From the Metrodome: Greinke/Blackburn
Posted on October 3rd, 2009 – 12:00 PMBy Joe Christensen
By day’s end, the Twins either will be eliminated, tied with the Tigers, or one game back with one day remaining in the season.
The drama starts at 3:10 p.m., when Nick Blackburn, making his first career start on three day’s rest, makes his first pitch. Blackburn will be opposed by Cy Young candidate Zack Greinke. The Tigers and White Sox are scheduled to start at 6:05 p.m.
Each Greinke start feels like it has postseason implications for the Royals, as he chases his first career Cy Young, so there will be a lot at stake for both teams.
The Twins are going with the same lineup they used against Greinke last Sunday in Kansas City, in a 4-1 loss. Greinke gave up seven hits and two walks in seven innings that day, and the Twins had chances, but managed just the one run.
Note: The Twins have been notified that if a one-game tiebreaker is needed to determine the AL Central champion, it will be at the Metrodome on Tuesday at 4 p.m., Central, televised by TBS.
Update: Brian Duensing will be available in relief today, and Carl Pavano would start Sunday on three day’s rest if it’s a meaningful game for the Twins. Duensing would be available in relief Sunday, if meaningful, and he would start Sunday on regular rest if not used today and if Twins are eliminated.
(*) I asked Manager Ron Gardenhire if the Twins were mildly encouaged by last Sunday’s effort against Greinke.
“That’s your angle? That’s the best you can do?” he said. “Listen, we’re encouraged because we’re swinging the bats well, we scored some runs last night, scored runs in Detroit off pretty good pitchers, too. We’ve faced [Roy] Halladay and beat him. We’ve battled against [Justin] Verlander, Greinke — we’ll take our chances. We’ll do the best we possibly can. This team’s got a lot of gumption about it, so we’ll just see what we can do. He’s pretty good.”
ROYALS (65-95)
1. Willie Bloomquist, LF
2. Mitch Maier, CF
3. Billy Butler, 1B
4. Mike Jacobs, DH
5. Alberto Callaspo, 2B
6. Mark Teahen, RF
7. Miguel Olivo, C
8. Alex Gordon, 3B
9. Luis Hernandez, SS
Starting pitcher: Zack Greinke (16-8, 2.06 ERA)
TWINS (84-76)
1. Denard Span, CF
2. Orlando Cabrera, SS
3. Joe Mauer, C
4. Jason Kubel, RF
5. Michael Cuddyer, 1B
6. Delmon Young, LF
7. Jose Morales, DH
8. Matt Tolbert, 3B
9. Nick Punto, 2B
Starting pitcher: Nick Blackburn (11-11, 4.08 ERA)
Metrodome. First pitch: 3:10 p.m. TV: Fox
629 Responses to "From the Metrodome: Greinke/Blackburn"
crazy as hell.
I so hope it would be 4.
Quick, somebody give Greinke the wrong address.
Hope I can watch a game @ 4pm Tuesday. Blackie will spin a good one, 4-2 Twins.
really, 4-2 Twins? Against arguably the best pitcher in the AL? Oh the folly of prognostication…
Hopefully the Twins can scrape together a couple runs off of Greinke, make him hit 100 pitches somewhat early in the game, and hold down the fort when it comes to our pitching. No errors, no walks.
Grienke has never won at the Dome, and is below .500 career against the Twins. Last Sunday they had chances, he escaped them very well. Today with the positive Twins energy of 45-50 thousand fans, a few of those will score. 4-2 Twins!
“really, 4-2 Twins? Against arguably the best pitcher in the AL? Oh the folly of prognostication…”
i agree regarding the folly of prognostication. at the same time, don’t forget that the twins scored four off verlander just a few days ago …
it’s baseball and anything can happen.
Lets get it done. No excuses we need to win to put the pressure on the tigers. The fans need to get loud and the twins need to get an early lead and score runs.
And don’t forget that the Royals are one of the worst defensive teams in MLB. The could win it 4-2 without Greinke giving up a single earned run.
I thought Mauer would DH today considering Gardy saying he was exhausted after last night’s game…. true leadership right there to put the team before his health… GO TWINS!!!
I can’t take the pressure!
Wow i’m nervous. The White Sox HAVE to win today and I really hope the Twins do too.
BIG GAME TODAY!!!!
Well, you’re in for a treat today then folks. Last week’s game in KC was no fluke. He’s been doing that all season. You may have the score correct, 4-2, but it will be the Royals coming out on top and it’ll be the bullpen giving up the 2 if it’s anyone. Then again, if Zack has it his way, he’ll pitch the complete game shutout to end his season.
This isn’t the Zack of old. You can’t rattle this kid this year. He’s been doing something special all season and I don’t see anything changing that in his final appearance. Even if they get a run off of him, he somehow manages to clamp down and not let it get out of hand. (2 earned runs in his last 6 starts?) Good luck with that!
Would be nice if Blackie could go seven or eight today, Twins need to give him some run support. Not easy with Greinke pitching, who is not perfect and can be beat. Saving the bullpen would really be helpful.
Not to get ahead of ourselves, but would Baker presumably start game 163 (if needed) or game 1 against NYY?
We’ve got a tight game at The Bank and the Dome will be electric later today.
Twins squeak out a win today. That Tiger clubhouse is gonna be tense tonight and you know Ozzie Guillen will do everything possible to get a win today.
Exactly, as was stated above, this is not the same kid who suffered from emotional issues a few years ago…posting his career numbers at the dome are completely irrelevant. I ask you this: has Greinke even pitched at the dome this year? I’ll answer that one for you: NO, nor has he pitched against the Twins up until last week…how did that work out for our Local 9? To “predict,” as if you have some insight into the game (or a crystal ball/tea leaves/tarot cards, etc) is the aforementioned folly.
Remember Blackburn is pitching on short rest, i don’t see him going 7 or 8 Steve. We’d be lucky to get 5 good innings out of him, and im sure the Twins would take that.
We aren’t going to score much if at all against Greinke, so the best plan is to take as many pitches as possible and try to get him out of the game after 6…and when we do put balls in play hit them on the ground and do alot of bunting, the kc defense sucks so lets make them work for it.
The only problem i have, is it states tomorrow Pavano is starting if its a meaningful game…on short rest….which makes no sense when Deunsing has pitched better and would be on full rest. I understand Pavano is a vet and has been in games like this before, but i happen to trust the kid more right now.
