In mid-Febuary, while I was thinking for a name for my blog, Twin-Keys came to mind. I felt the name was clever because it not only involved the nickname for the Twins, Twinkies , but also allowed me to do the Keys for the Twins to win, thus Twin-Keys. This post will mainly be about the Keys to a sweep versus the Chicago White Sox.
Minnesota
Span, CF
Hudson, O, 2B
Mauer, C
Morneau, 1B
Cuddyer, RF
Young, D, LF
Hardy, SS
Harris, B, DH
Punto, 3B
Blackburn, RHP
Chicago
Pierre, LF
Beckham, 2B
Quentin, RF
Konerko, 1B
Kotsay, DH
Rios, CF
Pierzynski, C
A. Ramirez, SS
Teahen, 3B
Buehrle, LHP
Key 1- Bulpen
It is no surprise that the bullpen is the key to this game. In order for the Twins to win, the Twins need to get into the bullpen. After two extra-innings, the White Sox bullpen is exhausted.
Key 2- Starting Pitching
If the Twins want to win, Nick Blackburn needs to get the team off to a good start. Blackburn is his last outing went 6 2/3 innings while allowing only three runs. Blackburn needs to throw first-pitch strikes. When doing this opponennts bat .280 against, and it get significantly lower with a 0-2 count, .220.
Key 3- Situational Hitting
In low scoring games, every run matters. That is what the Twins have been faced with these past two games. The "bunt to get the runner over" or "hitting to the right side" could be the difference maker in this game. Pay close attention to both teams and how they advance runner
On a side note, the Twins have the best record in baseball. Let's hope they continue this today as the Tigers are not far behind.
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