After getting shut down for 8 innings, the Twins came through in the 9th on Thursday, getting Johan Santana off the hook for another home loss.
Johan pitched very well, allowing 2 runs and striking out 9 in 7 innings, but the Twins just could not get to Tim Hudson or Rafael Soriano, who combined for shutout innings. But against old nemesis Bob Wickman in the 9th, the floodgates opened.
Castillo singled, and following a Mauer groundout, he scored on a triple by Michael Cuddyer. After a grounder by Morneau that was misplayed by the first baseman, there were runners on 1st and 3rd for Hunter. His AB wasn't pretty, but ultimately a weak grounder that eventually led to an error on 3B Yunel Escobar tied the game, and then the Twins won on a base hit to left by Mike Redmond.
So it doesn't matter how you do it... it doesn't matter that the Braves pitching staff dominated this game for 8 innings, all that matters is that the Twins have now won 4 straight and remain just 5.5 back of the Indians, and only 4 back of the Tigers.
On Friday Scott Baker gets the call against the Brewers, and you have to think this might be one of Baker's final chances. He has a great track record, but the Twins have a lot of other good pitching prospects and Baker is struggling once again. He's had a couple straight mediocre starts, and I'm not sure how much more the Twins will give him.
Showing posts with label Michael Cuddyer. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Michael Cuddyer. Show all posts
Thursday, June 14, 2007
Wednesday, June 06, 2007
Kevin Slowey picks up first Major League Win
It wasn't quite an awe-inspiring performance, but it's good to see Kevin Slowey get his first Major League win in his second MLB start. Slowey only went 5 innings, giving up 10 hits, 5 runs, and 4 ER, but thanks to good work from the offense and from the bullpen it was good enough for the win.
The bullpen pitched 4 hitless and scoreless innings to preserve the lead, showing their strength. Look at the ERAs of the guys that pitched:
Matt Guerrier: 1.72 (in 36.2 IP)
Carmen Cali: 0.00 (in 4.2 IP)
Pat Neshek: 1.26 (in 28.2 IP)
Joe Nathan: 2.05 (in 26.1 IP)
If I was doing any online sports betting, I would say this is the best bullpen in the MLB once again.
Also, it becomes more and more clear (at least to me) that Pat Neshek is the best middle reliever in the MLB. In the 28.2 IP he has struck out 34 batters, walked only 10, and allowed only 12 hits. That puts his WHIP at 0.77, his OBA at .217, and SLG against at only .200. Those are unbelievable numbers.
Offensively, the Twins got their power from Michael Cuddyer (3/4, 1 HR, 3 RBI), and a couple of other unlikely sources, as both Nick Punto and Jason Bartlett hit their first homers of the year.
All in all, a nice day and a nice job to come from behind to salvage one game of the 3-game set, as we head into another round of interleague play. 3 games at home against a mediocre Washington Nationals team sounds like a recipe for success.
The bullpen pitched 4 hitless and scoreless innings to preserve the lead, showing their strength. Look at the ERAs of the guys that pitched:
Matt Guerrier: 1.72 (in 36.2 IP)
Carmen Cali: 0.00 (in 4.2 IP)
Pat Neshek: 1.26 (in 28.2 IP)
Joe Nathan: 2.05 (in 26.1 IP)
If I was doing any online sports betting, I would say this is the best bullpen in the MLB once again.
Also, it becomes more and more clear (at least to me) that Pat Neshek is the best middle reliever in the MLB. In the 28.2 IP he has struck out 34 batters, walked only 10, and allowed only 12 hits. That puts his WHIP at 0.77, his OBA at .217, and SLG against at only .200. Those are unbelievable numbers.
Offensively, the Twins got their power from Michael Cuddyer (3/4, 1 HR, 3 RBI), and a couple of other unlikely sources, as both Nick Punto and Jason Bartlett hit their first homers of the year.
All in all, a nice day and a nice job to come from behind to salvage one game of the 3-game set, as we head into another round of interleague play. 3 games at home against a mediocre Washington Nationals team sounds like a recipe for success.
Sunday, May 13, 2007
A Win AND Sidney Ponson gets DFA!
With 4 straight losses coming into the game, it had been a long weekend for the Twins.
But on Sunday, good things happened on and off the field. On the field, the bats finally exploded. Hampered greatly ever since Mauer went to the DL, the Twins erupted for 16 runs and 4 HR, something sorely lacking for the offense this year.