Greinke certainly could be great. Has he ever pitched in a game of this magnitude? Take lots of pitches early.
The piranhas, in this case Morales, Tobert and Punto just have to get on base for us to have a chance against Greinke. And of course Blackburn has to throw his A game.
I believe I heard Greinke has pitched less than 6 innings 10 times this year. He is hardly unbeatable. Sure, you’d rather be playing against somebody else, but it is still the Royals, which means you will probably be in the game no matter how Greinke pitches. So, take some pitches early, get Greinke out of the game after 5, and take your chances with 4 at-bats (3 if we’re ahead in 9th) against the Royals bullpen.
First time getting the Twins on FOX on the West Coast. I’m going to take that as a good omen.
Greinke has been lights since the All-Star break but that doesn’t mean he can’t be beat.
Noise will be incredible today (I hope). Definite playoff atmosphere. Don’t think he has really faced that. Hoping that Blackburn is great on 3-days rest.
Even Cy Young candidates lose games and get hit around now and again. All the Twins need is one decent inning of a crooked number posted on the board and decent pitching from Blacky. Remember, if you look past the pitchers mound, you are still looking at the Royals.
Macleod, here is hoping that your West Coast feed on FOX is successful to all of us Twins Fans. Let’s enjoy the ride. GO TWINS!!! GO WHITE SOX!
This should be good. Greinke hasn’t pitched in a game as big as this. It’ll be interesting to see if he can keep his hot streak going. He is still young, and although he’s seemed calm all year, in a playoff atmosphere anything can happen. I’m optimistic that Blackburn will step up. He pitched that big game against the White Sox last year, and sinker ball pitchers often pitch better when they’re a little more tired because the ball will move more instead of flattening out when they’re overthrowing. Gotta get to Zach early though and drive that pitch count up.
The newest biggest game of the year. We have to keep winning because I doubt the Sox will sweep. Go Twins!! Get it done!! Little Dome magic!!
Okay Twins, let’s take it to them early. After the B10 games this afternoon, my heart can’t take much more.
Have fun, boys!
I am grasping at any straws available to me. I’m not betting on this game, so I’ll go ahead and predict a Twins victory. They have been swinging the bats outstanding. Not just good, but outstanding. I like the score of 4-2 that somebody posted earlier.
I like the advanced scouting report of KG. Let’s go with it!
Bert looked like he was going to kiss him after he said “a man who belongs in the HoF.”
LOL. Good times already.
Let’s go BURNSIE!!!!!!
AND BLACKY!!!
UNBELIEVABLE: FOX is showing the Phillies vs. Marlins game in the Southwest zone. This is total BS!!!!!
Ha…Burnsie sounds so much better 
We got the throwback Uni’s cookin and the red hats. We will not be denied!
Sorry Nick. That is complete crap.
BLACKBURN JUST HIT 96
And that was strike 3 on Butler. BOOO
GREAT way to start, Nick B.
There is only 1 pennant race and they are not showing the game on TV.. Instead they show the Phillies vs. Marlins. This is totally disturbing and BS!!!!
If the Ump is squeezing the plate that might help us because Zack can hit his spots. He doesn’t need the plate to be wider. Plus, the Twins take a lot of close pitches.
That a way, Blackburn!
I agree, Think. great outside corner pitch and didn’t get it.
Nice start! Let’s take it to Greinke…
A big tell is if the Twins are making contact early, or swinging through or taking strikes early.
Nice swing Cabrerror…
Every pitch he has to throw is a pitch closer to the bullpen.
You have to remember too though, this game is only BIG for the Twins. It’s just another game to Zack. You’re right though, if they’re going to get to him, it better be early. He gets better as the game goes on.
And here all of you thought the Twins were going to be eliminated the last loss to the Tigers. Ha.
Where is this Ump?
Twins are on in Arizona. I’m both stunned and ecstatic. Come on Blackburn…channel the spirit of Brad Radke and keep the Twins in this one.
This ump is so biased so far
6 up 6 down. Even with the Ump squeezing the plate.
He looks pretty tight for Blackburn.
Take anything on the edge, Twins.
Tight zone.
We’re definitely taking pitches.
Dang. Hitting it at people. But making contact!
With any luck it’s first and third for the Twins after Cuddyer and Delmon.
31 pitches for Greinke.
And the Ump sucks.
Blackburn ain’t gettin that pitch.
NASTY
1111
Gameday showing that last ball was outside. Because it was!
i predict 2nd time around the twins will jump on this young phenom…its not like he has not been beaten….i dont believe his name is nolan or sandy…..he can be had…and will……lets go twins, the yanks are a waitin…..
FINALLY
Burnsie’s not f-in’ around.
About time he gives Blackburn that pitch…my god.
Outstanding. Just give your hitters a chance.
Blackie looks soooo good.
36 pitches through 3 as well
Blacky has 36 pitches thru 3.
Tolbert - Punto.
Sounds like runs.
Way to work the count, Tolbertsie.
Wouldn’t mind seeing a bunt in the bottom of the order.
Come on Puntosie work out a walk
What was that?
the tigers will wear themselves out just watching this game and be shot by gametime…and if the twins win they will be so tight, knowing they are in almost a must win game and they dont seem to be the best, must win team - thats my theory and im stickin to it…..
At least Punto ate up 5 pitches. -(
A brutal 8 pitches that inning.
theyre making good contact, soon they should start fallin in- god lets hope
Punto never took his bat off his shoulder, struck out, and had the best at-bat of the inning.
What happened to the bottom of the third?
I must’ve blinked.
Seem to be hitting the ball hard thus far, just need a few drop here!
My vote is in. Greinke is the Cy Young. So, KC, you can pull him out now.
greinke is not exactly dazzlin em
Master plan. Blackie is cruising along so well they wanted to get him back on the mound quickly.
Greinke is going to be pissed when he throws a one hitter and loses 1-0.
No one jinx it…
Dan Gladden is brutal to listen to. No emotion or passion when calling the plays. Monotone man!!
2,3,4,5 hitters. Let’s get some runs!
Hell yeah, Robert Nicholas Blackburn!
Blackburn is a gamer, way to step up! Again!
