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Minnesota Twins Eccentricity & Ephemera: A Twinkie Town Definitive List (Round 17)

New York Yankees v Minnesota Twins

Photo by Brace Hemmelgarn/Minnesota Twins/Getty Images

Boom(stick) goes the dynamite!

Rounds 1-16 Results:​

  1. Herb Carneal
  2. Tom Kelly
  3. The Metrodome
  4. Jack Morris
  5. Win Twins Theme
  6. Dick Bremer
  7. Bob Casey
  8. Target Field
  9. Metropolitan Stadium
  10. Judge Harry Crump
  11. Paul Molitor
  12. Dan Gladden
  13. Ron Gardenhire
  14. John Gordon
  15. Star Tribune Sports Section
  16. Nelson Cruz

When a mediocre 2018 Minnesota Twins team brought in a 38-year old DH-only Nelson Cruz, skepticism abounded. All Nelly did was coin the 2019 Bomba Squad, rake the ‘20 squad into a pandemic-affected AL Central title, and provide exceptional veteran leadership along the way. Blasting majestic home runs all over Target Field certainly did not hurt in the fan appreciation department! His Boomstick moniker even begat a rather unique ballpark concession item.

Next: The queen of Target Field musical ambiance.

Premiere of “Little Big League”

Little Big League red carpet (1994)

Little Big League​

  • When the Baby Boomers starting getting nostalgic in the 1990s, baseball was on the tip of their cinematic tongues. In 1994, an art-imitating-life story of the woebegone Twins hit theaters. Filmed at the Metrodome and featuring the vocal talents of John Gordon’s “Wally Holland”, Little Big League and its adolescent Billy Heywood gave young Twins fans a dream scenario. Whether teaching us math or exploring baseball’s brand of humor, Little Big League remains an all-time classic in these parts.
Atlanta Braves v Minnesota Twins

TC Bear

TC Bear​

  • When you attend a baseball game as a child, you aren’t concerned with stats or standings (okay, maybe I was, but I digress). You simply marvel at the grandness—sights, smells, sounds—of it all. It is very possible your first Minnesota Twins memory (even if you have trouble accessing it in grey matter folds) is high-fiving TC Bear in the Dome/Target Field concourse or observing his silly antics on the pregame field or atop the home dugout.
Cleveland Indians v Minnesota Twins
Photo by Bruce Kluckhohn/Getty Images

Jim Thome​

Hands Typing On Keyboard
Photo Illustration by Thomas Imo/Photothek via Getty Images
Blogger

Batgirl​

  • By the mid-2000s, the times were a-changin’ in MN baseball journalism. With the rise of high-speed internet, Twins blogs (everybody wave!) began popping up all over the web. In that virtual Wild West, perhaps none were so influential as Batgirl. No, not Barbara Gordon—Anne Ursu of Minneapolis. From 2004-2007 her LEGO re-enactments, Boyfriends schtick, and hilarious snark carved out new ground in Twins coverage. Baseball didn’t have to be all grizzled, cigar-chomping beat reporters. Even without clubhouse access, fan coverage could be just as compelling—and almost certainly more entertaining!
DAVID BREWSTER ¬• dbrewster@startribune.com Tuesday 04/12/11 Minneapolis Sue Nelson is entering her 13th season as organist for the Twins, from her perch in the Twins Bar at 213 Terrace. That’s at Level 5. : ] Minnesota Twins organist Sue Ne

Sue Nelson tickling the ivories

Sue Nelson​

  • Most ballpark music these days consists of player walk-up songs, pop music interstitials, and pre-recorded pump-up pomp. Many MLB clubs no longer employ a live organist. But the Twins have a doozy of a throwback in Sue Nelson. Having been at the baseball keys since 1999 (she actually started with the MN North Stars in ’81!), she provides a live touch that canned rhythm simply cannot match. A big plus: she is the nicest human being you will ever meet. When not tickling the ivories, she is constantly chatting up and taking photos with Twins fans of all ages. A true gem.
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Source: https://www.twinkietown.com/2025/3/...r-little-big-league-tc-bear-mascot-sue-nelson
 
Spring Training Game 10: Twins at Braves

Pittsburgh Pirates v. Minnesota Twins

Photo by Kelly Gavin/MLB Photos via Getty Images

The Twins are on TV and you can see some starters for once!

First Pitch: 12:05 PM CT​

TV: MLB.TV (via Braves broadcast)​

Radio: Braves - WIFN 1340 AM/103.7 FM​


In his continuation of my Spring Training bit, Rocco Baldelli put in about half of the Twins’ projected Opening Day starters since the Twins are about half on TV via the Braves’ broadcast. If you’ve been dying to see lefty-hitting Matt Wallner and Trevor Larnach look helpless against reigning NL Cy Young winner and left-hander Chris Sale, this is the game for you!

Five star Uber driver Randy Dobnak gets the start for the Twins against what looks to be Atlanta’s Opening Day lineup with their recent loss of catcher Sean Murphy to a cracked ribcage.

Lineups​


Twins:

P: Randy Dobnak

  1. Matt Wallner, RF
  2. Harrison Bader, CF
  3. Willi Castro, 3B
  4. Trevor Larnach, LF
  5. Ty France, DH
  6. Christian Vazquez, C
  7. Jose Miranda, 1B
  8. Brooks Lee, SS
  9. Mickey Gasper, 2B

Braves:

P: Chris Sale

  1. Jurickson Profar, LF
  2. Ozzie Albies, 2B
  3. Austin Riley, 3B
  4. Matt Olson, 1B
  5. Bryan De La Cruz, DH
  6. Michael Harris II, CF
  7. Drake Baldwin, C
  8. Orlando Arcia, SS
  9. Jared Kelenic, RF
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Source: https://www.twinkietown.com/2025/3/4/24377697/spring-training-game-10-twins-at-braves
 
“Intentional Balk” review: The whens, whys, and hows of cheating in baseball

MLB: New York Mets at Washington Nationals

Geoff Burke-Imagn Images

...gonna be honest, I thought I’d already written this review.