Torii Hunter led the way, with 2 HR and a career high 7 RBI. He had lots of help, as the Twins eventually had 16 runs and 22 hits. Luis Castillo had 3 hits. Mike Redmond hit a HR. Mike Cuddyer had 3 hits (including a HR) and 4 RBI. Justin Morneau had 3 hits. Jason Kubel had 3 hits. And on and on.
Bottom line, it was a great hitting performance for the Twins, and something that they sorely needed.
Off the field, after another poor start for Sidney Ponson, the Twins finally have seen enough, as they designated him for assignment. Later this week the Twins will recall a pitcher to start on Saturday, leaving Glen Perkins in the pen. They didn't say who, but my guess would be Scott Baker, who has some experience, is pitching great in AAA, and I believe is already on the 40-man roster. That would make the most sense to me.
Either way, I'm at least happy to see the Twins recognized that Ponson just wasn't working out.
But on Sunday, good things happened on and off the field. On the field, the bats finally exploded. Hampered greatly ever since Mauer went to the DL, the Twins erupted for 16 runs and 4 HR, something sorely lacking for the offense this year.
Torii Hunter led the way, with 2 HR and a career high 7 RBI. He had lots of help, as the Twins eventually had 16 runs and 22 hits. Luis Castillo had 3 hits. Mike Redmond hit a HR. Mike Cuddyer had 3 hits (including a HR) and 4 RBI. Justin Morneau had 3 hits. Jason Kubel had 3 hits. And on and on.
Bottom line, it was a great hitting performance for the Twins, and something that they sorely needed.
Off the field, after another poor start for Sidney Ponson, the Twins finally have seen enough, as they designated him for assignment. Later this week the Twins will recall a pitcher to start on Saturday, leaving Glen Perkins in the pen. They didn't say who, but my guess would be Scott Baker, who has some experience, is pitching great in AAA, and I believe is already on the 40-man roster. That would make the most sense to me.
Either way, I'm at least happy to see the Twins recognized that Ponson just wasn't working out.
Wednesday, April 11, 2007
Ramon Ortiz has been the Twins best starter
Through 2 games, Ramon Ortiz has been everything the Twins hoped he would be and more. If you had bet in an Online Sportsbook before the season that after 2 starts Ramon Ortiz would lead the Twins in IP, ERA, WHIP, and have 2 wins, well, you're braver than I am.Ortiz pitched 8 innings, giving up only 3 hits and 1 run, against perhaps the best lineup in the MLB in the Yankees. That puts him at 2-0 on the year with a 1.80 ERA. The strikeout rate could definitely stand to be higher, but as long as he can keep throwing with the excellent control he has displayed so far and keep the ball in the ballpark, well, there's a chance this might not be an aberration.
But this all looked like it would result in a no-decision for Ortiz until the bats finally got going in the 8th. The 3-4-5-6 showed why they can be so dangerous, as they each drove in a run. With Luis Castillo on 2nd, Joe Mauer singled and took 2nd base. After a wild pitch, Michael Cuddyer singled him in. Then Justin Morneau doubled down the line, and Hunter ended with another double to push the lead to 5-1.
This was fortunately enough for the Twins to at least win 1 game in the series, putting them at 5-3. Now the Rays come to town for a 4-game set. Game 1 of the series features Casey Fossum against Carlos Silva. In his first start he gave up 1 run in 5 innings... I think the Twins wouldn't mind a repeat of that.
Tuesday, February 27, 2007
Position Preview: First Base
With 2006 AL MVP Justin Morneau still here, the Twins seem to be in pretty good shape at 1B. But while the power of Morneau is evident with his 34 HR and 130 RBI, that's just a piece of what makes him such a dangerous hitter. Last year he finally learned how to go with the ball and take it to the opposite field, and the results were staggering. His average finished at .321, over 80 points higher than his average the year before. He also became a more patient hitter, which led to OBP to finish at .375.
But even just looking at the offense is forgetting that he has developed into a very solid defensive first basemen. His height allows him to reach balls that get away from people up high, and he has become very adept at the scoop.
So put it all together, and Morneau looks like he will be in for another great year, and he has finally become a complete offensive and defensive player, and become the player the Twins have hoped he can be.
