Twins-Sox: A thriller on Tuesday
Posted on July 29th, 2008 – 4:24 PMBy La Velle
Reporters note: Last night got crazy, with news about Casilla’s injury and the change in plans for Everett. Frankly, I forgot to correct this blog. Sorry.
Lineups
White Sox (59-45): 1. Orlando Cabrera, SS. 2. Brian Anderson, CF. 3. Carlos Quentin, LF. 4. Jermaine Dye, RF. 5. Jim Thome, DH. 6. Paul Konerko, 1B. 7. Alexei Ramirez, 2B. 8. Josh Fields, 3B. Toby Hall, C. Pitching: Clayton Richard.
Twins (58-47): 1. Denard Span, RF. 2. Nick Punto, 2B. 3. Joe Mauer, C. 4. Justin Morneau, 1B. 5. Delmon Young, LF. 6. Mike Redmond, DH. 7. Brendan Harris, SS. 8. Brian Buscher, 3B. 9. Carlos Gomez, CF. Pitching: Perkins.
385 Responses to "Twins-Sox: A thriller on Tuesday"
Red dog DH again!!!
I like the lineup, except for LNP batting 2nd. Of course with that lineup, I don’t know who else I’d bat in that spot.
I generally like Punto, but there is no excuse for hitting him second, ever. Buscher, Harris, or even Red Dogg would be a better option.
I like the idea of putting red dog in the two hole
or why not bat gomez second, then all he would have to do is sac bunt span, more often than not span will get on
When Morneau is on base he takes off his batting gloves and holds them in both fists when he runs. This is to make sure his fingers aren’t spread out when he slides. Every player on the team needs to do this.
LOL still no Jason Kubel? I find that downright odd. Most of you know I’m not a card-carrying “Free Jason Kubel” member, but you should play the guy to prove his futility against lefties…I don’t think Redmond at DH is the answer we’re looking for…they could’ve easily had
As for Everett…how do we explain that situation, then? Who goes, who stays?
Good call, Walter.
I learned that trick in Little League, for crying out loud!
That and LNP should be benched for diving into first AGAIN last night…obviously you can’t bench him today when you’re an infielder short, but still….that has to stop!
Does this team need to do some finger stretching before each game, or what? I have never heard of so many finger problems on one team.
Prediction: Gomez hurts his finger chewing his nails in CF tonight, Twins bring up Darnell McDonald to replace him. He goes 10-20 in his first week of play. During the same time Span drops an O-fer and everyone wants McDonald to be the starting CF.
everett will be packing….
Just had to get that rip on Kubel in there huh Jason!!!
How much longer will Monroe be around as well as everett….
Brent:
Darnell would fill in nicely. There has been alot of comment recently about the Twins “doing things the right way” and whether this is really so. One thing I know they do right is prepare players in AAA. Almost all the call-ups do great for their first few weeks on the big club.
Punto in the two-hole… Redmond at DH batting 6th…
I suppose it was a lost cause to get my hopes up to see Mauer batting second when I read this entry’s title… but I thought “if not Mauer, than certainly Gomez or Span.”
Punto? Come on Gardy… his average has dropped 40 points over the past week, and his only hits haven’t even left the infield. One of them should’ve been an out but Marte made a bonehead play at 3B.
Obviously, you have to play him, but batting him second…
I’d like to see Kubel out there too, but apparently he’s destined to be a platoon player forever under Gardy’s system.
Oh well… how about another 7-0 win Twins? I suppose just any win will do though 
Casilla’s sore thumb may keep Everett around.
Jason,
Did you like that he slid in head-first despite it being damn-near humanly impossible to make a play on him?
Lord knows I did.
Ugh, haha
Jeez, you could bat Gomez second, or Gomez leads off and Span bats second, or Harris bats second. I think Punto can be a big help to the club but Nick and the top of the order just don’t mix.
It wasn’t a rip, Brent. I’m actually advocating for Kubel to be in the lineup tonight…
But as I explained on the 220 Blog today, this is the same situation as we found ourselves in a year ago with Lew Ford / Jason Tyner and the like…Kubel has had every opportunity to take the bull by the horns on this thing and prove that he should be in there everyday and not be replaced by singles hitters with no speed (Redmond) and guys batting .200 (Monroe), yet, Kubel hasn’t done so.
So yeah, I guess it’s platoon city…which, we really can’t criticize too much, since Gardy’s track record in this regard has been favorable.
All I’m saying, though, in Gardy’s defense (and in stark contrast to the Kubel fantisizers we’ve been hearing from for years now), Kubel has not become the player you folks expected him to be…and he cannot claim that he wasn’t given a chance…
Josh,
I’d rather have Monroe than Everett. If you’re gonna be hitting around the .200 mark, you may as well be driving in runs.
Too bad the Dodgers weren’t interested, not that I can blame them.
Think the shortstop-hungry Orioles would take a chance on him? They said going into the year they’d be ok with sacrificing offense for defense at SS. Everett seems to fit that bill to me.
We should be happy to just get a salary dump and whatever middling prospect they feel like parting with.
I was a big Adam Everett fan from when he was a 1st round pick, but his offense never happened, and this year thanks to injuries the defense never came around, and luckily Harris, Casilla, and even Punterrible stepped up big time. I feel bad, but Everett’s gotta be designated for assignment, and it’s going to be hard to feel terrible because he will make more money this year than many of us will ever see.
Jason,
For the sake of avoiding another debate, I’ll keep it short: Kubel has had a chance against just about everyone but lefties. I’d like to see him get that chance, just like you, even if it means him failing. At least then we know, rather than the constant speculating about whether or not putting a guy who has as many HRs in his career (Redmond, 13) as our DH does this season (Kubel, 13) was a good move or not.
Do I have to go back to my Jim Mora parody on the Punto thing? Ok (in honor of him being in the 2-hole), here we go:
“Well I’ll start by saying this, don’t blame that game on the pitching, alright…I don’t care who you play…a high school team, junior college team, college team, much less a Major League team…when you have 5 at-bats, 4 pop-outs, a failed bunt attempt, and head first slide into first base…you ain’t gonna beat anyone I just talked about…and that was a disgraceful performance in my opinion…in my opinion that sucked…we gave them the friggen game by doing that….
What’s that? Punto? Don’t talk about Punto? Are you kidding me, Punto? Punto? I’m just hope we can win a game…another game…”
sigh. i hate punto.
FIRE THE FINGER DOCTOR
Redmond is 6 for 11 in his 3 games vs the WSox this year (most likely all against LHP). I’m not sure I see anyone on the bench more likely to hit a LHP tonight. The other logical option was Monroe and I feel better about Redmond at the plate than Monroe at this point.
Harris or Punto hitting 2nd? Eh… not sure I care and I’m perfectly happy with Gomez staying #9 for a while.
Can’t we get softer bases? Or maybe softer dirt? Or maybe baserunners can wear Hulk Hands.
God the Angels are good… Texiera for Kochman..
You got me Jason. You win, let everyone know it, you are right on Kubel, his .778 OPS is junk and he does not deserve to be on this team. 58 AB’s (109 in three years) is enough sample size to determine that the man cannot hit Lefties and he should platoon with Mike Redmond. You are right, you are right, you are right. Now can you move on and discuss something else please?
You guys don’t understand what a great player Punto is, lucky that Gardy does. Smith will be giving him a much deserved contract extension soon. He probably is the most valuable player on the team, just ask Gardy. He showed grit and soul sliding into first last night unlike most of the team that lack hustle.
JimCrikket,
All 3 games against the CWS this season were against Beurhle.
I cannot believe that Punto is hitting 2nd. Wow. I don’t care if he goes 5 for 5, that is a bad decision. Isn’t he hitting .100 since coming off the DL?
