Twins announce 2005 Holiday Card Design Contest winner

11/28/2005
MINNEAPOLIS/ST. PAUL, MN - The Minnesota Twins have announced that Bailey Kolles from Otsego, Minn., a sixth-grade student at Rogers Middle School in Rogers, Minn., is the winner of the Twins' 2005 Holiday Card Design Contest.
Bailey will have her winning design featured on a Twins' official holiday greeting card. She will also receive a prize package that includes six Diamond View Seats to a 2006 regular-season game of her choice, recognition on the Metrodome scoreboard, an opportunity to be an Honorary Batting Practice Buddy and a Justin Morneau autographed baseball bat.
The Twins received more than 2,500 entries from students across the Upper Midwest. Youth in kindergarten through eighth grade from Minnesota, Wisconsin, Iowa, North Dakota and South Dakota were eligible to participate in the contest.
The Twins have displayed the holiday artwork of Upper Midwest students on their holiday cards for the past several years. The organization wishes to thank all students who submitted entries.


Source: http://minnesota.twins.mlb.com/

Mailbag: Will Balfour be ready to go?

11/28/2005
Before we get started with your mailbag this week, I wanted to use this space to say thank you.
I've been working on the Twins beat at MLB.com and twinsbaseball.com for the past five seasons while trying my best to provide you with nothing short of quality coverage.
Hopefully, you've enjoyed reading the stories as much as I've enjoyed writing them.
Next week, I'll be switching to covering the Reds for MLB.com. It's a move that will return my family and me to Cincinnati, where I spent several years living before coming up to the Twin Cities.
It's been a great time here and I've appreciated your e-mails with the many questions, compliments, suggestions and even the criticisms.
Kelly Thesier will be replacing me and starts this week. I wish her and you all the best.
Now, let's get to your questions.
Why won't the Twins go out and try to get a Japanese star? It's worked out for Seattle, so why won't we do it?-- Nathan H., St. Paul, Minn.
The Twins have not been willing to spend big bucks on a domestic free agent, so I don't envision them forking over what would take massive amounts of dollars to import one from Japan. Landing a star player from the Japanese baseball leagues can take spending to another stratosphere.
To get Ichiro Suzuki before the 2001 season, the Mariners spent more than $13 million to outbid other teams just for the rights to his services. Then, they signed Ichiro to a three-year contract worth an additional $14 million, plus bonuses. Some of his countrymen have been well compensated as well. Hideki Matsui joined the Yankees before the 2003 season for three years and $21 million. Kaz Matsui went to the Mets before 2004 at three years, $20.1 million.
Seattle's latest acquisition from the Pacific Rim, Japanese catcher Kenji Johjima, was recently signed for three years at $16.5 million. The club has Japanese ownership and a large Japanese-American community that supports it, which makes Seattle even more appealing to players from Japan.
What is Grant Balfour's status health-wise? What do you see his role as in the upcoming season? Thanks.-- Ryan S., New Brighton, Minn.
Balfour missed all of 2005 after having major right elbow surgery and suffered a setback this fall, when he injured his shoulder while rehabilitating. He had another surgery to repair a torn rotator cuff and torn labrum. The club believes he can participate in Spring Training drills at less than 100 percent and doctors have told general manager Terry Ryan that the right-hander should be at full strength in May.
If Balfour is healthy and shows some of the command he sometimes displayed in 2004, he could return to his middle-to-late-inning role in the bullpen. But with the rise of Jesse Crain's status and Travis Bowyer's expected development, Balfour will have nothing handed to him. He will have to earn his spot back.
Is Denard Span eligible to be picked in the Rule 5 Draft since he wasn't added to the 40-man roster? If he were eligible, why would the Twins leave one of their only hitting prospects available?-- Andy V., White Bear Lake, Minn.
Rest assured that Span is not eligible for the Rule 5 Draft, which is why he did not need protection on the 40-man roster. Minor League players out of high school for four years and not on 40-man rosters are eligible to be taken (three years out of college). Span was selected as a high school senior in the 2002 draft. He won't need to be put on the big-league roster until next year. If he has a good spring, he could wind up at Triple-A Rochester in 2006.
What do you think about the Twins going after Pokey Reese? They could use middle infielders, and he would be a great fit.-- Jake T., Cushing, Wis.
Reese, who missed all of 2005 for the Mariners with an injured shoulder, is very gifted defensively, but is a light hitter with a .248 lifetime average. He would not be an upgrade from the Twins' current middle infielders, including Juan Castro and Nick Punto, and I would pass. The latest I've heard is the Reds are interested in bringing Reese back for another go-around on their club.
How will Mike Redmond figure into the Twins' plans for 2006? He seemed to provide some great leadership last season, not only from behind the plate, but also with some clutch hitting. Does his presence make it more likely that we'd get Nomar Garciaparra rather than Mike Piazza?-- Daniel O., Badger, Minn.
Redmond is under contract through 2006, and will be back as the backup for Joe Mauer behind the plate. And you are quite correct about his leadership presence and ability to make the most of his opportunities. If the Twins were interested in Piazza, it would likely be more as a DH. Even if Piazza were to catch some games by signing with Minnesota, the club usually prefers having the protection of carrying three catchers.

Source: http://minnesota.twins.mlb.com/

Jackson asks about purchasing Twins

11/04/2005
MINNEAPOLIS -- It was learned Friday that Hall of Fame slugger Reggie Jackson inquired about the possibility of purchasing the Minnesota Twins.
The Minneapolis Star Tribune reported Friday that Jackson was the head of an investment group with Las Vegas ties and placed telephone calls to the Twins last month.
"I did make an inquiry, and I wanted to show an interest," Jackson told the newspaper. "I know they've got some issues with stadiums, etc., I've heard the [Pohlad] family might consider selling the team, and I wanted to be first on the list to inquire."
Twins executives informed the 59-year-old Jackson, who hit 563 home runs in a 21-season playing career and won multiple World Series with the A's and Yankees, that the club wasn't for sale.
"The bottom line is we got a phone call. It was an unsolicited phone call," Twins president Dave St. Peter told MLB.com Friday afternoon. "Mr. Jackson expressed interest about buying a Major League team and inquired about the Twins. He was told the team is not for sale at this time.
"He was also told the team is 100-percent committed towards the Hennepin County ballpark plan. We still hope [Gov. Tim Pawlenty] will call a special session and that we'll get a ballpark solution in Minnesota."
Twins owner Carl Pohlad put his team on the market in 2002 but has since pulled it off.
It was not known if Jackson intended to move the franchise to Las Vegas, where the Star Tribune reported he is a part-time resident. The Twins have been playing without a lease at the Metrodome since 2004 and have sought financing for a baseball-only ballpark for several years.
An agreement between the Twins and Hennepin County to use an increased sales tax to help finance a downtown Minneapolis ballpark expires at the end of 2005. Sensitive to avoid any controversy that could derail legislative approval, St. Peter made clear that the Jackson revelation did not come from the team.
"It was disappointing that it became public," St. Peter said. "We're concerned about anything that could cause confusion for the legislature or Gov. Pawlenty. We're working hard to do things right and get a Minnesota solution. It's not Mr. Jackson's fault. He just wants to buy a team. But the timing of this is not good."
The Twins have remained in contact with Pawlenty's office about the possiblity of a special legislative session, which is needed to approve the county's tax levy.
"We continue to be engaged and hopeful," St. Peter said. "We certainly understand the territory we're in. We have not given up."

Source: http://minnesota.twins.mlb.com/

Span on a tear in the AFL

11/04/2005
What a span Denard Span is on.
Over an eight-game hitting streak dating back to Oct. 24, the 21-year-old outfielder has gone 15-for-34 to raise his batting average 83 points to a healthy .318. The recent stretch is easily Span's best period with the Grand Canyon Rafters.
The past week hasn't been too shabby for the Twins' five other prospects. Here's how they fared:
1B Garrett Jones -- Jones has put together a five-game hitting streak, with three of the multi-hit variety to lift his batting average to .289. He also broke a 12-game homer drought with a solo shot on Nov. 3 against the Javelinas. Overall, Jones has five homers and 21 RBIs in 20 games.
RHP Travis Bowyer -- Bowyer has not enjoyed much success out of the Grand Canyon bullpen recently. The 24-year-old has seen his ERA soar to 9.45 by giving up runs in four of his last five games, including a loss in a 4-3 defeat to the Saguaros on Oct. 29. On a positive note, he tossed two scoreless frames against Mesa on Nov. 1.
LHP Ricky Barrett -- It was a tough week for the 24-year-old reliever, with two losses in three appearances. Barrett gave up three runs in one inning in a 5-2 loss to the Mesa Solar Sox on Oct. 28. On Nov. 3, he was charged with four runs -- one earned -- in one inning in a 12-6 loss to the Javelinas.
LHP Glen Perkins -- Perkins worked two solid outings but didn't figure in a decision. He allowed two runs on five hits and one walk with five strikeouts in five innings on Oct. 28 against Mesa. He followed that up with three runs on eight hits in five innings on Nov. 3 against the Javelinas.
3B Matt Moses -- Moses went 2-for-12 with two runs scored in three games and is batting .231.