If he gets hurt (knock on wood), the majority of the playing time would probably go to Jeff Cirillo or Mike Cuddyer. I'll be writing more about them as we get into their normal positions, but just so you're aware, those are the backup options.
Monday, October 02, 2006
Twins/Athetics Position-by-Position
Looking at the teams position by position probably doesn't give us a great indication of who is actually going to win the series, but it does provide a nice overview and preview for what is to come. So let's do it:
Catcher: Joe Mauer vs. Jason Kendall
Jason Kendall isn't necessarily a bad catcher, but Joe Mauer is the batting champion, the best Catcher in the MLB, and a legitimate MVP candidate. Joe is much better offensively, much better defensively, and that makes this the most lopsided difference between the 2 clubs.
First Base: Justin Morneau vs. Nick Swisher
Nick Swisher is a very solid, patient hitter with a little bit of power. But Justin Morneau he is not. Morneau is the better all-around hitter... he hits for a higher average, and his slugging is a bit higher than Swisher as well. Add in that Morneau is an above-average defensive first basemen, and Morneau gets the clear edge.
Second Base: Luis Castillo vs. Mark Ellis
Luis Castillo is not as good defensively as he once was, and he doesn't hit for much power at all, but I give him a slight edge over Ellis. Castillo is very good at at taking pitches at the top of the lineup, and gets on base at a respectable rate of .358. Even with his declining range, I give the edge to Castillo.
Shortstop: Jason Bartlett vs. Marco Scutaro
Once again, I give the slighest of edges to Bartlett and the Twins. Bartlett has very good range and a good arm at SS. Offensively, both are similar players. They have some patience at the plate, but aren't going to be supplying a lot of power. Bartlett gets on base at a slightly better rate, which is why I give him the edge.
Third Base: Nick Punto vs. Eric Chavez
I like what Punto has brought this year, but Chavez gets the edge this year even though he hasn't been his normal self at the plate. Both are getting on base at a similar rate, but Chavez does hit for more power. Also, while I think Punto has been very good defensively at 3B, Chavez is still the class of the American League when it comes to that category.
Left Field: Rondell White vs. Jay Payton
The Twins have sorta had a mismatch group and you're never really sure who's going to be out there, but I think Rondell is the most likely. As we all know Rondell was just absolutely atrociously awful to start the year, but he hit very well in July and hit very well in September, showing why the Twins went out and got him. Which Rondell White will show up? Good question, and that's I give Jay Payton the edge here.
Center Field: Torii Hunter vs. Mark Kotsay
Both are excellent defensive outfielders, and with Hunter being a step slower because of injury, things may be pretty equal in that department. So it comes down to offense. Kotsay is the more patient hitter, but Hunter hits for a lot more power. After 9 HR in September, Hunter has the edge here.
Right Field: Michael Cuddyer vs. Milton Bradley
They are actually very similar players. Neither guy hits for a great average, but they both hold their own. Both have pretty good plate discipline. Neither has great power, but both can hit it out of the ballpark. In the end, I think that the fact that Cuddyer hits so many doubles, and that he has a great arm in the OF gives him an edge over Bradley.
Designated Hitter: Jason Tyner vs. Frank Thomas
Frank Thomas has the edge here by about a million bazillion miles. Not even worth really talking about.
#1 Starter: Johan Santana vs. Barry Zito
Zito has been solid this year (though don't look now, his ERA is 4.55 since the AS break), but Johan is in another class from all pitchers.
#2 Starter: Boof Bonser vs. Esteban Loaiza
If you'd have told me earlier this year Boof would be starting game 2, I would have laughed. But he's earned it with his pitching over the last 2 months. For Loaiza, he is also pitching well after a horrid first half, and has a 4.01 ERA since the AS break. If he can keep the ball down and get the Twins pitchers swinging early in the count, he can be effective. I call this one about a draw. I think if either guy goes 6 strong innings, their team will be happy.
#3 Starter: Brad Radke vs. Rich Harden
Both pitchers have been effective when healthy, but that has been a problem for both. For Radke, the problems with his shoulder have been well documented and this is his last hurrah, as he will retire at the end of the year. For Harden, he's always had some of the best stuff of anyone in the Majors, but he can't seem to stay healthy. He's made 3 starts since coming off the DL, with 2 of them being solid, but he struggled in his last start. Still, when he's on, he's on, which is why I give Harden the edge. But it wouldn't surprise me at all if Radke gives the Twins a great outing... what he's done this year is unlike anything I have seen in sports.