Brent, the point is the man cannot hit lefties OR righties in above average fashion…he’s only hitting .263. He only has 10 doubles on the season! Thus, he hasn’t earned the right to play each and every game (since he doesn’t bring an added element like great speed or defense to the equation).
I just don’t see a series against the Division leaders as a good time to give Kubel some chances against lefties, “even if it means failing.” There’s just too much riding on the head-to-head games. You put the lineup out there you think has the best chance at winning the game. Kubel has had chances. He’s had 68 plate appearances this season vs lefties and his BA is sub .200 and OPS of .538.
I wait for Ozzie to bring in a RHP from the pen and then let Jason try to light him up.
Kubel is their 3rd best hitter that has more than 100 ABs. He’s the 7th best DH in the AL (ranked by OPS), making him about average.
If Punto hitting 2nd is your best lineup…..
This line-up is built to lose tonight.
Anyone else things Delmon Young looks a little like Amy Winehouse?
.474 Slugging percentage indicates that he is hitting for power in some capacity.
I wonder who the minor leaguer is that was traded with Kotchman for Texiera, because it sounds like not all that much for the big fish of the trade deadline. It has to be one of LAA’s better pitching prospects.
Sounds like the second player is relief prospect Stephen Marek. I know nothing about him.
The Braves trade a guy they won’t keep, for a 25 year old first baseman that will play for them for at least a few years, plus a prospect. That is more than the Twins got for Santana, as they got at least 1 guy that is a guaranteed every day player. (that’s not going to make me popular) It’s not like Kochman is a slouch, he’s just not great.
AA relief pitcher with decent, but not overwhelming, numbers. No idea if he’s anywhere to be found on the Angels’ top-propect list, but it seems unlikely.
Punto is a great asset to the Twins. He has heart, guts and can field with the best. Dump Everett, Lamb and Monroe and give some more Twins trained younsters a chance.
Marek is a AA pitcher, former 40th round pick. Is 2-6 with a 3.66 ERA. 57 Ks and 22 BB in 46 innings.
Stephen Marek a 24 year old AA reliever was traded along with Kotchman.
Marek will be 25 in about a month.
I will take Gomez, Mulvey and Guerra over Kotchman any day of the week.
I mean “youngsters”.
Why is keeping Red Dog in the lineup tonight? Gardy better hope Red Dog Doesn’t get injured!!
Actually, this trade is a good thing for the Twins, since it established the value for Beltre at something lower than Kotchman and Marek… We’ll see
RyanW: I may also, I’m just saying that the Twins return is significantly more speculative, and the Braves much more certain.
thrylos: maybe. don’t forget that the team that gets Beltre gets him for next year also, and the Angels only get Tex for this year. So, maybe not. And, the price was set at a current, legit MLB player and a relief pitcher. So, which starter from this team are you willing to deal (that is 25 and has a good future)?
Isn’t Teixeira a rent-a-player? Beltre has another year left in his contract. Not a great comparison. Could be wrong about Teixeira though.
Slowey and Buscher for Beltre (with Seattle taking some of Beltre’s contract).
Adding Lirano and Beltre to our team will make us (IMO) the favorite to win the Central.
mike,
The whole trade was:
Kotchman + Marek for Texeira + 2 1st round draft picks (don’t forget the latter part, that doesn’t exist in the Beltre trade).
I think that for Beltre:
Cuddyer + Swarzak + $ or another player like Buscher should be enough
I think if the Angels gave up Kotchman, they will do what they can to sign Tex for long term.
on another note: Kotchman is under club control for 2 years and is arbitration eligible this year and next…
thyrlos, I believe if the Twins deal for Beltre- we would get compensation pics if he walks after the 2009 season. And I am sure he will be a type-A, so really we would get two first round pics as well, just a year later.
I know Tex is a Boras client, but I still think the Angels will do what they can to lock him up. And lets be honest, it is a great spot to play- so I could see a deal happening.
Ryan W, agreed. But that will be a year later, so they do not have as much value (think football pick trades for a moment). I just think that the Angels got a steal in this deal and they will probably sign Texeira to a long term deal anyways.
thrylos: good point on the picks. I wasn’t thinking about that.
If they could do Cuddy and Swarzak for Beltre, I’d do that in an instant. But, you can’t trade guys on the DL, I’m pretty sure.
Really people…you need to examine your hatred of Nick Punto. It is totally irrational, one might say it is sick. I’ve come to the conclusion that some of you would actually celebrate if he were to be beaned and rendered brain dead. Some of you would , no doubt volunteer to be the one to pull the plug. I have never seen such blatant hatred of a professional athlete….all because he had a bad season last year and is foolish enough to dive into first base. Frankly, as you can probably tell, it discusts me.
I don’t think anyone else posted this yet, but if you have Red Dog and Mauer in the lineup tonight - why not start Red Dog at Catcher to keep Mauer fresh for the next two games? Let Mauer DH tonight & he’ll be good to catch the last two games of this big series. Just a thought!
Thrylos- I agree they got a good deal. If they have the cash to lock him up, this is a no brainer. Texiera is a much better player and is only a couple years older than Kotchman.
Minor league relievers are a dime a dozen.
thrylos98:
Actually no. Beltre is signed for next year, so he is not a rental piece, so this trade has very little in common to the Teixera trade. Tex is a good 1B defensively, but Beltre is great defensively (at a much more premium position).
The M’s are very very comfortable not trading anyone (stupid on their part, but whatever) because their GM is interim and he doesn’t want to totally destroy any chance he has to keep the job. Also, no one else is really interested in Beltre, so their is no escalating value.
Cuddy isnt going anywhere, his contract is inflated- if Seatle is going to overpay for someone, they might as well keep the known comodity and keep Beltre. Besides Beltre has one less year on his deal…
I agree that Beltre’s asking price has to come down as a result of little interest and a market that seems to be more rational than in years past. The question is: does it come down enough for the Twins to make a deal? I dont see us overreaching on this one.
Steve from Fridley says:
July 29th, 2008 at 4:45 pm
“I’d rather have Monroe than Everett. If you’re gonna be hitting around the .200 mark, you may as well be driving in runs.”
Monroe at SS?
It wasn’t a rip, Brent. I’m actually advocating for Kubel to be in the lineup tonight…
Right. So he can further prove his futility. Your words.
———
This is basically the “what else can I do lineup. Punto can at least put down a bunt if Span gets on base. But thankfully everybody will be able to blame a potential loss tonight on Punto vs. whatever may actually happen.
Good luck tonight Twins. Let’s hope Casilla doesn’t need a DL stint. Let’s make the Sox sweat!
dknute: I don’t hate the guy, never met him. I just don’t think he should be batting 2nd in any MLB lineup. 2006 was the fluke, btw, not last year. He’s just not that good a hitter that he should be batting 2nd. Sorry if that disgusts you.
romer: Is Cuddy going to be healthy in time for him to be worth anything in the trade market? Especially for a “top shelf” type guy like Beltre…
What the…
Punto is the most important player to Gardy because Punterrible is the only one to play with Gardy’s Bathroom Caulk on a daily basis just to get in the lineup.
Kotchman for Texeira? That would be incredible for both teams. The Braves get long term quality at a much cheaper price, and Texeria batting with Vlad the impalor… That is just awesome.
Let’s just hope Cassilla is back in there soon. Everyone needs to lighten up on Punto. He is a very good ballplayer, and asset to the team.
I like Punto batting 2nd and Redmond as the DH. I would prefer Everett over Harris at SS, but otherwise it looks good.
With Monroe out of the lineup, one must wonder if he is about to be released to make room for Everett. Everett is useful, whereas Monroe is not. It would mean 7 infielders for awhile. Could be a very smart move.
Hey BC Beneke, how does the crow taste?
