I seriously think signing Smoltz is the obvious and only choice to be the new closer. Mijares definitely proved at the end of last season he doesn't have the mental makeup, Guerrier was born to be an 8th inning set up man, Neshek needs more time to come back from injury, Rauch doesn't have anything unhittable enough to trust him as a closer, and as far as Crain, I can't think of somebody I want to have the ball LESS when the game is on the line. Signing Smoltz must happen and needs to happen. Thoughts?

I have been thinking of this for some time, but.. I have always thought the retired number banners of Puckett, Killebrew, Carew, etc. that hung in right and right center of the metrodome, would look AWESOME behind the windveil, shielding any bleed through lighting from the parking ramp. As you can see, you can still see much of the ramp behind the windveil, although it looks cool when the wind blows, I think those banners (not sure what happened to them, or if their weather proof) would look amazing against B Ramp facade, behind the windveil from the plaza. Even with the nighttime lighting display. Any thoughts?

Very nice pics Rick.

Smoltz lacks velocity to be a closer, nobody will fall for him "finesse-ing" it across the plate in close games, especially in the AL. he has only pitched for 8 games in the AL, and his stats during his time with Boston were 2-5 with a 8.33 ERA. I respect him for his great career, but no thanks...

That last pic at NBA City, where the flag pole was going to go... any concern - especially after games - about that narrow sidewalk space as a pedestrian choke point? or maybe it's just as wide as any other sidewalk...

Awesome pics once again, Rick.

Supposedly the Twins are looking at Jayson Frasor in a trade.

Sounds like the Twins may be looking at Jason Frasor from the Blue Jays. This would be a solid pick up. He is only 2.65MM and he has lots of AL East experience. That will bode well in the playoffs. I like this move if the Twins pull the trigger. Now, who do we offer up in a trade. You bet your ass they are gonna want a prospect or two. Twins don't like letting prospects go.

Click name for MLBTradeRumors link.

DVS- you read my mind...;-)

Rick,

Good post, thanks for bringing back the wind veil discussion. Turning the lights to face directly into the ramp could be a quick solution. Something should happen.

Looking at that pic makes me wonder (again) why the Twins wanted so badly to put the Met pole there. The only thing I can come up with is that putting the pole there would have allowed the pole to remain at it's full height, which was not possible in "Plan B". The other mystery is why they apparently never even considered locating it inside the park, where I think it belongs.

Ben - It is inside the park. Any closer and it would be on the field.

Dead center field is what I meant, I guess. Like it was at the Met. Now it's just a black pole. At the Met it was a FLAGPOLE.

Rick writes --"On gameday, this will be a madhouse."

Maybe it will end up fulfilling a Yogi-ism: "Nobody goes there anymore because it's too crowded." :-)

Thanks, Rick. I haven't been to that spot since the plywood barrier was taken down, and it REALLY looked narrow then.

Way back when the Twins were asking about features fans would like at the new ballpark, walking spaces was my main thing, including being able to walk all of the way around the outside of the park. While the space around by the burner is no great shakes as of yet, they did a bang-up job with that little postage stamp area.

I'm all for the history of the pole, but putting it in center would seem too gimmicky, in my opinion. Plus, it wouldn't mesh with the old logo sign that is already there. Where it is now, the countless fans coming in from the plaza can admire it close up.

Jeeuz Ben reading your posts the past couple days, could you possibly be any more of a downer?

The one good thing about the Plaza ramp, though it's small, is at least it keeps people moving AWAY from TF and the escape points that Rick mentioned. How bad will the congestion be after games back on the gates by the light rail station? You exit and you're basically on top of the trains.

Also, is signage or shade or anything else planned for the promenade? I was sweating walking back there last weekend, when it was 40°F, and I was only wearing a light sweatshirt.

seems as if a possible expansion of the plaza could be to continue it full width of the stadium footprint and over 394. I can see a grilling area and who knows what else. Not the same as the old Met but a nice expansive space would be pretty great.

Wish they had done that off the bat. No pun intended.

moda253:

It's okay to inhabit the real world from time to time - you might think about trying it out.

Says the man handing out life lessons on a freaking blog.... too damn funny.

Since the city is going to be closing off 1st Ave on game days, I think that may alleviate some of the "choke point" problems; since you won't have hundreds of people standing on the corner waiting for the light to turn green. I suppose some folks will just avoid it all-together and come around from 7th Street.

Old Met Fan, I think that will be the solution a few years down the road. I'm sure that was an initial option, but I don't know what their reasoning was to not extend the plaza all the way to TC.

I'm hoping they eventually do extend it...and create a new facade to TC on that side.

I have here that if they extended the plaza all the way, it would create a tunnel and not a bridge over 394 and that creates a whole slew of stricter regs that need to be followed.

