Thursday, April 30, 2009

Aaaaand he's back!

Ok... so the big news in Twinkie Town now is the return of Joe Mauer. Joe returns after being on the DL for what seems like forever. He's had all sorts of problems lately, what with his kidney's and back. I was watching Sports Center the other day, and they were hating on the Twins saying that they "need" Mauer to boost the offense and bolster the defense. They were also talking about how Joe should take all the time he needs to get better and become a better Joe. Personally? I think he's been reclining in Cabo for awhile. Enjoying the sun and fruity drinks with umbrellas. Maybe even a massage or two. I imagine when Gardy or other players would call to ask how his recovery was coming, he'd have to make up some wacky cover for where he was at the moment:

Cuddy/Gardy/Etc: Joe! How are you feeling?

Mauer: (spicy mexican music playing) Baaaaad guys. I went to the doctor today. They say I have arthritis in my back now. They think that it will cure itself in another two weeks or so.

Players/Coachs: Really? That's horrible. We miss you Joe.

Mauer: (still playing spicy mexican music, party sounds) Miss you too honey! See you soon; I'll bring bread on the way home!

Maybe that's just my take on it. Maybe he was really sick and injured.

Ok... enough speculation. What I do know about Joe Mauer's return tonight is the EXCITING debut of his new batting music. Y'know the song they play, then they announce the name of the batter and everyone loses their minds screaming and clapping?? Yeah, that one. Well I found out that he's got this new music that was composed just for him. It's called the "Joe Mauer Theme Song." Apparently our boy Joe usually chooses songs by rapper "T.I." and according to the article posted on http://www.twinsbaseball.com/, he "wasn't feeling the energy from [T.I.'s] new material," so one of his pals in the business said that he'd drum up something new for him this year. (Who new Joe had friends in the business?!? Maybe he can get me an audition on American Idol or some crap like that. That would be HOT! ANYWAY! I keep getting distracted.)
So this year the same guy who did last year's song wrote Joe Mauer a new song to help him feel the need to hit some homers and run some bases, and we all know how important bases and homers are in the long run. And you need badass music to do it to. Just ask Brendan Harris. He borrowed Joe Mauers music maker to make his own theme song. Wonder when they'll debut his music? Or have they already done it??? It makes me wonder why Justin doesn't have his own theme music. Something heroic, and uniquely Canadian maybe? What about Nathan? I think his should be something from a horror movie so when he comes out onto the mound the batters and other fans quake with fear. I know I would. Cuddy would probably have some type of classic rock vibe, and lil' Nicky Punto would have something perky and slightly dangerous for all those whacked out moves he pulls.
So, all you Twins fans, be excited for the return of Joe Mauer. Let's hope his playing can get us above .500 (let's face it. We need the boost at this point.) And let's hope his "Joe Mauer Theme Song" rocks too. New year, new music, new Joe???

Tuesday, April 28, 2009

Hmm...

Maybe Cassy's letter to Joe worked. Maybe Justin was missing his Joe; he seemed to hit superbly tonight! Maybe Joe Crede was not enough Joe for our Canadian hero. Sad day for Joe Crede.

A Letter To Joe

Dear Joe Mauer,

I am writing to inform you that your presence is requested at the Metrodome as soon as possible. While we do all miss your impressive hitting and even more impressive ability to throw runners out when they are silly enough to try and steal second, there is a more pressing matter at hand.

You may remember your former roommate, Justin. (Blond hair, really big arms? Canadian?) Well, he's not doing so well. We can only ascertain that it's because he misses you terribly. Attempts to acclimate him to another Joe have been relatively unsuccessful.

You see, he's not hitting as well as he could. He's having trouble getting runners in when they are in scoring position. You and I both know this isn't like him. Things would be better for him if he had his former roommate back to encourage him. You know he has said that you are never allowed to leave him, so it's probably best if you return from Ft. Myers as soon as possible. We hear your back is in fine shape, so it's time.

If you could return before he loses all confidence, that would be even better. Because right now he's getting surpassed by Jason Kubel (who also has very nice arms) and Joe Crede (he hasn't really shown us his arms yet, but it can only be assumed that they are quite large.)

Thank you Joe, and we are looking forward to your imminent return.

Sincerely,

The Chicks on Second Girls.

Saturday, April 25, 2009

Paul Bunyan

How much am I loving Joe Crede? A lot. And I never thought I'd say that, but my heart warmed a bit more to him when I saw him scamper to third. For a large man, that's impressive. And then beating the throw to first base while still managing to untuck his shirt which was obviously too large? Spectacular. The White Sox may not have wanted you, Joe, but they were punished by the baseball gods last night when they got SLAPPED by the Blue Jays. Ha!

