolbert to get the lionsshare of day game after night game starts. If they use tohse to rest Everett/Harris.
Egg on MLB face….
I imagine ESPN isn’t too happy either. They’re big opening day hoopla’s all wet now.
Times like these where the Dome is suddnely a blessing. If only they could work a retractable roof into the new park.
Do you honestly think Bud Selig has anything to do with making the schedule? I’m sure it’s a lot more complicated then you might think.
No, I realize Selig does not make the schedule but he oversees everything. My boss doesn’t prepare TPS reports but he is responsible for everything that happens within our department.
T,
I’d bet you anything Punto starts, not only a lot, but in the Angels series. Where do you get the idea he will only start in emergency situations?
I guarantee that Punto starts Thursday’s afternoon series finale. Heaven forbid that some guys have to play a day game after a night game. If Mauer plays Wednesday night, he’ll likely get the entire KC series off to rest those 24 year old knees.
I agree with Q…there’s nothing in Gardy’s history on this situation to suggest that he will sit Punto regularly.
Thursday’s line-up
C - Naked Guy
1B - Cuddy
2B - Tolbert
SS - Punto (sucks)
3B - Lamb
LF - Monroe
CF - Go-Go
RF - DY
DH - Kubel
I think Gardy was being “diplomatic” in regards to his comments regarding Punto. I’d guess Tolbert starting Thursday’s day game before Punto does.
I don’t doubt that Punto will see play time in the next week. But as a starter? Doubt that heavily. He may get one at-bat late in the game depending on how pinch-running or defensive replacements work out.
there’s nothing in Gardy’s history on this situation to suggest that he will sit Punto regularly.
Weren’t people saying the same thing in the offseason when it was suggested that the Twins ownership and Front Office would do what they can to lock up guys like Cuddy, Morneau, and Nathan?
I seem to recall getting the brunt of the abuse around here for thinking that the Twins as a whole organization were changing their philosphy following the lessons learned when Hunter, Santana, and Silva left.
But I was right about guys like Cuddy and Morneau getting contracts this offseason. I was right about Harris getting the nod to start over Punto.
So now I’m taking abuse for suggesting that Gardy’s philosphy is changing regarding when Punto is useful. And am again taking the brunt of abuse.
Can I go three for three and earn the trifecta?
Punto will start very little this year barring injury. Hernandez will be .500 with an ERA 4.5+. This is OK because unlike Silva last year this team can hit for Hernandez maybe he wins more than he loses!!
hey t, screw the dome and thank god there is no roof on the new ballpark. the twins can start the first 2 or 3 series on the road each year. if they had a big ugly retractable roof on the new ballpark, the pansy folks in charge would close the frickin’ thing every time they saw a cloud floating over fargo. let me say it again…thank god there is no roof on the ballpark. if folks can’t handle a bit of chilly weather from time to time mail me your ticket and stay home.
Used-Car Bud should have made the command decision as to what games are picked the first couple days of the season.
Meanwhile, Verlander can’t get an out in the 7th. KC playing tough, behind 3-2.
Bill Brasky is the collest MF online!!!
i was basing my assumption on gardy’s track record, he seems to like how punto “gets after it” so 60 gms may be on the low side.
i’d like to see tolbert get those starts but gardy isn’t real patient with kids, hence gomez getting benched several times.
we were out of the race last fall and castilla screws up a few times and who starts most of the games?
Nick Punto will get 300-400 AB’s this year. Put it on the board!!!!
Punto is a utility player!!!!!
Stop letting the bashing of him and his over confident manager dominate this posting
the twins can start the first 2 or 3 series on the road each year.
While that would help with weather…every MLB team deserves to open at home once in a while.
And MLB tend to give teams who open new stadiums the first homestands. You hate to have a beautiful new ballpark and not use it opening day.
I’d bet the Twins host the next available All-Star game after the new park opens (which ever one after 2010 isn’t already assigned).
They’ll likely also have a national game, likely on opening night (similar to the Nats and their new stadium last night)
Shameless; are you going to write that on every twins baseball related post?
The pitcher was signed for innings. I’m sure they would be ok with him losing 60% of his games if he can eat up 220 innings.
Can I go three for three and earn the trifecta?
Harris getting the starting nod is Gardyspeak for Harris will start opening day, nothing more, nothing less. I wouldn’t put that feather in your cap yet.
I agree the long-term deals were unTWINSlike, especially Nathan. And, the Garza trade and signings were fairly unTWINSlike, especially Lamb.
But these things have nothing to do with the love affair between Gardy and Punto.
Personally, I more excited to see Punto slide head first into 1B this year about 20 times. Talk about false hustle. I learned NOT to do that in T-ball.
Predicitons on tonight? Let’s hear em. Here’s mine.