Source: http://minnesota.twins.mlb.com/

Six nominated for Stenson Award

11/07/2005
MESA, Ariz. -- The second annual MLB.com AFL Dernell Stenson Sportsmanship Award will be given out in an on-field ceremony on Wednesday. On Monday, the six finalists were announced.
The manager from each team was asked to nominate one player. The AFL, in conjunction with MLB.com, will select one winner from the six nominees.
This year's finalists are Josh Anderson (Astros), Surprise Scorpions; Chris Denorfia (Reds), Mesa Solar Sox; Andre Ethier (A's), Phoenix Desert Dogs; Brandon Fahey (Orioles), Peoria Javelinas; Garrett Jones (Twins), Grand Canyon Rafters; and Chris Young (White Sox), Peoria Saguaros.
The six were chosen not because of their statistics or on-field performances, but because they best demonstrate the qualities Stenson brought to the ballpark every day: a quiet, hard-nosed attitude, a player who does his job without complaint, who plays the game the way it was meant to be played.
"It's an honor to be put in that category," said Ethier, who won Texas League Player of the Year honors as well as the league's All-Star Game MVP award and Home Run Derby. "A lot of guys here work hard. You kind of have to in order to go here."
"To me, it's one of the greatest honors, greatest compliments you can get, when people appreciate the way you play the game," Denorfia said. "It's the only way I know how to play."
Dernell Stenson played in the AFL as part of the Reds organization in 2003 and was having a terrific season until he was slain in Chandler on Nov. 5, 2003.
"Stenson, I didn't know him very well, but I saw him play a couple of times," Ethier said. "Everything I've heard is that he was climbing up the ladder and was on the doorstep, and he did it the right way the whole time. To be put in those shoes is an honor.
"I'm honored that I was nomininated from our team. We've got a lot of hard workers on the team."
The reasons for choosing the nominees were universally the same -- that these prospects were unselfish, hard-working and that they displayed tremendous leadership, either by example or vocally, or both.
"It's an approach ingrained in me throughout my career, first with my dad and then at Arizona State," Ethier said. "I take pride in it. It's not even something I do consciously. I never want to be complacent.
"Even on a day off, I want to make sure I get my work in and stay sharp. I want to keep that hunger because I don't have the skills some of these other players have. I need to work twice as hard to compete with them."
"Your work ethic always goes back to your father," Denorfria added. "It was reinforced fiercely in college. Then it just continues here. (Getting nominated) is a great compliment to all the guys who have coached me."
The winner will be honored in a special on-field ceremony on Wednesday night at Phoenix Municipal Stadium. In addition, MLB.com will make a donation to the charity of the winner's choosing.
Funds for the donation, in excess of $500, were raised through an online auction of a Derek Jeter autographed ball. Jeter played in the AFL in 1994 and is enshrined in the Fall League's Hall of Fame.
"Dernell's death was a very difficult situation for the league," said Steve Cobb, AFL executive vice president, at the time of the award's inception. "We suffered a tremendous loss, but we came together as a family (in 2003). At this point, we want to remember the contributions Dernell Stenson made to this league, in his work ethic and his dedication to the game.
"We think this is a fitting way to remember Dernell and we are pleased to work hand-in-hand in MLB.com to make this happen."
Last year, Royals third baseman Mark Teahen became the first recipient of the award as a member of the Phoenix Desert Dogs. The other finalists were Detroit's Curtis Granderson, the Padres' Ben Johnson, the White Sox's Pedro Lopez, Freddy Sanchez of the Pirates and the Brewers' Rickie Weeks. The work ethics and attitudes of those finalists clearly reaped rewards, with all six seeing time in the big leagues during the 2005 season.
"Looking back, the things the managers and coaches noticed in me benefited me," said Teahen, who hit .246 in 447 at-bats as a Royals rookie. "The hard work in the Fall League helped me out in getting to the big leagues and in getting my feet wet.
"I would assume everyone in the Fall League is there for the same prupose, to get better and prepare for a higher level. Whoever wins the award isn't doing it to win an award. They're there to put in that much effort to try to become the best player they can be. When a guy really dedicates himself, sometimes it gets acknowledged."

Source: http://minnesota.twins.mlb.com/

Twins honored with Diamond Awards

11/07/2005
MINNEAPOLIS -- As postseason awards season got under way nationally on Monday, it was also learned which Twins players were winners of local Diamond Awards.
The Twin Cities chapter of the Baseball Writers Association of America conducted the voting for the awards.
For the second straight year, starting pitcher Johan Santana was named winner of the Calvin Griffith Award as the Twins' Most Valuable Player and the Joseph Haynes Award winner as the team's Pitcher of the Year.
Santana was 16-7 with a 2.87 ERA in 33 starts this season and became the first pitcher in club history to lead the Major Leagues in strikeouts, with 238. The 26-year-old also led the American League in opponent's batting average against at .210 and was second in ERA. The left-hander is expected to be a leading candidate for the American League Cy Young Award, which will be announced Tuesday.
Starting pitcher Carlos Silva earned the Charles O. Johnson Award as the Most Improved Twin. Silva, 26, was 9-8 with a 3.44 ERA and pitched at least six innings in 25 of his 27 starts. The right-hander led the Major Leagues with 0.43 walks per nine innings, the lowest number by a pitcher in modern baseball history (post-1900).
The Bill Boni Award for the Twins' Outstanding Rookie went to right-handed reliever Jesse Crain, who was 12-5 with a 2.71 ERA and one save in 75 appearances. Crain, 24, set an AL record for consecutive wins to start a career with 11. He also led all rookie pitchers in games and winning percentage (.706) and was second in wins.
Cleveland Indians designated hitter/first baseman and Jamestown, N.D., native Travis Hafner was named winner of the Dick Seibert Award, given to the Upper Midwest Player of the Year. Hafner batted .305 with 33 home runs and 108 RBIs this season.
In a new award created this season, backup catcher Mike Redmond was named the first winner of the Bob Allison Award, which is given to the Twins player that "exemplifies determination, hustle, tenacity, competitive spirit and leadership both on and off the field." Redmond, 34, batted .311 in 45 games while throwing out 47 percent of runners who attempted to steal.
All of the winners will receive their awards at the first annual Diamond Awards dinner in downtown Minneapolis on Jan. 26. All proceeds will benefit the Bob Allison Ataxia Research Center at the University of Minnesota.

Source: http://minnesota.twins.mlb.com/

Mailbag: Trade talks pick up

11/07/2005
I've heard all of the trade rumors regarding Torii Hunter and that the Yankees would really like to get their pinstripes on him. What are the chances of Torii leaving Minnesota for the Yankees? Please say it ain't so! -- Lance F., Pine Bluff, Ark.
Since you're a resident of Hunter's hometown, I can understand your interest. I honestly do not know what will become of him this winter, and after speaking to Torii last week upon his winning another AL Gold Glove Award, he doesn't know his fate, either.
A lot of rumors have a way of starting in the New York media, and many are often found to be baseless. For the sake of conversation, Hunter will be making $10.75 million next year and could net two quality $5 million players if he were dealt. But who do the Yankees have that the Twins might need besides second baseman Robinson Cano? New York has a depleted farm system and a lot of overpaid veterans. It would take more than Cano and some prospects, I'd think, to make that trade happen.
Also, if right fielder Jacque Jones departed as a free agent like many expect, trading Hunter would only create another hole. Lew Ford may be a pretty good player, but he's not the best defensive center fielder in the game, like Hunter is. This is a pitching staff that relies heavily on Hunter's game-saving plays and they would suffer from his absence. I also think it would be a big PR problem for the club if its most popular, and most marketable, player were traded. But that's just my opinion.
Would the Twins be interested in Jim Thome during the offseason? He would make a great DH with good power and he would be great clubhouse guy. -- Cody R., Alexandria, Minn.
I'm sure the Twins would be interested in the idea of having Thome tattoo long home runs off the Metrodome curtain for them next season. A lot would have to happen to make that reality.
Thome's contract with the Phillies has three guaranteed years remaining for approximately $45 million, which is well out of the Twins' economic range. But if Philadelphia were willing to work out a blockbuster trade in which it would pay at least half of that money owed, a deal might be possible. With young power hitter Ryan Howard ready to play every day at first base, the Phillies might be looking to move Thome. There is risk for any takers, however. Back and elbow problems limited the veteran to 59 games in 2005, while he batted .207. He will also be turning 36 in August.
Any chance of the Twins bringing back Doug Mientkiewicz this winter? Rumor has it that he wants to return. I think most of us fans would love to have "Mient" back! -- Adam B., Superior, Wis.
I grew up in the New York area when Billy Martin managed the Yankees five different times, so it's not impossible to wonder if Mientkiewicz could play for the Twins twice. I also read his comments last month, when he said he'd welcome a return to the Twins. That being said, I think it's unlikely to happen.
Remember, it was only a season and a half ago when Mientkiewicz requested a trade out of Minnesota once he was told he was going to be a part-time player and that Justin Morneau taking over at first base. There was a messy ending on his way out the door, and I think it could still be too soon to think about bringing him back even if he made amends. Even though his playing time has been reduced elsewhere already, he'd have to accept being a part-time player here. Then, he'd have to be willing to fit into what's become an almost entirely different clubhouse. He's also had tumultuous exits from his last two clubs, the Red Sox and Mets, and his offensive statistics since departing haven't been all that exciting.
Even if Mientkiewicz was never brought back, I do think the Twins should look into bringing in a vocal veteran who plays his heart out, who's able to confront those not pulling their weight and is willing to help younger players. We all know Mientkiewicz wasn't afraid to speak his mind, and that was not always a bad thing.
Is there any chance that we could see the Twins invite Bret Boone back to Spring Training and give him another chance at second base? If not, who do you feel would make our best second baseman now that Luis Rivas is gone? -- Eric K., Rochester, Minn.
Surprisingly, this wasn't the only Boone question received this week. I think everyone saw enough of him for the three weeks he lasted in Minnesota that he won't be given a return engagement. "The Boone" struggled in every facet of the game -- his swing was a mess and his renowned defensive skills and range appeared in decline -- and he'll be 37 at the start of next season. Although the trade cost the Twins little and you couldn't blame them for trying something, it was not a successful deal.
If no moves are made this winter to address second base from outside of the organization, I envision Nick Punto and Michael Cuddyer as the two leading candidates to battle for the starting spot.
What chance do you think Glenn Williams has of being in the lineup or on the team next year? In the little time he was in Minnesota, he played very well, and it looked like he was going to have the starting role at third base. It seems like he deserves at least a spot at Spring Training. -- Xanthi G., Menomonie, Wis.
Williams, who collected at least one hit in all 13 games he played before suffering a season-ending shoulder injury, did provide results in his brief chance. But, he was removed from the 40-man roster last month and, as of now, is not a member of the Twins. The club held out the possibility that Williams, who recently had surgery to fix his right shoulder, could be given an invitation to camp in 2006.