Gotta love the fact that I’m in Utah and instead of watching Twins Royals with both pitchers throwing gems in the only meaningful game of the day, I get to watch the Phillies and Marlins. Awesome. I love MLB ticket.
Cmon lets make Greinke work a bit here…
What happened? I’m unable to watch.
Yes!
CABRERA wants this SO Bad.
Puttin some wood on it.
Mauer is smart. He never swings at first pitch, but noticed Greinke has been throwing a first pitch strike.
The Ump is still inconsistent.
Cabrerror is such a veteran.
The Ump is still inconsistent.
Joe Morgan doesn’t like him either.
Grienke had Kubel guessing badly.
our boys getting the old “Linda Ronstadt” from grienke.
53 pitches thru 4.
Cuddyer’s the only guy I wouldn’t mind seeing take a good hack on the first pitch.
He might run into one, and he’s got no chance off Grienke if he falls behind in the count.
47 pitches for Blackie.
id like to know who ever told gladden he should be on the radio… hes awful, just like the other comment earlier- just wait for gordon to take over again….so dull, y you dont know whether a play is good or bad, you have to go by the crowd noise on radio…pathetic i say, but im still glad he scored the winning run in 91…ill give him that…..
We could use a nice 6-4-3 right about now.
We could use a nice K right about now.
2 down
CO
We could use a nice dribbler to third with no advance right about now.
BLACKIE!!!
Atta boy!!!
What a relief it is..
Nice job Burnsie!!!
HUGE!
He is so clutch.
Now let’s make Greinke throw some pitches this inning!
Runs, please.
Delmon must have gone to church.
Singles are fine boys. Several singles.
jbiowa grads the PoD lead. (4:18)
Foul off 6-7 more.
I feel a line drive single for Punto coming.
Oops, I already overlooked Tolbert. I wonder why?
Aargh…
Let’s recap Tolbert. First pitch swinging in first at-bat for a ground out, and now hangs Delmon out to dry.
brutal…. first no sac bunt… then delmon out on the failed hit and run…. no baserunner and 2 outs instead of a man on second and one out. surprising. he usually bunts there. especially with the score and inning.
Ugh.
Less ‘managing’ please, Ron.
Guess Gardy didn’t feel confident with Tolbert and Punto trying to knock in Delmon.
Added bonus…Punto leads off the 6th instead of Span.
Ya, but I got a funny feeling that Punto is going to take his bat off his shoulder for this go around.
I’d like to order a run for the Twins please.
Added bonus…Punto leads off the 6th instead of Span.
THIEF!
Ya, but I got a funny feeling that Punto is going to take his bat off his shoulder for this go around.
That’s not necessarily a good thing.
Guilty as charged.
And not the first time.
LOL WOW
Hot D*mn, Nick!
Ump made the quick call. Cuddy saw that and started running in.
We got away w/ one there, ball definitely hit the dirt
Phew…lucked out there.
The crowd should start chanting; “LNP…LNP…LNP…”
At least Jim Thome is not in the lineup.
Guilty as charged.
And not the first time.
Join the club.
I’ve opened a brew, that means we’ll score.
We need to get our bats going!! Nick can only go so long w/o any run support!
heetcpa…heetcpa…heetcpa!!
LNP battled his tail off there!
Nice AB, LNP!
Like I said…added bonus, Punto leads off the 6th.
Good sac Denard
Good eye for LNP to get that walk.
Gardy reads this blog.
Have to play small ball against Greinke
I’ve opened a brew, that means we’ll score.
If that is all it takes, get drunk.
Greinke ever throw a wild pitch?
A single will do.
me too, heat.
Okay, Joe…show us why you are the MVP.
Let’s go JOE!!!!
IBB?
CY vs. MVP!
Mauer way behind both fastballs.
One of the best against one of the best.
JOEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEE!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Now THAT is the MVP!!!
MVP 1 Cy 0
He wasn’t behind that one!
How sweet it is!
That’s big time Joe
YES!!!
Great job in the clutch.
YES!!!!!!!!
gladden said that should be enough–did i hear that right ….this guy is too much….what world is he in…i hope hes right but, my god to say something like that is almost irresponsible….
Kubel
Ground rule Double. Darn, Joe could have scored on that.
I’m making a call. Cuddy goes yard.
Damn why can’t that stay in
C’mon Cuddy.
Move your feet Cuddy!
Oh, Delmon, let’s hope your prayers are answered.
mj1: Thats exactly what the Dazzleman said. Uhh…Did the royals score 7 unanswered yesterday!? I don’t think there offense is anemic as Dazzleman said it was.
Honestly rather have Delmon take a shot rather than Cuddy…Greinke owns Cuddy
DELMON!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!11
DELMON!!!
Delmon holy buckets!
DELMON
I’m screaming at myself at home!!
WOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO HOOOOOOOOOO!!!!!!!!!
YESSSSSSSSSSSS!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Dan Gladden said: Oh my God he let it over his head. Then he also said th KC defense is horrible.
im guessing there are no longer any delmon haters in this bunch…the kid has come thru again and again…..cant wait to see gardy at the farm show this year… here in fargo…..lol
Good Job, Jose!
Knock out KGrienk!
can someone tell me the score? thanks!
I’m screaming at myself at home!!
I yell at the TV all the time. My poor dog things I’m nuts — and she’s right.
4 rip Twins
4-0 twins. Delmon just had a bases clearing double.
think there is anyway we could just get 9 routine, normal outs without having to suffer strokes for the next 3 innings???—and the air just went out of the guts of the tigers as they are getting ready to take the field…..come on bullpen
yes! thanks!
I’ve opened another brew to celebrate! Yeeeeeee!!!!
And I’ll be watching the Tigers stink it up right after this.
Lets hope so mj1
Let’s go Burnsie!
Was that J.J. Hardy rooting for the twins, so they trade for him this offseason?!
1 of nine….
Whoever said they are opening their beer, keep drinking!!!
Uh-oh.
Crap.
If Blackie was going to give it up that was the time. Now shut them down sir and let Detroit sweat.
That was just a good swing.
ok- we will give em one for greinkes sake …thats it…done
2 of nine gone
Blackie’s at 83 pitches. Is the bullpen going?
3 of nine……6 to go.,….
Good.
I say let Blackie go until the first sign of trouble. Thoughts?