1. Go-Go steals a base and makes a stupid play.
2. Baby Jesus goes 2-4.
3. Morneau goes 0-4.
4. Hunter strikes out on a pitch low and about a foot outside of the strike zone.
5. Nesheck and Nathan pitch a scoreless 8th&9th inning.
Twins win 7-5
Bill Brasky says:
March 31st, 2008 at 1:58 pm
Thursday’s line-up
C - Naked Guy
1B - Cuddy
2B - Tolbert
SS - Punto (sucks)
3B - Lamb
LF - Monroe
CF - Go-Go
RF - DY
DH - Kubel
bill justin will be playing on Thursday he plays at least 157 games a year and joe parbly will get it off or dh but a 100% chance he plays friday
Let’s not forget Putno likes to get hurt. He’s due for a 60 day DL move.
What’s all this stuff about the Thursday lineup? Morneau will be in the lineup. Only Mauer will be sutbstituted for.
There’s no more flu going through the Twins, right?
The overuse of Punto is Gardy’s fault. So we should say ‘Gardy’s use of Punto sucks’. But that’s not nearly as easy as the oft used ‘Punto sucks’. So from here on out “Punto sucks” means “Gardy’s use of Punto sucks”.
There, we can now resume the use of the term “Punto sucks”, knowing that it is not a personal attack but merely an educated fan observation. At least until Gardy’s man love infatuation with him ends.
I too predict 60 starts and 300-400 AB’s.
Livan is my click of the year pick with 200 innings and 16 wins, ha!!. Quit picking on him.
The Detroit game is going according to the script:
Detroit gets the lead.
Detroit starting pitcher does okay but reaches his limit.
Detroit bullpen blows it.
Detroit trying for a late-innings comeback.
Everyone ready for the” KUBEL SHUFFLE. ” we will start out by seeing him fly out next strike out and then ground out. He will pull up limp thus causing a new dance craze called the “Kubel Shuffle”
At least until Gardy’s man love infatuation with him ends
What will satisfy this? Is there a numeric value? I recall complaints about Punto’s use even when he didn’t start two or three games in a row…
And romer, that’s great news to hear! Hopefully the Twins script works out a little better than the current outlook. 
1.Go-GO gets two hits and steals three bases and two runs
2. mauer 2-4 one rbi gets his first stolen base on a doubel steal
3.cuddyer gets one hit one rbi
4.Morneau gets 2 hits one is home run
5.delmon hits a doubel in hhis first at bat as a twin and hits a walk off home run bottom of the ninth one guy on base
6. Livan Hernandez pitches ok but gives up 3 runs
twins win Twins win 5-3
Romer it’s nice too see they still have a chink in there armour so in the words of Denny Green “if you want to crown there ass then crown there ass” but lets wait and see what this summer brings. GO TWINS
Shameless; are you going to write that on every twins baseball related post?
It’s a friggin’ vicious cycle.
http://i2.photobucket.com/albums/y49/pspauld/tinyviolin.jpg
Funny, but it’s better directed at those that have nothing better to do than complain about Punto 10 or 15 different ways a day.
Those regular season stats listed in the main article are a little alarming…Though it shouldn’t be too difficult for him to improve a bit over Silva.
The Detroit game is going according to the script:
There was an article on MLB.com about how Cabrera hit the MLB’s first homerun of the season.
So those games in Japan are getting overlooked, as is the big hoopla last night (I know for sure one homer was hit by Washington)
if Pohlad had not been such a cheapskate, after bilking the taxpayers for nearly 400 million, we would not even be talking about Livan.
Johan should be our opening day starter.
Inge is in center, Jacque in left….KC gets a triple hit between them.
But the Tigers now get a HR and tie it.
According to script………
I don’t like Carlos Guillen, Placido Polanco, Maglio Odonez, Pudge Rodrigez, Gary Sheffield, Justin Verlander and so on et cetera…
T your right Chipper Jones and Ryan Zimmerman each homered last night but the first official HR of the Year was Mark Ellis in the first inning of the first game against the Red Sox.
Don’t forget about our very own former Gopher Jack Hannahan who also went yard for the A’s in Japan.
“T” When can we expect to see Monroe as the full time DH. Also will this be the first sighting of quiver lips Nathan
Is Hunter going to go Yard off of Livan tonight
When a guy needs a rest, not when Punto needs AB’s is acceptable. In late inning situations as a defensive replacement when he likely won’t get an AB or we’re so far ahead it likely won’t matter. Thats acceptable too. Or if Lamb or Harris proves unstable at second or third and we’re ahead trying to protect a lead. I’ll take that too. 20-30 starts with 120-200 AB’s. Acceptable.
Why is Gardie starting Monroe instead of
Kubel? Nice way to mess with Kubel’s
head this early in the season.
Kubel KILLED the ball this spring, but
everything was hit at someone. Bad
mistake in my opinion!
Mark Buehrle got rocked today-7 runs in 1 and 2/3 innings.
Kubel KILLED the ball this spring, but
everything was hit at someone
Kubel hit the ball real hard to bad someones mit was always in the way to catch it hmmmmm….
I’ve got a feeling I’m really going to enjoy this season. I really like this team. It’s still a work in progress but I feel confident they have all the pieces and just need to figure out how to assemble them.
The Punto bashing is getting to be a bit much. Morneau`s comment about Tori not stealing a dinger from him is to much,Justin`s gotta make contact before Tori can bring it back
new blog
I have a feeling Torii is going to go yard tonight
I guess the light came on!