**heard**

it's a pleasant surprise how roomy the plaza and sidewalks feel. the 7th st side is particularly wide, almost to the point of overkill. they can set up a ton of tables in front of Hrbek's. walking the plaza last weekend if had a very open feel, right in the heart of downtown. the whole plan just seems as if it will work fine because of gate set-up and points of interest on the site. sure it was void of people last weekend but it has a feel about it that is better than I anticipated.

The eventual building of the new transit platform across 5th St will alleviate the congestion there. Unfortunately, we will have to deal with at least 3 years of mayhem before they approve/build the alternative. That is one the one project I feel they fast-tracked, in order to have some sort of LRT platform for the first ever game.

Trosy,

You are correct. However, I believe the Twins built the plaza according to federal tunnel regulations in case there was ever an expansion in the future.

One interesting thing about potential choke points will be the question of whether people take the routes that the planners expect or concentrate in greater than anticipated numbers along other routes. For instance, I think the Xcel Energy Center greatly underestimated the number of people entering and exiting at 7th and Kellogg in comparison to other gates. Meanwhile Target Center ended up having to reshuffle access to its escalator bank on the 6th Street side in the name of crowd control and safety due to far more fans than anticipated choosing to exit via that route in comparison to the fire stairs on the 1st and 2nd Avenue sides. I can see access point tweaks to TF down the line after crowd establishes its traffic patterns.

Just got my tickets in the mail. For the record, the extra pre-sale exhibition tickets DID NOT come in my ST package. Wonder when they'll be here?

I've thought the same thing about your posts Ben. Good info but you are a stick in the mud. Also, we need to start calling you BENcyclopedia. You seem to have the answers for everything. Bring it down a notch big guy.

Jimmer, what package did you buy?

I got 20GM package E... Got 4 for the 2nd exhibition with the plan, and 4 for the first in the presale. Exhibition in my seats for gm 2 came, but not the ones I ordered for gm 1.

I may have read some comments on this already, but I ordered Apr 2 exhibition game tickets, and like a dork I opted to have them sent to my house. I have not received them yet. Are others in this same boat?

Yeah, same here... I'd rather have a ticket stub, especially since its the first Twins game there, exhibition or not

For those who have been to the new Pro Shop at the park, how does the overall selection compare to the mall based Pro Shops or even what can be found at a Champs Sports type store or online?

I just emailed my ticket rep, as he previously stated that the presale tickets would be sent with the ST package.

Received my tix to the Open House for the "Delta Sky360 Legend's Club."

One question: Why is it called the "Legend's Club" instead of the Legends Club? Is there just one Legend and does he/she/it own the Club?

It shows those 4 tickets with the rest of my ST on MyTwinsTickets... odd.

The Pro Shop has a good selection. It had things that I had not seen at stores or online. You are going to spend more buying at the Pro Shop. A Sweatshirt I bought for 55 at the mall was 75 at the Pro Shop.

Good point, really it should probably be Legends' Club, but that looks tacky, I think just Legends would be best.

I love knowing that I am here with others who have a discerning eye for the misuse of the apostrophe. A favorite in my collection is a guy up here who advertises: Mikes Sign's ... I really want to have him making up my displays. (display's?)

If it's to be "Legend's," my vote is for the Killer. Seems like the kind of guy who might invite me to his exclusive club.

Maybe a dumb question - I enjoy reading the comments. How do I look at the previous days comments? Thanks

Hey guys,

Those of you who got your season tickets already, did they come by Fedex or USPS Priority mail? I am hoping mine come today!

They come USPS priority with delivery confirmation so your mailman will bring them to your door...

Crazy Torri Hunter would make this comment. Not typical Torri...too bad...

Clink for story...

My postman just left them on the porch by the door. Not exactly the most secure way of me receiving them. A thief would have had a hey day.

TTH - My fiance said the same thing. They should really make you sign for them. That is a lot of money to just be sitting on the doorstep...

“It is better to keep your mouth closed and let people think you are a fool than to open it and remove all doubt.” Mark Twain

Torii has a penchant for "removing all doubt"

I am fine with mine sitting in the porch--I just want them! Too bad I am going to spin class with my girlfriend tonight (insert whip sound), because I want to have ample time to open the box and properly go through it.

Another day, another day with no season tickets in my mail box. I am taking the day off to watch the state hockey tourny on Thursday. One eye on the games, the other on that damn mail truck.

I've been looking outside for the mailman every 4 minutes since 10am, I can't take the anticipation!

The problem with calling them impostors is that the statement is historically bankrupt. At a time about 500 years ago, Europeans started working in Africa to ship slaves to the new world. some of them ended up in North America. Some ended up in South America. Some ended up in the Caribbean. All of them were slaves. All of them had to go through some form of freedom process. All have had to come to grips with their slave heritage. So Torii was lucky enough to be born in the United States. That doesn't make the descendants of slavery in the Caribbean less authentic.

jpberka, well stated.

Entertaining article on Ozzie Guillen.