Texiera to the Angels for Kochman? This aint good guys. It’s like a small upgrade. .283 (Tex) vs. .287. 20 HR vs. 12 HR. It’d be like trading Kubel for Hunter. Another reason the Twins NEED to do Something for WS considerations.
Here’s one thing: Our August Schedule is Weak. Really weak. We play the Yankees @ home, the Angels on the road, and I guess you could count Oakland- but that’s a maybe… Other than that, wow. We play KC, Indians, and Seattle a bunch of times. We Definetly Should Be In First By The End Of Next Month- If not by this one.
“Bathroom Caulk.” Get it? I’m implying things about their relationship.
I’m so CLEVER!
I read an explanation once from Gardenhire about why he preferred to use Redmond as DH and Mauer as catcher when he wanted them both in the lineup but I’m having trouble remembering it exactly. I think it had to do with being able to pinch hit for Redmond late in the game if he was the DH, but if Redmond was the catcher and Gardy wanted to pinch hit for him he would have to move Mauer to catcher out of the DH spot and then they would lose the DH. Something like that. Anyone else remember this better?
Hey BC Beneke, how does the crow taste?
BC will reply that he’s always hoped Span would succeed and was always secretly rooting for him. Even when using such nicknames as “FLUSH!”
either Everett has to leave the team or someone else before the game. I wonder what will happen.
Close B:
Redmond is slower than Mauer. So if Redmond gets on and needs to be pinch run for, Gardy can do so without losing the catcher.
I think the only reason people bash punto so much is because of the people that get on here and bash the punto bashers. It’s kind of comical to watch.
The thing to keep in mind about the Braves picking up Kotchman - Kotchman is only making 1.5 mil this year. He’s going to be on the cheap for a few years. Teixeira makes 12.5 mil this year, and it doesn’t look like money is changing hands, or draft picks. So as far as Beltre is concerned - I think you can say the market is relatively set - either a proven MLB player & a non-premier prospect (per espn.com, the reliever isn’t premier), or perhaps two of our better prospects. As long as we’re willing to take on the salary. If not, the offer has to go up.
That was taken from an FSN broadcast by the way.
“Texiera to the Angels for Kochman?”
I prefer Kotchman. Strikes out less, and is a superior fielder.
BC,
The Braves get long term quality at a much cheaper price
not sure about the ‘long term’ here. Kotchman is under club control until 2010 and arbitration eligible this year and next
Thanks, T.
Shaking and baking out here in SoCal!! I moved here 3 years ago and this was my first - like a nice massage. Anyway, what is the deal with all these finger injuries this year?!!!
I think the most important thing that came out of the Texeria deal is that the market appears to be more rational than in years past. So I think one young player plus mid to low level prospect should be the price.
That seems fair, I am ok with fair- I just do not want to overpay.
I’m surprised the Twins have done so well without Gardy/Anderson/Smith consulting with the sages on this blog.
You Punto bashers are pathetically short-sighted. Yawn
“I’m surprised the Twins have done so well without Gardy/Anderson/Smith consulting with the sages on this blog.”
Thanks, Deb! THAT is the post of the year!
“I’m surprised the Twins have done so well without Gardy/Anderson/Smith consulting with the sages on this blog.”
If Gardy/Anderson/Smith weren’t consulting with the sages on this blog, the Twins would be undefeated.
Twins must lead the league in finger injuries.
twincities.com reporting everett has been designated for assignment
so did this blog
Looks like Monroe will get designated fo assignment. Casilla’s thumb injury sealed the deal. This is pure speculation, I have no news. Would seem to make sense.
The Twins cannot trade one of the top 5 pitchers.
Blackburn, Liriano, Baker, Perkins, or Slowey for a 3rd baseman unless we are somehow getting Atkins or Zimmerman to play 3rd, or getting Peavy or Webb for the rotation.
For what they can provide at the price they are being paid… you cannot afford to trade them without knowing that you have at least 3 guys that can come up to replace them (because it’s about 1 in every 3 starting pitchers in the minors that make it to the MLB that can stick for more an entire season… even less than that which are actually good starters).
craig,
Everett is DFA’d.
Harris outlasted Everett with the Twins.
Win some, lose some.
Everett designated for assignment. Good riddance. Ha-ha.
Everett’s contract likely was insured, so it only cost Carl a relative pittance.
I would put Harris is the second spot instead of LNP
Everett and Gomez back to back in the line-up would have been funny. Baseball’s two worst hitters?
It’ll be interesting to see what the Tex trade does to the rest of the market.
An MLB player + AA prospect for a rental?
So if we add an MLB + AA prospect and throw in another prospect maybe Beltre?
BC- I disagree.
I think Slowey is expendible in the right situation (Beltre or better).
A starting staff of Baker, Liriano, Blackburn, Perkins, Livan would be an improvement on what we have had. If injury or Livan completly falls apart, we have Boof, Dunsing and Mulvey that could step in the 5th spot… (really only a little more than a handful of starts from here out). Slowey has been so-so (the shutout last night was a fluke- a welcome one, but a fluke nonetheless).
There is a chance Mulvey or Dunsing may end up out performing Slowey within a year or two anyway…
I think Slowey is expendible in the right situation (Beltre or better).
But he threw a SHUTOUT yesterday. That makes him AWESOME!
would like to see Kubel get a chance against lefties. Everyone keeps asking for a trade to get Adrian Beltre. Check the numbers, we already have the left-handed version - Kubel. With almost 100 fewer AB’s Kubel has produced 1 more run (R + RBI - HR) than Beltre and their BA, OBP, SLG, and OPS are almost identical. Plus, in Gardy’s platoon system Kubel is going to get in the lineup a lot more. Let’s get him to the plate.
Scott- Except Beltre is a GG quality defensive player and Kubel is a below average defensive player.
I agree that Beltre would only be a so-so DH. But he brings other assets. Besides, if you like one Kubel, you should LOVE two of them.
“But he threw a SHUTOUT yesterday.”
Slowey has thrown two shutouts this year.
That is very likely more than Duensing and Mulvey will combine to throw in MLB………………….LIFETIME!!!!
OBP SLG AVG
.330 .446 .260 Beltre
.363 .467 .333 Buscher
.402 .541 .376 Busher vs RHP
Scott:
would like to see Kubel get a chance against lefties. Everyone keeps asking for a trade to get Adrian Beltre. Check the numbers, we already have the left-handed version - Kubel. With almost 100 fewer AB’s Kubel has produced 1 more run (R + RBI - HR) than Beltre and their BA, OBP, SLG, and OPS are almost identical. Plus, in Gardy’s platoon system Kubel is going to get in the lineup a lot more. Let’s get him to the plate.
You took the words right out of my typewriter. People act like Kubel has had poor production. I don’t get it.
I am not saying that Slowey is awesome. He is my least favorite of that group, and we can go back in time throughout the last year or so where I’ve included him in 20-30 different trade ideas… including him, bonser, and Dunesing instead of Garza to the D.Rays.
I am just saying that once Liriano is up, we don’t have another starting pitcher in AAA, or Booflet that could come up here and be counted on to perform at a MLB level.
So if you want to trade for Beltre…
Boof, McDonald, and Plouffe should be an adequate amount to give up for a .260 hitter that doesn’t walk, and hasn’t hit well since steroids weren’t against the rules in baseball.
I don’t think Livan will be around next year. So that leaves Baker, Liriano, Blackburn, Slowey, Perkins. Unless you trade one of them. Then who is #5?
Walter…
That is exactly my point
This team is too damn cheap to go out and buy a real stud starting pitcher.
I live in Seattle and the word up here is that the Mariners are overpricing the players they have left (Bedard, Ibanez, Beltre & Washburn) that people want. Apparently they want too much for these guys.
duensing mulvey swarzak could all be number 5 starter.. but atm you listed 5 starters 6 with livan…… and last time i checked they arnt going anywhere
I’m suprised the need for a 3B hasn’t started the “Mauer to 3B” campaign… at least until Buscher starts playing every day. It’s not like we couldn’t find a catcher to back up Redmond.