In 21st-century baseball, fans see cheating as universally scandalous. From the steroid-aided sluggers of the Aughts through the 2017 Astros and electronic sign-stealing, players and teams receiving the “cheater” label have been booed unceasingly, had calls for a championship to be stripped, and been kept out of the Hall of Fame.

In such an environment, it’s easy to forget the way baseball has treated cheating for over a century: it’s only cheating if you’re caught.

The 2022 book Intentional Balk, by Daniel R. Levitt and Mark Armour, takes fans on an exploration of the history of cheating in baseball, going through various methods by which players and teams have sought advantages over their opponents and what was long considered “fair” cheating.

“It struck us that the recent sign stealing scandal was perpetrated by a team on the cutting edge of innovative baseball management,” Armour said in an exclusive 2022 email interview (...like I said, I thought I’d written this review a couple years ago). “The smartest/most innovative players and teams are more likely to find themselves stepping up to ... and over ... the line.”

Indeed, the authors open the book citing Rogers Hornsby, one of the greatest hitters in history and a man who freely stated that he’d witnessed cheating in baseball since his career began in 1914. They dub this observation the Hornsby Doctrine (“Baseball players and others within the game will and should find ways to break the rules. It is the job of the authorities to stop them”), one of several doctrines such yclept throughout the book.

Given the book’s conception during and following the fallout from Houston’s scandal, it’s unsurprising that the book devotes multiple early chapters to sign stealing. In reading this section of Intentional Balk, I compared it with a chapter on sign-stealing from Tim Kurkjian’s 2007 book Is This a Great Game, or What? Kurkjian talks about sign-stealing almost exclusively from the view of players and coaches spotting and deciphering signs using only eyeballs and brains. Only about two-thirds of a page discusses how electronic sign stealing is considered cheating in contrast to the gamesmanship of using your eyes alone. But Levitt & Armour use Chapters 2 and 4 exclusively for discussing sign stealing, from 19th-century binoculars to the advent of the PitchCom system in 2021.

Through their writing, Levitt and Armour maintain a light tone where lightness is indicated, such as in the chapters on corking bats and groundskeepers manipulating the field, while still pointing out that these actions are at best unethical and at worst rule violations.

“The decades-long tradition of doctoring the field (making the mound too high, watering down the basepaths) is often considered funny, even if you are caught,” Armour said. “The worst is something that is perceived to dramatically change the game.”

That game-changing cheat? Steroids.

The authors acknowledge the difference between healing or restorative drugs and performance enhancers and take a more serious tone when discussing them, going through the timeline from steroids’ initial widespread usage through the decade-plus it took for MLB to enact and enforce a ban. Steroids have also produced baseball cheating’s most prominent black hats: “The biggest villains of the story are undoubtedly Roger Clemens and Barry Bonds. This does not necessarily reflect the views of the authors. but they have dominated the ‘bad guy’ side of this story for more than 15 years,” Armour said.

With a new baseball season coming up and fans in need of further baseball reading, Intentional Balk (a title which, per Armour, predates the Kenley Jansen play) is a book I fully recommend, a sojourn through baseball’s side winks and blind eyes that knows the tone with which to treat its material.

“Intentional Balk: Baseball’s Thin Line Between Innovation and Cheating” can be purchased (among other places) through Bookshop here and Amazon here.

Apologies to Levitt, Armour, and Smith Publicity’s Jane Reilly for taking more than two years to write this. An unintentional balk on my part.
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Source: https://www.twinkietown.com/2025/3/...ating-in-baseball-daniel-r-levitt-mark-armour
 
Spring Training Game 11: Orioles at Twins

Pittsburgh Pirates v. Minnesota Twins

Photo by Kelly Gavin/MLB Photos via Getty Images

First Pitch: 12:05 PM CT​

TV: None​

Radio: Audacy​


Late thread! My day job caught up to me this morning and I missed out. Let’s all just imagine the thread has been up this whole time.

Lineups​


Twins:

P: Pablo Lopez

  1. Harrison Bader, RF
  2. Carlos Correa, SS
  3. Byron Buxton, CF
  4. Ryan Jeffers, DH
  5. Royce Lewis, 3B
  6. Ty France, 1B
  7. Christian Vazquez, C
  8. Edouard Julien, 2B
  9. Austin Martin, LF

Orioles:

P: Grayson Rodriguez

  1. Jackson Holliday, 2B
  2. Adley Rutschman, C
  3. Colton Cowser, RF
  4. Heston Kjerstad, LF
  5. Ramon Laureano, CF
  6. Emmanuel Rivera, 3B
  7. Coby Mayo, 1B
  8. Dylan Carlson, DH
  9. Livan Soto, SS
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Source: https://www.twinkietown.com/2025/3/5/24378653/spring-training-game-11-orioles-at-twins
 
Twins Top Ten: Designated Hitters

Minnesota Twins v Texas Rangers


On to the Sluggers

Introducing “Twins Top Ten”​


Over the past few months, I’ve been taking a weekly look at the history of each position on the diamond and figuring out who is the best of the best since the franchise moved to Minnesota. This means that only players from 1961-on will be considered, but I will be taking into account their entire tenures with the franchise for those who moved along with the team. You can find prior entries in the series linked below. Next Up: Designated Hitters!

The Best Designated Hitters in Twins History​


Historically, the Twins have had a type when it comes to Designated Hitters, and it’s exactly what you’d expect: big, hulking sluggers. There are more Hall of Famers on this list than any other I’ve done so far, but here’s the catch: none of them went into the Hall in a Twins cap. To determine who the top Designated Hitters in Twins history are, I’ll be looking at a variety of criteria, including years with the team, number of games, offensive WAR, OPS+ (to compare different eras of baseball), home runs, and accolades. All stats are for Twins years only. All players considered had more appearances at DH than at any other position for the team. Who are the top ten in Twins history (according to me)?