A few years ago I heard a baseball commentator say that we call Justin Morneau Paul Bunyan. And I thought, no we don't! After last night's jack, I think we should reconsider. Justin Morneau = Paul Bunyan? Get the man some flannel!

Last night, I became acutely aware of what a great closer we have in Joe Nathan. Not necessarily at the game, since it wasn't a save situation, (although he was awesome) but later, when I was at the gym at midnight on a Friday. (It makes me cool.) While watching ESPN, I saw Jonathan Papelbon pump his fist like he was rocking out to a Queen song. Now, I'm all for beating the Yankees, but do you have to parade around like you are all that is man and rub in the face of the guy you just struck out? That's Yankees behavior, Jonathan, and you should be ashamed. Thank you Joe Nathan, for your quiet dignity. You make me proud.

Thursday, April 23, 2009

Red Sox

As a Twins fan, I was heartily disappointed given yesterday's double header with Boston. We got the CRAP kicked out of us. What the hell? I feel like tearing my Michael Cuddyer player shirt and keening out loud asking "Why God? Why?" I feel especially bad for the starting pitchers of yesterday's fiascos Scott Baker and Francisco Liriano. Poor Baker got slapped like a red-headed step child (or perhaps white-headed step child. From Chicago? Ok, no pun intended.) suffering a 10-1 loss. Liriano fared better with the 7-3 loss only because the Twins decided to get their heads out of their asses and realize that they CAN hit a ball occasionally. Congrats to Morneau on his 3rd home run of the season.

I was checking out some articles on the Twins website, y'know, interviews and shit. I love how Gardy and the reporter Petraglia make it seem like it's all ok. Like we played really well, and everybody did a good job. Some "Twinspin" gems:

"If Frankie were throwing terrible, if he were having no clue what was going on, then you would worry," Gardenhire said. "Frankie's not feeling terrible. He's just got to adjust a little bit and [issue] no free passes. His stuff's good. A couple of games, he should have at least come out with ties. He's pitched a couple. Today wasn't really a good one, but Frankie is throwing the ball fine...."

"Matt Guerrier threw two scoreless innings in relief of Liriano while Luis Ayala and Jose Mijares each tossed a perfect inning out of the bullpen."

"Our guys were swinging pretty good. They made plays. We hit a lot of at-'em balls tonight. Penny's a very good pitcher with a great arm, but I thought we put a lot of good at-bats out there."

Thanks Gardy, thanks Mike Petraglia for making it seem like we aren't SUCKING! I know it's early in the season, but it's just so damn hard to see my boys 4th in the central standings! What the crap. Whatever happened to integrity in journalism, huh?? I WANT THE TRUTH! Tell me how bad the game was! I don't want to hear about how Gardy's not worried about Liriano's pitching or how the Twins had some "good at bats!" As a dedicated fan, I AM worried about the pitching staff (though the bullpen appears to be doing well). And who cares about good at bats when there's no defense to preserve that lead?? Don't try to butter up this bread, telling me things I want to hear. I see right through your spin, just like I do when I watch FoxNews network.

Friday, April 17, 2009

Jason Kubel

Kubes rhymes with boobs!! That's why he is awesome. And hits for the cycle.

Also!

I forgot to add to my last post: I am super proud of Cassy for going to the Twins Pro Shop and coming out with a shirt that did not say "Morneau" or "33" on the back. Way to break the habit. Did you leave with other merchandise with his name on it?

Nick Blackburn's Hair

Does anyone else but Cassy and myself think that Nick Blackburn wears too much hair gel? Anyone? Ok... because I looked at some of his pictures lately, and the hair is gelled to within an inch of it's poor life! What happened to the days of long flowing baseball pitcher locks? Not like freakin Manny Ramirez's dreads, but nice curly flowing out from under the cap locks? Lil' Scotty Baker used to have them. Now he's all grown up and cut them off trying to be a big, manly pitcher. DISAPPOINTING, but at least he hasn't gelled his poor hair like Blackburn has. I will be watching the dots tonight at work. C'mon dots... let's get a win!

Time For A Spiritual Cleansing

I think it goes without saying the series with the Blue Jays was brutal. It's usually brutal, but this one was worse than most.

It was so bad, in fact, that I felt the strong desire to sit in the corner and weep while muttering the Blue Jays lineup over and over again. However, I stopped myself. How would that be productive, I thought to myself. How would that help the Twins boys get back on their feet?

It wouldn't I concluded. So ... I did the next best possible thing. Today at lunch I went to the Twins Pro Shop and purchased a new shirt. One that is free of the stains of the few weeks of baseball. One that still retains its hopeful innocence.