Another interesting thing about The Show: after a game at TF, you can hear the PA announcer say something about additional trains on the Hiawatha Light Rail at Target Field Station

Plus we are now pretty sure that all humans originated from the same tribe in Africa and migrated all over the world from there before the continents drifted apart. So in the technical sense, we who live anywhere in the North or South American continents are "African-American".

Badjuggler, your point about the original African tribe is accurate, although you are quite geologically incorrect on the whole "before the continents drifted apart" business. The human race hasn't been around nearly as long as that. While there have most likely been various super-continents throughout the 4.65 billion ears of Earth geologic history, the most recent one is scientifically known as Pangaea. It started breaking up about 175 million years ago, which predates humanity by many millions of years. But your idea is still sound. ;-)

jpberka & badjuggler: really guys? come on. please take it off-line. i am guessing the majority of folks here don't really have any desire to start debating evolution, etc. on here too.

thanks!

Jimmer - I noticed that too in the game. I also noticed they mention 2nd avenue and 5th street along with the Twins 50th season celebration so they definitely have the details hammered out in this game.

I did notice the home uniforms (and the scoreboard logo) still contained the "old" Twins script. Just look at the "s" and you will notice. They still have the inaugural season patches on the sleeves, it just appears to be the old script.

Not a big deal either way as the game has been very fun to play regardless. I can't complain because the details and graphics are amazing.

Betaband, that was in no way, shape, or form a debate on evolution. In fact, evolution had absolutely nothing to do with it, and it was a discussion that had to do with Torii Hunter. I'm sorry if you weren't following the thread, but please. Give me a break.

Mike, I see that... The Minnie & Paul sign has the new script, however... Probably done by different members of the design team?

yeah not sure how evolution got brought into the discussion. Thats just odd.

jpberka - Are you trying to say Jesus Christ can't hit a curveball?

jpberka,
Good point. I totally blew it on the time line. I feel old, but more thousands of years than millions.

But it is absolutely relevant to the discussion of Torii Hunter's ignorance. Personally I find it fascinating that we are all related by a common ancestor, which makes racism even sillier. You are just insulting your own family.

And if any of you are still denying evolution, you are right there in Hunter's igloo.

I am one of "those guys" who decided to go out and get a PS3 since I began to see images and drool over The Show. I should be getting the game itself tomorrow via Amazon (a little bit cheaper that way) but of course my itch for playing a baseball game of some sort on the new system was quite high so I had to download the free demo of MLB 2K10. I played the 3 inning game and it was allright but definitely nothing to write home about. It lacked soul for lack of a better term. Not to start a war here as I know close to nothing about gaming in general, but I feel bad for the X-Box 360 users though that have that game as the only option. :P The details that Jimmer and Mike and everyone else has brought it up sound incredible! It will be fun getting it going and a good way to have a virtual experience of the park before it actually opens up.

lol I didn't say anything the least bit religious. We were discussing Torii Hunter's views on who is authentically African American and I simply corrected a simple mistake of geologic timeline. That was IT. but if you want to talk about JC, how about JC Romero? Thought about him lately?

I played MLB 2K10 and I wasn't really all that impressed. Had to go in and finagle the roster just to get Thome and Hudson, and then it took a while to get the batting order and everything right. From there, the graphics aren't very good and the gameplay kind of sucks. I CRUSHED a 2 run shot onto the plaza by Morneau in the bottom of the first and hardly anything happens. They show some dumb graphic on the video board and that is that. It's still cool to play at TF (they missed a lot of details) but all in all it was an eh.

Dude...... it's a wuote from the movie Major League????

quote*

I doubt jesus can hit a curveball, he is more of the equipment manager,as a carpenter, he makes the bats

Lighten up on here folks...here is a Google map with the new bikepath feature turned on for all of those looking for routes to bike to and from the games. Enjoy.

Just kidding...you have to click on More and then check the Bicyling box and you're set.

lol moda, I caught the reference. I was simply trying to diffuse the situation. I like that new bike feature on google maps by the way. Very nice.

speaking of biking.....if any j-bag-critical-mass-nazi-biker types show up around the ballpark this season i just might have to run and find myself a louisville slugger in the dugout and start swinging it!

:-)

still pissed off at those s.o.b. after the crap that went down near target field last year.

Beta--

What happened last year?

It appears that the Miami Marlins' new ballpark will be the second in MLB to have a swimming pool in the outfield.

how exactly will the cedar lake trail connect to TF and the north loop?

Any other Flex 40 plan holders out there? If so did you have a hard time getting tix today? Personally I spent an hour and twenty min getting busy signals followed by an hour and 40 min on hold and finally 20 min or so getting my tickets. And several of the games I wanted to attend were already limited to "scattered single tickets", atleast in the homeplate view sections.

I am kind of wondering that as well Elston. The current trail comes out on Nicollet doesn't it? I ride the trail all of the time on roadie, but don't take it downtown ever. I have a second bike that I commute around on and will probably end up riding to a few games (I live in Uptown so it wouldn't take long at all).