Next year, when Livan, Monroe, Everett, Reyes and Punto are off the payroll, the Twins will have another $14.7 million to go after a 3B, SS or whatever.
If they were going to move Mauer (or Cuddy for that matter) to 3B, they wouldn’t do it in the middle of a playoff race.
VS. LHP (2008)
OBP SLG AVG
.279 .259 .172 Kubel
.359 .361 .306 Redmond
Kubel’s career stats vs LHP are not much better than the 2008 stats. If Kubel played in the field, there might be some justification to let Kubel bat against LHP. He’s just a left-handed part time DH/Pinch hitter type. Gardy uses him right. If anything, Kubel bats against LHP too much.
I always thought Punto had a nice swing and made good contact, good speed, some incredible defensive plays, adequate arm… what more does a middle infielder need to do? Who’d rather keep Everett (a numero uno pick) over Punto for crap’s sake??? Or name a better option. All i see are weird, hater comments… maybe by ppl who used to own a Pinto?
So. With Everett DFA’d, how long until the Dodgers pick him up? 
but, but, but Craig, if he gets full time AB’s Kubels numbers will be better. I have no logical reason to believe this, but it is just true.
sane,
Why not bring back Punto and Reyes for next season? Gardy loves those guys, and they would be reasonably priced. It’s a match! They are a great fit for the Twins.
FREE JASON KUBEL!!!
hes a twins fan, shes a sox fan. and i bet they aren’t dating. i wonder if guillen is hated as much as gardy when eh puts a guy like hall in the lineup instead of aj
It seems there are a couple of dozen people who post Punto hate messages.
Most all fans like Punto, his teammates appreciate his fine contributions, and the field staff likes him, especially Gardy, who loves the guy.
I like him as a utility player, and even more as a regular, everyday shortstop.
No Casilla, no Beltre, no Liraino.
LOL
“FREE JASON KUBEL!!!”
I think they may have offered Kubel for FREE!…….but no one wanted him.
“Liraino”. LOL to me too.
Craig,
It would be the Twins choice:
Punto for $2+ million or Tolbert $400,000-.
Reyes $1+ million or Breslow $400,000-.
(one leaves when Neshek returns)
How do you think the Twins will go?
Not sure if this has been mentioned but does anyone else remember Clayton Richard holding a clipboard on the Michigan sideline as a back-up to Chad Henne???
Perk nervous?
great a two base balk
Perk needs to be in the pen
“(one leaves when Neshek returns)”
I would think Bass and/or Bonser will be gone.
So does a balk count as an earned run?
“Perk needs to be in the pen”
Based on that balk?
Good pitching inning for Perk. No run but for the balk.
based on the facts that a. he has been a better reliever than a starter (check his WHIP relieving vs. starting in majors and minors) and b. he is way too volatile to go on for 6-7 innings
Wow, the Angels get Tiexiera.
romer,
“I would think Bass and/or Bonser will be gone”
IMO, Bass will be replaced by Liriano.
Boof? or Reyes? or Breslow?
You could be right - THAT might be the choice.
oh great a hit. now punto will be in the lineup tomrrow!
sane, you don’t expect Neshek till next year, right?
Why would they chance it?
“oh great a hit. now punto will be in the lineup tomrrow!”
No other Twin can piss off the blog by being successful!
geez…way to run that one out mauer.
romer,
“sane, you don’t expect Neshek till next year, right?”
Absolutely.
Except for Liriano replacing Bass this year (if before Sept.1), I was talking about next year’s Twins personnel decisions.
I’m cold to the Hawkins thing. He’s too old. It would wind up being a stopgap move.
But who was his pitching coach with the Twins?
I don’t have much confidence in Tolbert’s return either. But if he’s burning up the minors in his rehab……
No other Twin can piss off the blog by being successful!
Except maybe Gardy.
Jose Guillen? Would he be a cancer or benefit?
Crap!
Punto caught a popup!
Now, he’ll play again tomorrow!
..Kidding!
nice rout young!
sane,
I think the Twins wanted two left hand relief pitchers. They didn’t want the whole burden on one guy (Reyes). That’s why they acquired Breslow. I think they want both.
Tolbert and Punto are very different players. Punto is a better SS. They have very little depth at SS. They have room for both on the team. They are both very good players.
Looking for big things from Delmon tonight at the plate.
Can’t leave it all up to Kubel and MVP all the time.
But it’s looking Perkins’ start will fizzle anyway.
What time’s the game tomorrow? (Frickin’ idiotic balk!!!!!!)
Perkins looks like a cocky prick doesnt he? Hope we dont piss this game away
Hopefully MVP can get things started in the bottom of the inning.
But at least the balk isn’t the difference maker anymore.
Craig,
If they choose to keep both LHP’s next year, then Boof may go poof!
They chose to keep Harris ahead of Everett as a backup SS today.
Next year, I think they will keep Harris ahead of Punto or Tolbert. (pick one)
Michigan 3
Minnesota 0
In the second period at the Metrodome.
I dunno, T. The Sox looked listless at the plate last night.
After Cabrera scored tonight, they all looked like clever dicks in the dugout like they stole a run from the damned fool pitcher.
Once again, we’re making some no name thumbing lefty look like Cy Young.
[…] to La Velle E. Neal III of The Star Tribune (click here for the article), Alexi Casilla is suffering from “a sore right thumb” and is out of […]
sane,
You might be right, but next season is a long way off. I think Gardy likes both Tolbert and Punto. Billy Smith might prefer keeping Harris, considering what he gave up to get him and the other guy.
Craig,
The IF next year (barring trades) would be five from the following list of seven:
Casilla
Buscher
Harris
Punto
Tolbert
Lamb
Macri
punto and gomez combine for an error. good goin guys.
not macri
craig,
“I think Gardy likes both Tolbert and Punto.”
No doubt!
Harris is better than Punto. End of story.
Gameday is totally whacked out right now…
Are you kidding? Punto has a lifetime contract. As long as Gardy is here, Punto will have a job and Gardy will probably lobby to have LNP added to the curtain of fame when he retires.
Perk picks up his fielders. Now hitters. Pick up Perk.
You scored 7 dang runs last night…can you get 4 tonight? Please?
i like brasky. he’s funny. and smart!
Bill,
“Gardy will probably lobby to have LNP added to the curtain of fame when he retires.”
That means a new name for that curtain.
blah blah Punto. blah blah Gardy. blah blah bathroom cawk.
You guys need no writers.
Or new writers. If you care for spelling.
I’ll just blame Punto for that mistake. Odds are you guys’ll buy it.
Gomez is batting 1.000 since coming back.
Nope. No need to add a RH hitter to this team.
Some impressive ABs vs. this bum! Pick it up boys!
Span that was brilliant…swing at the first pitch without giving Gomez any chance to steal. Jerry White…why are you here?
Where is bostonrob? I see his Red Sox are down 6-0!
Living with Livan tomorrow:)!
thats why we need to win tonight, cuz it ain’t happening tomorrow
Livan will be at home with his sleeveless uniforms so no worries. I’d worry more about tonight, the guys are looking like my softball team and we suck.
at least perkins pitch count is getting up there, so he will be out sooner than later
Perkins to the Pen
Free Liriano! This team needs a jolt, and Designating Everett is not a jolt
methinks that Livan tomorrow will be better than Perk tonight. This has been a very good Livan imitation by Perk.
Not that I am expecting a deal but throw Blalock out of the mix. Rangers put him on the DL today.
Imitation meaning runners galore, OBA of about .400, etc.
Lackey - no-hitter through 8 innings.
how come Casilla is not playign tonight
I am obviously just tuning in
Twins will come back. You can put this one in the W column.
