First Pitch: 3:10 pm CDT
TV: FOX
Radio: Twins Radio Network
Know Thine Enemy: Bless You Boys
On the day that Mike Redmond gets designated for assignment, we hope that the Twins can get back on the winning track...
Every year since 2006, we've always just kind of expected more out of Bonderman. As a 23-year old he had everything you could ask for in a young pitcher: the ability to strike people out, control, stamina. But then again, he's lost more than velocity since then. This year is just another in a string of the "this wasn't quite what we were looking for" department, but at least he's not Rick Porcello or Armando Gallaraga.
Just like Baker, however, he actually grades out pretty well. He's efficient, likes to work ahead early in the count and has decent command. His slider is still his best pitch, and in general he's getting a few more swings and misses. If the Twins want to jump on him, they should do it early.
I promise you this: if Nick Blackburn can use his off-speed pitches effectively today, the Twins will win. They just will. They'll make his fastball that much better, and when you mix in breaking balls with a fastball and a changeup that can be thrown for strikes, you're looking at a decent pitcher. Even if you don't get many strikeouts.