I must admit to being a little disturbed by the number of similar terms used in Miami's new park to Target Field. Legends, Home Run Porch, etc... Did we just buy some sort of franchise stadium?

PNB19 - That is exactly why I did not go for the Flex 40 this year...I went thru the same experiences the last two years and its frustrating "selecting" games with such little inventory available to choose from (and that was in the Metrodome). And of course, you must call in to redeem tickets so you get stuck with a busy signal all day.

Overall, while the flexibility in games is nice, the hassles and limited availablity when redeeming vouchers was simply too much and was very frustrating for me so I opted to go with a fixed 20-game plan.

looking at the new marlins stadium makes me so happy that we are getting TF and not that "stadium"

Stupid question, maybe I missed the answer someplace - how does one enter the Majestic Twins Store on non-game days? Being open year-round, I know it's not directly through TF (i.e. you have to actually be INSIDE to access it).

Rick - I agree, the radiant heaters do look a bit, strange. The concourse would be like one huge bus stop...lol.

Thirdly, I don't know why, but I DO think Jesus could hit a curveball.

luke - there is an "exterior" entrance to the twins/majestic store from the target plaza area. there is also a seperate "interior" entrance to it from the ballpark concourse as well.

there is also a curb-cutout area right along side it on 7th which could be handy, but i am not 100% sure if people are allowed to park there or if that space is only for loading/unloading.

Video from inside the new team store at Target Field courtesy of WCCO. It basically shows the different types of merchandise that will be available there. Click my name

Jimmer

as I found out yesterday us dummy's that did not want to print from home our pre order tickets will not get them anytime soon, steve smith said that they have not even printed them due to a glitch in the new ticketing system.. no eta... that is bullshit!, I already sold mine on another site and now I will probably have to cancel them.

ohhh you never heard of Betas beef with the "bike Nazi,s"

I cant wait to re hash this one out!

Betaband - That curb cutout parking area along 7th Street is 10 minute parking.

I parked there on Saturday for a bit to check out the ballpark and plaza area. There are "no parking" signs posted, but yet, there are small "10 minute parking/drop-off" signs so it's very confusing.

Oh well, as long as I have them by April 1...

Are they going to revamp their online store? They have crap for t-shirts/jerseys at their MLB . com website.

Being that I am in CO, it would be nice to be able to buy online most of the stuff they have at their Pro Shops. Unfortunately that hasn't been the case. I think they still have Gomez stuff for sale on there.

Yeah Gomez stuff and Metrodome jerseys... I want a new Morneau authentic. I had a game used Neshek that I wore to a few games last year, but I had him sign it at TwinsFest, so it's retired...

STH's -

Are you able to do anything with your tickets listed in MyTickets. Mine have shown up again but I am unable to transfer or put them up on stubhub, I am just curious if it is just me or everyone.

I am hoping they are active soon I need to get some tickets to the 4-3 exhibition game on stubhub.

Does anybody know the answer to this: If you buy tickets off StubHub, does it pick up your name and potentially add them to your MyTickets?

Maz,

Where did you list your tickets? And are you talking about the ones that were available for the OD Pre Sale?

Quick,
you can list the tickets from the SH site without the barcodes. If they sell you can uploa the barcodes up to 7days prior to the game.

TT,
tix bought on SH don't show up on My Tickets, Ive bought some and they aren't showing there.

I am getting a bit concerned so maybe someone here can help me understand a couple things. I bought tix for OD from the Pre-Sale Opp give away they had. I went and listed them and they sold right away on SH. I have never sold or bought anything from SH. I still haven't received the tix from that order, so what happens on SH? I posted them on there thinking I would get them by the 13th.

Josh,
when you confirmed the SH order you put an in-hand date.

The order should show in your awaiting shipment tab.

When you get the tix, click fulfill order an enter the bar code.

If you tix don't arrive by the in hand date you specified, call SH and tell them to change the in hand date of your order to one week b4 the game, this is the latest in hand date you can do.

No shittin here..last year my FST's were late getting to me and did some phone tag with the Twins who said they had been sent a week ago..I was frantic..Phone rings and a lady say's.."Are you so and so and by any chance are you a Twins ticket holder? I just got back from vacation and I have a big azz box of Twins tickets at my house." They were delivered 4 miles from my house to a street no way familiar to mine...Needless to say she got a FREE game and the PO got a friggin AZZZ Chewin...No tickets yet today yet..I'm getting worried.

I haven't gotten mine yet and I am not concerned. It is 3/10. We are more than 3 weeks away from games that don't even count. We're over a month away from games that do. I won't get too worked up just yet.