Honorable Mentions​


Ryan Doumit just missed out on qualifying for this list, with 5 more catching appearances than DH appearances. He was actually a pretty nice player to have on the Twins, a positive at the plate and capable backup behind it. Kendrys Morales also bears mention here, not because he was good, but because you forgot he was on the Twins. He was terrible for half a year, looking like his career was on its last breaths, and then won a Silver Slugger and a World Series with Kansas City the next year.

10. Kennys Vargas (2014-2017)​


4 Years - 236 Games - 1.2 oWAR - 102 OPS+ - 35 HR - 103 Defensive Appearances

Vargas was basically crappy Miguel Sano. He also drew comparisons to Big Papi due to his frame and batting style, but never found consistency and was out of MLB after 2017.

9. Jose Morales (1978-1980)​


3 Years - 290 Games - 0.2 bWAR - 107 OPS+ - 12 HR - 9 D.A.

This might not be the (unrelated) Jose Morales you’re thinking of. The first Jose Morales was a slap-hitting replacement-level DH, while the the more recent Morales backed up Mauer in the late 2000’s.

8. Matthew LeCroy (2000-2005, 2007)​


7 Years - 437 Games - 2.1 oWAR - 98 OPS+ - 58 HR - 10 SB - 210 D.A.

Matthew LeCroy was an average player on some fun Twins teams who probably played more DH than he ought to. He definitely fit the Gardy mold.

7. Dave Winfield (1993-1994)​


2 Years - 220 Games - 1.1 oWAR - 100 OPS+ - 31 HR - 36 D.A. - Hall of Fame

The first Hall of Famer on our list is St. Paul’s own Dave Winfield. Winfield was sufficiently washed-up by his standards when he was on the Twins, but a replacement-level hometown guy is good enough for 7th on the DH list.

6. David Ortiz (1997-2002)​


6 Years - 455 Games - 3.5 oWAR - 108 OPS+ - 58 HR - 132 D.A. - Hall of Fame

On the flip side of Dave Winfield, Hall of Famer David Ortiz didn’t become “Big Papi” until after his time on the Twins. He made the leap pretty much immediately after leaving the Twins, and releasing him is one of the most notable poor front office decisions in team history. Corey Koskie also filled his underwear with peanut butter once.

5. Paul Molitor (1996-1998)​


3 Years - 422 Games - 5.3 oWAR - 104 OPS+ - 23 HR - 38 D.A. - Hall of Fame, Silver Slugger

Another hometown guy, Paul Molitor joined the Twins in his twilight years, but still had some life left as he won a Silver Slugger in 1996. Molitor was more in the Luis Arraez-type DH mold, with his value being in getting on base rather than jogging around them.

4. Chili Davis (1991-1992)​


2 Years - 291 Games - 5.4 oWAR - 136 OPS+ - 41 HR - 7 D.A.

Chili Davis is another guy who joined the Twins in the latter half of his career, but was excellent in his time with the Twins and a key contributor on the 1991 World Series team. All-time great name, as well (his given name was Charles).

3. Jim Thome (2010-2011)​


2 Years - 179 Games - 4.5 oWAR - 158 OPS+ - 37 HR - 0 D.A. - Hall of Fame

Big Jim Thome joined a stacked 2010 Twins team on the back nine of his career, but posted great numbers (158 OPS+ is eye-popping) in his time in Minnesota. He also provided some great moments with his trademark Target Field Plaza moonshots; I’ll always remember being in the stands watching him huff and puff his way around the bases for one of his two triples as a Twin.

2. Nelson Cruz (2019-2021)​


3 Years - 258 Games - 8.2 oWAR - 162 OPS+ - 76 HR - 0 D.A. - All-Star, 2x Silver Slugger

Nelson Cruz was only here for really a full two years when you consider the COVID season and him being traded late in 2021. However, he challenged for the top spot on this list because, even in his old age, he was legitimately one of the best hitters in the league during his time in Minnesota. Joe Ryan coming back in his trade to the Rays makes his memory even sweeter.

1. Jason Kubel (2004-2011, 2014)​


8 Years - 798 Games - 7.7 oWAR - 110 OPS+ - 105 HR - 434 D.A.

Jason Kubel was never a star, but his long tenure boosted him to the top of this list. He actually played more defense than DH, but he had more appearances at DH than any single defensive position. Kubel also has the second-best OPS against Mariano Rivera of any batter, including a landmark moment in my baseball-watching time when he walked him off with a Grand Slam. Check out this batting line:

5-9, 1 HR, 4 RBI, 1 BB, 1 SO, .556 BA, .600 OBP, .889 Slugging, 1.489 OPS

Let’s also not forget the important footnote that he is former and current Twin Michael Tonkin’s brother-in-law.

What do you think? Who did I miss? Who do I overrate, and who do I underrate? Let me know in the comments! I’ll be back next week one last time to put together an all-time roster based on these lists.
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Source: https://www.twinkietown.com/2025/3/...s-top-ten-designated-hitters-thome-cruz-kubel
 
Spring Training Game 12: Twins at Yankees

MLB: MAR 04 Spring Training Twins at Braves

Photo by Brian Spurlock/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images

The Twins visit the evil empire.

First Pitch: 12:05 PM CT​

TV: ESPN​

Radio: None​


The Twins are visiting the evil empire which, of course, means they get their first nationally broadcast game on ESPN. Joe Ryan makes his 2025 Spring Training debut in his first in-game action since his tricep injury last season. They will face off against ace Gerritt Cole and most of the Yankee’s projected Opening Day lineup.