Derek, you haven’t been paying attention to the blog. Tomorrow’s game is as close to a “lock” as you can get. Probably off the charts on Vegas odds in favor of Twins. (Livan 8-1 at home).
Bill, I would put Nicky on the wall next to Hrbek — nice contrast, I think.
/s
Joe - what the heck!
Can you say lucky LNP?
Just clarified the Everett situation up top…
Punto doesn’t even have to wait for the pitch to steal. Man, he’s good.
kevin,
Casilla has a finger injury from last night’s slide at 2B.
come on delmon!
LaVelle:
This is basically called a contemplative outright. If Everett doesn’t accept a move to Rochester the Twins probably will designate him for assignment, where they could trade or release him.
Everett has 72 hours to accept the assignment or become a free agent.
The last paragraph seems to contradict your first paragraph. Maybe I am just slow tonight.
Fixed. Thanks Carlos G.
Time to watch Lackey in the ninth because John Navarre’s backup at Michigan is handling the Twins..
Ok, what inning do we get back in this thing?
no hitbid broken up
broken up
Carlos G,
I doubt that Everett has been dropped from the 40-man roster like LaVelle wrote.
My guess is that he is off the 25-man roster, because he is no longer on the DL/rehab.
If he refuses assignment to AAA, then he will be off the 40-man roster. (a free agent)
God buscher
Gomez!!! Still batting 1.000.
gomez has been swinging the bat well since the break
what happen with harris not scoring?
step up punto, please
Ullger held him, it would have been close if the throw was on but it obviously was not
Gomez! Amazing with RISP
What a terrible ab they better not waste this opportunity
i love punto!
way to go joe, damn that would have scored 2!
Well…gets the job done.
that works, may have scored two had it not hit the leg
YESSSSSSSSS!
MVP!!!
Sometimes those shots off a pitcher affect his throwing! But that’s ALL MORNEAU! ! !
What a clutch hit. Morneau for MVP!!!
serious? a rook vs MVP?
Dick just about had a heart attack
beautiful…….just beautiful
Morneau is God!!
Justin is simply cluuuutch! Yes!
Morneau is really bolstering his case for MVP! I bet ESPN will try to bury this…
This is just too good!!!!I’m gonna have to learn how to sing O Canada.
hey Derek, you sound like someone I know. Have any family in TX?
Man that place looks nuts tonight, looks like 35-40K.. Lavelle any word on attendance or a guesstimate ?
I know Delmon grounded out, but that was one of the best at bats I have seen him have all year.
i do not
La Velle says:
July 29th, 2008 at 8:25 pm
Time to watch Lackey in the ninth because John Navarre’s backup at Michigan is handling the Twins..
Very timely post La Velle. Thanks. Joe’s and your “magic” continues to amaze.
DickBert said there was def more there tonight than last night, which was 30 and change….
good to see
Dick is really coming into his own this year. What a fantastic call!
Before Crain was injured he was the most reliable relief pitcher at giving up the key home run. I hope he isn’t back into form.
Time to see what the bullpen is made of…I can hardly watch
NOOOOOOOOO, not Dennys!
I’m gonna hop in the shower and just hope we’re still in the lead when I get out
ok
was anyone else here a bit ticked that Gardy did not PH Kubel for Redmond against the RHP last inning, or is it just me?
I think it is a little early to pitch hit for Redmond, maybe his next at bat.
Just under 36,000 at the game
We need a Strikem out Throwem out
Garza: 5 H, CG Shutout
At least Cabrera is getting tired from running all of those heats between 1st and 2nd.
Man Gomez is fast in Center, that was a hit all the way
White Sox are trying to injure our pitchers.
“was anyone else here a bit ticked that Gardy did not PH Kubel for Redmond against the RHP last inning, or is it just me?”
That just brings in a LHP to face Kubel.
Rather have Red vs. RHP than Kubel vs. LHP.
Also if Mauer gets injured, Redmond is still available to catch. (pitcher bats, but thats not as bad as Lamb catching)
Crain just left a hanging fastball up to Quentin, but he didn’t swing…
My impression also, Gatty. Makes me think OUR outfielders would have caught up to Morneau’s double. Dye looked pretty close.
Crain vs Quenton - not good!
Walk Dye?
Mudcat, Span would have definitely caught the Morneau double
Dye almost tied the game with that one
Thome on deck. Just get Dye.
Yes, now only one more inning.
Half way there…a little insurance would be nice!
Isn’t it sad that we so do not trust our bullpen in a game like this. I was on pins and needles during that entire top of the inning.
Let’s see if Gomez can go 3-3…
Nice bunt
That Swisher at-bat was long enough for a woman to grow a beard.
Gomez still @ 1.000!
Now the ump is injured
Let’s see if Denard can launch another one now…
It’s getting close to that time again, the 8th. Reyes vs. Thome scares the hell out of me. Two right-handers after that. Why does Gardy refuse to use Nathan against the other teams big hitters in the 8th? I’d want the best relief pitcher in baseball out there against the other teams best. Two innings tonight and give the day off Wed. but let’s get this one!!
This clown is being paid $2.8 million. When will the Twins learn? One could go on ad nauseum listing the wash-ups the Twins have signed the last 15 years who remained just that, washed up. They should just pump that extra 5 million per year into the minor league system, or save it up for a once every five year splurge on a 1 yr contract for a great power hitter or pitcher.
good to see Gomez….
Mr sane, Do you think Gardenhire was afraid of losing his backup catcher, in the event of an injury to Mauer?
for a sacrifice bunt…
We need to score a couple more runs.
“The Twins keep trying to go this route but rarely have success with it.”
You mean except for Mike Redmond, Dennis Reyes, Jayson Tyner, Jose Offerman, Henry Blanco, Kenny Rogers and Mike Jackson. You’ve come up with four examples of “failurs” - two of them all the way back in 2000. And yes, you can find others, just as you would expect. But you can also find players who have made significant contributions to the Twins success, including two right on this current team.
Put in Big G not Dennys
Bet Mauer is going to get a fastball with morne up next
Yep
87 MPH fastball and I’m sticking to it!
Thome can’t beat us here. Make him put it in play.
Dennys! You are my hero!
That didn’t take long.
Great outing by Dennys and he held his pitch count down too…
Denny Reyes is a GOD!
Dennys had Thome eating out of his hand.
Just don’t allow a HR Big G
No doubt! .333 against righties.
Huge strikeout…
Fields .200 right handed. Should be able to put him away.
Boy! I gotta learn to type faster!
Yes! Lets add some more runs here…
okay, the bullpen has done their part so far
Crap!
We had a chance to waste Nathan in the 8th so he would be unavailable tomorrow!
Why does Gardy keep repeating the same mistake?
Maybe Thome owns Nathan. There has to be a reason.
Delmon’s having an O-fer.
Needs a hit.
Reddog bats .351 in the dome. Maybe he can make the inning a little longer.
Harris is 0 for two. He could use a hit also.
Sounded like booing. For AJ?
DYoung is worthless
Swisher batting .195 on the road. But 14 homers nothing to sneeze at.
Make that 15 homeruns…
Wow unbelievable
WOW!
Way to bounce back Joe…
a raised ERA and a save…. .5 out of first
If Swisher would have doubled……..I don’t want to think about it.
Nathan should have pitched the 8th and 9th inning so that this would not happen……………….tomorrow!
would have liked to hear Hawk call the HR and the out.
You.. can…putitinthebook!
Can I get a Whoop Whoop!?! Way to go Twins. Yes!!!!!!!!!!!!!1
Morneau Girl, try to control YOUR andrenaline.
Oh yawn. This was so predictable.
Carlos G says:
July 29th, 2008 at 8:14 pm
Twins will come back. You can put this one in the W column.
Nice to see DY flash some glove.