I stopped home for lunch and just as I was returning to work I noticed a mail carrier with a priority package so waited and sure enough it was my tickets. They would have sat on the front steps otherwise for 5 hours as they won't fit in the mail slot.
I've thought about stubhub and want to try it but even when you have your tickets won't it get a little hairy if they haven't sold and the game date is approaching? Or would that mean I overpriced them? I guess I could just plan on withdrawing them within a few days of the game and have a plan B ready. I guess the best thing is to underprice them but not so much that someone will buy and resell them. Any experienced stubhubbers out there with advice?

I wonder what kind of financial arrangement MLB teams have with Stub?

The teams split $20 mil plus get a third of the fees from each sale. Plus the teams probably make a boatload from selling some of their own tix on stubhub.

Josh,

Stub hub, I did get the job I interviewed for and am starting monday so now I have to unload a bunch of them, selling them is not the prob there are plenty of buyers, I just feel bad that this guy thinks he has these tickets locked up (which he does) but then will panic when I change the in hand date to who knows when per the twins dude (steve smith) just called meand told me he got out of a meeting on the issue and there is no clear info on when these tickets can even be printed let alone shipped...I am worried cuz there are seats i need to sell that i cant make it too, so getting tem on 4/1 might not be the end of the world for me it defenitly stresses me the F out!

To wrap up a few loose ends: The twins already have tunnel permits and followed tunnel regulations for the plaza when it was built, so covering the whole plaza is possible(but I kind of like the opening to the interstate cuz it is unique), but we'll see how the noise is. Maybe it will be as loud as the dome with the wind veil, cars buzzing by, and 40,000 screaming fans.

At first when they announced the flag pole would be at the other end of the plaza, I was really disappointed, but maybe they were talking about the overlook end of the plaza all along, because it just don't seem right to have it way out there when we need a flag pole for the stadium anyways. It just didn't seem right to have it outside the park. I don't think they could have found a better place for it than where it was placed, and now it stands proudly "overlooking" and keeping watch over a new era of Twins baseball.

The thing that went down last year was that the bike enthusists were making a big PR mess that the Twins weren't making enough bike parking and bike friendliness around the stadium, when I think they went above and beyond most ballparks by even having a bike trail incorporated into the infrastructure. Everyone has to always bitch about something though, myself included...

I wish that there would be a matching limestone pattern on the Target Center, insyead of ads or that brown checker pattern. I think it would bring both buildings together nicely.

Twins are on MLB Network for an hour starting at 9:00 tonight. (30 Clubs In 30 Days)

I don't imagine we'll hear the freeway at all during a game. The wind veil is silent, so you won't hear that even when standing next to it. I wouldn't count on us ever being as loud as we were in the dome at Target Field, but that's OK. :-)

Tom, OG - I have to disagree with you on using the same limestone on Target Center. Yes, I agree that they need to change the exterior, but they should use materials that complement Target Field not match Target Field. Let Target Field have its own identity.

Hey robin, you can go to Home Depot and get a nice large mailbox for around 20 bucks. Why would you have a "mail slot" in this day and age? What do you think it's the 1950's?

Petters - are you you that stupid and narrow mined? Why would you even try to insult someone on something that stupid. Sorry we don't live in cookie cutterville and live in a house exactly like your neighbor that the only difference is the color of your vinyl siding. Seriously WTF. Some people...

Just curious is there would be any interest and enough people to start a MLB 10 The Show League. With Rick's permission we could call it Ballpark Magic.

Anyone interested, if so post here.

" --- but maybe they were talking about the overlook end of the plaza all along --- "

The original plan did call for the pole to be installed at the far end of the plaza where Rick points out in his picture. It was going to be, as Matt Hoy put it " --- the front entry point where we want to put the flagpole as a welcome to the new ballpark." This was the original plan, to include flying a "Twins Territory" flag from the pole. There was also talk of a "Twins Win" flag to let folks know the outcome of the most recent game. Neither Rick nor I ever got an answer on why the original plan was abandoned - I like to think it was my continuous pestering and lobbying but I doubt that really had much impact.

From what I know, the issue with the individual game ticket printing should be resolved in the next several days.

I don't know what the exact issue is and didn't ask, but I suspect this has to involve the printers/system on site, so if the info about resolution is true, I would expect to see tickets sometime the end of next week. Looking at the calendar, it looks like they have about a week before moving to panic mode. :)

Realistically, it can be (a) the hardware (new) (b) the software (new) or (c) the ticket stock, but it's not like no one involved has ever done this before so I think it's a bit early to worry about not getting tickets.