Source: http://minnesota.twins.mlb.com/

Santana finishes third in Cy Young race

11/08/2005
MINNEAPOLIS -- In the end, baseball writers apparently voted with the mantra of an NFL owner.
It was Raiders boss Al Davis who coined the phrase "just win, baby." And the Angels' Bartolo Colon racked up more victories (21) than Twins pitcher Johan Santana (16) did this season.
On Tuesday, Colon was named the winner of the American League Cy Young Award with 17 first-place votes, 11 second-place votes and 118 points in results from the Baseball Writers Association of America.
Yankees closer Mariano Rivera finished second and received eight first-place votes and 68 points. Missing his chance to be a back-to-back winner of the award, Santana came in third while receiving three first-place votes, eight second-place votes and 12 third-place votes for 51 points.
"That decision doesn't diminish what he meant to us this year," Twins general manager Terry Ryan said Tuesday night from the GM meetings in Indian Wells, Calif. "Johan was good."
Santana finished 2005 with a 16-7 record and a 2.87 ERA while leading the Major Leagues with 238 strikeouts in 231 2/3 innings. Opponents' batting average against him was .210, which was also best in the AL. He was tied for fifth in the AL in wins, finished second in ERA and tied for fourth in complete games with three.
After a slow start to the season, Santana went 9-2 with a 1.59 ERA after the All-Star break and was one of the game's most dominating pitchers in the second half.
With the exception of victories, all of Santana's other key statistical numbers dwarfed those of Colon. The Angels' right-hander finished 21-8 with a 3.48 ERA and was the only AL pitcher to reach the 20-win plateau. But he trailed with 157 strikeouts and 222 2/3 innings. Opponents batted .254 against him. He was 10-3 with a 3.55 ERA in the second half, but struggled down the stretch.
As Colon helped lead the Angels to the AL West division title, which likely boosted his candidacy, Santana's chances probably suffered from the Twins not making the playoffs and his lineup's lack of run support. In his seven losses and 10 no-decisions this past season, the 26-year-old allowed three runs or less 10 times. He lost or received a no-decision in three 2-1 games.
"I wished he got first because he pitched awfully well under trying circumstances," Ryan said. "We didn't have the same type of success, execution or defense that contributes to a pitcher's overall success."
Rivera enjoyed another dominating season for New York, going 7-4 with a 1.38 ERA and 43 saves.
Last year, Santana was unanimously elected the AL Cy Young Award winner after going 20-6 with a 2.61 ERA and 265 strikeouts. He was also 13-0 with a 1.21 ERA after the All-Star break.
Although many of this year's numbers compared favorably, they apparently weren't close enough -- or good enough.

Source: http://minnesota.twins.mlb.com/

Q & A with Twins' Jesse Crain

11/22/2005
MLBPLAYERS.com: How would you evaluate your performance this past season?
Jesse Crain: I'm happy with the results. I gained a lot of confidence in the last year or so. I feel comfortable every time I do get the call to go out there.
MLBPLAYERS.com: Upon your first taste of the big leagues last year, you had success. Is that what you expected your first year to be like?
Crain: I wasn't really surprised. I expect a lot out of myself. I set high goals for myself. I am not surprised and I am happy with everything going on with me.
MLBPLAYERS.com: Do you think your job as a setup guy gets its just due around the game?
Crain: I think the people in baseball respect it. They know how big of a role it is. The fans may not realize it as much, but as the position becomes more popular, it certainly plays a key role. It's important to get that lead to your closer in the last inning.
MLBPLAYERS.com: Having done your job, how comfortable do you feel handing the ball over to Joe Nathan after the eighth inning?
Crain: I definitely feel like the game is in good hands at that point. We know we're in good shape when he's out there. My job is to help bridge the gap from the starter to him as the closer.
MLBPLAYERS.com: Have you always been a pitcher?
Crain: I didn't focus solely on pitching until I was drafted. I had always played shortstop throughout college (University of Houston) as well. When I was drafted, I was asked to be a pitcher. That's when I really started to focus on it. Heading into this year, I only had three years of pro experience. I'm still learning a little bit.
MLBPLAYERS.com: How did you feel when they asked you to switch to pitching?
Crain: I wouldn't say that pitching is my first love. I liked playing the field as long as I could, but I sort of always figured I had a future in pitching because I had a strong arm. I knew it would be hard to let go of the fielding but, little by little, I've gotten over not playing every day and I've gotten used to pitching. I love pitching now.
MLBPLAYERS.com: If you had remained at shortstop, how far do you think you would have progressed?
Crain: I don't know how far. I don't think I would be here today and having the same amount of success I have right now as a pitcher.
MLBPLAYERS.com: Why do you think you rose to the big leagues as quickly as you did?
Crain: I rose quickly, but I was able to go through some times where I was not doing too great for a while. Those times helped me pick it up. I think they wanted me to fail at times to see how I would come back. I think that helped me get to the big leagues as quickly as I did. Failure happens every day in this game.
MLBPLAYERS.com: On the day you signed your contract, did you imagine being a big league pitcher by 2004?
Crain: No. I didn't think I would get here so quickly. It's sort of surprising, but I've stuck with it. In pro ball, I was finally able to work on one position and one position only. That helped me along in the process.
MLBPLAYERS.com: In 2004, you got your first chance to pitch in the postseason. Did you see a huge difference between the regular season and the playoffs?
Crain: Obviously, it was the playoffs and it was make or break, but I did my best to take it as just another game. I was out there to get outs. If you put too much pressure on yourself, that's when you're going to struggle a little bit. There were more fans and all that, but I tried to think of it as any other game.

Source: http://minnesota.twins.mlb.com/

Mailbag: Any interest in Garciaparra?

11/21/2005
After an up and down season for Justin Morneau, what do you think you can expect from him this year? -- Steve A., Brooklyn Park, Minn.
We'll have a better idea when Morneau gets to Spring Training. If he stays healthy all winter and is able to do all of the working out he wants to do, we'll know he has a good physical foundation to have a productive year. However, there's a mental side that will need to be conquered as well. There were a lot of expectations on Morneau in 2005, and he probably put too much pressure on himself to meet them. If he is able to put the physical and mental ends of his game together, a lot of baseballs could be clearing the fence via No. 27's bat.
Isn't it better for the Twins to sign Paul Konerko, who is 29-30, instead of Mike Piazza, who is 37? Free agents aren't going to get cheaper, and Konerko can DH and play first base for the Twins for five to six years and possibly hit 200-plus home runs in that time period. By then the Twins will have the new ballpark built. -- Louie M., Salem, Mass.
Sure, it would be better for the Twins to sign Konerko. But, I think every other team would like to sign him, too. A team that often passes on high-end free agents, Minnesota won't win too many bidding wars. Especially after his superb postseason, Konerko will be one of the game's most sought after free agents and should command more money than Piazza.
I don't think it would be such a bad idea to trade Joe Nathan for a big bat. I know we could get a lot for him, it would free up money and Jesse Crain seems to be good enough to fit in at closer. What do you think? -- Kyle E., Farmington, Minn.
Not only do I think that it's a bad idea, I think it's a very bad idea. In just two seasons as a closer, Nathan has 87 saves and two All-Star Game invitations. He's also an experienced veteran. As far as freeing up money, he will make $3.75 million next year and $5.25 million in 2007 -- those are not exactly payroll-busting figures. Crain did an excellent job in his setup role, but he's still rather young, and I don't see him moving up to the next role just yet.
And finally, an award to this player who received the most buzz in this week's mailbag:
What are the chances of seeing Nomar Garciaparra in a Twins uniform in the 2006 season? -- Brett D., Breckenridge, Minn.
What is the Twins' stance on Nomar? He would be a good fit offensively. What is he asking for in terms of a contract, and could the Twins accommodate him? I know health-wise he has been banged up, but to me, he seems like a good fit in Minnesota. -- Mark, Mitchell, S.D.
Why not go after Nomar Garciaparra? Is he even on the Twins' radar? Aren't the Twins looking to upgrade offensively up the middle? Nomar is a lifetime .320 hitter, and with his value down, now would be a great time to go after him. -- Kent L., Eau Claire, Wis.
Recently the Cubs told Nomar Garciaparra that he does not fit into their future plans. What are the chances the Twins will sign Nomar to man second or third base next season? I realize he has had multiple health issues over the past several seasons, but maybe they could sign him to an incentive-based contract. Nomar is still a fabulous hitter and a respectable fielder. -- Pete R., Saint Paul, Minn.
Any truth to the rumor that the Twins are interested in Nomar Garciaparra? I think Nomar would be a great fit in the Twins' infield and provide leadership to this young squad. -- Brandon H., Lakeville, Minn.
Do you think the Twins will try to pick up Nomar Garciaparra? -- Joshua M., Nevis, Minn.
Those were just six examples, but my inbox had many more similar sentiments this week after the story broke about the Cubs telling Garciaparra to shop around for a new club. Terry Ryan is not the type of general manager to share who's on his radar screen openly, but there are reasons this signing might work, albeit with some pretty clear risks.
With Jason Bartlett likely to get another opportunity to be the starting shortstop, the Twins still have a need at third base. Garciaparra has already shown a willingness to move from his usual shortstop position. He played 34 games at third for the Cubs in 2005.
Although he played in just 62 games, he was a productive offensive player (.283, nine homers, 30 RBIs) when he was healthy. Unfortunately, he missed over three months with a groin injury and endured time on the disabled list with the Red Sox in 2004.
He had 28 home runs and 105 RBIs as recently as 2003, and he could give the club the right-handed power it craves. He made $8.25 million during his one-year contract. That figure wouldn't be out of range for Minnesota, and it could even come down or be worked out through incentives.
I'm not really sold on the leadership angle that the one fan mentioned -- Boston players and reporters often complained about Garciaparra being rather aloof while he was there.