Lineups​


Twins:

P: Joe Ryan

  1. Matt Wallner, RF
  2. Ryan Jeffers, C
  3. Jose Miranda, 3B
  4. Trevor Larnach, LF
  5. Edouard Julien, 2B
  6. Brooks Lee, SS
  7. Mickey Gasper, 1B
  8. DaShawn Keirsey Jr., CF
  9. Mike Ford, DH

Yankees:

P: Gerritt Cole

  1. Austin Wells, C
  2. Aaron Judge, DH
  3. Cody Bellinger, RF
  4. Paul Goldschmidt, 1B
  5. Jazz Chisholm, 2B
  6. Anthony Volpe, SS
  7. Jasson Dominguez, LF
  8. Trent Grisham, CF
  9. Oswaldo Cabrera, 3B
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Source: https://www.twinkietown.com/2025/3/6/24379394/spring-training-game-12-twins-at-yankees
 
Spring Training Games 13 & 14: Braves at Twins / Twins at Rays

MLB: MAR 04 Spring Training Twins at Braves

Photo by Brian Spurlock/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images

We have a bit of a Schrodinger’s Cat situation.

Twins vs Braves​

First Pitch: 12:05 PM CT​

TV: None​

Radio: WCCO 830, The Wolf 102.9 FM, Audacy​


Twins at Rays

First Pitch: 12:05 PM CT​

TV: MLB.TV​

Radio: None​


Schrodinger’s Cat is a thought experiment from quantum physics demonstrating how particles can exist in two states at once until they are observed. That also essentially explains split squad Spring Training games. If Edouard Julien hits a homer in one game but you don’t observe it, I’m not sure we can say it counted. Best of luck out there in this philosophical conundrum.

Lineups​


Twins vs Braves

Twins:

P: Bailey Ober

  1. Matt Wallner, DH
  2. Ryan Jeffers, C
  3. Willi Castro, SS
  4. Ty France, 1B
  5. Royce Lewis, 3B
  6. Harrison Bader, CF
  7. Brooks Lee, 2B
  8. DaShawn Keirsey Jr., RF
  9. Jeferson Morales, LF

Braves:

P: Reynaldo Lopez

  1. Jared Kelenic, DH
  2. Bryan De La Cruz, RF
  3. Drake Baldwin, C
  4. Garrett Cooper, 1B
  5. Evan White, 2B
  6. Christian Cairo, SS
  7. Conner Capel, LF
  8. Jake Marisnick, CF
  9. Luke Williams, 3B

Twins at Rays

Twins:

P: David Festa

  1. Edouard Julien, 2B
  2. Carlos Correa, SS
  3. Byron Buxton, CF
  4. Trevor Larnach, RF
  5. Jose Miranda, 3B
  6. Christian Vazquez, C
  7. Mickey Gasper, 1B
  8. Austin Martin, LF
  9. Luke Keaschall

Rays:

P: Shane Baz

  1. Yandy Diaz, DH
  2. Brandon Lowe, 2B
  3. Jonathan Aranda, 1B
  4. Jose Caballero, CF
  5. Richie Palacios, RF
  6. Christopher Morel, LF
  7. Danny Jansen, C
  8. Taylor Walls, SS
  9. Brayden Taylor, 3B
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Source: https://www.twinkietown.com/2025/3/...ing-games-13-14-braves-at-twins-twins-at-rays
 
MLB’s media landscape shifts again

New York Mets v Seattle Mariners

Photo by Brandon Sloter/Getty Images

Buh bye Bally & ESPN

As mobile phones and the internet-at-large ever further displace traditional media like cable TV, sporting leagues and the conglomerates that bring them to us continue evolving. Since we last saw our baseball-playing heroes (read in 1966 Batman announcer voice), the sports media landscape has undergone a few more twists—both in-market and league-wide.

Twins.tv​


The Minnesota Twins are no longer affiliated with The Entity Formerly Known as Bally Sports North (now FanDuel Sports Network). Depending on what stake you have in Twins baseball, this is either really good or really bad news. Owners hate cable TV’s fracturing, as it has decimated the value of television contracts. Or perhaps it has given owners another reason (excuse?) to cry poor. That depends where you fall on the “Elon Musk to Bernie Sanders” scale of billionaire sympathy.

Senate Holds Confirmation Hearing For Lori Chavez-DeRemer To Be Labor Secretary
Photo by Chip Somodevilla/Getty Images
Anytime I can work in a Bernie Sanders pic you better believe it will happen!

But we here at Twinkie Town are not owners (yet), so rejoice! After all the gnashing of teeth and rending of garments—from Victory Sports One to near-total blackouts in the Twin Cities—there is now a direct-to-consumer option to watch Twins baseball. Twins.tv will cost you $100 per season ($50 if you have any season ticket plan) but it is free from the whims of the cable TV oligarchy. Well…sort of. Apparently, there will be a channel on Twin Cities cable providers that activates for Twins games and nothing else. I say “apparently” because details/price-haggling is still being worked out—and when does that ever go poorly?

Overall, I think this is a good move for MLB & the Twins. Though it generates less revenue in the short term, it is a progressive-thinking solution to get out from under the Jenga tower that is cable television before the final removed block sends it crashing down. Plus, all the folks who constantly whined—if justified in the moment—about the Twins not being available on TV? Now we’ll see if the money is put where those mouths were.

ESPN & MLB Uncouple​


I am squarely of the generation that grew up on Baseball Tonight. Imagine—a nightly show of 100% baseball highlights/analysis. On Sunday nights, the dulcet duo of Jon Miller & Joe Morgan made baseball-under-the-lights at least a kissing cousin to the NFL’s prime-time product 24 hours later. ESPN was also the main highway for Home Run Derby coverage.

Baltimore Orioles v Minnesota Twins

ESPN + Baseball are no more

That is now all in the rearview mirror. Though no one is sure who drew up the divorce papers first, it is—like most things—probably a mix of both. While MLB is less appointment viewing on a national scale than it was 20-25 years ago, it certainly isn’t the chopped liver the pride of Bristol, CT treated it as in recent years.