Brewers' PR hit regarding Carlos Gomez... what tremendous upside this guy has!!!

jfh,

I hope to god that you have this one pegged, but i must admit you have been wrong about many things in the last year (one being that you said that 100%, that partial sth like myself would not get OD tickets) I understand you have the "Baller" seats and package, but again I pray that you are correct.

but not to be worried??? i am worried? no not that I will not be able to go to the games i paid for but that i was told 7-10 days and waited 15 days b4 i called about it and was told that they basiclly have no idea when this will be fixed, guess what else i amd pissed about?? the fact that I paid a convenice fee per ticket and per transaction for this to happen. they are working now on getting a e mail out to people to let them know of the problem 15 DAYS LATER! the only reason nobody else is making a stink about this is per everbody i think is assuming that these pre sale tix will just come with thir season ticket package that usally dont come until about mid march... I would be worried if i were you, you and your partners in your group should be worried.

anyways, I will get my tickets and all will be good. just want oters on here to know that there is a problemo with the ticketing system and what your "insider" told you is a huge diff from what I was told tonight as of 7:30 pm buy this steve dude, so who is to say that you have the correct "scoop"

Lol TTH...I was reminded of his 'tremendous upside' watching him get thrown out because of a baserunning blunder in a spring training game the other day. :d.

I Also saw delmon misplay a ball in left field that day. But he looked skinny doing it so...

GOBBLE GOBBLE!! Be on the lookout for these. They are only selling 80/game.

It looks like someone will need to go on a turkey hunt that first game.

Has anybody heard information about how SRO tickets will be sold or distributed for opening day, or if they will even be sold for that game?

SRO may well become the best deal the Twins offer - assuming they do so. There are always unfilled seats (or always were), often in the "best" areas. At the dump there was a great deal of migration from the cheap seats to the lower club.

The city is convening to figure out TF traffic plans ahead of time. Complete with snarky weather/location comments of course!

The City has just noticed there will be traffic problems around the new stadium?? They have no idea what's about to hit them.

Apparently there has been a snag in negotiations with Mauer/Shapiro and the Twins and talks have broken off, at least for now.

Both LaVelle and Jim Souhan are reporting that talks are not going well, so stay tuned...It's going to be one big distraction once the regular season commences in just over 3 weeks.

Mike - was this on the radio?

A friend texted me saying LaVelle was on PA's show for a couple of minutes and said talks were not going good...I am going to try podcasting the show this afternoon when I have time to hear what he said exactly.

I read Souhan's column today and he also says the contract talks are not going good between the Twins and Mauer, but than again, Souhan also thinks a deal will get done, so who really knows.

It's just going to be a huge distraction once the regular starts in three weeks.

With all the talk about how the wind in Target Plaza will affect the game..I wonder if the wind pattern effect caused by the plaza will either create resistance or updraft for LNP when he dives into first base?

Interesting discussion of the Mauer situation (click link). Nothing earth shattering, but a nice concise summary of what's going on.

I could take or leave Jim Souhan and Joe Christensen, but I think their analysis in this case is pretty solid. It's a 7 minute video but worth watching... especially for the "just pay the man!" crowd who think the Twins HAVE to sign Joe Mauer.

The PR disaster that would be caused by Joe Mauer leaving, be it via a trade or free agency, would damage the Twins for a long, long time and undo a significant portion of the good will the club has going with the public and media right now. It's hard to say how they can't pay him given what's at stake, especially since the days of using the Metrodome as an excuse for not spending money are over. The fans and media will never buy the "Joe and his agent were just asking for too much" excuse, no matter how the team tries to spin it and no matter what comes back in return if there's a trade.

If this deal doesn't get done I don't blame the FA, I blame Mauer himself. They are offering over $20MM a year for 8+ and he is going to ask for more? Ef that. If it is simply an issue with the Union they would have already worked it out...met in the middle or something. This is starting to look like Mauer and his agent might be looking towards free agency. Prove me wrong Joe!

" --- especially for the "just pay the man!" crowd who think the Twins HAVE to sign Joe Mauer."

AHEM!!!!!!!

Jorge,

That link was meant for people just like you. I feel like this has been said here so many times and in so many different ways...

No one is saying that the Twins wouldn't suffer a huge blow by not signing Mauer. The question is whether or not the Twins organization suffers a bigger blow by devoting 25%+ of their payroll to one guy who plays such an injury-prone position. Period. It's a valid question. And no matter how much you talk about squandered good will, excuses, or what the Twins have to do, the fact of the matter is that you don't know. Neither do I. I'm simply brining up a valid question that cannot be answered we sign Joe and win the WS, we sign him and he blows out both knees, or we let him walk and he wins 15 WS titles with the Yankees while we become celler dwellers.

Sorry guys, I just can't stand how some people appear to be unwilling to acknowledge that the Twins actually have more to consider here than one player. We all want Mauer signed, but I'd let him walk in a heartbeat if I knew his contract would impede our ability to compete for a World Series.

Jorge et al, if you haven't seen the numbers for teams that devote 25%+ of their payroll to one player you should check it out. It ain't pretty.

And now that Joe Nathan has torn his UCL...we are hearing from a lot of people who say "we should have traded him"...It can't go both ways. When you sign players to big dollar, long-term contracts, there is always risk involved. But you can't criticize the Twins for not keeping players and not paying players than turning around and saying you should have traded that same player once he gets injured.