#4 Starter: Carlos Silva vs. Dan Haren
If Carlos Silva pitches in this series, that will be a good thing, because it means the Twins will be leading in this series 2-1. However, I don't like his odds against Dan Haren, a very solid SP.
Bullpen: Joe Nathan vs. Huston Street
Out of all playoff teams, I'd rank these teams 1 and 2 in this category. But as I've said before, I think the Twins have the best bullpen in the MLB. If they can get the lead after 6, they're in very good shape, especially with Joe Nathan anchoring things down at the backend. Plus, I'm not sure Oakland has anyone that can consistently get lefties out.
So what does this all mean? Well, maybe nothing. But it gives us a little better idea of what we're dealing with.
For the record, I've got the Twins in 5.
Catcher: Joe Mauer vs. Jason Kendall
Jason Kendall isn't necessarily a bad catcher, but Joe Mauer is the batting champion, the best Catcher in the MLB, and a legitimate MVP candidate. Joe is much better offensively, much better defensively, and that makes this the most lopsided difference between the 2 clubs.
First Base: Justin Morneau vs. Nick Swisher
Nick Swisher is a very solid, patient hitter with a little bit of power. But Justin Morneau he is not. Morneau is the better all-around hitter... he hits for a higher average, and his slugging is a bit higher than Swisher as well. Add in that Morneau is an above-average defensive first basemen, and Morneau gets the clear edge.
Second Base: Luis Castillo vs. Mark Ellis
Luis Castillo is not as good defensively as he once was, and he doesn't hit for much power at all, but I give him a slight edge over Ellis. Castillo is very good at at taking pitches at the top of the lineup, and gets on base at a respectable rate of .358. Even with his declining range, I give the edge to Castillo.
Shortstop: Jason Bartlett vs. Marco Scutaro
Once again, I give the slighest of edges to Bartlett and the Twins. Bartlett has very good range and a good arm at SS. Offensively, both are similar players. They have some patience at the plate, but aren't going to be supplying a lot of power. Bartlett gets on base at a slightly better rate, which is why I give him the edge.
Third Base: Nick Punto vs. Eric Chavez
I like what Punto has brought this year, but Chavez gets the edge this year even though he hasn't been his normal self at the plate. Both are getting on base at a similar rate, but Chavez does hit for more power. Also, while I think Punto has been very good defensively at 3B, Chavez is still the class of the American League when it comes to that category.
Left Field: Rondell White vs. Jay Payton
The Twins have sorta had a mismatch group and you're never really sure who's going to be out there, but I think Rondell is the most likely. As we all know Rondell was just absolutely atrociously awful to start the year, but he hit very well in July and hit very well in September, showing why the Twins went out and got him. Which Rondell White will show up? Good question, and that's I give Jay Payton the edge here.
Center Field: Torii Hunter vs. Mark Kotsay
Both are excellent defensive outfielders, and with Hunter being a step slower because of injury, things may be pretty equal in that department. So it comes down to offense. Kotsay is the more patient hitter, but Hunter hits for a lot more power. After 9 HR in September, Hunter has the edge here.
Right Field: Michael Cuddyer vs. Milton Bradley
They are actually very similar players. Neither guy hits for a great average, but they both hold their own. Both have pretty good plate discipline. Neither has great power, but both can hit it out of the ballpark. In the end, I think that the fact that Cuddyer hits so many doubles, and that he has a great arm in the OF gives him an edge over Bradley.
Designated Hitter: Jason Tyner vs. Frank Thomas
Frank Thomas has the edge here by about a million bazillion miles. Not even worth really talking about.
#1 Starter: Johan Santana vs. Barry ZitoZito has been solid this year (though don't look now, his ERA is 4.55 since the AS break), but Johan is in another class from all pitchers.
#2 Starter: Boof Bonser vs. Esteban Loaiza
If you'd have told me earlier this year Boof would be starting game 2, I would have laughed. But he's earned it with his pitching over the last 2 months. For Loaiza, he is also pitching well after a horrid first half, and has a 4.01 ERA since the AS break. If he can keep the ball down and get the Twins pitchers swinging early in the count, he can be effective. I call this one about a draw. I think if either guy goes 6 strong innings, their team will be happy.