Source: http://minnesota.twins.mlb.com/

Twins broaden fund-raising efforts

11/23/2005
MINNEAPOLIS -- For the first time since 2001, the Twins couldn't call a season successful on the field because they didn't make it into the postseason.
But off the field, the club had 3.3 million reasons to feel good. That was the amount of money the Twins collected in contributions to its non-profit and community programs in the Upper Midwest, Southwest Florida and Latin America.
With three straight playoff teams from 2002-04, the Twins' popularity increased around the region. Charitable causes also thrived as a result.
"We understand as an organization the impact of giving back to the market," said Peter Martin, executive director of the Twins Community Fund. "We have ownership that drives our community outreach. We've not only increased the amount of dollars we've raised, but we've made a greater impact."
The Minnesota Twins Community Fund was established in 1991 to provide expanded recreation and education opportunities for young people. Last year, it contributed $2.85 million to support Upper Midwest charities with grants, community program expenses and donations of tickets and memorabilia. In 2003, the figure was $2.2 million.
Current and former Twins players helped raise more than $850,000 for nonprofit organizations through their involvement in charity fund-raising events. Players and the Twins' mascot, T.C. Bear, made more than 250 community appearances during the season.
One of the Twins Community Fund's biggest initiatives, the Fields for Kids program, received $217,000 in grants that helped renovate youth baseball and softball fields in 2005.
"We are proud of the community outreach and accomplishments of the Minnesota Twins and Twins Community Fund this season," said Twins president Dave St. Peter, who is also a Twins Community Fund board member. "The Fields for Kids ballfield renovation program built or renovated 36 ballfields in 2005. Since 1999, the Fields for Kids program has donated more than $1 million. This is just a small part of the overall contributions made by the Fund and Twins in 2005."
Other Twins Community Fund successes in 2005 were:
• The Twins Youth Clinic program visited more than 35 Upper Midwest and 15 Southwest Florida communities and provided free baseball and softball instruction to more than 12,000 youth.
• Grants totaling more than $139,000 were made to the Minneapolis and St. Paul Parks and Recreation departments and the Duluth and Rochester, Minn., and Winnipeg, Manitoba Boys & Girls Clubs to operate Twins Rookie League and RBI, inner-city youth baseball and softball leagues. More than 8,000 youth participated in Twins Rookie League and RBI programs.
• More than $155,000 was contributed to support TwinsCare, a Twins ticket donation program for disadvantaged youth and families.
• There were $13,000 in grants donated to 12 youth baseball and softball organizations to support regional tournaments.
• Minneapolis and St. Paul RBI programs hosted the RBI Central Regional Tournament, hosting more than 450 youth from around the United States.
• Eight youth-serving nonprofit organizations received a total of $7,000 in grants to support innovative efforts to expand youth baseball and softball in their respective communities.
• The Twins Wives Organization directed $45,000 in grants to Care Partners Division of Children's Cancer Research Fund, Human Services, Inc., Camp Heartland and Gillette Children's Specialty Healthcare.
• In its inaugural year, 19 Upper Midwest high school seniors each received $1,000 in scholarship support for post-secondary education via the Diamonds & Dreams Scholarship Program.
• A collaboration of Minnesota youth baseball and softball organizations, called Play Ball Minnesota!, created a website (www.playballmn.com) to foster and promote youth baseball and softball. The collaboration also hosted the first-of-its-kind Minnesota Youth Baseball and Softball Conference in April.
In addition to the efforts of the Twins Community Fund, the club was also active in several other programs. More than 2,500 community organizations received donations of Twins memorabilia to help raise funds for their causes.
About $2.15 million in Twins tickets were donated to Upper Midwest nonprofit organizations serving economically disadvantaged youth. The Twins also helped raise more than $230,000 for Hurricane Katrina relief efforts.

Source: http://minnesota.twins.mlb.com/

Twins trio eligible for Frick Award

11/08/2005
MINNEAPOLIS -- Their names and voices have become synonymous with fans' enjoyment of Twins baseball for decades in the Upper Midwest.
Longtime Twins broadcasters John Gordon, Dick Bremer and Bert Blyleven are among those who are eligible for nomination for the Baseball Hall of Fame's Ford C. Frick Award.
Known for his signature home runs call "Touch 'em all!," Gordon has spent the last 19 years working Twins games on WCCO AM radio partnered with 1996 Frick Award winner Herb Carneal. Gordon's career in baseball broadcasting spans 28 years, including stints with the Orioles from 1970-73 and the Yankees from 1982-86.
Bremer has spent his entire 23-year career calling Twins baseball play-by-play on television. The Staples, Minn., native first worked games from 1983-85 with Spectrum Sports. After a two-year hiatus, he re-joined the Twins in 1987 and worked for all of the club's various TV partners. He is currently with Fox Sports Net North, where he's teamed alongside Blyleven.
This is the first year that Blyleven, who has long sought induction to Cooperstown as a player after winning 287 games as a pitcher in a 23-year career, is elgible as a broadcaster. After retiring in 1992, he joined the Twins TV team as a color analyst in 1996 and has become known for his fun personality and circling Twins fans with his telestrator. It's become a cult following for fans, who routinely hold "Circle Me Bert" signs at ballparks across the league.
Other former Twins broadcasters are also on this year's Frick Award nomination list, including Merle Harmon, Jim Kaat, Harmon Killebrew, Ryan Lefebvre and Bob Kurtz.
Presented annually since 1978 for excellence in baseball broadcasting, the Ford C. Frick Award is given to an active or retired broadcaster with a minimum of 10 years of continuous Major League broadcast service with a ballclub, network, or combination of the two. Fans will have the opportunity to vote for up to three of the 182 broadcasters eligible for consideration for the 2006 Ford C. Frick Award. Bios of each candidate appear at the site. Fans are allowed to vote once daily. Results will be announced when voting concludes, though updates will not be provided during the voting. The fan selections, along with the full ballot of 10 candidates, will be announced Dec. 5.
The final ballot will be comprised of the three fan selections, along with seven other candidates, determined by a Hall of Fame staff research team. The Frick electorate includes all living winners and six historians appointed by the Hall of Fame.
The voting electorate consists of 20 members, featuring 2005 Ford C. Frick Award winner Jerry Coleman and the other 13 living Frick Award winners: Marty Brennaman, Carneal, Joe Garagiola, Curt Gowdy, Ernie Harwell, Jaime Jarrin, Milo Hamilton, Harry Kalas, Felo Ramirez, Vin Scully, Lon Simmons, Bob Uecker and Bob Wolff. Six historians and veteran media members are also part of the electorate, including Bob Costas (NBC), Barry Horn (Dallas Morning News), Stan Isaacs (formerly of New York's Newsday), Ted Patterson (historian), Curt Smith (historian) and Larry Stewart (Los Angeles Times).
Voters are asked to base their selections on the following criteria: longevity, continuity with a club, honors -- including national assignments such as the World Series and All-Star Games, and popularity with fans. Paper ballots will be cast by voting members each January and the final results will be announced at the Hall of Fame's Web site in February. Each voter will cast ballots for three candidates and the broadcaster with the most support will be named as that year's winner, and be honored the following summer at the annual induction ceremony in Cooperstown.

Source: http://minnesota.twins.mlb.com/

Twins release spring schedule, tix info

11/08/2005
MINNEAPOLIS -- The date all Twins fans should circle on their calendars is Feb. 19, 2006.
That's when Twins pitchers and catchers are scheduled to report to Spring Training at the Lee County Sports Complex in Fort Myers, Fla., the club announced Tuesday. The first workout will begin the following day with the full squad scheduled to report Feb. 24.
The Grapefruit League opener is March 2 vs. the Red Sox at Hammond Stadium.
Included on the 17-game home schedule are three visits by the Red Sox and one each by the Yankees and the Indians. The Twins' preseason will conclude with an April 2 game against their Triple-A affiliate, Rochester. All ticket sales from the final game will benefit Southwest Florida charities.
Special promotional dates will be announced at a later time.
Minnesota's regular season opens April 4, against the Blue Jays at the Rogers Centre. The Twins' first game at the Metrodome is April 11, against the A's.
Spring Training season tickets are already on sale. Single-game tickets, which cost $20 and $18, become available Jan. 7 at 9 a.m. CT, and can be purchased in the Twinsbaseball.com ticketing section.
Tickets can also be ordered by phone at (612) 33-TWINS or toll-free at (800) 33-TWINS, and at Twins Pro Shop locations in Minnetonka, Apple Valley and Roseville. In Fort Myers, tickets can be purchased in person at the Hammond Stadium box office.