Kevin Garnett's whopping salary hamstrung the Timberwolves for years. So we know the risk first-hand. It worked a little better for Michael Jordan and his "supporting cast" in Chicago. But it is a real consideration with no right answer before hindsight kicks in.

Everyone needs to settle down. Mauer WILL be signed by OD, bet on it.

Until free agency was instituted, the fact that players were "property" of teams was akin to slavery. In my opinion, free agency was long overdue. Players have a right to play where they wish, just as luke has the option of working at Taco Bell or Subway, or wherever he wants.

The same rules apply to Joe Mauer. Free agency isn't just about the money. The simple fact is Joe can sign wherever he wishes to, be that the Minny Apple or the Big Apple. He shouldn't be scorned for whatever decision he makes or why he makes it. And if his decision is based purely on money -- good for him! Just as I'm sure many of you at one time switched jobs for better pay.

If Joe decides to leave, I don't think you can blame the FO either. I'm sure they've made a good-faith offer.

Margaret, Mike, Badjuggler:

Where have you guys been? Why did I have to confront the Kool-Aid drinkers all alone 'till now?

They'll be testing fireworks at TF this afternoon. (click name for link)

If they do get this deal done and it is over 25 mil a year, after a couple years, the Twins will struggle to be competitive as it will be difficult to retain other players. 25% of a teams payroll to one player never works. It will be one star a few above average players, and a bunch of cheap rookies. I want this deal done as much as the next guy, but if it is over 25 Mil a year, soon the Twins will struggle. I still say 8yrs/170 mil. That is fair to both parties, and keeps it possible to retain/acquire other stars. If it is north of 25, maybe less, trade him unless the Pohlads want to up payroll to the 110-120 Mil area.

And so the back-pedaling begins, in case it's needed.

THIS TWEET FROM THE TWINS: "Single game availability will be limited due to record season ticket sale of nearly 22,000 full season equivalents and TF capacity of 39,504"

maz - the only way I'd have inside info would be if I work for the Twins, which I don't.

I have been told multiple things "guaranteed" that turned out not to be true. Perhaps folks told me what they thought I wanted to hear, spoke without knowing the true story, officials changed plans (like for the public open house) or plans just hadn't been made. I do fault the Twins for this lack of information integrity - if you don't know or can't tell, say "I don't know" or "plans aren't final". If you promise someone something (reasonable), keep the promise even if the policy changes. (Giving credit where due - the Twins have done this for me).

As for the partial plan holders getting or not getting OD tickets, the Twins did exactly what they told me and what I reported here - it all had to do with when you bought your package.

Regarding the printing of individual game tickets - I'm not going to quote the source of the info but it came from (a) an officer of the club and (b) after the info you received. I don't know what's correct, and at this point, I really don't care, as long as I get my tickets in the next couple weeks. I have to believe the Twins will do everything they can to fix the problem before Saturday (that's still the public onsale date, right?)

Now - regarding you comment on the "convenience fees" - I agree with you 100%. What irks me is that e-tickets for the presale would have been fine for me, but that was an additional fee. Not sure what genius decided that e-tickets are more expensive than printing and mailing physical tickets or if it's just a straight revenue grab, but I *hate* clubs forcing fans to go the online route where junk fees are mandatory. Sadly, this is controlled primarily by the service providers more than the clubs (though I suspect they get a share) and not likely to change.

Lots of posturing going on right now....On both sides of the table!

Also, remember that a gargantuan deal would be insured against serious injuries (as Joe Nathan's deal is, so nobody should feel sorry for the Pohlads as they recoup a significant portion of this years salary which allows for flexibility to add a player to help the bullpen or close). In other words, if no additions are made they are, in essence, pocketing that cash as they did for years and years at the Metrodome with revenue sharing (20-30M per year). So this whole "what if" game is ridiculous...

I saw Mauer's parents tailgating before the game on Tuesday and I'm sure they'll be out there tonite. I'll swing by for a beer and ask Big Jake himself. Sure looked pretty happy with a cigarette in one hand and ice cold beer in the other. But $200 million dollars has a way of tugging on people. BTW, while I have no inside information as to the back and forth offers being exchanged, I personally believe there is no way on God's green earth that the Twins are offering Joe 8/$180M at this time as Jim Souhan alludes to in the video on Strib.com.

I am with Fred on this deal as he mentioned a few days ago. The so called "Choke Point" is well north of $30M. Don't be sheep people (or Twins Kool-Aid drinkers of which there are 1000s these days). Both sides are playing hardball right now. The Twins will spin this that it just wouldn't fit in the budget (or would hamstring them from putting out a competitive squad around Joe) and Shapiro will spin this that the Twins were lowballing him expecting Joe to take signicantly less than the market will bear in November. Not sure we'll ever know the truth, but rest assured it is in everyone's best interest that this deal gets signed. 1 player rarely wins or loses a World Championship in baseball, but their value can't strictly be tied to their on-field performance. There is millions of dollars in value that is nearly impossible to quantify in the way of ticket sales, marketing, brand management, etc. directly derived from the "connection" that Minnesotans feel so strongly with Joe Mauer. Everyone has a 12th cousins, sisters boyfriends, brothers uncle that knows Joe.