You have to bring him out for the eight. It wasn’t a bad pitch on the HR.
I send Blackburn back out, and pull him if he gives up a single hit.
I’ll bet Rauch gets the eighth
stay with blackie….too many relievers come in and something always seems to happen with the first hitter….or it seems, too often….
he might have to pitch on short rest again wednesday I would say 1 more inning
Let’s tack on a couple more.
wonder how strong nathan is today….i would think adrenalin should carry him today….
Blackie is doing great, wasn’t a bad pitch that was hit out.
LNP started that great inning for the Twins. He’s played great ball for the last month when we’ve needed him to. DY has 8 rbi’s in last 2 games. Go Twins!!
Now score some more runs, Greinkle is out of the ballgame
give blackie the ball…. he gives up a hit or walk and bring in the A team releif.
lets at least get that one back…
Macleod says:
October 3rd, 2009 at 2:52 pm
Even Cy Young candidates lose games and get hit around now and again. All the Twins need is one decent inning of a crooked number posted on the board and decent pitching from Blacky. Remember, if you look past the pitchers mound, you are still looking at the Royals.
First 4-run inning for Greinke this year.
Macleod for sure, look what happened to Sabithia last night. Being at home has been the difference.
Blackie isn’t done.
Good call Macleod, right on the money w/ that one
is mlb televising the tiger game or espn–i havent even looked today….
Will someone interpret this statement for me:
Duensing would be available in relief Sunday, if meaningful, and he would start Sunday on regular rest if not used today and if Twins are eliminated.
Assuming that the Twins hold on here and that Duensing is not used, is he the starter tomorrow? The last part of that statement is clear as mud to me.
Macleod, good call yes. Did you used to coach the Phoenix Suns? I went to the Adams-Westphal basketball camp when you were the coach i think.
We better see Blackburn here in the 8th
Whomever possessed the, er, wisdom, to predict a 4-2 victory was prophetic…
Or lucky…
MLB network will have Tigers at top of the hour.
no he will not start, but relieve if needed tomorrow….if the game didnt matter he would start
thx mc
And, the anti-forsight of the day…
Todd Anthony says:
October 3rd, 2009 at 12:34 pm
really, 4-2 Twins? Against arguably the best pitcher in the AL? Oh the folly of prognostication…
too bad…… blackie was great though.
id still let him go one more…there could be double play in there, but???
Despite the pressure, I’d feel better with Duensing on regular rest than Pavano on short rest.
I probably would have Gomez in now.
Awesome job Blackie!! Simply clutch but he has been there before and pitched like it today again.
Kubel is due up so Gomez won’t be in.
lets just get that first out…..
Need some good relief.
Let’s wrap this up and get ready for the night-cap.
This will be the only time that I won’t cringe to hear “YOU CAN PUT IT ON THE BOARD, YESSSSS!”. Man I hate that, but not today (or tomorrow).
What? One pitch and visit to the mound?
my point exactly…..damn
Crap
WHY Mijares instead of Rauch. I just don’t get it.
Frick Frick Frick!!!!
Why? Why? Why can’t we ever relax?
just got sick
GET HIM OUT OF THERE!!!!!
wow
The whole thing in DET seems to have gooten to Mijares
what has happened to this guy….mijares….hes lost it so bad….
Good lord. Nothing is ever easy.
what is with the A team bullpen and homers these last two series?
double play time
Mijares doing his best Crain impersonation
Why did they take Blackie out? Mijares is not up to the challenge.
Why even bring Blackburn out for the 8th if you’re going to pull him after one batter?
Gardenhire for Manager of the Year.
WHY would you leave him in after he gave up that home run? AND after last night?
Now whoever comes in has someone on base — and we all know how well that works.
His teammates and manager called him out in the media and ostracized him. Who would have thought that would negatively affect a rookie relief pitcher during a pennant race? Jeez…
Seriously should have kept Blackburn out there.
Crap! Wouldn’t be a Twins game without a stroke.
and now the top of the order with no outs. how to we give it up to the bottom of the order all the time?
kansas city not gonna give up.
Lets just get out of this for god’s sake
IMPLODE
*rueful head shake*
Now what?
now were going to have to deal with soria on their end too…
im sick as well
now even a double play scores a run
Can’t worry about the tie. Gotta get out of here with a tie ballgame.
Ok, that made no sense.
i should never have said anything about 0 easy - quiet outs….my bad
can’t believe raush is still in. not the A team.
whole new ball game
They have to get out of this without any more damage….
Tie game. And KC has Soria to insert for the 9th.
they would have had him at home…….
can’t believe they gave up the lead by choice.
I can’t believe that just happened
That was so quick, could Cabrera have come home with it?
punto could have
Time for Kubel to flex some muscles and give way to Joe.
Punto looked like he was off balance. Don’t know if he could have made an accurate throw home.
Bad managing by Gardy, Blackie should have stayed out there. Well the Twins had a chance to beat Greinke and blew it.
Punto could not have thrown home sitting on his butt.
We need one here, then give Joe the save…no more drama please!
Kubel, Cuddy, Young.
IT WILL HAPPEN!
Cuddyer needs to come up big this inning, as does Kubel.
time for heroes at the plate………. the rest of the pitchers aren’t gonna do it.
Don’t question Gardenhire. Jim Leyland and Buck Showalter say he’s a great manager.
Win or lose you have to give Blackie credit big time for pitching the 2 biggest games in the last 5 years for the Twins and pitched extremely well both times (against Sox in Game 163 last year and then today).
Maybe Gardy should have told Mijares not to give up a 2 run homer.
Nothing has come easy for the Twins this last month. Baserunners now please?
Well, Greinke won’t get an L so that probably helps his Cy YOung chances.
C’mon boys, let’s make this a fun bottom of the 8th!
you’re right. even standing up punto has no arm at all anyway.
Cuddy is due
Let’s win the Twins way- a walk, a hit batter and an error.
Maybe Gardenhire should not have brought Mijares in.
Who wants to be a hero?
told you
Showtime!!!!
CUDDY!!!!!
YESSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSS!!!!!!
There we go Cuddy!!
BOOOOM!
Geez Rauch makes Cuddy look small.
That’s a pitch you don’t throw to Cuddy.
I take it all back. Great managing by Gardenhire telling Cuddyer to hit a homer.
CUDDY FTW!
