First Pitch: 12:05pm CDT
TV: WTFC-29
Radio: Twins Radio Network
Know Thine Enemy: Let's Go Tribe!
Well, the Rays weren't able to hold their lead yesterday which means the Twins aren't actually any better off today. Another opportunity to beat a team they should beat, another opportunity to get a game closer to the Tigers: Minnesota needs to win again today.
I've convinced a close friend to make a special appearance after the game today, who will be doing our game recap. Be sure to check in for our post-game wrap.
Huff, a 25-year old southpaw rookie, has already started three games this season against the Twins. In 14.2 innings he's allowed 29 hits, striking out 12 and walking six. Clearly those aren't good results, although his five-inning, two-run performance on August 15 was far and away better than his first two meetings with Minnesota. Huff hasn't been consistently effective since a run of four starts in June, so here's hoping the Twins can catch up to his rotten fastball and are patient enough to work out a couple more walks.
Nick's last three starts have been a drastic improvement over that stretch going back to July 1, and it's been good to see him get a bit of his control back. Seven strikeouts and no walks over seven innings against the White Sox is a mega performance, especially this time of year. Today's chance for Nick sees him facing a lesser offense, but with the outcome no less important. If he can strike out a few men that's fantastic, but to get a good performance today he'll need to induce contact and hopefully his defense can do their job. Time to rock, Mr. Blackburn.
Lineups
Twins
Denard Span, RF
Orlando Cabrera, SS
Joe Mauer, 1B
Justin Morneau, DH
Jason Kubel, LF
Michael Cuddyer, 1B
Brendan Harris, 3B
Carlos Gomez, CF
Nick Punto, 2B
Indians
Michael Brantley, CF
Asdrubal Cabrera, SS
Shin-Soo Choo, RF
Jhonny Peralta, 3B
Travis Hafner, DH
Matt LaPorta, LF
Luis Valbuena, 2B
Andy Marte, 1B
Chris Gimenez, C