Again, I call this progress for MLB—perhaps an opportunity to partner with another network or streamer (Amazon, Apple, Peacock, etc.) to package baseball as an exciting product rather than an afterthought to fantasy football, basketball highlights & talking heads.
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Source: https://www.twinkietown.com/2025/3/...s-north-tv-fanduel-network-victory-sports-one
 
Spring Training Game 15: Red Sox at Twins

Minnesota Twins Photo Day

Photo by Kelly Gavin/MLB Photos via Getty Images

Chris Paddack takes the mound looking to sharpen up his stuff as we move into the second half of Spring Training.

First Pitch: 12:05 PM CT​

TV: None​

Radio: WCCO 830, The Wolf 102.9 FM, Audacy​


Much has been made of the Twins’ battle for a fifth rotation spot, but Chris Paddack is doing his darnedest to put the fourth spot in question as well. After being consistently inconsistent in 2024, his first start this Spring wasn’t anything to write home about. In three innings of work Paddack surrendered four hits, two homers, and four runs while only striking out a single batter. With the caveat that Spring Training stats don’t matter, I would like to see more out of the Texan.

Maybe the real Chris Paddack is the friends we’ve made along the way?

Lineups​


Twins:

P: Chris Paddack

  1. Willi Castro, LF
  2. Carlos Correa, SS
  3. Byron Buxton, CF
  4. Royce Lewis, 3B
  5. Harrison Bader, RF
  6. Ty France, 1B
  7. Christian Vazquez, C
  8. Austin Martin, 2B
  9. Luke Keaschall, DH

Red Sox:

P: Sean Newcomb

  1. Jarren Duran, LF
  2. Kristian Campbell, 2B
  3. Masataka Yoshida, DH
  4. Cedanne Rafaela, CF
  5. Nick Sogard, 1B
  6. Marcelo Mayer, SS
  7. Carlos Narvaez, C
  8. Abraham Toro, 3B
  9. Nate Eaton, RF
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Source: https://www.twinkietown.com/2025/3/8/24380376/spring-training-game-15-red-sox-at-twins
 
Rival Roundup, Vol. 66: Andy Dirks Time

Detroit Tigers v Minnesota Twins

Photo by Hannah Foslien/Getty Images

You know what time it is.

Spring has settled in, and things are fairly quiet around the sun-soaked complexes. We’re past the point of excitement for the novelty of MLB app notifications, but we’re not quite through to all the cuts and roundings-out of the 26-man rosters.

Nevertheless, real-life in-game action is less than three weeks away, which means each roundup — however sparse — is full of building anticipation. Baseball is almost here! Here’s some headlines to tide you over.

The Z-Man meets The K. Coming this season, Joe’s KC BBQ at Kauffman Stadium.

— Kansas City Royals (@royals.com) 2025-03-04T13:33:19.384Z
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  • A little old friend update regarding Kenta Maeda’s work toward a bounce-back 2025:

Kenta Maeda has racked up 14 strikeouts over 8.2 innings in three games during spring training, throwing 30 pitches in Game 1, 50 pitches in Game 2 and 55 pitches in Game 3. #Tigers https://t.co/hC5sZqbsmZ

— Evan Petzold (@EvanPetzold) March 4, 2025​
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  • Speaking of the Tigers, the injury bug is creeping its way around their camp.

Matt Vierling: "Emotionally shocked. ... It could've been way worse. I'm feeling grateful that it's not torn, and I'm feeling grateful that it's March 1. ... I've never really been hurt in my career to this extent, so I'm trying to figure out how this works. We'll be OK." #Tigers https://t.co/JY8bq8SDMX

— Evan Petzold (@EvanPetzold) March 1, 2025​
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Parker Meadows has a right upper arm nerve issue. He isn’t doing baseball activities. “We got to get that nerve firing again for him to resume baseball activities,” A.J. Hinch said.

Meadows hasn’t been ruled out for Opening Day, but there isn’t a timeline for his return. #Tigers

— Evan Petzold (@EvanPetzold) March 1, 2025​
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  • But what the Tigers may be losing on the field, they’re making up for in the booth. It’s Andy Dirks time, baby.

Look forward to having a blast in the booth this year! ⚾️ Thanks to the best baseball fans in the world , @tigers @ColangeloTigers @bfidelman and @FanDuelSN_DET @jbyle for giving me the opportunity and trusting me with a ️… also my amazing partners/mentors Dan Dickerson,… pic.twitter.com/oIti9PIQm1

— Andy Dirks (@AndyDirks12) February 28, 2025​
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Only two more roundups to go, and then this thing really kicks into gear. Thanks again for reading throughout the winter, and enjoy the incredible local weather as we gently work our way into Spring, For Real This Time. Happy weekend!
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Source: https://www.twinkietown.com/2025/3/8/24380145/rival-roundup-vol-66-andy-dirks-time
 
Spring Training Game 16: Twins at Orioles

Tampa Bay Rays v Minnesota Twins

Photo by Brace Hemmelgarn/Minnesota Twins/Getty Images

Simeon Woods Richardson looks to build on a strong Spring.

First Pitch: 12:05 PM CT​

TV: None​

Radio: WCCO 830, The Wolf 102.9 FM, Audacy​


With a new number and a name just as long as it was before, Simeon Woods Richardson looks to have the inside track the the Twins’ fifth rotation slot. He’ll look to build that case again today after his up-and-down rookie year.

Lineups​


Twins:

P: Simeon Woods Richardson

  1. Matt Wallner, RF
  2. Ryan Jeffers, C
  3. Jose Miranda, 3B
  4. Trevor Larnach, LF
  5. Edouard Julien, 1B
  6. Mickey Gasper, 2B
  7. Brooks Lee, SS
  8. DaShawn Keirsey Jr., CF
  9. Mike Ford, DH

Orioles

P: Tomoyuki Sugano

  1. Jackson Holliday, 2B
  2. Adley Rutschman, DH
  3. Ryan O’Hearn, 1B
  4. Tyler O’Neill, LF
  5. Colton Cowser, RF
  6. Twins Legend Gary Sanchez, C
  7. Ramon Urias, 3B
  8. Ramon Laureano, CF
  9. Livan Soto, SS
Click to expand...