Carlos…. you are the golden goose!
oh yeah
Whoop Whoop!
Carlos, I am very curious about tomorrow’s game. What’s it look like?
Sorry Mr sane, I did not read your entire post. I’m old but I’m slow. Thanks all for your generous indulgence. As an aside, you ought to be listening to the CHISOX radio team. It makes the victory twice as good! How do you spell whine?
Now we need Livan to go 9-1 at the dome. I have previously noted seeing him lose that game at the dome (along with one of his wins there), so I’ll be not attending to give him every opportunity.
Really Daniel, usual their radio team is pretty credible
The Twins have decided to make their batters and baserunners wear boxing gloves to prevent further finger injuries.
Kidding!
I have a good feeling about tomorrow. Livan gives up 2 HRs in the first three innings and we fall behind 3-0. We win the game 7-4.
DY goes yard.
DY starting to cover more of the field to prevent Gomez from wallbanging.
Maybe DY will crash into the wall making a spectacular………prolly not I guess.
“Nick Punto has taken over the starting shortstop job, and Brendan Harris has provided the club with a solid backup” - From the MLB.com article on an Adam Everett.
Delmon v. The Wall. I’ve got my money on Delmon.
daniel,
“Mr sane, Do you think Gardenhire was afraid of losing his backup catcher, in the event of an injury to Mauer?”
Sorry for the late response, but:
Yes, if Redmond (DH) is pinch-hit or pinc-run for, THEN Mauer gets injured, the Twins are left with Mike Lamb catching.
That’s a disaster, because Lamb probably doesn’t know the tendencies of White Sox hitters or Twins pitchers.
And he probably can’t handle a Guerrier or Nathan breaking ball.
So Redmond or Mauer at DH means both of them are plugged in for the whole game. if possible
Did Gardy just say Alexi is going on the DL and Everett is going to be activated? Not sure I heard it correctly.
Everett isn’t really losing his job because of his performance. He was supposed to be in an infield with Harris and Lamb. Instead, Harris couldn’t handle second base, Cassilla came up and claimed that job. Harris showed he was more comfortable at shortstop. Punto came back and is hitting much better than last year and is better than Harris defensively.
The problem wasn’t Everett “blowing up”, it was a bunch of other players taking his job with their performance. You can add Tolbert the that list.
The veterans who may be said to have failed would me Monroe, although he has provided power off the bench, and Lamb who really did lose his job because of poor performance. Buscher is doing well, but he never would have had the chance if Lamb had produced anything like expected.
Alexi Casilla to the DL.
Dorian Gray….I mean Adam Everett is still alive and playing for the Twins starting tomorrow.
And regardless what you’ve read, Everett can hit.
He was a decent hitter until he became an 8-hole hitter in the NL which is the worst spot to hit in either league.
Apparently there has been a change of plans… Everett will be activated with Alexi Casilla going on the Disabled List. Interesting!
Everett is back
Sane+Seth=world’s fastest typers
i bet he starts tomorrow
TT,
Are you the same TT who posted regularly on the Strib Twins blogs some many months ago. If so, welcome back.
Mr. Shawn, I should have qualified that… it was the postgame show with the studio host and call in guests. Farmer/Stone were OK but resigned to the comeback defeat. And Mr sane, again, sorry for the unnecessary confusion.
“And regardless what you’ve read, Everett can hit.”
I read he’s the All-Time home run leader for Astro shortstops, maybe he’ll go on a tear and be that right handed power hitter we’ve been looking for.
Mudcat,
You may have hyped what I said a little.
Twins win. AWESOME COMEBACK.
Speaking of comebacks…here’s EVERETT.
And so what if he starts at SS. It’d be either him or Punto if the assessments of Gardy are any indication. It’s a wash.
Go Twins. HUGE game tomorrow.
If sane says Everett is the RH power bat the Twins need, I believe it must be true. Bat Everett 5th.
SANE:
I was a “little” serious. He’s .250 lifetime with 35 HR’s. Might be a little too much to ask for one more lucky break.
Everett probably won’t play that much anyway…. probably vs lefties, punto at 2b and harris at 3rd
If sane says Everett is the RH power bat the Twins need,
then sane is full of sh-t!
Mudcat,
I never thought of Everett as that big RH stick, the way sane does. sane says Everett is the big muscle, maybe he is right. What do you think?
sane,
Don’t be disrespecting yourself. If you say Everett is the big club, then he’s the man.
With Punto or Everett at SS as the options, I’d have to go with Everett. The bat is essentially a wash, but Punto off the bench provides more flexibility defensively in late innings than Everett.
Starting to lineup…?
Span
Gomez
Mauer
Morneau
Young
Kubel
Buscher
Harris
Everett
???? HELP!
Casilla could be out for the year? Now what?
Mr. Mudcat, Dare we question the Twins’ this year. Everett is the RH bat we’ve been seeking?! We’re 12 over .500, a game better than the $210 MM Yankees and 1 behind the Dredsox for the wild card. I’m starting to believe that this may be one of those years! Come on, Lady Luck, don’t let us down. Insanity is my bedfellow.
“I never thought of Everett as that big RH stick, the way sane does. sane says Everett is the big muscle, maybe he is right.”
What is the phone number for Rumor Control?
Couple of hits for Punto batting in the 2 spot. He was there, in that spot, in 2006. He did a great job. I’ll bet Gardy likes him there.
Gomez appears to be acclimating to the 9 spot. The kid was under too much pressure batting in the top of the order.
So if Casilla’s out for the season…does that change who the Twins are now shopping for?
Beltre replaces Buscher…but then you’ve still got Punto or Everett in the lineup.
Unless they use Punto or Everett as part of the Beltre deal…but then what? Macri? Can he play the MIF?
Do the Twins suddenly find themselves in the market for a 2B?
Brian Roberts…. just sayin
I think one in the lineup is OK but both?????
Can someone provide a link to a Casilla or Everett update? Thanks.
joe’s blog
Punto-Everett at 2B.
Harris-Everett at SS.
Buscher-Harris at 3B.
Lamb as PH for Everett-Punto.
Thanks, Shawn.
Has Everett actually ever played 2B?
I think you are looking at a lineup that will have Punto, Everett, and Gomez in it. I like Gomez but lets face it he is very inconsistent. If you thought we were offensively challenged before then now. . . .
If you thought we were offensively challenged before then now. . . .
Who thought that, we’re fifth in the AL in runs scored.
whatodo,
“If you thought we were offensively challenged before then now. . . .”
The Twins are NOT offensively challenged.
They are tied for the 2nd best BA in MLB.
And Everett can hit.
Come down off that ledge!
I understand that but we have to work so hard to score runs. A big part of that is speed and BA with runners in scoring position which Alexi is a big part of.
This is a big loss for the top of the order, hopefully Punto won’t fold under pressure at the plate like he did last year.
The Twins are tied - in the loss column - for the AL wild card lead.
Red Sox 61-47 and dropping
Twins 59-47 and rising
Check Joe C.’s blog for Casilla news…
Honestly, as a Twins fan I am disgusted that we take the first two from the first place Chi Sox and (as I do after every televised nightly Twins game turn directly to ESPN for “Baseball Tonight” analysis) the ESPN guys don’t even give the Twins so much as a sentence. La Velle, have you ever spoken with Olney, Stark, Crasnick, Gammons, Neyer, etc…? They deserve a smack in the noggin, along with all those “baseball prospectus” guys. We can’t get any respect. Ozzie said Morneau should be regarded as the most feared hitter in baseball. Anyone take notice, nope! The guys at ESPN give Ozzie no respect either, they treat him much like they treat the Twins, like some sort of spectacle. As they gawk about Garza, they’re totally sleepin’ on our boys. I just went on ESPN and cannot figure out how to e-mail these fools, but I’m definitely going to post a comment for Stark’s “Rumblings and Grumblings”. Fans unite, we must undo this national injustice and it starts by replicating the 35,000 plus we had tonight at the Dome!