Source: http://minnesota.twins.mlb.com/

Hot Stove: Offensive upgrade sought

11/09/2005
MINNEAPOLIS -- Will we see "Extreme Makeover: Twins lineup edition" or just a slight retooling of the offense?
We may not know exactly what changes Minnesota general manager Terry Ryan has in mind until it gets closer to Spring Training, but we could see which direction he's headed in this week. With the annual general managers meetings in full swing in Indian Wells, Calif., Hot Stove speculation around the Major Leagues has already intensified. Besides discussing policies and rules, trades are often executed.
There's been no secret about what dominates the Twins' winter wish list.
"Offensively, we're trying to upgrade," Ryan said.
That's certainly a wise course to take considering Minnesota ranked at or near the bottom of the American League in every key offensive statistical category, including dead last in runs scored with 688.
This year's free agent class is considered a thin one by the baseball industry.
"It'll be a good year for some of the players coming out on the free agent market," Ryan said. "I don't see it as a problem [for the Twins]. It's not that big of an issue."
White Sox slugger Paul Konerko, Mets catcher Mike Piazza and Padres outfielder Brian Giles are considered some of the bigger names on the market. Since their 2006 payroll will likely fall in the midsize $57-60 million range, it's unlikely the Twins will spend big to sign one of these players. One who prefers to keep his thoughts private, Ryan did not provide specifics about which players he's looking at or what positions he's looking to fill.
"Players are identified as a good fit that we like and want," Ryan said. "There are about a half-dozen players that fit what we need. You approach them and see what you can do. We're looking for guys who can swing the bat. What position they play, we'll try to make it fit."
One place where there will be change is third base. Manager Ron Gardenhire, Ryan and others in the organization determined that Michael Cuddyer was not a fit in 2005. Cuddyer committed 15 errors this season and had an inconsistent year at the plate.
"It appears likely we'll move Cuddyer off of that third-base spot," Ryan said. "He seemed to do better when he was away from third base. Second base and right field are possibilities, but we'll see where we are before we zero in on any position."
That could increase speculation that the Twins will make a run at Red Sox free agent third baseman Bill Mueller, mid-level. The 34-year-old Mueller is a consistent hitter, a positive clubhouse presence and not expected to be overly expensive to sign. One of the few others available at third base is the Padres' Joe Randa, who turns 36 in December.
Another avenue is that the Twins could trade for what they need. The organization has pitching to spare and could look to move troubled lefty reliever J.C. Romero, starting pitcher Kyle Lohse or prospects to get offense. Rumors have the club being interested in Phillies super slugger Jim Thome, but his expensive contract (three years remaining at around $45 million) could make that deal difficult to close.
There are other issues that remain in flux headed into the winter months. The Twins have not made any offers yet to retain free agent right fielder Jacque Jones, who is considered likely to sign with another club. That could mean Lew Ford, Jason Kubel, Cuddyer or someone outside the organization could be candidates to replace Jones.
Three players -- Lohse, Cuddyer and infielder Nick Punto are eligible for arbitration and must receive contract offers before a Dec. 20 deadline. The Twins have a good track record of avoiding arbitration hearings with their players by signing them earlier, but lost a case against Lohse last year.
Although many speculate that Lohse could be traded or not tendered an offer, it's also very possible that he could be brought back for another year. That decision will depend on the organization's feelings about pitching prospects Scott Baker and Francisco Liriano and whether both are ready for the rotation next year.
Ryan downplayed persistent media rumors that he might deal five-time Gold Glove Award-winning center fielder Torii Hunter this offseason. Ryan said much of the speculation has been driven by East Coast media outlets.
"The Yankees have a need in center field. [The media] start looking at smaller market clubs with contracts that are large," Ryan told MLB.com by phone on Tuesday night. "The media is just doing their job. Economics are not part of the equation for us this winter. We're fine. Rumors are equating it with small-market economics and that just isn't so. If I do something, it will be baseball oriented."
Hunter will make $10.75 million in the final year of a four-year contract next season. The club holds a $12 million option for 2007.
Of course, everything is gossip, rumor and innuendo until a move is actually consummated.
"That's what it's all about in the winter," Ryan said. "You do all of this prep work and get ready for Spring Training."

Source: http://minnesota.twins.mlb.com/

Jones makes name in AFL finale week

11/11/2005
MINNESOTA -- Before the season came to a close, Garrett Jones made sure to leave Arizona with a lethal power spurt.
The 24-year-old first baseman slugged homers in his last four games as part of a 10-game hitting streak with the Grand Canyon Rafters. It included a grand slam in a 6-5 victory over the Mesa Solar Sox on Nov. 8. Jones' surge lifted his batting average to .289 and he finished with nine homers and 30 RBIs.
The Twins' other prospects also had strong finishes to their season. Here's a quick recap:
RHP Travis Bowyer -- Bowyer made his final relief appearance Nov. 7 against the Javelinas, allowing two runs on six hits in two innings. The 24-year-old went 0-2 with one save and a 9.39 ERA in 10 games.
LHP Ricky Barrett -- Barrett allowed one hit over 1 1/3 innings over two games in the past week. The 24-year-old reliever finished 0-3 with a 9.00 ERA in 11 games.
LHP Glen Perkins -- Perkins hurled one of the best-pitched games in the AFL this season on Nov. 9, when he allowed one hit and struck out nine over five scoreless innings in a 7-0 blanking of the Saguaros. It was a fitting end to a great year in the AFL for Perkins, who went 1-0 with a 2.53 ERA and 39 strikeouts in 32 innings.
3B Matt Moses -- Moses completed his season with a seven-game hitting streak to raise his batting average to .275. He also slugged two homers and drove in six runs with the Rafters.
OF Denard Span -- Span came back to earth after a scorching eight-game hitting streak that was snapped on Nov. 4. He went 3-for-16 in the past four games as his average dipped to .294.

Source: http://minnesota.twins.mlb.com/

Liriano racks up MiLB.com awards

11/10/2005
MiLB.com has three awards for Francisco Liriano: Overall Foreign-Born Player of the Year, Triple-A Starting Pitcher of the Year and Triple-A Foreign-Born Player of the Year. It's not difficult to figure out why.
Over 27 starts split between Double-A New Britain and Triple-A Rochester, the 21-year-old Dominican went 12-4 with a 2.63 ERA and a Minor League-leading 204 strikeouts over 167 2/3 innings.
It was the southpaw's performance with Rochester that really turned heads. Liriano was named the best starter in Triple-A on the strength of just 14 starts with the Red Wings.
During that span, Liriano went 9-2 with a 1.78 ERA, allowing 56 hits over 91 innings while striking out 112. Those sorts of stats will always win a player plenty of admirers, and you won't find one bigger than Rich Miller, Liriano's manager in Rochester this past season.
"Liriano is a kick-the-winning-field-goal kind of guy," Miller said. "He has great poise and never gets rattled if he's in a jam. He's quiet, well prepared and not boisterous or flamboyant. His hat is always going to fit."
These qualities, coupled with prodigious pitching talent, make Liriano a force to be reckoned with on the mound. Between July 19 and Aug. 9, the lefty reeled off five straight wins, allowing one earned run on 14 hits over 36 innings. His best outing of the season came during this span, on Aug. 4 against the powerful Buffalo Bisons. Over seven shutout innings, Liriano struck out 13 while yielding just one hit.
"I know (Buffalo manager) Marty Brown didn't want to see him again," Miller recalled. "Buffalo was a team that would flat-out kill us, but Liriano put a stop to that."
Miller was understandably hesitant to compare Liriano to pitchers who have excelled in the Major Leagues, but couldn't resist mentioning one of the game's all-time greats.
"I'd compare his slider to that of Steve Carlton's, it's that good," Miller said. "He's got a plus-fastball and an outstanding changeup as well. What he needs to work on is getting ahead in the count, so that he can use the slider more often."
Liriano cooled off somewhat in the Major Leagues after a September callup to the Minnesota Twins, going 1-2 with a 5.70 ERA over six appearances. Although he didn't have command of his fastball the way he did at the Triple-A level, he still managed to strike out 33 in 23 2/3 innings.
Still, his 2005 numbers virtually assure Liriano of a roster spot with the Twins next season. And Miller has full confidence in him.
"Now that he's had a taste of the big leagues, he knows what to expect. I don't foresee a sophomore jinx. Liriano's just going to go out there and get the job done."

Source: http://www.minorleaguebaseball.com/

Dates for TwinsFest 2006 announced

11/10/2005
MINNEAPOLIS -- Its arrival usually marks the beginning of the end of the offseason.
The Twins announced plans for TwinsFest 2006 on Thursday and have scheduled the annual event for Jan. 27-29 at the Metrodome. Several current and former Twins players will be appearing, but a final list of attendees will be released in a few weeks.
TwinsFest marks the start of single-game ticket sales for the 2006 season. It will be the first chance fans have to buy single-game tickets to Opening Night and series against the New York Yankees, Chicago Cubs, Los Angeles Dodgers, Boston Red Sox and world champion Chicago White Sox.
TwinsFest, an annual fundraiser for the Twins Community Fund, has raised more than $2.2 million for community and non-profit programs since its inception in 1989.
As usual, several prime areas of the ballpark will be open to all, as fans will have the chance to take a tour of the Twins clubhouse and walk on the playing field to view several exhibits. There will be auditions to sing the national anthem for to a 2006 home game, silent and live auctions of sports collectables, a baseball card and collectables show, free youth baseball clinics and a baseball skills area.
All paid admissions to TwinsFest include a free Upper Club ticket for a 2006 regular season home game (restrictions on games apply). Advance admission prices are $8 for adults ($10 at the door) and $3 for children ($5 at the door).
Tickets for TwinsFest 2006 will go on sale in the coming weeks.

Source: http://minnesota.twins.mlb.com/

Mailbag: Will Radke retire after 2006?