Would that be a clutch HR there?
Way too pick the boys up Cuddy
I loved the optimism here. So many posts that it would happen!
Give yourselves a hand. And root for Joe.
A few more runs now Guys, help Nathan ou t here.
I think Cuddy heard me from here in Red Wing! He did come up big!
take one for the team!
Anyone who wants to use the sobriquet “Cuddaver” should be taken out back and shot.
Okay, Joe … show why you’re an ALL-STAR!!!
Three more outs now Joe!!
solo home runs sure look great today!
Just one more run please Twins?
Gomez should be covering all the ground in center now.
Please lock this down Joe
1,2,3
cross your fingers….and anything else you like
Time to check my heart monitor.
the Ump wants us to win now
Get em out Joe!
come on joe…. hang in there.
SO!!!
1
2 to go!!!!!
1!!
2
Span!!!!
Denarded!!!!
SPAN!!!!!!!
Great catch!!! 2
SPAN SPAN SPAN SPAN SPAN SPAN
Speed Kills. Span just proved it!!!
game day had that first pitch a nice strike!!
Throw him the slider.
3 and i believe the twins have won a lot of fans on the national level…they are a fun bunch…..
Strike 3!
Twins Win!!
C’MON WHITE SOX!!!!!!!
SWEEEEET
Go Twins!!! Go Sox and Beat Detroit!!!
UNBELIEVABLE!!!
What a game folks
TEAM victory!!!!
Pray for Freddy Garcia.
Closed.
pfffft. Another meaningless solo HR for Cuddyer.
Tigers lose today and the Twins are in control of their own destiny once again.
And the gameballs go to…Blackie, Delmon, and Cuddy!!
How do you like that?!
Blackburn, Maurer, Young, Cuddyer, Span….. 5 game balls! Nathan maybe too….
Wow, that proves no lead is ever safe! A great win considering they were up agains an ace in Greinke. Great job by Blackie again, wonder how it would have gone if he was left in? What was his pitch count when he left?
“”"”"Macleod says:
October 3rd, 2009 at 2:48 pm
First time getting the Twins on FOX on the West Coast. I’m going to take that as a good omen.”"”"”
Hope that was good enough today for you, Mac.
So who is going tomorrow? I thought it was Duensing?
Apparently it is Pavano. I guess Gardy wants to go with a veteran.
“Blackburn, Maurer, Young, Cuddyer, Span….. 5 game balls! Nathan maybe too…”
don’t forget punto — big walk, big double play.
crazy as hell.
Is Pavano going to start tomorrow? That scares me a bit after his last outing.
Agreed Steve, I was hoping for Duensing
Agreed Steve, I was hoping for Duensing
Young has really provided some spark that last few games.
Duensing??? No way. Pavano all the way.
If Gardy was really smart, he would save that “veteran” pitcher for that 163rd game if it is needed.
In my e-mail I got from the Twins, Duensing is scheduled for tommorrow. Obviously things can change from this morning. So is our Sox starting now?
I think he is planning on Baker for 163 if needed.
At this point I’m not going to second-guess. Duensing will supposedly be ready to go in relief — let’s hope he’s not needed.
Tigers - White Sox in a rain delay.
LETS GO WHITE SOX! LETS GO WHITE SOX! LETS GO WHITE SOX!
How bad is it? We need to have Figaro or whoever he is pitch, and not get Porcello a game.
i had to watch gameday in virginia. couldn’t even watch iton fox because they made us watch the nationals, braves.
What’s the rain delay looking like? Long?
FSN Detroit is saying the game should get underway “momentarily”.
Porcello will absolutely not pitch at all today according to FSN Detroit. It’s all about the rookie Figaro.
I didn’t hear the announcers but looking at a radar map on weather.com, it looks very scattered now. Then there is rain moving in the Gary-South Bend area. So they need to get this started and PLAY BALL!
Tarp is off the field.
Well luckily Detroit is probably an hour and a half-2 hours north of Toledo, hopefully if the northern end of that cell is Southbend, it should be all right depending on tracking.
Tigers/White Sox. Game on.
Have the Yanks decided when they want to start the ALDS?
Rain is north of Gary-South Bend. And from the national weather map, it looks like one of those swirl - comma type things so I wouldn’t bet against rain later on.
Blackburn is officially a “big game” pitcher.
Outstanding, especially on three days rest.
Then the Sox should jump out to a lead and keep that lead thru at least 5 innings. Then the skies can open up.
Gotta love Scott Posednik .. at least he is getting on base.
Does the ALDS start on Wednesday? Thursday?
follow on : http://scores.espn.go.com/mlb/playbyplay?gameId=291003106&teams=chicago-white-sox-vs-detroit-tigers
Middle of the 1st. 0-0
Wednesday or Thursday. The Yankees have to pick I think within 3 hours of the Central being decided, or the end of the season, which ever is latest. I think they’ve been hinting at a Wednesday start. More off days in it.
I can’t imagine the Yankees not choosing Wednesday. They’ve had forever to shape up their rotation.
Ordonez gets a single — I’m so tired of him. Now get Cabrera.
Easy inning for Garcia. 0-0.
THANK YOU, CARLOS QUENTIN!!!! CWS 1, DET 0
So if it is a tie-break game in the metrodome tuesday do you think the pitching matchup between baker and porcello?
Carlos Quentin with a solo dinger.
Hell Yes!!
two on no out
Thanks Camden, I wasnt sure if the yanks had decided yet or not.
Tigers bullpen is up awfully early.
How about if we stop talking “tie-break games?” Detroit STILL controls its own destiny. If we’re somehow tied after tomorrow, then by all means, let’s start the insanity.
Macleod: it’s foresight, and you know as well I do than any predictions generally aren’t worth the paper they’re printed on.
Wow. Double steal!
Maybe Todd. But how about you stop protecting yourself from yourself and throw your heart and soul into this pennant race? It’s a lot of fun.
Tigers are currently losing, and if they lose today then the Twins control their own destiny.
Bases loaded!!! C’mon Sox! They are already into the BP.
1 1/3 innings pitched for the rookie. Nice move Leyland. Here’s the call to the bullpen.
i never thought i would be listening to white sox radio network rooting for every Chicago hit, walk, run, and tiger out…
I agree with Todd. Stop talking about tie breaking games. Let’s talk about the Twins winning the division outright tomorrow!