Jimmy, stop crying about the ESPN bias. Get over it, it’s not going away.
Instead of complaining, go out to the game tomorrow night…let’s get 40k!
I’ve given up hope on ESPN. You’ll note they’ve also hopped off the Hamilton bandwagon now that Manny’s started his annual “Trade Me” mess.
They’ll hop on the Twins bandwagon if the Twins are able to sweep the Sox in this series. They’ll promptly hop off once the Twins either drop out of first for a day or if A-Rod farts.
Just saw the replay of Morneau’s double (I didn’t have sound where I was watching)
Did Dick call Gomez “Doyle”?
WTF?
I hope the reason LEN excluded the biggest free agent bust ever–RonDL White–had nothing to do with his skin color. That would be a bit disheartening.
Jimmy, Ozzie NEVER said Morneau should be regarded as “the most feared hitter in baseball.” He said that he’s “one of the best players” in the game, and he should get more respect. That’s a huge difference.
I love the Twins. I always want them to win the division and enter post-season play.
BUT, after all these FA busts this year, after watching this Liriano farce, after learning of Alexi’s saga, I’m not sure I want them to make the post-season. The cold, hard truth is that there’s no way this team even wins a game in the post-season, so why bother. They can’t beat the Red Sox. They are no match for the Yankees. They won’t even score a run off the Angels. Why bother? At least the White Sox have a chance to beat these teams.
…Punto is batting .295…
…Everett batted .316 in his rehab stint…
…Angels made the trade…
…Twins Need to make one of their own…
…Huff would be good…
…A few Pirates sound apealing…
…Dunn would be awesome…
Very well put Lala72. I share similar views- EXCEPT that I DO want them to make the playoffs- hey miracles happen sometimes. Realisticly though, the Twins don’t have a chance against the playoff teams- maybe the Rays and NL because we haven’t played them enough to know. But if we had even just One playoff series with either LAA, NYY, or the Sox, I just can’t see it. Maybe if we drew the Rays first, then the White Sox (Wild Card), I could give us a chance, but that’s Very unlikely. Very unlikely. (Besides, people will hate whoever beats the Rays in the playoffs- assuming they make it.
Twins have done very well so far this series- I would argue that they don’t need to win anymore games- but I hope they do!
This is going to take a while to sort out so I’m starting another post.
I am getting tired of the WE NEED BELTRE committee here in Minnesota.
I know that taking a sampling like 105 atbats and 30 games is a bit too simplistic because it doesn’t take into consideration pitchers a 2nd time through, and it doesn’t take into consideration slumps, or playing through injuries, and what not, but if Buscher were to have a status quo year for 145 games. He would have
508ABs, 77runs, 169 hits, 24 doubles, 15 homers, and at this pace (this is where it’s really idealistic) would have 127 RBI). He would commit 19 errors at 3rd base which is a lot, but by projecting out those numbers cut them by 15% you still get a pretty damn solid season out of Buscher, and he’s developped a relationship with these players. The others know where he is going to be in the field, Justin knows what kinds of throws are coming… our SS knows where to position themselves with Buscher on the field…
We need a serious upgrade from Buscher if we are going to trade for a 3rd baseman. Adrian Beltre is 10 times more expensive, but he’s not much better all around than Buscher.
Beltre’s numbers projected to 153 games because he is a veteran, and more likely to play against everyone than a young kid like Buscher… 29 doubles, 27 homers, 77 RBI, and 17 errors.
So yes Beltre would have more power, but would he be more clutch? Yes Beltre is a preceived better fielder, but Buscher is picking it pretty much on the same level. Beltre walks a bit more, strikes out about the same, steals bases a bit better, and is a veteran, so adding all that in coupled with the monster contract… I just don’t see Beltre as being a huge upgrade.
If we got Garrett Atkins, or Zimmerman then all bets are off, but Beltre or Blalock (whom I have wanted for the last 3 years) are not big enough improvements over Buscher to warrant what it would take to get them, and the financials we’d have to pay.
The Twins have too many players. They have 6 starters for 5 spots. IF Cuddy comes back, they have 4 outfielders for 3 spots. If (and that’s a Small if) Cassila comes back, they don’t need Everett. Lamb isn’t needed- for obvious reasons. Boof isn’t needed- Korecky(?) is ready. They have many more pitchers in the minors- granted not many or any are ready this year, but will be ready very soon. Starting wise, All we have is young, cheap pitching- save for one and he still fits in the latter catergory. It’s not like our other 4 starters will be going away due to FA, $ issues, or old age anytime soon. So what do you do when you have 6 guys for 5 spots- and that’s only this year. Say that you called up Liriano and Livan went away- Trade, dump, w/e, just trying to make a point- now you’ve got 5 guys for 5 spots. All young. All cheap. All pretty to very good. Next year comes. Another young stater (or god forbid more than one) is ready. Now there’s nowhere to put him. You don’t want Baker, Liriano, Slowey, Blackburn, or Perkins out of a VERY good rotation. Trade the minor leaguer who might be better than some or most of them in 2 years? Or do you trade one of the major leaguers who might go on to be one of the best while the minor leaguer busts. It’s a problem of too many players. On the flip side, you don’t want to trade away a dominant starter for a rent-a-player this year. But to help you win now, that might be all that’s available. So what would you do? Go for it this year? Wait a year? Call up Liriano? But do you want no veterens on your staff? What would you do with Livan? Trade Blackburn or Perkins for someone? Trade Cuddyer (who you just gave a long-term deal to- at least long for the Twins) and a club house leader? Trade Minor league talent now but mortgage the future? You don’t want to give up serious talent for a rent-a-player- you just don’t. The Twins have too many players and don’t want to give Any of them up- yet they must. There are a number of players to be traded, but who are you willing to part with- and for what in return? Don’t trade away A Liriano for someone that will only be with you for 3 months and you still might not win it all…
It reminds me of the Brett Farve situation. There’s a number of possibilities to cure the problem- but each with deep and far-reaching consequences. To be honest, I’m glad I’m not in charge on this one, because I’m stumped.
TK2 -
I was looking at Huff as well. Depending on what we’d have to give up, Huff could come in here and be our 3B/DH taking atbats out of Kubel and/or Buscher’s hands…
After looking at how Buscher has played here this season… he projects out quite amazingly well.
Dunn would not be awesome here. His power would be great, his personality, the rent a player aspect, the amount you’d have to give up greatly changes the feel. I would almost rather bring in Griffey provided the Reds pony up some cash, or are willing to take AA level prospects for him.
Huff would be a good solid pickup though, and would be a good counter to Texeria, but what do you give up for him?
TK2-
Trading away one of the 4 young starters would leave you barren if we have an injury this year. Trading away Livan wouldn’t net much, and would do the exact same thing.
Trading Booflet might get you a box of used condoms… I mean baseballs… Freudian slip at 3am.
We have 5 OF’s for 4 positions if you count Kubel and the DH spot. Span has earned his right to stay here, Gomez is the most electric player on the team, and is also the most likely to be sent down if Cuddyer ever comes back… Gomez could use some more seasoning, and it could also financially benefit the Twins to keep him from being a Super 2 like is in part the case with Liriano.
Yes we have Lamb, and Everett… This is a waste of a lot of money, and who would take on those salaries? If we traded Everett and Lamb to the Dodgers along with a top flight Guerra, or Swarzack, or Robertson kind of prospect we might be able to get a player back, but probably not someone that would help right now.
So it’s a deep issue… yes we have more players than positions, but we are also somewhat hamstrung by who those players are, the positions of those players, and the needs, and price tags of other teams.
