48 hours ago, Twins fans (and players, if I had to guess) were kicking couches, throwing remotes and cursing the heavens. Now? Hey, 2.5 game lead in the Central.
Kevin Slowey FINALLY pitched deep into a game again, allowing just one run on six hits in 6.2 innings. He left the game with the bases loaded and two outs in the 7th, giving way to fellow enigma Jose Mijares, who coaxed a grounder from pinch-hitter Nelson Cruz to end the threat. A 1-2-3 8th from Matt Guerrier and a damn fine 9th from Jon Rauch followed, and that was your ballgame.
Offensively, it was more of the same for the Twins, but they did have the excuse of facing an admittedly tough pitcher in Texas starter Colby Lewis. They were able to get to him for five hits and four walks, but only scored two runs, both via the bat of Joe Mauer. It being the 2010 Twins, the eventual game-winner scored on a double play. That double play put Mauer into a tie with Michael Cuddyer for the team lead in GIDPs with 12 apiece. The More You Know.
Studs: the pitching staff. No complaints.
Duds: the hitting staff. There were opportunities to break the game open, but they were not seized. I imagine we'd all be more upset about this were it not for Slowey & Co. picking up the slack.
Afternoon tilt tomorrow, long weekend, gorgeous weather. Enjoy it.