11/14/2005
How much longer do you see Brad Radke pitching in a Twins uniform, and will he or Johan Santana be the Opening Day starter in 2006? -- Brad R., Fort Rucker, Ala.
Radke will be entering the final year of a two-year, $18 million contract next season and has indicated that he would like to retire after 2006, when he'll be a relatively young 34 years old. Whether he actually does retire, I'm not sure. I would think it'd be hard to walk away, especially if he's still pitching well and if the Twins have returned to the playoffs. Then, there's the money on top of that, as well. But, Radke is also a committed family man with two young sons and I could also envision him spending a lot of his time going fishing with his kids.
As for Opening Day, Radke has started the last seven in a row and nine overall. I don't see manager Ron Gardenhire switching now, even though Santana has risen to superstar ranks and also deserves the honor. This season, the manager said he and pitching coach Rick Anderson's decision to start Radke in the opener literally took seconds to make last winter.
What are the chances of the Twins signing Mike Piazza? I hear he's likely to sign with an American League team and be the DH, since his catching days are probably over. I think he would be a good fit for our offense, but can we afford him? -- Ben A., Minneapolis, Minn.
It's certainly plausible, since the Twins are looking for offense and Piazza is seeking a team. But the last I've heard, the Twins hadn't contacted him or his agent. If they were to show interest, the ability to afford him would depend on the number of other teams that also show interest this winter. The 37-year-old made over $16 million in 2005, but won't likely command anywhere near that figure on this market. Injuries marred what was likely his final season with the Mets this year, but a healthy Piazza could be a big help.
So many people wrote off Michael Cuddyer at third base after a shaky start. But I felt his defensive play at third improved greatly in the second half, and he was making some really fine plays by the end of the season. Do you think the Twins will give him another shot at third? He also plays second base and right field pretty well, and Gardenhire says he will be a part of the plan in 2006. Where do you think Cuddyer will end up in the field next year? -- Meg A., Minneapolis, Minn.
It appears that the Twins higher-ups feel that Cuddyer would be better off not playing third base next season, where he committed 15 errors in 95 games. They felt he played better on both ends of the game when at a different spot, and therefore have already decided to explore other options at third. I always felt Cuddyer looked pretty good at second base, especially when he was there at the end of the 2004 season, and wouldn't mind seeing what happens if they let him compete for that starting role. Where he ends up will largely depend on if the club signs or trades for either a right fielder or a second baseman, or both.
What do you think of Juan Castro at second base next year, or even third? He is a solid defensive player and with a .257 average in 97 games last year, he is not that bad at the plate, compared the rest of the possible second and third baseman. I believe that Castro would work great at second and the Twins should go for the power third baseman. -- Ben D., Hudson, Wis.
You are correct that Castro is solid defensively -- about as solid as they come, in fact. And yes, he had a respectable enough season overall, offensively. But his career splits, and this season's numbers, showed that he's struggled more at the plate when counted on to play every day. A career backup player, he seems to thrive more often when managers pick their spots. Since Gardenhire loves to make full use of his 25-man roster, there's no doubt Castro will still get ample playing time next year.
It's been a while since the Twins had a guy with 100 RBIs. In my opinion, I think they should go after two-time MVP winner Juan Gonzalez. They could almost get him for free. He kills the ball in Minnesota. If he's healthy, he could be huge. -- Ross E., Alexandria, Minn.
Sure, if he's healthy -- Gonzalez might be helpful, but who knows? When was the last time he's been reliable enough to even say that? The track record and the commitment just haven't been there. Any team that's taken a chance in recent years has been burned. He hasn't played more than 100 games since 2001 and because of a hamstring issue, lasted just one at-bat (at the Metrodome) this season at a cost of $600,000 to the Indians. His inability to stay off the disabled list has probably cost him a shot at the Hall of Fame. If I were a GM and offered Gonzalez's services for even the league minimum, I'd pass.
Who gets to vote for the Cy Young Award and the other awards? Do you have to be qualified? -- Mark W., Maple Grove, Minn.
The major awards (MVP, Cy Young, Rookie of the Year and Manager of the Year) are voted on by members of the Baseball Writers Association of America (BBWAA). Each chapter in the Major League markets decides which writers get to vote for an award. Unfortunately, I am not a member and therefore have no vote.

Source: http://minnesota.twins.mlb.com/

Selig makes pitch for Twins' ballpark

11/17/2005
MILWAUKEE -- Commissioner Bud Selig threw down the gauntlet on Thursday and asked the governor of Minnesota to call a special legislative session to save a ballpark deal for the Twins that expires at the end of the year.
The funding for a new open-air stadium in downtown Minneapolis has been stalled since July, when the state legislature recessed for the year without taking a vote on the $360 million project. But thus far, Gov. Tim Pawlenty hasn't called the lawmakers back into a special session to take up the issue.
"(The Twins are) frustrated, frankly I'm frustrated, we're all frustrated," Selig said after Thursday's quarterly owners' meeting during which the owners approved the transfer of the controlling interest in the Tampa Bay Devil Rays from Vince Naimoli to Stu Sternberg.
"The Twins need a new stadium. They need it to be a good franchise. Theirs is the 14th-largest market in this country. It's clearly a Major League market. But they are burdened. And clearly we in baseball are very unhappy about it."
Gov. Pawlenty and his press secretary were en route home from China on Thursday and could not be reached for comment.
The Twins need legislative approval for a .15 percent sales tax increase in Hennepin County that would be the ballpark's primary funding source. The Hennepin County board approved the increase. The Twins are proposing to make a $125 million cash contribution toward the construction of the ballpark, a figure consistent with what the Padres contributed to the construction of San Diego's PETCO Park, which opened two years ago.
MLB and Hennepin County officials are concerned that further delays in the approval of the project could increase the cost of the facility because of inflation in the prices of building materials.
The Twins, who play in the 23-year-old Metrodome, have been trying to fund a new ballpark in either Minneapolis or St. Paul for the better part of a decade, but have had almost every plan scuttled at the state level. Frustration with the process became so acute that the Twins and the then Montreal Expos were considered for contraction after the 2001 season.
Only a lease for the Twins to play in the Metrodome for 2002, and legal rulings to support it that went as high as the state Supreme Court, kept the Twins in existence.
The Expos have since moved to Washington, D.C., and contraction is no longer considered an option by MLB, but stadium problems in Minneapolis, Miami and Oakland are all on the front burner.
"I know about all the anger generated [in Minnesota] by the contraction process," Selig said. "I was certainly one of the targets of it and I understand that. So here it is four years later. The Twins make a deal with Hennepin County. There's no state money involved. And they're having a tough time getting it through the state legislature. That is a very frustrating process and this deal is done on Dec. 31.
"We're concerned. We're very concerned."

Source: http://minnesota.twins.mlb.com/

Twins' players grow in Winter Leagues

11/18/2005
MINNEAPOLIS -- An organization that continually seeks avenues of development for its prospects, the Twins' relationship with the Aragua Tigres in the Venezuelan Winter Leagues has been a fruitful one.
For the past several winters, Twins players and prospects have been stocking Aragua's roster. Among those participating this year are pitchers J.D. Durbin, Willie Eyre, Beau Kemp, infielder Luis Rodriguez and outfielders Josh Rabe and Alex Romero.
"Some nights, you face Major League players. Some nights, it's Class A players," said Twins assistant general manager Bill Smith. "It's a good program down there. It's an outstanding opportunity. The Aragua team has treated our players very well. A lot of our players haven't gone once, but multiple times. It's been a good affiliation for us."
Several coaches from Minnesota's Minor Leagues are also on the Tigres' coaching staff providing instruction and also reports back to the organization. Twins Minor League pitching coordinator Rick Knapp has also been visiting the club this week and staying on top of everyone's progress.
For Rodriguez, Romero (no relation to pitcher J.C. Romero), and Minor Leaguers such as Luis Maza and Jannio Gutierrez, it's a chance to play before fans in their native country.
"These are players with a lot of pride to play for their teams in Venezuela," Smith said.
Whether they're in Venezuela, or anywhere in the Caribbean region of Latin America, the stakes are a little higher for players who participate in winter ball. Managers aren't afraid to replace someone if they fail to get the job done.
"In the Minors, development always comes first. Down in the Winter Leagues, they play to win," Smith said. "It's a shorter season. There's a little more focus on winning. This is a good experience for some players. The talent level may not be as high but the competition is equal because they play to win every game."
For the second straight year, Eyre has provided positive results on the mound for Aragua. Through his first 36 innings of work in seven games, the right-handed reliever was 4-0 with a 1.25 ERA. On Minnesota's 40-man roster, he spent the 2005 season at Triple-A Rochester.
Durbin, who is trying to make up for lost innings from a shoulder injury this season at Rochester, has been limited to 12 2/3 innings because of a strain in his side and is 0-2 with a 5.68 ERA. He worked in a simulated game Wednesday. Kemp, a reliever, has only worked 7 2/3 innings because of a tender right elbow.
Elsewhere in Venezuelan baseball, Twins right-handed reliever Matt Guerrier has been starting games for the Magallanes club. Guerrier is hoping to battle for the fifth starter's spot in Minnesota next season.
Through five games, Guerrier was 3-2 with a 1.73 ERA while walking five and striking out 19.
"This will hopefully give him some more versatility," Smith said. "It's a great opportunity for him to get some innings, get in a rotation and be ready to compete at the Major League camp."
Well-known Twins pitchers Johan Santana, Carlos Silva, Juan Rincon and prospect Francisco Liriano were not given permission to pitch in winter ball this year. Santana and Liriano are coming off seasons where they pitched a lot of innings while Silva and Rincon are recovering from surgeries.