No MLB Network Matt?
Let’s talk about the Twins winning the division outright tomorrow!
I agree, MacLeod. Cuz I don’t think the Dome could withstand tomorrow, then GB vs. Vikes then game 163. It’ll need a few days off.
Todd
What’s wrong with realizing there is a poosibility of a tie break game, and in realizing that possiblity, discuss who will be pitching in those games? It would be pretty boring discucions if we one could not look ahead at all in my opinion.
Sox score … that was too close to a DP.
It’s a perfect finish to the dome. Literally. If it goes to a playoff game the place may just explode!
Tigers are really tight. How often does Polanco flub that ball? (But then again, it is the Tigers defense).
2-0
no i have Mediacrap…
That play Polanco mishandled looked identical to the one Punto turned a DP on.
Thanks Dr. Don, but we all ready know what the score is… GEEEZZZ
The Tigers are currently using more than one pitcher per inning.
It’s one time I’m grateful for Dish Network — watching on CSN-Chicago.
is the sux game on mlb net?
Did the Tigers switch pitchers?
Wow, Leyland is desperate. Brings in a lefty for one hitter in the second inning.
Talk about burning the bullpen early.
3 pitchers used for Tigers so far. Starter lasted 1 1/3, then lefty specialist pitched to one guy, then they switched again.
Isn’t anyone else superstitious? That’s my primary concern with all of this tie-break talk…
What’s the score of the game? Still 1-0? Everytime I try to access ESPN Gamecast, my Mac takes a dump…
jbiowa. i have Dish Network as well… what channel? thanks!!
I’m only superstitious if I have some kind of control over things.
2-0 Sox
By the macleod: I HAVE put my heart into this pennant race…I almost bawled my eyes out after the end of the game thinking about how many games I’ve been to, the World Series victories, etc…
Ben
shut the hell up bitch
2-0, Todd; bottom of second. Tigers have 1 out and a runner on 1st.
Well, I am fatalistic…how about we not jinx things by avoiding any discussion per a tie-break game? We need to win tomorrow first (coupled with a Detroit loss).
Todd, ask Ben. He already told me that everyone knows.
From the Detroit Free Press blog:
You just gotta love the way this one is starting out. Did anyone expect different. Look at Ozzie in the dugout. he’s drooling. No one really wants to see a train wreck, but we can’t help ourselves from watching. The blood and gore, the derailment, the knowledge that we self-destructed after being up 4 with 3 to play. Speaking only for myself, only a masochist could watch this. Kinda like watching yourself bleed out from the femoral artery!
jbiowa: that is awesome.
Ben: what the hell is the score?
sit em down freddy!
God you guys are having fun.
Had to work this afternoon and am working tonight.
That away Tyler, yeah some of us are at work and could use these updates for the next hour at last. I hope the Twins can wrap this up tommorrow somehow. I can’t get out of work on Tuesday, I’m actually coming in to work early for someone.
Also thanks for the updates to those providing such.
As For jinxes, I’m not feeling any, and thats a VERY good thing. (I felt Tiger Woods at Hazeltine losing and even that game before it sarted with Nathan in the 9th vs. the sox)
Hey Ben, it’s 2-0 after 2.
It’s a no work weekend. All sports all the time. Twins; Gophers; Twins; Tigers; Twins; triple header of NFL football; and then…The Vikings on Monday Night Football!!
Hey DrDon, thanks - I was just about to ask…
I wonder how many pitchers Leyland will use this inning?
Yep, definitely appreciate any play-by-play…
How poetic would it be to have game 163 in the Metrodome?
Now that would be a Dome sendoff!!
Tigers had a runner on with 1 out and went whiff whiff to end the inning. It really does look like they know they are going to lose. That stench you smell in the air is the Tigers fear.
Wow. Gamecast has AJ’s foul out in the seats. That must have been some catch by Inge.
So I take it the ChiSox got out of the inning unscathed? The Strib scoreboard still reports it as bottom of the 2nd.
Todd, yeah, no runs, still 2-0 in favor of the Sox.
Todd: Top of 3, one out.
make that 2 outs.
Galaragga on the hill for the Tigers. Looks like he’s going to be the long reliever for this game.
Of course, he just beaned Quentin with none on and two outs.
163 wouldn’t be a good sendoff if we lost. Game 7 win, now that would be a send-off.
Cool; thanks…
“”"Ben says:
October 3rd, 2009 at 6:51 pm
Thanks Dr. Don, but we all ready know what the score is… GEEEZZZ”"”
What is with the “we” crap, Ben. Got a turd in your pocket to keep you company?
IMPLOSION!!!!
Thank God that Detroit doesn’t have Span or Go-Go in the outfield.
Hard to catch the ball with your hands wrapped around your throat!
Ordonez tried a sliding catch and missed it. 3-0 Sox. Runners on 2nd and 3rd with two outs.
Update: intentional walk. bases loaded, two out.
A few points to consider:
1.) It took roughly a half an hour for Dr. Don to come up with the very catchy line “turd in the pocket”… Wow
2.) Why is everyone so excited that the Twins MIGHT get a tie-break game? Everyone knows the Yankees will sweep us due to the Twins management being happy to have us be good enough to have us be a mediocore team.
Rios double: 3-0
Men on 2/3 with 2 out.
Pay no attention to Tiger Ben. He gets cranky when the Twins win.
Update: Side retired, leaving bases loaded. 3-0 Sox.
Ben, if you aint drinking the kool aid, please hit the bricks.
Ben is BACK!!!!! YIPPEE!!!!! 
NICE!!!
“A few points to consider:”
How gay is this ben kid anyway, ” a few points to consider” who says that? I think Ben’s one friend that keeps him company is “Big Bob” who he met at Gay90s last night. Get lost Ben, no one needs confrontational negativity for absolutley no reason. Why dont you go have some fun with Big Bob and leave us alone for a while, what do ya say?
Another little gem from the FREEP blog:
Leyland is gonna play his “veterens” ………
Didn’t know they we’re from WW2
Leyland has gone from 4 packs of smokes a day to 5.
Cool, popped up Maglio.
Get it together, Freddy G.
Tigers, runners first and second, two out.
Tigers can’t buy a run right now. Out of the inning.
Damn, wild pitch advances the runners.