#3 Starter: Brad Radke vs. Rich Harden
Both pitchers have been effective when healthy, but that has been a problem for both. For Radke, the problems with his shoulder have been well documented and this is his last hurrah, as he will retire at the end of the year. For Harden, he's always had some of the best stuff of anyone in the Majors, but he can't seem to stay healthy. He's made 3 starts since coming off the DL, with 2 of them being solid, but he struggled in his last start. Still, when he's on, he's on, which is why I give Harden the edge. But it wouldn't surprise me at all if Radke gives the Twins a great outing... what he's done this year is unlike anything I have seen in sports.
#4 Starter: Carlos Silva vs. Dan Haren
If Carlos Silva pitches in this series, that will be a good thing, because it means the Twins will be leading in this series 2-1. However, I don't like his odds against Dan Haren, a very solid SP.
Bullpen: Joe Nathan vs. Huston Street
Out of all playoff teams, I'd rank these teams 1 and 2 in this category. But as I've said before, I think the Twins have the best bullpen in the MLB. If they can get the lead after 6, they're in very good shape, especially with Joe Nathan anchoring things down at the backend. Plus, I'm not sure Oakland has anyone that can consistently get lefties out.
So what does this all mean? Well, maybe nothing. But it gives us a little better idea of what we're dealing with.
For the record, I've got the Twins in 5.
Thursday, August 24, 2006
Gotta love that pitching staff
There are some days, like Tuesday, when a guy will give up 5 HR and it's easy to get frustrated with the staff. Then are days like yesterday, when a young guy throws a great game, and the bullpen does the rest.
Matt Garza got his first Major-League win by throwing 6 solid innings, giving up just 1 unearned run on 5 hits. (Aaron Gleeman has a great writeup on the start) Then the bullpen came in and did their job, to the tune of 3 perfect innings. Meanwhile, the offense wasn't very efficent but they did score 4 runs, and the formula for success was in full effect again.
I know ERA is not a great stat for relievers, but look at these things:
Pat Neshek - 0.81
Dennys Reyes - 0.96
Juan Rincon - 2.44
Joe Nathan - 1.53
Offensively, the 4-5-6 hitters supplied the power and runs, as Mike Cuddyer got 3 hits, Justin Morneau had his 108th RBI of the year, and Torii Hunter hit his 18th HR of the year. That was enough to overcome 10 men LOB for the Twins, which is not good at all.
The White Sox victory means the Twins are still 0.5 GB of the Wildcard, but only 7 out of the division lead. The Red Sox also remain in the hunt at 4 GB of the Wildcard. The rubber match of the series will feature Boof Bonser against Kris Benson in another big game for the Twins... they just have to keep winning series!
Matt Garza got his first Major-League win by throwing 6 solid innings, giving up just 1 unearned run on 5 hits. (Aaron Gleeman has a great writeup on the start) Then the bullpen came in and did their job, to the tune of 3 perfect innings. Meanwhile, the offense wasn't very efficent but they did score 4 runs, and the formula for success was in full effect again.
I know ERA is not a great stat for relievers, but look at these things:
Pat Neshek - 0.81
Dennys Reyes - 0.96
Juan Rincon - 2.44
Joe Nathan - 1.53
Offensively, the 4-5-6 hitters supplied the power and runs, as Mike Cuddyer got 3 hits, Justin Morneau had his 108th RBI of the year, and Torii Hunter hit his 18th HR of the year. That was enough to overcome 10 men LOB for the Twins, which is not good at all.
The White Sox victory means the Twins are still 0.5 GB of the Wildcard, but only 7 out of the division lead. The Red Sox also remain in the hunt at 4 GB of the Wildcard. The rubber match of the series will feature Boof Bonser against Kris Benson in another big game for the Twins... they just have to keep winning series!
Tuesday, July 25, 2006
Running out of superlatives...
... for Joe Mauer.
3-2 ballgame, facing one of the toughest lefties in baseball, having never hit a HR off of a lefty in his career... well, how about a 3-run bomb to dead center field? I suppose that'll work.
And that was the ballgame, as it gave the Twins the 6-2 lead and with the Twins bullpen, effectively took the Sox out of the game. Also hitting HR fro the Twins in the 6th inning were Michael Cuddyer with a 2-run blast followed by a Justin Morneau solo HR, giving the Twins a lead they wouldn't relinquish. It's nice to actually see some power from the 3-4-5 hitters of the Minnesota Twins. That's something we haven't been able to say for a while.