Source: http://minnesota.twins.mlb.com/

Q&A with hitting coach Vavra

11/16/2005
MINNEAPOLIS -- The Twins vowed to upgrade their offense during this offseason, but one of the first major changes involved no players.
On Oct. 27, Joe Vavra was promoted and became the new Twins hitting coach to replace Scott Ullger, who was shifted to third base coach. Vavra, 45, spent the past four years as the organization's Minor League field coordinator and was a Minor League manager in the Dodgers system from 1989-97.
This week, Vavra spoke by phone with MLB.com from his home in Menomonie, Wis., about his anticipation for his new job and what he's already done to prepare for Spring Training.
MLB.com: After you were named the new hitting coach of the Twins, what was your first order of business?
Vavra: It started with contacting the players. To me, that was pretty important. I've had a relationship with them for the past four years, but this will be a different type of relationship. I got to talk with them a little bit about their year -- the good and the bad.
MLB.com: Upon your hiring, Torii Hunter complained publicly because he wanted a coach with Major League hitting experience. Have you had a chance to speak to him yet and were you satisfied with the conversation?
Vavra: Yes, I've always had a pretty good relationship with Torii. I wanted to get to him right away, and I did. We've had a couple of talks since the hiring and it's all been very positive. I really can't blame him for having some second thoughts about the hiring. He wasn't aware of what I had done in the past. I told him I've had a lot of hitting in my background since I got into pro ball. When I got into the coaching ranks and as a manager, we had only two staff people. You pretty much had to do all the hitting, so I'm not too worried about that aspect. He thought I had just been the field coordinator for a long time, and that didn't encompass anything to do with hitting. But it does, heavily.
MLB.com: What position did you play when you were a player in the Dodgers organization?
Vavra: I started out as a shortstop and then I basically played most of the infield positions. By the time I ended my career, which was cut short due to valley fever, I was pretty much a utility player. My bat was in the lineup every day, but I was a utility player.
MLB.com: As a coach in the Minors and now in your new role, what is your philosophy about hitting and about this team's offense? Do have any ideas that might be a departure from the past few years?
Vavra: Right now, I'm in the process of looking at everyone's tapes and analyzing all their mechanics. When you get to be a big league player, it usually isn't anything mechanical. It might be one or two little things. Pretty much, they can teach themselves how to hit. They should know enough about the mechanics at this point in time. My job is more of reminding them to stay inside the ball, talking about matchups and that type of thing. I do have some work to do with their foundation. I really want to make sure they're in balance and alignment, starting out with their feet. If we can keep that balance and control, usually we'll be able to keep our upper bodies in control, as well. Then we talk about quality at-bats and taking better at-bats night after night. You try to talk about rallies and keeping consistent at-bats, going within the batting order and how they complement each other up and down the order. The name of the game becomes how long can you stay on offense.
MLB.com: The Twins, as an organization from low Class A ball through to the Majors, has always stressed fundamentals and doing the little things. It seems like at the big league level this year, they kind of lost their way and got away from things like that. From talking to Ron Gardenhire and Terry Ryan, how much will you be working on bunting, moving runners over, hitting with runners in scoring position and other things when you get to Spring Training?
Vavra: That will be an everyday focus for us, as far as getting the little things down. Yes, we did get away from some of the little things you talked about. Talking to the players individually, some of them made comments that they got away from their strengths a little bit. We need to get back to that. We need to talk about how to execute a little better and maybe why we didn't have success and how we're going to get there.
MLB.com: From the reports you've seen, were some of the Twins' problems symptomatic of having an inexperienced lineup? Will the struggles of this year help them learn at all for next year?
Vavra: Inexperience is always part of the equation when you have inconsistent and poor quality at-bats. But it certainly doesn't build into an excuse. You should only try to make your at-bats better as the year goes on. If you're failing early in the year, why is that? We need to correct it. Sometimes, it snowballs and so much attention is made of it that it's hard to come out of it. As a ballclub, so much attention was put on that you can't score a runner from third base. You put pressure on yourself. You need to stay positive and keep focusing in on what you're trying to do. You're going to have failure, a lot of failure, when you try to execute. Pitchers bear down a little bit and get tougher when there are runners in scoring position. There is going to be certain amount of failure. But it's how you went about you reached that pass/fail grade for getting the job done that's important to me.
MLB.com: Of all the young hitters to struggle this year, none got more attention than Justin Morneau. His inconsistency, amid the high expectations, was particularly glaring. Some of it happened because of all the health problems he had last year during the offseason. When speaking to him, how close do you think he is to taking the next step?
Vavra: He's certainly capable. I think he's very close. With a good, healthy year, he can be a very productive guy in that lineup. He probably put too much pressure on himself this year, trying to get the big numbers. I foresee him staying a little more within himself next year and probably putting up those numbers that everybody expects. I think it's certainly attainable.
MLB.com: On a personal note, you've worked in this game for a number of years. How excited were you when Ryan offered you the job?
Vavra: Well, 23 years in the business is a long time not to get a look at the Major League level. I did have some experience at Los Angeles. I was kind of an extra coach, a roving coach with Billy Russell. I did get to travel with the Major League club and I did get to see how everything worked. It really added to my job as a Minor League coordinator, manager and instructor. Over the years, all the players that have gone to the big leagues have kept in correspondence over the years. There's nothing like getting the call from the general manager that's saying we're going to put you in business as the hitting guy. That's a pretty special call. You get excited hearing that. It's exciting for your family and everybody that's supported you over the years. It's a pretty good feeling.
MLB.com: Is there one coach in particular that you looked to as a guru or mentor?
Vavra: No. I've had input from several different people. I don't want to single someone out. I've seen so many different people. I used to sit at Dodger Stadium and walk down to the cage when opposing teams came through. I'd sit off to the side and watch Tony Gwynn hit and Mark McGwire hit. There may or may not be a coach down there, or the guy might be working by himself. I'd just sit there and listen and probably over years, got as much input as I could from different people. I've tried to do my homework. I think I've formulated a pretty good plan as far as what the job entails coming up.
MLB.com: Is there added pressure in taking on an offense that was at or near the bottom in many categories?
Vavra: I think through the history of my career, I've always been put in a position where it's a challenge. That's how you grow in the game. I took this thing on with no reservations at all. I'm excited about it. I have no fear for the position. I have probably a little anxiety, because I can't wait to get going. I know everybody needs his rest, and I do, as well. But I can't wait until February comes along because it's going to be pretty exciting.

Source: http://minnesota.twins.mlb.com/

Twins fill out 40-man roster

11/18/2005
MINNEAPOLIS -- The Twins added six players to their 40-man roster Friday.
The additions of right-handed pitchers Adam Harben and Pat Neshek, left-handed pitchers Justin Jones, Jose Mijares and Errol Simonitsch and outfielder Alex Romero put Minnesota at its roster limit.
Friday was the deadline to protect players from exposure to other clubs in next month's Rule 5 Draft. Minor League players out of high school four years, or three years out of college, and not on 40-man rosters are eligible for that draft.
The 22-year-old Harben, a 15th-round pick in the 2002 First-Year Player Draft, went 10-5 with a 2.66 ERA and notched 119 strikeouts in 25 starts this season for Class A Fort Myers.
Neshek, 25, was drafted by the Twins in the sixth round of the 2002 First-Year Player Draft out of Butler University. The Brooklyn Park, Minn., native was 6-4 with a 2.19 ERA and 24 saves with Double-A New Britain.
Jones was the player acquired from the Cubs in the July 31, 2004, three-way deal that sent Doug Mientkiewicz to the Red Sox. The 21-year-old was 7-3 with a 3.01 ERA in 13 starts for Fort Myers last season.
Mijares was signed as a non-drafted free agent in 2002 out of the Twins' Venezuelan academy. He began the season at low Class A Beloit, going 6-3 with a 4.31 ERA and two saves in 20 appearances that included six starts. After an August promotion to Fort Myers, the 21-year-old was 0-0 with a 1.50 ERA in five games, including one start.
The 23-year-old Simonitsch was a sixth-round pick in the 2003 First-Year Player Draft out of Gonzaga University. After going 8-3 with a 2.69 ERA in 14 games at Fort Myers, he was promoted to the New Britain rotation on June 23 and went 6-5 with a 4.12 ERA in 14 starts. Simonitsch's 14 combined wins led all Twins' Minor Leaguers.
Signed out of the Twins' Venezuelan academy in 2000, Romero batted .301 with 15 home runs and 77 RBIs in 139 games for New Britain this year. The 22-year-old was second in the Eastern League in hits and sixth in batting, and was named to the Eastern League Postseason All-Star team.

Source: http://minnesota.twins.mlb.com/

Twins Downplay Jackson's Interest In Buying Team

Nov 4, 2005
(AP) Minneapolis The president of the Minnesota Twins downplayed a report Friday that famed slugger Reggie Jackson inquired about buying the franchise as part of an investment group trying to bring baseball to Las Vegas. Dave St. Peter confirmed that team officials were contacted by Jackson within the last several weeks. But St. Peter said Jackson was told the team was not for sale. "Our ownernship and our entire organization has 100 percent of our focus on seeing through a Minnesota solution," St. Peter said. In 2002, Twins owner Carl Pohlad put the team up for sale. But he later took the ball club off the market. The Star Tribune of Minneapolis reported on its Web site Friday that Jackson wants to be the first in line if the club goes up for sale again. The Associated Press was working to contact Jackson. "I did make an inquiry, and I wanted to show an interest," Jackson told the newspaper. "I know they've got some issues with stadiums, et cetera. I've heard the family might consider selling the team, and I wanted to be first on the list to inquire." The Twins have been after public subsidies for a new ballpark for more than a decade. Their latest proposal would use proceeds from an increased Hennepin County sales tax if the state Legislature signs off. Gov. Tim Pawlenty and legislative leaders have been unable to work out an agreement for a special session to pass the Twins bill. "The Twins have told us they're not for sale and we take them at their word," said Gov. Tim Pawlenty spokesman Brian McClung. Jackson wouldn't tell the newspaper if he would move the Twins to Las Vegas if such a sale went through. "You can't move a team without baseball's permission," he said. "Baseball moves teams, not owners." Jackson played baseball for 21 seasons, hit 563 home runs and is in the Hall of Fame. The Star Tribune reported he is a part-time Las Vegas resident and has been active in that city's quest to land a major league baseball franchise.