Source: https://www.twinkietown.com/2025/3/9/24381338/spring-training-game-16-twins-at-orioles
 
Spring Training Game 17: Phillies at Twins

Baltimore Orioles v Minnesota Twins

Photo by Brace Hemmelgarn/Minnesota Twins/Getty Images

We march ever forward toward real baseball.

First Pitch: 12:05 PM CT​

TV: None​

Radio: Audacy​


Pablooooooo!!!! (rain allowing). That’s all.

Lineups​


Twins:

P: Pablo Lopez

  1. Matt Wallner, RF
  2. Carlos Correa, SS
  3. Byron Buxton, CF
  4. Trevor Larnach, DH
  5. Royce Lewis, 3B
  6. Willi Castro, 2B
  7. Ty France, 1B
  8. Christian Vazquez, C
  9. Harrison Bader, LF

Phillies

P: Seth Johnson

  1. Bryson Stott, 2B
  2. Johan Rojas, DH
  3. Brandon Marsh, CF
  4. Alec Bohm, 3B
  5. Kody Clemens, 1B
  6. Rodolfo Castro, LF
  7. Payton Henry, C
  8. Cal Stevenson, RF
  9. Rafael Lantigua, SS
Click to expand...

Source: https://www.twinkietown.com/2025/3/10/24382337/spring-training-game-17-phillies-at-twins
 
Monday Morning Minnesota: The “Is it real spring?” Edition

Boston Red Sox v Minnesota Twins

Photo by Brace Hemmelgarn/Minnesota Twins/Getty Images

Are we in second spring yet? Or is this is false spring?

The Past Week on Twinkie Town:


Elsewhere in Twins Territory:


In the World of Baseball:

Click to expand...

Source: https://www.twinkietown.com/2025/3/...rning-minnesota-the-is-it-real-spring-edition
 
Minnesota Twins Eccentricity & Ephemera: A Twinkie Town Definitive List (Round 18)

DAVID BREWSTER ¬¥ dbrewster@startribune.com Tuesday 04/12/11 Minneapolis Sue Nelson is entering her 13th season as organist for the Twins, from her perch in the Twins Bar at 213 Terrace. That’s at Level 5. : ] Minnesota Twins organist Sue


Tickling the Target Field ivories

Rounds 1-17 Results:​

  1. Herb Carneal
  2. Tom Kelly
  3. The Metrodome
  4. Jack Morris
  5. Win Twins Theme
  6. Dick Bremer
  7. Bob Casey
  8. Target Field
  9. Metropolitan Stadium
  10. Judge Harry Crump
  11. Paul Molitor
  12. Dan Gladden
  13. Ron Gardenhire
  14. John Gordon
  15. Star Tribune Sports Section
  16. Nelson Cruz
  17. Sue Nelson

I have nothing against pop music being pumped in ballparks. In fact, I rather enjoy player walk-up themes and entrances tunes. But in the smaller moments—between pitches or during mound visits—there’s nothing quite like a great organist to provide ballpark ambiance. Ivory-ticklers have a strong history in MLB and Sue Nelson proudly carries it on with the Minnesota Twins. A few years ago, I brought my mom (a fellow pianist) to say hello to Sue and they—two perfect strangers—were smiling and chatting within moments. Sue’s is a position that won’t be retained when the final Hava Nagila is played—all the more reason to appreciate her in the present!

Next: Planes, Trains, (But Not) Automobiles.

Premiere of “Little Big League”

Little Big League red carpet (1994)

Little Big League​

  • When the Baby Boomers starting getting nostalgic in the 1990s, baseball was on the tip of their cinematic tongues. In 1994, an art-imitating-life story of the woebegone Twins hit theaters. Filmed at the Metrodome and featuring the vocal talents of John Gordon’s “Wally Holland”, Little Big League and its adolescent Billy Heywood gave young Twins fans a dream scenario. Whether teaching us math or exploring baseball’s brand of humor, Little Big League remains an all-time classic in these parts.
Atlanta Braves v Minnesota Twins

TC Bear

TC Bear​

  • When you attend a baseball game as a child, you aren’t concerned with stats or standings (okay, maybe I was, but I digress). You simply marvel at the grandness—sights, smells, sounds—of it all. It is very possible your first Minnesota Twins memory (even if you have trouble accessing it in grey matter folds) is high-fiving TC Bear in the Dome/Target Field concourse or observing his silly antics on the pregame field or atop the home dugout.
Cleveland Indians v Minnesota Twins
Photo by Bruce Kluckhohn/Getty Images

Jim Thome​

Hands Typing On Keyboard
Photo Illustration by Thomas Imo/Photothek via Getty Images
Blogger

Batgirl​

  • By the mid-2000s, the times were a-changin’ in MN baseball journalism. With the rise of high-speed internet, Twins blogs (everybody wave!) began popping up all over the web. In that virtual Wild West, perhaps none were so influential as Batgirl. No, not Barbara Gordon—Anne Ursu of Minneapolis. From 2004-2007 her LEGO re-enactments, Boyfriends schtick, and hilarious snark carved out new ground in Twins coverage. Baseball didn’t have to be all grizzled, cigar-chomping beat reporters. Even without clubhouse access, fan coverage could be just as compelling—and almost certainly more entertaining!
Minnesota Twins Target Field
Photo by Wayne Kryduba/Getty Images
Choo Choo!

Public Transportation​

  • As it involves elected officials and taxpayer dollars, public transit is always a hot-button issue. But regardless of success/failure, Twin Cities public transportation has moved thousands of paying customers from home/work to Target Field. In my own experience: the Northstar Train served me in north and northwest Metro living stops. When in the south metro, I’d catch the Light Rail from MOA. From 2010-2018, I only drove-and-parked to a handful of Target Field outings. I have even taken a city bus from my grandparents’ home in Fridley to the ballpark! For folks who lack reliable transportation or loathe city gridlock, TC Metro Transit is a significant positive factor in baseball outings.
Click to expand...