I'll be wearing that shirt tonight in the hopes of resetting our karma. Because our karma is all sorts of catawompus (it's a word, check dictionary.com) right now. It's time to restore some order.

It's appropriate to note that this shirt has Joe Crede's name on the back. This time last year I wouldn't be caught dead in a Crede shirt, but, like I said, it's time for a new beginning.

I have high hopes tonight. Blackburn is going to pitch a great game, mainly because he's awesome, but a little bit because he knows he doesn't have to face Jim Thome.

Go Twins.

Thursday, April 16, 2009

When the hell did the Jay's start hitting home runs? Anyone??

Wednesday, April 15, 2009

All I Can Say Is ...

I hate the Blue Jays. That is all.

Crede and the Jays

Who was pumped about last night's 11 inning win? ME! That's who. I must say that acquiring Joe Crede was probably one of the smartest things the Twins have done. EVER. Especially since Morneau is struggling at the plate and Mauer is still crying in the clubhouse about his back. Good work Crede. Thanks for earning your keep!! Also a big highlight of the evening was the super outing by Perkins. Good job Perk!

I was also impressed that we managed to beat the Jays. Apparently we have had a losing streak to Toronto dating back to 2007 (shitty!). I am pumped that we finally snapped it. Especially given that Toronto fans are a particularly heinous brand of baseball fans, only on par with Phillies fans and super obnoxious Yankees fans. I remember seeing a spring training game against Toronto last year, and apparently, there are lots of old ass Jay's fans in Florida. I think the worst part is that they are either losing their minds, or are senile as hell because it seemed like they didn't know crap about the Jays or the Twins for that matter. Example:

Old guy: Hey, look. They're bringing in a new pitcher. Must be a new guy. I've never seen him before.
Old guy 2: Yeah. I think the girls in front of us think he's cute. (Referring to Cassy and myself and our girl Jackie.)
US: It's Pat Neshek! Woo woo... submariner!
Old guy: What the hell is he doing? It looks like he's throwing funny.
Old guy 2: I don't know.

A little later in the game:

Old guy: That Jason Kubel, he's not going to make roster this year. He played most of last year in the minors and didn't even do much there!
Old guy 2: I agree!
***note: jason kubel had a great season in left field for the twins in 2007. I also believe he had several home runs even though it was a losing season.

I rest my case. So take note: If you're going to Florida to see a Twins/Jay's game, don't let the senility get to you.

Overall Weirdness

I couldn't help but notice the plethora of odd events last night. Here's what I mean:

1. The Twins beat the Blue Jays. A happy oddity, but an oddity nonetheless. It could be time for a new streak? I'd rather beat the Jays 10 times in a row than vice versa.

2. Did anyone else notice how happy Joe Crede looks when he gets on base? It's like it doesn't happen to him all too often. It's kind of cute.

3. The fact that I just said Joe Crede was doing something cute. See, weird.

4. Delmon Young DIDN'T DROP A BALL ALL NIGHT! Whoo! Now, about the striking out thing ...

5. Justin Morneau and Joe Crede's awkward man hug at the end of the game. It's almost as if Justin is afraid to love another Joe ...

6. The Yankees almost getting a no-hitter after Nick Swisher was forced to pitch an inning. I love it.

In other news- Scott Baker is back tonight. And that's exactly what the Twins need to beat the Blue Jays twice in a row.

And my favorite quote of the night:
Dick Bremer: "And Redmond is checked at first ... for some unknown reason."

Ohh ... we love you Mike Redmond.

Sunday, April 12, 2009

What the???

So ... Easter seemed like a good day to come out of my cold/fever induced stupor, especially since the Twins were playing the White Sox. But after today, I think I might still be running a temperature.

Who thought putting Cuddy at first was a good idea?? Anyone? Don't get me wrong, I love Cuddy, I do. But the man can't play first. Lesson learned.

Young has yet to earn my affection. I try to be supportive of all Twins players, but he makes me sad more than any of the others. By far. Young, when the bases are loaded at the bottom of the ninth, you are supposed to grand slam it. Just so you know.

Tomorrow against the Blue Jays will be better. How do I know? Jackie and I exchanged our tickets so we aren't going tomorrow. I'm betting the Twins will have a blow out.

Wednesday, April 8, 2009

Season Ticket Sweetness

Last night was a good night for our first game as season ticket holders, Brandon Morrow made sure of that! I almost feel bad that people in our section were mocking him. Almost. For future reference, Morrow takes fantasy baseball standings very seriously. Just tell him you undrafted him from your team and he'll overthrow his catcher. Thanks to the guys next to us for discovering something so useful.