Tigers, runners second and third, two out.
Instead of worrying about winning, the Tigers should set their goal at scoring a run this series.
Hmm, someone has a feed that’s slightly ahead of mine.
3-0 Sox top of 4th.
Sorry dude. I’ll let you give updates. Are you watching on TV?
The reason we’d be excited just like we were supposed to not be in it a month ago, just like we weren’t supposed to be in at after losing game 3 at det. If we get in, who say’s we couldn’t shock the world against the Yankee’s. Of course that is optomistic a thing that you would think is a felony if they only listened to you. It’s when you count them out they succeed.
I’m going to be grilling up a tri tip. I’ll check in later to see if Ben is still spreading his joy.
How can you not love the “nobody believed in us” opportunity we have?
Mac, don’t worry about it, I’m watching it on MLB.com. You’re not that much ahead of me.
I think it’s funny.
MMM, tri-tip.
Mac, you ever do a rosemary onion on the grill? They’re outstanding with Tri-tip
Tigers, bottom of the 4th, two out, none on.
I have not done a rosemary onion. But I will write that down and give it a shot. I’m going to have my tri tip with a little A1 and cheddar cheese in a hoagie, then broil the cheese on top for a delicious sandwich.
8 pitches, three outs for Garcia.
8 pitch bottom of the 4th for Garcia.
Top 5, still 3-0.
What is a rosemary onion?
And I thought twins bloggers were negative…
FREEP:
“It’s heart breaking watching our team become so listless and futile. Along with the manager we are whipped puppies. There is no bright spot anywhere. Who can explain it who can tell me why. Am I talking defeat. Absolutely.”
Thanks guys…
One large mild yellow onion. Peel and quarter, but, don’t cut all the way through.
Season with Soy Sauce, crushed fresh garlic, olive oil and fresh rosemary sprigs.
Wrap in foil, place on the grill for about an hour.
Tigers going with pitcher #4. Ryan Perry.
MMMMMM…..rosemary onion. Dang that sounds good.
Anybody have a Buckhorn Grill near them? They might only be out west. Most delicious tri tip, bacon, and cheese sandwich of all time. The Bacon Cheddar Buck.
Pitcher 4 in the fifth for Detroit.
Quentin beaned for second time tonight.
Truth be told, Mac, it’s my own private invention.
I just call it that, for want of a better name.
But Blake, according to Ben “we all ready know that….GEEEEEEEZZZZ”.
Quentin hit again. Two on None down. I really wish I could get the HAWK! Would love to hear a little put it on the board!
Caught the bill of Quentin’s helmet, just a little.
I have the MLB extra innings, but I’m listening to the Detroit feed which is on MLB network.
DrDon…Ben who?
Blake, go back to the beginning of the blog comments, and you will see what I mean.
Another run for Chicago.
4-0
Dr.Don..sorry, I forgot the /sarc tag.
Denver Dan… I’m watching on CSNCH but missed what Hawk said because a neighbor came over. Sorry.
4-0 against a Tiger team that is having trouble scoring a single run. Awesome.
Chicago runners at first and second, two out.
Blake, this is where it all started…
“”Ben says:
October 3rd, 2009 at 6:51 pm
Thanks Dr. Don, but we all ready know what the score is… GEEEZZZ”"
Go from there.
JBIOWA,
I just want to listen to the Hawk period he is best announcer in baseball!
I like this one from the FREEP blog too:
Well, it is getting to be the time of year for a good living dead flick. Happy Halloween 4 weeks early.
D of the Dead.
ok, blake, now I got ya. He is a beauty.
Denver Dan; if by “best” you mean most annoying homer, then yes, the Hawk is the best.
Chicago keeps tacking on runs.
Cool.
Hawk did have one line about the “tightening sphincters” on the Detroit bench that about made me choke.
Tiger announcers and crowd are now getting excited when somebody hits a fly ball that’s not directly at somebody. But alas, it was still an out.
And then a towering foul ball for the Tigers. Funny stuff.
Someone make sure to tell Ben that the score is now Sox 4- Detoilet 0.
To update, Chicago added a run top of the fifth, now bottom of the fifth, Tigers batting, 1 down.
Is it me or do the Tigers seem to be sleepwalking through this game?
They’ve pretty much been sleepwalking since the beginning of September.
Tigers players and their fans and their announcers. Zero life whatsoever. It’s very funny. You can almost see the life getting sucked right out of them.
Hey Ben,
The Score is 4-0 Sox.
Tigers do down in order, top of the sixth coming up.
3 hits for Detroit today. Isn’t that what they had yesterday when they got shutout?
Tigers GO down in order..sheesh.
Denver Dan : http://www.heavethehawk.com/
I’m wondering if Ben would be so kind to tell me what the score is…
jbiowa,
I thought I misheard Hawk talking about the Tigers’ “tightening sphincters”. Apparently not. Yikes.
Easy game so far and to say the Tigs are sleepwalking is an understatement. I have to believe they’re gonna rally here in the 6th or the 7th. Have to make it interesting.
I know Justin, I kind of had to think about it myself but I’m sure that’s what he said. It was just said so quietly in the course of this comments that it kind of flew right on by.
Garcia almost looks bored on the mound.
How’d you like the call on that last fly ball out? The Detroit announcers tried to make it into a rocket of a hit.
Reality: It was caught about 40 feet from the warning track.
Schurik: Heavethehawk.com is trash. Cubs fans.
And I have heard “sphincter” references form the Hawk before I laughed histerically
4-0 Sox, bottom of the seventh coming up.
Thanks, Blake. We need to make sure that Ben knows the score.
DrDon, I’d email Ben directly if I had his email address.
This one from the FREEP is also mildly amusing:
Now coming to a breakfast table near you…Tiger-O’s! The only cereal that you can use to re-create your favorite 2009 Detroit Tigers boxscore with! Crunchy zeros, marshmallow K’s, LOB’s, DP’s, and E’s and a prize in the box with small parts that are a choking hazard!
Who wants it, Blake?
Tigers go in order in the seventh, Ben.
(Don’t want Ben to feel left out)
Here come the Sox again.
Bases loaded with 1 out.
Good to see somebody has been posting as me today. I never posted once. Was at the game today and it was an electric atmosphere!
Macleod save all your ridiculous stuff.