Read my above post for trade aspescts. It’s very complicated. Dunn Would be awesome -imho- I realize that he brings some things with him beside power- like low BA and a huge salary, and again, what would you have to give up for him?
Theory: Dunn meets Vavra. Vavra would tell him to take what’s given him. Dunn becomes another Morneau. Lovely idea isn’t it? Not likely… but nothing’s impossible.
What you have to give up is really up to the teams you’re dealing with. If they say I want Liriano or no deal*, pull the switch that makes a trap door open and they dissapear forever… Span? Same thing.
*I would call up St. Louis and offer Liriano for Pujols and good prospect. Willn’t happen- in any possible way- but I’m a-thinkin’.
Beltre would be good- but not that good. Not sold on him as our savior.
Could Swarzack, Dunesing, or one of the Mets triplets in the minors come up and be effective starters? Sure, but they haven’t shown anything near that kind of capability. So let’s say we trade Livan Hernandez, and Boof Bonser and we pick up a player for them… What would we get realisticly? Then we bring up Liriano a year and a half after TJ surgery, and his arm is already to the tired stage, and he feels a twinge, and we need to shut him down? Or if one of the other pitchers has an injury. Baker already tweaked a groin, and Blackburn headbutted a line drive… we dodged two huge bullets there, and 3 if you count the fact that Liriano pitched about as well as you or I would in the Majors on his first trip up here this year. I am an ultra liberal guy that is usually a risk taker, but this is playing with fire, and with an owner/management track record… if we F’ this up, we will not fix it quickly. They like to stew in their issues like a 2 year old that is fighting being potty trained.
Dunn would command (in reletive terms from Texeria)… Perkins, and Valencia.
If you called up the cards and asked for Pujols you would hear the dial tone faster than if you called a bank and asked for them to give you an unsecured loan for a million dollars.
That would be kind of like the Catholics trading the Pope. While as a non-catholic I don’t see the value in the Pope… I am sure as hell that the Catholic people would beg to differ with me, and wouldn’t give him up for anything. The big difference is as a baseball player I know that Pujols has a better shot at walking on water than the Pope does.
In a pitching starved league- Silva, Ponson, Hawkins, infinite etc.- I think Boof has some real trade value. We definetly don’t need him here. That’s for sure.
So what it seems to boil down to is that the Twins, barring a miracle, have no real chance this year. They can win the division, yeah, but go to and win the WS (or even one playoff game)… probably not. You willn’t get something for nothing. We have many somethings to give up. Those somethings vary in talent and necessity to this team winning. But we need something. How do we get something for nothing, or something for something while still having somethings for this year or near-future years? That’s something that might not be possible.
I have to work in 7 and a half hours. I’mgoingtobednowKbye.
NL players to look at that would help the Twins that wouldn’t break the bank.
Atlanta - Buddy Carlysle (r)RP - could get him for a 2nd tier prospect… they are still in contention, and Lamb might be able to be sent that way too!!!
Cincy - Griffey (l) OF/DH - not the right position, and he’s expensive $$$ but not in prospect wise
Houston - Carlos Lee - He would require we give up solid prospects, but as a RH power hitter… he would solve our batting order 100%, and with the Astros payroll, and lack of depth at any level in the minors thanks to the stupid trade for Tejada… they might take less than face value for Lee. — Dunesing, Bonser, Humber, Cuddyer?
Pitt - Grabow (L) RP Solid season, the Pirates are always in dump mode, and are proven to take less than face value… see every trade they’ve made since Leyland and Bonds left town!
Padres - Kousmanoff 3B - Young, lots of power potential, adequate glove… is he a huge upgrade over Buscher… long run probably, short term… not too likely.
I wouldn’t mind if the Twins trade Livan if they were to make a quick pick for Maddux. I think Maddux would be a great pitcher for this team, and would be an even better influence on the young pitchers, but he’s never pitched in the AL, and his post season record isn’t great considering he’s Greg Maddux!
SF - Rich Aurilia would be a nice backup to pickup provided we could dump Everett and Lamb, but it’s always nice to have a lefty on the bench in Lamb…
Wed is my day off, so I’m geeking this up too much sorry TK2.
Sea - the guy I’d like to see them go after is Rowland-Smith, or put a call in about Putz since Morrow seems to look ok as a potential closer? Putz could come in here in the pen… We give up Bonser, Korecky, and something out of A ball…
Don’t be sorry, I enjoyed it.
(Just reading any final posts you had)
Nite.
Interesting late night trade discussions (I bet you anything something similiar is going down over at the Dome right now)
Casilla’s out, so that creates a hole at 2B. That’s combined with the (now less by perspective) hole at 3B, and the improved (by comparison) DH slot.
There’s also the lineup, and the fact that the Twins now don’t have a #2 hitter (or at least one that can preserve the lineup model that’s been doing pretty well at this point.
Do the Twins have enough time to shift priorities and find a MIF that can fit in the #2 spot? With all the guys they’ve got floating around, they don’t have room for a DH/OF type unless he can DH everyday.
I think at this point, the Twins need to look at the setup and reassess where their biggest hole is. Can they land a 3B that would not only improve on Buscher, but cover for the loss of production from the #2 spot and Casilla?
Or do they live with Buscher and figure that a good 2B trade would vastly improve over Punto and thusly upgrade the bench by not also having Everett around (he knows he was 72 hours away from not having a job…so they wouldn’t be afraid to cut him again if needed)
What sucks is there’s only about a day left till the deadline and the whole Casilla thing has thrown a wrench in everything.
When Cuddy comes back the Twins will release Monroe. That gives them the right handed batter they need - but allows the youngsters to play the outfield most nights.
I predict no trade for 3rd baseman - but maybe we’ll pick up a reliever and waive Boof or Bass.
Are you for or against that?
Sea - the guy I’d like to see them go after is Rowland-Smith, or put a call in about Putz since Morrow seems to look ok as a potential closer? Putz could come in here in the pen… We give up Bonser, Korecky, and something out of A ball…
The Mariners are going to give up Putz for Bonser, Korecky and some in A ball? Not.
Gomez isn’t going to get sent down when Cuddyer comes back! Who on earth would think that? Monroe gets cut when Cuddyer comes back.
Rich Aurelia can’t hit in the AL. Check his stats when he was with the Mariners.
.241, 4 HR, 28 RBI. Lowest BA of his career aside from his rookie year. His career averages out to a yearly line of .276, 14 HR and 51 RBI. He only played 73 games before being cut because he was terrible.
You DON’T want that guy. Might as well trade for L. Rivas and Dougie back from the Pirates.
When Cuddy comes back they rotate outfielders. At home Cuddy plays right (no one plays the baggie better, Span still learning to play the bag) Span plays center, Young in left, Gomez sits.
On the road Cuddy DH, Span in right, Gomez in Center and Young in left.
Look for Kubel to packaged in trade.
Monroe stays as power off bench in pinch hitting situations.
Why doesnt’t the Twins coaching staff stop the players from diving into a base or home plate head first. Most of the team’s injuries have resulted from that. Maybe they don’t have enough authority to tell them what to do on the field. Diving head first into a base does not give them any particular advantage. In fact, they are more likely to end up with an injury because of it. Apparently, it is just another example of Gardenhire sleeping on the job.
The Twins front office won’t make any deals to help the team unless it is at minimal cost. The Pohlad family is known as the cheapest owner entity of any major league team. As long as the fans are paying to go to the games, they do not care about anything else but saving money. You can count on a second or third place finish for the Twins.
Hernandez has his work cut out for him today. He has got to be at his absolute best to beat the WSOX. They will probably tee off on him. But then, maybe the Twins will bring up Frankie for the rotation.
Is it just me, or does it seem Lavelle is always about a day or two behind the latest news? How much does his part time job pay?
And, no, I didn’t bother to read all the postings before I said this.
