Ode to Mike Redmond

As many of us devoted Twins fans might have heard, Mike Redmond has signed with the Indians. While I'm not surprised (he old!) I am still saddened by his departure and offer this piece of Poetry in farewell:

Here's to Mikey,
friend of the meek,
who likes to walk around naked
at least once a week.

We loved his smile,
we loved his cracks.
But most of all,
we loved his naked at bats.

Here's to a player
who had talent to spare,
who hugged other players,
fierce as a giant grizzly bear.

Seeing you at spring training
was great, but don't fear.
Sorry I laughed (ha ha!)
when you fell on your rear.

So, we will miss you dear Mikey,
as you meet your new team.
If you come back to Minnesota,
these chicks will scream!

Love, the girls from Chicks on Second.

Why Bobby, Why?

While perusing the Twins website in true "I should be doing something more productive" fashion, I came across this article.

Now, first I was mad. Why in the world would we give up Bobby Keppel to sign a 34 year old relief pitcher who was on the disabled list TWICE last year? I know Bobby had his issues, but he had talent. And I very much enjoyed his bald head.

Then I got to the bottom of the article to read this: "In a corresponding roster move, the Twins announced that they released right-hander Bobby Keppel. The pitcher asked for his release so he could sign with the Hokkaido Nippon-Ham Fighters of the Japanese Pacific League for the 2010 season."

Ummmm what? WHAT? Ok, maybe Bobby wants to go to Japan. I get it. I hear it's a lovely place. But he wants to play for the Ham Fighters? What's so wrong with ham and why are they fighting it? Or are they fighting with ham? Which sounds greasy and unpleasant.

So now I'm left feeling hurt and confused. I liked you Bobby Keppel, and now you've left me. Sure, I yelled at you a few times when you walked three batters in a row, but it wasn't personal. I'm sorry if you took it that way. But you didn't need to run off and fight with ham. Or against it. I'm not sure.

But whatever it is you are doing, we wish you well in Japan. Be like Lew, and come home soon. Because we will most definately miss our bald reliever.