Brandon Lyon has pretty nice numbers this year but every time I see him he’s giving up hits all over the place.
LOL. I like how Ben picks me out of the line-up of everybody. I’ll save my “ridiculous” stuff if you’ll save your negative attitude today. I promise. But if you post one negative thing you are fair game.
Macleod, because I scrolled up and you were the latest to be talking trash.
Just making a joke about somebody elses post.
Missed opportunity by the Sox with the bases loaded and one out. Hopefully it doesn’t matter.
Sox left the bases loaded.
Easy to say now Ben.
Blake is still wondering what inning the Sox game is in.
DrDon, trust me I can’t stand you, but I would definitely tell you if I was talking trash about you. I have never been shy about it before. Unfortunately it was not me until 8:30 tonight old man.
Ozzie please don’t leave Freddy in for too long again tonight like you did last Saturday night.
C’mon Sox … don’t let the ex-Twinkie score.
Get him out Ozzie, why do you always wait until it is too late with Freddy?
I can’t stand another one of these today. GET THEM OUT!
1st and 3rd, no outs.
Uh oh…
4-1 and the crowd is getting excited.
Ozzie, close something out!
Magglio “I’m off the Juice” Ordonez is up to the plate.
Well that is what the doctor ordered from Miguel Cabrera.
Line drive…out!!
And then a quick double play!!
4-1.
THANK YOU VERY MUCH! CABRERA!
Tiger announcers are starting to talk about a playoff with the Twins.
just how much tension is one person supposed to have in one day…..this is incredible and were only 18 hrs or so from another one…the big one i believe
Obviously tomorrow is in the bag? Let’s go Stanky Danks!
i missed most of the first 6 innings…were the tigers tight as i thought they would be after they watched the twins……did it seem that way anyone??
Aflack!
Denver Dan, really? With Verlander on the mound?
It seemed like they were extremely tight. They have shown zero life except for the last inning. Their rookie starter lasted 1 1/3 innings. They had used 3 pitchers by the end of 2.
Get one more big hit here Sox and get up 5.
mj1: As the Hawk said “their sphincters were tight”
we should all send ozzie a big thank you
mj1, they looked tight on some fielding plays. Except for the last inning, they looked like they were sleepwalking as is mentioned above.
Except for the 8th inning, it was as though they had this game lost before it started. Let’s hope the Sox finish it out.
the hawk said that???? lol thats great
Tiger announcers keep saying; “Verlander will rise to the occassion tomorrow, just like he always does”.
But the funny thing is, they’ve been saying that for several innings already. Even they know this team can’t come back from a 4-0 deficit.
FYI: Bases are loaded with Sox and Zero outs.
At this rate the Tigers would be fortunate to get into a playoff.
this tiger team has never impressed me - they have bats but they dont play the game very well and defensively…well.forget it…shameful
what it must be like to be a tigers fan- can you imagine the bitching on that blog–make ours look like sunday school
Let’s not get too overconfident. Hopefully this holds up, but we still have a tough day ahead of us tomorrow. Verlander for them on regular rest and Pavano for us on 3 days rest.
5-1 now put it out of reach Ramirez.
“Adam Everett putting on a show tonight defensively”.
When that is your quality player for the game, you are hurting.
Boo, double play.
5-1, last ups coming.
mj1, I’ve been watching their blog all night. It’s a dead heat on who they most want to get rid of — Dombroski, Leyland, and any number of players. They are bemoaning the UM loss, the Red Wings losses and the Tigers … and looking forward to the start of a new Lions losing streak tomorrow.
The kitties are lucky it’s not 10-1. How many have the Sox LOB?
Actually MLB Network announcing they will not be sending Duensing to the hill tomorrow.
The Tigers won’t score 4 runs in the 9th, or tomorrow, they way they’re playing.
Man, Alex Rios has had 3 bloop pop-up hits tonight. Not that I’m complaining!
I never thought I would say this but I miss Bobby Jenks!
the whole state may be on suicide watch…thats sad, but i dont feel to bad myself….
Yep, we need the Sox to close this out. And then the Twins need to do their job tomorrow.
Despite wanting to chew my fingernails, this has been a great time.
This is so fun yet to nail biting…
Strike zone suddenly got real small.
Macleod well if you don’t throw strikes it will seem that way.
im amazed i havent bit mine, must be leaving them for tomorrow i guess
C’mon Thornton. Throw strikes.
Don’t worry about Detroit, the Lions are on a winning streak.
Take a seat Ryan.
How bout a DP from Inge to call it a night?
Ump doesn’t want this one to end
meanwhile the yankees are just sitting back getting more and more overconfident…this whole thing is playing out beautifully so far….we might as well win one or if need two more and have some fun…..
1 out away from the greatest game since ‘91 at the dome!
Dan, how do you figure because there was a walk to begin the 9th.
Yeah!!!!
It’s ironic that the Lions play the Bears tomorrow.
THANK YOU, WHITE SOX!!!!!
Tied for first oh man CANNOT WAIT
That will work, now the Twins have to take care of business tomorrow afternoon. If the Sox can help them out again, great but if not they are in control of their own destiny!
Tigers announcers just pulled a; “well, if somebody told you on April 1 that you’d be tied for first at the end of the season you’d be happy”.
We’re comin’ baby!!!!
This is a team of destiny!
Twins now control thier own destiny. NICE!
Twins magic number = 2
The magic number is now on the other foot…. sort of.
Man if we traded Cuddyer and benched Punto we would not be in first place today.
Ya vicar, the naysayers have been rather quiet lately, have you noticed?
The Twins just need to take care of business tomorrow and it will all work out. I hope Pavano has the stuff tomorrow, the Twins don’t want to get down early. At least Gurrier should be available as well as Mahay. Nathan had pretty good stuff today and thanks to Span gave up no hits!
Nice job, exciting nationally televised game. Now win tomorrow Carl, you got what you asked for….
Sorry Vicar, since you probably believed that Twins would not be in first place with Cuddyer and Punto playing, how can you discount the possibility that whoever we traded for Cuddyer and Casilla could have done just as well or better?
I am not saying they would have but the odds would be about the same. You just never know what the alternative may have done.
Wait…the Twins still have a chance?
I thought the season was over back when it was 3-0 in the fourth Tuesday night.
T, the game was over not the season. Sorry you get confused easily.