Source: https://www.twinkietown.com/2025/3/...-big-league-tc-bear-public-transit-train-rail
 
Spring Training Game 19: Twins at Red Sox

MLB: Spring Training-Minnesota Twins at Toronto Blue Jays

Jonathan Dyer-Imagn Images

We back.

First Pitch: 5:05 PM CT​

TV: None​

Radio: Red Sox WEEI 93.7​


Joe Ryan is back for his second start of the Spring as the Twins run out what is increasingly looking like the Opening Day lineup.

Lineups​


Twins:

P: Joe Ryan

  1. Matt Wallner, DH
  2. Carlos Correa, SS
  3. Byron Buxton, CF
  4. Trevor Larnach, LF
  5. Royce Lewis, 3B
  6. Willi Castro, 2B
  7. Ryan Jeffers, C
  8. Ty France, 1B
  9. Harrison Bader, RF

Red Sox

P: Tanner Houck

  1. Jarren Duran, CF
  2. Alex Bregman, 3B
  3. Triston Casas, 1B
  4. Twins Legend Rob Refsnyder, RF
  5. Masataka Yoshida, DH
  6. Kristian Campbell, 2B
  7. Roman Anthony, LF
  8. David Hamilton, SS
  9. Seby Zavala, C

Apologies for the lack of a game thread yesterday. Ran into some unexpected WiFi related delays while on vacation in Costa Rica!
Click to expand...

Source: https://www.twinkietown.com/2025/3/12/24384413/spring-training-game-19-twins-at-red-sox
 
Spring Training Game 20: Pirates at Twins

Atlanta Braves v Minnesota Twins

Photo by Brace Hemmelgarn/Minnesota Twins/Getty Images

Big Bailey Ober takes the mound as he looks to build on his strong Spring Training.

First Pitch: 12:05 PM CT​

TV: None​

Radio: Audacy​


If Bailey Ober falls in the forest and there’s nobody around, does it even make a sound? Relatedly, what if the Pittsburgh Pirates never submit an official lineup or starting pitcher? It will be the regular backups and prospects lineup behind Ober with Edouard Julien, Brooks Lee, Mickey Gasper, and Austin Martin all making a case for Opening Day roster spots.

Lineups​


Twins:

P: Joe Ryan

  1. Edouard Julien, 2B
  2. Mickey Gasper, 1B
  3. Christian Vazquez, C
  4. Jose Miranda, 3B
  5. Brooks Lee, SS
  6. Austin Martin, CF
  7. DaShawn Keirsey Jr., RF
  8. Luke Keaschall, DH
  9. Jeferson Morales, LF

Pirates

P: TBD

Lineup: TBD
Click to expand...

Source: https://www.twinkietown.com/2025/3/13/24384899/spring-training-game-20-pirates-at-twins
 
Spring Training Games 21 & 22: Twins at Orioles / Twins vs Rays

MLB: MAR 04 Spring Training Twins at Braves

Photo by Brian Spurlock/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images

Double baseball!

Twins at Orioles​

First Pitch: 5:05 PM CT​

TV: None​

Radio: None​


As far as I can tell, this game is completely lost to the void.

Twins vs Rays

First Pitch: 5:05 PM CT​

TV: None​

Radio: WCCO 830, The Wolf 102.9 FM, Audacy​


It’s once again time for paradoxical baseball! Listen to the Twins play the Rays in Ft. Myers or channel into the aether to summon a view of Twins at Orioles. Alternatively, you can watch the play-by-play on the MLB app. The backups head to the Orioles Spring Training facility while the starters get to stick around home.

Lineups​


Twins at Orioles

Twins:

P: David Festa

  1. Edouard Julien, 1B
  2. Mickey Gasper, 2B
  3. Christian Vazquez, C
  4. Jose Miranda, 3B
  5. Brooks Lee, SS
  6. Austin Martin, LF
  7. DaShawn Keirsey Jr., CF
  8. Mike Ford, DH
  9. Armando Alvarez, RF

Orioles:

P: Tomoyuki Sugano

  1. Cedric Mullins, CF
  2. Adley Rutschman, C
  3. Tyler O’Neill, RF
  4. Colton Cowser, LF
  5. Jordan Westburg, 3B
  6. Ryan Mountcastle, 1B
  7. Gary Sanchez, DH
  8. Jackson Holliday, SS
  9. Livan Soto, 2B

Twins at Rays

Twins:

P: Christ Paddack

  1. Matt Wallner, DH
  2. Carlos Correa, SS
  3. Byron Buxton, CF
  4. Trevor Larnach, RF
  5. Royce Lewis, 3B
  6. Ryan Jeffers, C
  7. Willi Castro, 2B
  8. Ty France, 1B
  9. Harrison Bader, LF

Rays:

P: Twins Legend Zack Littell

  1. Jonny DeLuca, CF
  2. Richie Palacios, 2B
  3. Curtis Mead, 1B
  4. Jonathan Aranda, DH
  5. Junior Caminero, 3B
  6. Twins Legend Ben Rortvedt, C
  7. Kameron Misner, RF
  8. Carson Williams, SS
  9. Jake Mangum, LF
Click to expand...

Source: https://www.twinkietown.com/2025/3/...ng-games-21-22-twins-at-orioles-twins-vs-rays
 
2005’s quest for a 4-peat begins

Minnesota Twins v Seattle Mariners

Photo by Otto Greule Jr/Getty Images

Just take the series (the Ron Gardenhire mantra)

As an intrepid young sports journalist from the University of Minnesota-Morris once chronicled, not even Bob Casey’s passing could dampen enthusiasm for the 2005 Minnesota Twins. Coming off an AL Central three-peat, optimism was high towards finally getting over the playoff hump.

