First Pitch: 11:05am CDT
TV: MLB.TV
Radio: Twins Radio Network
Know Thine Enemy: Let's Go Tribe!
It's an early start this afternoon in Cleveland (morning for those back home in Minnesota). After splitting the first two games, the Twins (53-54) look to take their sixth straight series against an AL Central foe and return to the .500 mark.
After spending much of the first half as the Twins' most dependable starter, Nick has hit a rough patch in the second half. In his last four starts, Blackburn has given up 30 hits and 21 runs (all earned) in 22.1 innings. Ouch. However, during these starts, his GB/FB, HR and SO/BB rates have stayed pretty much in line with season totals. His BABIP has regressed from around .270 to .305 at this point. Hopefully the regression is done.
After a horrid start to the 2009 season, Fausto Carmona spent two months in Arizona working on his mechanics. Last week, in his first start back, Carmona walked 4 batters in 5 innings. The control problems continue. Look for the Twins to be very patient against Carmona today. Jason Kubel (10 for 20, 2 HR) has had success against Carmona in the past, let's hope it continues today.