Some other important things we learned last night:

Don't leave early because Casilla likes to come through in the clutch. It doesn't matter if he couldn't hit the ball for anything the last two nights. (Actually, the people sitting in front of us learned that, we stick around until the very bitter end.)

Joe Crede is NOT a spy for the White Sox. Jackie accused him, to which he responded by getting a pretty nice double. And then did a little flip to catch a ball. Not very spy-like. Unless he's trying to throw us off the trail ...

Justin Morneau cannot remember how to hit. I'm not sure what's going on there, but I feel it has something to do with the fact that I've been paying way more attention to Denard Span lately. He just needs some extra attention tonight so he can get his batting average above zero. Because Joe Crede is showing him how it's done. And that can't be good for his Canadian self esteem.

If Gomez can coax out a walk ... anything can happen.

Tuesday, April 7, 2009

Kristen's Take on Mikey's Revenge

Hello all!! Welcome to the fabulous 2009 season of Minnesota Twins baseball, and hopefully a winning season since last year was kind of a bust, what with all the "sudden death" playoff baseball and all. As a fan in Wisconsin, I must say that I have not enjoyed the constant stream of people walking in to my place of business and heckleing the shit outta me because I am a Twins fan. My take on it all: GO TO HELL! I love the Twins and I have to say, they look a lot better than my other option, the Brewers.
Anyway, as someone who did not attend opening day at the dome this year (you bastards!) I would just like to say that gameday on twinsbaseball.com does a really great job of keeping you up to date with all that is going on in the game. I would like to say awesome job to Mike Redmond for taking it like a man, and showing those Seattle bastards just how it's done! Kudos to you Redmond. And to all those naysayers on the twins message boards: kiss Redmond's grits! While Joe Mauer is crying about his kidneys or his quad injury or whatever it might be this week, Redmond comes to play and if you hit him, he will suck it up and come out swinging. Or something.... I'm just sayin...
I would also like to applaud Michael Cuddyer who came off a rough 2008 to have a great spring season and a decent opener. Until Justin Morneau decided that double plays were right up his alley (bottom of the 5th I think). That was the last I "saw" of the game given that the computer at work is ancient and frequently freezes up, not to mention I was busy fielding comments from horribly stupid individuals last night, which really really made my evening. By the time I got back to the computer and got it working again, the little dots on game day were telling me that the Twins had lost. It was an unfortunate loss, but there's always tonight and tomorrow and Thursday.
So, welcome to the new season. I hope we have a good one this year and to those who are saying it's going to be a rough 2009: AT LEAST WE'RE NOT THE BREWERS!!!

Monday, April 6, 2009

Mikey's Revenge

Even if everyone is already bashing the Twins for one loss, and saying we've blown the season, I enjoyed our last Home Opener in the Dome. It was nice to see the tribute to Carl Pohlad, although I'm sure if he were alive today he would have said to hurry it up and play ball. But that's just me.

I think my favorite moment came in the fifth inning, right after Mike Redmond got pegged and looked a little woozy from way up in the Family Zone. I think the conversation went something like this:

Jackie: It's a good thing this half of the inning is over, so Mikey can get a rest.
Me: Doesn't he have to bat next though?
Jackie: Dammit! He should seek revenge!


And he did. And it was pretty sweet until Justin decided a double play was his best option. He'll learn. I hope Mike Redmond decides to walk around naked in the clubhouse tomorrow. Then I hope he decides to climb up onto the table where Justin is playing a game of cribbage and then kick the cards out of his hand. That would teach him.

Other highlights:

Seeing Joe Crede get a hit in a Twins uniform. Three spring training games and do you think we saw that? Nope. Congratulations, Joe.

Denard Span. 1. Because he walked twice, and laid down a pretty sweet bunt. 2. The fact that he slid butt first into the bullpen bench. Yep, butt first. That's impressive. He missed the ball but got some standing ovations. There really needs to be a Denard Span fanclub.

The fact that we get to go to another game already tomorrow.

Some not so much highlights:

Ken Griffey Jr.

The hour and a half stuck in traffic. Only in MN do they think it's a good idea to merge 5 lanes into one.

Opening Day!!

Opening Day seems like a good time to start a blog to me.

I'm already enjoying the weather much more than last year when Kristen (who will be on here often!) and I drove two hours through a blizzard just so we could be the first ones to get a hat. (We were fourth.)

As disappointing as it is to be Scott Baker-less today, Liriano should be worth watching. I hope so anyway.

Since we don't have our season tickets for today's game, we'll be rockin out up in the Family Zone. I've never actually sat up there, but I imagine there is a higher ratio of people selling cotton candy.

T-6 hours until first pitch.