Source: http://wcco.com/

Sports Facilities Commission accuses Twins of failing to negotiate in good faith

The public board that runs the Metrodome accused the Minnesota Twins on Monday of refusing to negotiate a lease in a productive manner and filing a lawsuit to secure a "Get-out-of-Minnesota free" card. The Metropolitan Sports Facilities Commission filed a formal response to an Oct. 18 Twins lawsuit. The team's lawsuit seeks a ruling that the Twins have no obligation to play future games in the Metrodome. At the same time, the Twins seek guaranteed access to revenue from electronic advertising boards, luxury suites and other amenities when the team does play at the Dome. The team's attorneys have denied the case is part of a moving strategy if a decade-long drive for a new ballpark doesn't yield results soon. Corey Ayling, a commission attorney, raises that notion in the reply filed in Hennepin County District Court. "The Twins are committed to playing the 2006 season in Minnesota, but appear to seek to use the courts to obtain the equivalent of a `Get-out-of-Minnesota free' card for use in future years (whether to relocate or to `contract' the franchise)," Ayling wrote. Twins attorney Roger Magnuson hadn't received the filing as of Monday evening, his secretary said. In the 45-page brief, Ayling said the Metrodome operators have spent millions of dollars to upgrade the Dome so the Twins, Vikings and University of Minnesota Golden Gophers can make more money. In return, the commission wants the Twins to put use of those amenities into a new contract. The Twins say their lease with the commissioner expired in 2003. The commission claims the lease has been effectively renewed each year when the team sells tickets and reserves game dates. But Ayling's brief said attempts to reach a new deal haven't been fruitful because "the Twins have refused to negotiate the contract issue in a sensible, productive manner, preferring instead to posture with baseless claims of victimization." A ruling that the Twins have no lengthy commitment to the Metrodome would provide more leeway for the team to leave town, assuming major league baseball allows another city to lure them away.

Source: http://www.kare11.com/

On the trading block

INDIAN WELLS, Calif. -- The New York Yankees declined the 2006 option on first baseman Tino Martinez, opting to pay a $250,000 buyout rather than bring him back at $3 million for 2006.
Yankees GM Brian Cashman denied that the club would use catcher Jorge Posada as their first baseman, with Jason Giambi filling the designated-hitter role full time.
According to baseball executives at the general managers meetings here, the Yankees have floated Posada's name on the trade market. He does not have a no-trade provision. The Yankees, though, have no real expectations of moving Posada because of his hefty contract.
At 34, Posada is entering what traditionally has been an age of declining production for catchers; his on-base and slugging percentages have dropped two straight seasons from his career year of 2003. Posada is scheduled to earn $8 million next season, and if he catches 63 games next season his $12 million option for 2007 becomes guaranteed. (The option vests with 330 games caught from 2004-06. Posada caught 267 games over the past two seasons.)
Not even the Yankees, with all their resources, are thrilled about paying $12 million for a catcher who turns 36 that year. Of course, that clause makes a trade difficult, which explains why New York also had given some thought to using Posada, who was signed as an infielder, at first base. (Without the vested option, the Yankees hold a $4 million buyout for 2007.)
Cashman, however, said the club has no plans to play Posada at first base.

Source: http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/

More buzzing, on Soriano and others

Wed Nov 09, 2005
Some more stuff from the g.m. meetings...
Evan Grant says Jon Daniels is "not looking for a deal," but is just listening right now. Kevin Mench apparently continues to be the name drawing the most interest, with Evan Grant mentioning the Cubs, the Royals, the Blue Jays, and the Pirates as teams with an eye on Mench.
The Royals are supposedly willing to talk about Jeremy Affeldt, who doesn't do much for me. The Blue Jays seem more intriguing, with Grant listing Brandon League, Miguel Batista and Alexis Rios as players the Jays would be wiling to talk about.
Former DMN baseball writer Ben Shpigel, meanwhile, has a piece in the New York Times about the Mets pursuit of Alfonso Soriano. Of particular interest:
Minaya explored the possibility of acquiring Soriano last season. Even before Minaya became general manager, in the spring of 2004, the Mets contemplated a deal for Soriano that would have required surrendering José Reyes. The 22-year-old Reyes had a strong season in 2005 and, presumably, the Mets would again decline to include him in a deal for Soriano.
But they may not have to, because the Rangers, who already have one of the more potent lineups in baseball, need starting pitching. They could also use bullpen depth and an upgrade in the outfield. Those needs match what the Mets have to offer.
The Mets have a surplus of starting pitching, and Mike Cameron would provide the answer to the Rangers' inconsistency in center field and help to offset the loss of Soriano's bat. The Mets could throw in a second-base prospect, Anderson Hernandez or Jeff Keppinger, although that may not be necessary because the Rangers have groomed Ian Kinsler to replace Soriano.
Of the Mets' pitchers, the Rangers may be interested in Aaron Heilman and Jae Seo, who fit the profile for a successful pitcher at hitter-friendly Ameriquest Field, where fly balls can turn into home runs. Heilman and Seo have outstanding changeups, which often induce ground balls, and Heilman in particular has developed into a strikeout pitcher. He recorded 106 strikeouts in 108 innings last season, mostly in relief. And neither Heilman nor Seo, with their relatively limited major league experience, makes a lot of money.
I'd be very happy with a straight-up Soriano-for-Cameron swap. If we could get Cameron plus a prospect, or Heilman or Seo, I'd be thrilled.
Tom Gatto of the Sporting News offers some "trades that make sense, which includes this convoluted four-way deal:
2. 2B Alfonso Soriano and RHP Jonathan Broxton to the Red Sox; CF Torii Hunter to the Dodgers; Kendrick, 1B Adrian Gonzalez and 3B Kevin Youkilis to the Twins and RHPs Bronson Arroyo and Cla Meredith and LHP Derek Thompson to the Rangers. Soriano would replace Ramirez as the righthanded thunder in the Sox's lineup and bring 30-30 speed. Broxton could provide bullpen help. Publicly, Hunter is staying put, but Minnesota ought to be trying right now to receive some value for its $10 million man; the Twins would get a new infield here. The Rangers would add needed pitching. The Dodgers would get a premier (albeit expensive) center fielder to replace Milton Bradley.
I don't know that that makes a whole lot of sense for the Rangers.
Of course, Gatto also suggests the Pirates trade Kip Wells and Nate McLouth to the Marlins for Mike Lowell, apparently thinking that the Pirates need an extremely expensive, washed-up third baseman, and would give up value to acquire one.

Source: http://www.lonestarball.com/

Minnesota's Jones may be Plan B for Padres in outfield

November 9, 2005
INDIAN WELLS – The Padres still want to sign right fielder Brian Giles but are exploring Jacque Jones as part of Plan B or C.
"They've got quite a bit of interest," said Jones' agent, Rick Thurman. "A lot of it depends on Giles. Jacque is interested. San Diego is his home base."
Jones, 29, is a free agent who has played all seven of his major league seasons with the Twins. The San Diego High alum is a speedy, versatile outfielder, attributes General Manager Kevin Towers is seeking. He's made 424 career starts in left field, 126 in center and 284 in right.
Offensively, although he hit 23 home runs and had 13 stolen bases in 17 tries last year, Jones is less of a fit because he makes quick outs and has a 231/732 career walk/strikeout ratio. Last year, the left-hander had a .249 batting average, a .319 on-base percentage and a .438 slugging percentage, each below his career marks.
Jones, whose salary was $5 million, hits the open market on Friday, as does Giles.
Joyner admits steroidsFormer Padres first baseman Wally Joyner said in an ESPN The Magazine article that he took steroids he received from teammate Ken Caminiti while they played for the Padres in 1998.
The article, about the spread of steroids in baseball, will be in the Nov. 21 issue of the magazine.
According to the article, Joyner admitted he asked Caminiti to get him steroids and ingested some, but he said he then threw the rest away because he regretted his actions.
Joyner and Caminiti helped lead the Padres to their second World Series appearance that year.
Caminiti, who admitted he used steroids, died last year of a drug overdose, coronary artery disease and an enlarged heart.
Japanese targetsThe Padres spoke with the agent of Japanese catcher Kenji Jojima, who comes recommended by relief pitcher Akinori Otsuka and has been scouted by San Diego. The Padres are interested in signing Jojima, 29, but expect that bidding could raise his price to close to $20 million on a multiyear pact. In seven seasons with the Fukuoka Hawks, the right-hander batted .299 with averages of 30 home runs and 100 RBI. He speaks little English.
The Padres also have scouted left-handed reliever Hirotoshi Ishii, a 28-year-old who had a 1.95 ERA with Yakult last year, but he has not been made available as yet.
Young set freeThe Padres opted to pay utilityman Eric Young's $150,000 buyout rather than guarantee Young's $850,000 salary for 2006. Young, 38, dislocated his right shoulder in the team's home opener but came back to bat .275. Teammates described him as leader. The Padres picked up Otsuka's $1.75 million option.

Source: http://www.signonsandiego.com/

Colon captures AL Cy Young Award

Wednesday, November 9, 2005
NEW YORK - Bartolo Colon's AL Cy Young Award was big news back home in the Dominican Republic.“You don't even imagine what the scenery is around here. People stopping by and honking their horns,” Colon said, through a translator, from Altamira - his hometown of about 3,000.
“It's been really, really crazy, crazy, crazy,” he said. “It's the first time ever that we are celebrating something like this.”Colon won a surprisingly one-sided vote Tuesday, beating out reliever Mariano Rivera and becoming the first Angels pitcher in 41 years to take home the honor.After leading the league with 21 wins, Colon was listed first on 17 ballots and second on the other 11 for 118 points in voting by the Baseball Writers' Association of America. He was the only pitcher named on every ballot, easily topping Rivera, who received 68 points.The New York Yankees' closer got eight first-place votes for the highest finish of his career, while 2004 winner Johan Santana of the Minnesota Twins received three and came in third.“Af