Pitching-wise, Brad Radke continued to pitch great amid the news that he will retire at the end of the year. He gave up 2 solo HR, but otherwise he pitced 6 solid innings, and comes away with his 9th victory. He's now at 9-7, and the ERA continues to go down, now at 4.74.
The Twins are now just 2 (two) games out of the Wildcard... who'd have thought that midway through May? Johan Cytana will take the mound against the suddenly beatable Jose Contreras. Don't miss it!
3-2 ballgame, facing one of the toughest lefties in baseball, having never hit a HR off of a lefty in his career... well, how about a 3-run bomb to dead center field? I suppose that'll work.
And that was the ballgame, as it gave the Twins the 6-2 lead and with the Twins bullpen, effectively took the Sox out of the game. Also hitting HR fro the Twins in the 6th inning were Michael Cuddyer with a 2-run blast followed by a Justin Morneau solo HR, giving the Twins a lead they wouldn't relinquish. It's nice to actually see some power from the 3-4-5 hitters of the Minnesota Twins. That's something we haven't been able to say for a while.
Pitching-wise, Brad Radke continued to pitch great amid the news that he will retire at the end of the year. He gave up 2 solo HR, but otherwise he pitced 6 solid innings, and comes away with his 9th victory. He's now at 9-7, and the ERA continues to go down, now at 4.74.
The Twins are now just 2 (two) games out of the Wildcard... who'd have thought that midway through May? Johan Cytana will take the mound against the suddenly beatable Jose Contreras. Don't miss it!
Monday, July 17, 2006
3 out of 4 ain't bad
Just keep winning series'. That's all the Twins should be thinking now.And with the 5-2 victory on Sunday, that's what the Twins were able to do on Sunday, is win the series.
They got the win thanks to good starting pitching, power from some unusual sources, and another nice night for Jason Tyner. Carlos Silva, coming off injury in his last start, Silva was on his game today, pitching 6 innings and giving up 2 runs. As it usually is when thing are going well, he didn't walk anyone. This improves his numbers on the year to [cringe] 5-9 with a 6.79 ERA. But hey, you have to start somewhere.
Offensively, the tone was set by a leadoff HR from light-hitting Luis Castillo, his 3rd of the year. Mike Cuddyer hit his 12th of the year in the 4th, and then the Twins got some luck to score a couple more in the 4th. After a Justin Morneau walk, Rondell White hit a 'Metrodome Double' to put runners at 2nd and 3rd. That was when Jason Tyner, who has been all that is man since the callup, had a 2-RBI single. Tyner is now batting .500 after 3 games.
Rondell White added an insurance run with a solo blast in the 7th (Rondell's 1st of the year, sadly), but it wasn't even necessary for the bullpen that has been stingy all year. Jesse Crain pitched a couple of scoreless innings for the hold, and Joe Nathan came on in the 9th for his 16th save, lowering his ERA to 1.66 in the process.
Around the division, Sunday was a perfect day for the Twins. The Tigers finally lost, as Joey Gathright had a big day as the Royals beat the Tigers 9-6, and the Yanks earned a sweep of the White Sox as Mariano Rivera got his 400th save.
The Twins are now 11 games behind the Tigers for the division and only 6.5 games behind the White Sox for the Wildcard (although the Yankees and Blue Jays also stand in their way.
Another positive for the Twins... if they win in the next few days, they're guaranteed to gain ground on either the Sox or Tigers, as they play each other. Scott Baker will start for the first time since he was recalled, and will go against the Tampa Bay Devil Rays, who will send Tim Corcoran to the mound. Other pitching matchups:
Tuesday: Francisco Liriano (10-2, 2.12 ERA) vs. Scott Kazmir (10-6, 3.27 ERA)
Wednesday: Brad Radke (7-7, 4.97 ERA) vs. Jae Seo (207, 5.07 ERA)
Thursday: Johan Santana (10-5, 2.93 ERA) vs. James Shields (4-3, 5.37 ERA)
Thursday, June 15, 2006
These Grand Slams can be contagious
We had a couple of grand slams from Cuddyer last week, then Jason Kubel hit the walkoff Grand Slam last night, and now it seems Justin Morneau wants to get in on the action. With the score at 4-1 in the 6th, Morneau's Grand Slam broke the game open. And the best part about it, as AG mentions, he hit it to the opposite field, which he seems to be doing a lot more of this year, and that's a big reason by he's on pace for 35 HR and 130 RBI. Just a thing of beauty to see him get ahold of one. As NBA Jam would say, he's on fire!