The ’05 season officially began in Seattle and after I scarfed down an early supper at the UMM cafeteria I settled into my freshman dorm to watch Opening Day on a 21-inch CRT TV.

Before my dinner was digested, Brad Radke had served up a first inning, three-run home run (surprise, surprise) to Richie Sexson after Hall of Famers Ichiro Suzuki & Adrian Beltre reached base.

Minnesota Twins v Seattle Mariners
Photo by Otto Greule Jr/Getty Images
Big Sex(y)

Sexson tagged Radke with another HR in the 3rd and with Jamie Moyer (5.2 IP, 0 ER) vexing MN lumber it was more than enough for the Mariners to cruise to a 5-1 victory. Somewhat heartbreakingly, Eddie Guardado notched the save for the seamen.

Seattle Mariners v Oakland Athletics
Photo by Jed Jacobsohn/Getty Images
Just doesn’t feel right

Despite an Opening Day loss always feeling akin to existential dread, the Twins looked to swamp Seattle’s ship in Game #2. It certainly didn’t begin any better—this time Johan Santana coughing up four 1st inning runs to the M’s.

Fortunately, Twins bats awoke in the 5th to the tune of seven runs—ambushing Gil Meche & Matt Thornton—capped by a Jacque Jones jolt. Jesse Crain, J.C. Romero, Juan Rincon, & Joe Nathan were all pen-perfect as the Twins got in the left-hand column with an 8-4 victory.

Minnesota Twins v Seattle Mariners
Photo by Otto Greule Jr/Getty Images
A Jacque jack!

In the opening series’ rubber match, MIN sent Carlos Silva to the bump and he produced the Silva-est line ever: 7 IP, 9 H, 0 K, 1 ER. The master of escaping jams via weak ground ball contact. The single blemish on Silva’s sterling session: a solo Bret Boone homer. More on ‘05 Bret Boone to come (cue ominous music).

Minnesota Twins v Los Angeles Angels of Anaheim
Photo by Lisa Blumenfeld/Getty Images
My fantasy baseball team that season was named—I kid you not—The Silva Stars

Meanwhile, noted Twins DH Matt LeCroy hit a 3-run jack, allowing Rincon & Nathan to slam the door on a 4-1 win and series victory.

Minnesota Twins vs Chicago White Sox - August 17, 2005
Photo by Chuck Rydlewski/Getty Images
(Somewhere, Frank Robinson is shedding tears)

The 2005 Twins were off and running on their defense of the Central crown. Would it hold? Stay tuned this summer to find out!
Click to expand...

Source: https://www.twinkietown.com/2025/3/...ariners-brad-radke-richie-sexson-jacque-jones
 
Monday Morning Minnesota: The “Breakout Bonanza” Edition

Minnesota Twins v. Toronto Blue Jays

Photo by Mike Carlson/MLB Photos via Getty Images

A little bit of a lackluster showing from the young guns

The Past Week on Twinkie Town:

  • We’re fully in spring break mode in Minnesota, but while you’re enjoying some not-so-cold weather on vacation, check out our Game Threads!
  • Zach Koenig recounts the auspicious start to the 2005 season.
  • Zach also updates his list on Twins Eccentricity and Ephemera - we’re now up to Round 18!

Elsewhere in Twins Territory:


In the World of Baseball:

  • Alden Gonzalez as ESPN explains the route that the Los Angeles Dodgers took to become the villains of the MLB.
  • In a surprising turn of events, former Twin Joey Gallo announced that he is planning to switch to pitching. The last time Gallo pitched was in high school at Bishop Gorman in Las Vegas, where he threw a no-hitter.
  • For us nerds, Statcast has new publicly available tracking data that looks at batter position and contact points. David Adler at MLB.com explains the new tech and how this can help explain why Shohei Ohtani is so good at baseball.
  • OH BY THE WAY REGULAR SEASON BASEBALL STARTS TOMORROW. Get up bright and early at 5 am Central to catch the first game of the Tokyo Series, featuring the Los Angeles Dodgers and the Chicago Cubs.
Click to expand...

Source: https://www.twinkietown.com/2025/3/17/24388015/monday-morning-minnesota-the-breakout-bonanza-edition
 
Spring Training Game 25: Twins at Pirates

Minnesota Twins v. Toronto Blue Jays

Photo by Mike Carlson/MLB Photos via Getty Images

Back in action on Twins.TV!

Twins at Orioles​

First Pitch: 12:05 PM CT​

TV: Twins.TV​

Radio: None​


After a final WiFi-related international travel issue, I have returned from vacation rested, refreshed, and ready for Twins baseball! And game threads are officially back in action.

The Twins head to the Pirates’ Spring facility where they will be facing half of their squad, who is also in another simultaneous split squad game. They will face the sensational Paul Skenes (who unsurprisingly was named Pittsburgh’s Opening Day starter) while the Twins will send out the slightly-less-mustachioed-but-still-good-at-pitching Joe Ryan. Notably, Brooks Lee gets the start at third following Royce Lewis’ injury over the weekend.

Lineups​


Twins:

P: Joe Ryan

  1. Matt Wallner, RF
  2. Ryan Jeffers, C
  3. Willi Castro, SS
  4. Trevor Larnach, LF
  5. Jose Miranda, 1B
  6. Edouard Julien, 2B
  7. Brooks Lee, 3B
  8. DaShawn Keirsey Jr., CF
  9. Mike Ford, DH

Pirates:

P: Paul Skenes

  1. Tommy Pham, LF
  2. Bryan Reynolds, RF
  3. Oneil Cruz, CF
  4. Joey Bart, C
  5. Andrew McCutchen, DH
  6. Ke’Bryan Hayes, 3B
  7. Nick Yorke, 1B
  8. Jared Triolo, SS
  9. Nick Solak, 2B
Click to expand...

Source: https://www.twinkietown.com/2025/3/17/24387915/spring-training-game-25-twins-at-pirates
 
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