And another encouraging thing was that Brad Radke is finding his groove. I think most pitchers will take 6 innings and 1 run against that potent Red Sox offense, especially a guy that's been struggling this year. The game lowered his ERA to 5.83, which still isn't good, but he's finally put together a few good outings in a row. If he can get it going after Santana and Liriano, the Twins pitching could be back. Now let's just hope Carlos Silva can give up less than 5 HR in the series finale.
One negative about tonight was Torii Hunter doing what he does best - making a mental mistake at the plate. In the 3rd inning, Matt Clement managed to walk the bases full (with Mauer, Cuddyer, and Morneau). Then Hunter steps up to the plate. Everyone and their mother knows you take a strike in this situation. Instead, Torii goes up, swings on the first pitch, and promply GIDP. As Third Base Line writes on Bat-Girl, the new rule is that with runners on and less than 2 out, we need to pinch-hit for Hunter no matter the innings.
But let's focus on the positive. Like Jason Kubel hitting another HR. Or Jason Bartlett going 2/4 in his first game back. Or the Twins winning the series against Boston. After an 8-1 win, I guess I don't have to look far.
Now hopefully they can get the sweep!
And another encouraging thing was that Brad Radke is finding his groove. I think most pitchers will take 6 innings and 1 run against that potent Red Sox offense, especially a guy that's been struggling this year. The game lowered his ERA to 5.83, which still isn't good, but he's finally put together a few good outings in a row. If he can get it going after Santana and Liriano, the Twins pitching could be back. Now let's just hope Carlos Silva can give up less than 5 HR in the series finale.
One negative about tonight was Torii Hunter doing what he does best - making a mental mistake at the plate. In the 3rd inning, Matt Clement managed to walk the bases full (with Mauer, Cuddyer, and Morneau). Then Hunter steps up to the plate. Everyone and their mother knows you take a strike in this situation. Instead, Torii goes up, swings on the first pitch, and promply GIDP. As Third Base Line writes on Bat-Girl, the new rule is that with runners on and less than 2 out, we need to pinch-hit for Hunter no matter the innings.
But let's focus on the positive. Like Jason Kubel hitting another HR. Or Jason Bartlett going 2/4 in his first game back. Or the Twins winning the series against Boston. After an 8-1 win, I guess I don't have to look far.
Now hopefully they can get the sweep!
Monday, June 12, 2006
Liriano pitches 7 strong; Twins get the shutout
I asked yesterday if Johan Santana or Francisco Liriano could just start every game for the Twins, and while that's obviously not feasible, this game showed my thinking.
Francisco Liriano threw 7 shutout innings on Sunday against the Orioles, surrendering just 1 hit and only 2 BB. He also struck out 6 in the 7 innings of work. With the win, his record improves to 5-1, and the ERA lowers to a miniscule 2.10. I've said it before but I'll say it again - as of now, if Liriano had the innings to qualify, he'd lead the AL in ERA. I love this guy.
The offense wasn't great, but it was good enough to get the win behind Liriano. Justin Morneau hit another HR, his 14th of the year. That was a 2-run shot that was effectively the game-winning runs. Also scoring on that play was Joe Mauer, who went 1/4. (for more on Joe Mauer, Aaron Gleeman looks at whether Joe can hit .400).
Another thing for the offense, it appears that Ron Gardenhire was listening when I said yesterday that it might be time for Cuddyer to bat cleanup. Hunter was moved to 6th and Cuddyer up to 4th, but that move was fruitless today, as Cuddyer went 0/4.
Also notable as far as this site is concerned, Joe Nathan got the call in the 9th (in what else, a non-save situation). He pitched 1 scoreless inning, lowering the ERA down to 1.96, which is really good.
By the way, another reminder for you to vote in the All-Star game. Mauer's not even in the top 5 for catchers in the AL!
Twins get the day off on Monday, followed by Boston coming to town for a 3-game set. In the first game, it will be a battle of the aces as Johan Santana (6-4, 3.16 ERA) takes on Curt Schilling (9-2, 3.81 ERA).
Francisco Liriano threw 7 shutout innings on Sunday against the Orioles, surrendering just 1 hit and only 2 BB. He also struck out 6 in the 7 innings of work. With the win, his record improves to 5-1, and the ERA lowers to a miniscule 2.10. I've said it before but I'll say it again - as of now, if Liriano had the innings to qualify, he'd lead the AL in ERA. I love this guy.
The offense wasn't great, but it was good enough to get the win behind Liriano. Justin Morneau hit another HR, his 14th of the year. That was a 2-run shot that was effectively the game-winning runs. Also scoring on that play was Joe Mauer, who went 1/4. (for more on Joe Mauer, Aaron Gleeman looks at whether Joe can hit .400).
Another thing for the offense, it appears that Ron Gardenhire was listening when I said yesterday that it might be time for Cuddyer to bat cleanup. Hunter was moved to 6th and Cuddyer up to 4th, but that move was fruitless today, as Cuddyer went 0/4.
Also notable as far as this site is concerned, Joe Nathan got the call in the 9th (in what else, a non-save situation). He pitched 1 scoreless inning, lowering the ERA down to 1.96, which is really good.
By the way, another reminder for you to vote in the All-Star game. Mauer's not even in the top 5 for catchers in the AL!
Twins get the day off on Monday, followed by Boston coming to town for a 3-game set. In the first game, it will be a battle of the aces as Johan Santana (6-4, 3.16 ERA) takes on Curt Schilling (9-2, 3.81 ERA).
Sunday, June 11, 2006
Can Johan Santana or Francisco Liriano start every game?
Can't blame the Twins offense. Behind a 7th inning Michael Cuddyer Grand Slam, 3 hits each from Jason Kubel and Justin Morneau, along with Joe Mauer reaching base 4 out of 5 times, the Twins managed to put up 7 runs tonight. I'll take that any day of the week.
Unfortunately, behind the pitching of Carlos Silva and Kyle Lohse, they gave up 9 runs, resulting in a 9-7 loss to the Orioles.
In the first inning, Carlos Silva gave up 3 runs while recording 1 out (on a sac bunt). In the 7th, Kyle Lohse gave up 3 runs before getting any outs. Overall, Silva gave up 5 ER on 10 hits and a BB in 6 innings, while Kyle Lohse gave up 4 runs in 2.2 innings. So much for showcasing him for a trade. At this point, Kyle Lohse stinks.
Another factor in the loss was the so-called "face of the franchise", Torii Hunter. In front of Hunter in the lineup were Mauer and Kubel, who combined to reach base 7 times in 10 combined AB. Behind them, in the cleanup spot, Torii Hunter went 0/3 with 2 BB, and 8 LOB. To make things worse, he's not hitting a paltry .192 in May, with a SLG of .269. He's been bad with RISP and even worse with RISP and 2 out. Maybe it's time to try Cuddyer in the cleanup spot.
The 3rd and final game of the series features Francisco Liriano (4-1, 2.44 ERA) facing Erik Bedard (5-5, 5.84 ERA). Let's hope the youngsters can keep delivering and maybe get the Twins to .500 by the AS break, and after that anything can happen. But maybe that's just hopeful thinking.
Unfortunately, behind the pitching of Carlos Silva and Kyle Lohse, they gave up 9 runs, resulting in a 9-7 loss to the Orioles.
In the first inning, Carlos Silva gave up 3 runs while recording 1 out (on a sac bunt). In the 7th, Kyle Lohse gave up 3 runs before getting any outs. Overall, Silva gave up 5 ER on 10 hits and a BB in 6 innings, while Kyle Lohse gave up 4 runs in 2.2 innings. So much for showcasing him for a trade. At this point, Kyle Lohse stinks.
Another factor in the loss was the so-called "face of the franchise", Torii Hunter. In front of Hunter in the lineup were Mauer and Kubel, who combined to reach base 7 times in 10 combined AB. Behind them, in the cleanup spot, Torii Hunter went 0/3 with 2 BB, and 8 LOB. To make things worse, he's not hitting a paltry .192 in May, with a SLG of .269. He's been bad with RISP and even worse with RISP and 2 out. Maybe it's time to try Cuddyer in the cleanup spot.
The 3rd and final game of the series features Francisco Liriano (4-1, 2.44 ERA) facing Erik Bedard (5-5, 5.84 ERA). Let's hope the youngsters can keep delivering and maybe get the Twins to .500 by the AS break, and after that anything can happen. But maybe that's just hopeful thinking.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)