Bottomline is that this is a once in a lifetime negotiation for the Minnesota Twins. If it ultimately doesn't get done, there will be 10-15K crowds in 2011 and that has a vicious effect on payroll henceforth player acquisition. Remember catcher is arguably the most valuable and difficult position to play on the baseball field. It isn't easy to replace not only the world class offensive ability he brings to the Twins, but also his gold glove defense which shuts down opposing teams' running games.

Someone should write a thesis about this whole ordeal. It has so many layers and angles that are downright fascinating to me.

Does anyone know anything about the Event Suites? I

Well, that posted a tad too early.

My situation: In January I "reserved" an Event Suite for a game in August. I put that in quotes because I put no money down. In fact, the group rep said that I wouldn't have to put any money down until February and that he would send out info soon. I've heard nothing, and he's sent out no info and now won't return calls.

I was going to change that reservation to plain ol' group tickets, but now that tickets are severely limited, I get the feeling that something got effed up in the suite reservation(double-booked or something) and that I got hosed out of going to that specific game entirely. Argh.

One ballpark related note: I find it interesting that there has little (no?) information regarding the sale of tickets for the Budweiser Roof Deck in LF from the Twins organization. Seems strange. Wonder if they are trying to make it only Group Sales there in 2010?? Day of Game sales??

This project has been great on many levels, but one thing is for sure. The Twins failed miserably as dispensing reliable, accurate information to the public in a TIMELY fashion. Rick has done a tremendous job covering it considering all the obstacles that have been places in his way.

Max,

When I talked to the group rep in January, he said that it pretty much wouldn't be available, but I felt that he just said that because he didn't have a clue. I heard from a friend a few days ago that said that HER rep sold her Rooftop Deck tickets for a game in May when she pestered him about it.

They took the covering off of the Champion's Club s seats today, in the midst of a rain storm. Interesting.

trosy29 - interesting logic by the Twins. Nice that they hit 22K FSE, which is on the high end of all the projections I ever heard, but they can't possibly be selling enough group tickets to call single game availability "limited".

Rick - excellent post regarding Mauer/Selig.

If Mauer is turning down 8x$20M or more, then I can't blame the Twins at all and don't buy into the "any price" argument (see also: Catcher, Nathan, Neagle, Hampton, Brown, most contracts over 5 years except Mussina). The Twins have shown a willingness to spend and the Metrodome wasn't just a crutch. Insurance or not, 20-25% of your payroll committed to one player - even Mauer - is very risky.

The Rockies came under fire a couple years ago for not signing Matt Holliday (to what was a much better deal than originally reported) when they stretched the limit to keep him. They got a good return and Holliday / Boras (who needs to be included in the Selig rant) found the market wasn't anywhere near what they thought. Somehow, they snookered the Cardinals into overpaying for a long-term deal, but for a while it didn't look like there was anything better than the Rockies had offered two years prior.

Everyone loses if Mauer doesn't sign with the Twins. But I firmly believe Mauer has the most to lose (security and reputation).

The Bud Deck is completely sold out for the year, all to groups.

I just scored some Twins tix this afternoon. Row 1 of View Box upper deck 1B side. Oh, it's at Safeco Field and it's not until 8/27 but I'm still pumped.

Ha, so email works for getting in touch with reps. He just called and said that the game is effectively sold out, so our only option is to go with the event suite that we still have reserved.

Oh how I just love collecting money from people! Oy.

Baseball needs a hard salary cap, like every other sport uses to maintain a competitive balance. There are a heckuva lot more small- and medium-market teams, so I cannot understand why they cannot all band together and force a cap on the mighty few. Especially when Lord Selig comes directly from one of those small markets. You would think he would push for it if only to benefit his beloved Brewers. Or maybe he just as ineffectual as he seems...

Radom question I know, but is there any lighting design built into the Target Center green roof? It could be a pretty cool visual in regards to aerials views from a blimp etc.

Margaret Thatcher's remarks towards me were direct, and unless I'm off base, a tad aggressive too. Even if we stand on different sides of line concerning this issue, there is certainly no animosity on my part. It's just a difference of opinion.

From a salary standpoint, I get that devoting so much money to one player can have negative reprecussions. It is a definite risk. However, along with Kirby Puckett, Mauer is one of only two Twins players since the free agency era began whose value, both on and off the field, warrants taking such a risk. The fall out from his potential departure will cause too much damage. Look what happened to this team's public standing due to firing Billy Martin, losing so many top names in the 1970s when free agency dawned, and then the late 1990s/early 2000s fall out from its various misguided and unsuccessful attempts to acquire a new stadium (the monetary "gift" that was really a loan/Don Beaver and North Carolina/contraction). Fans abandoned the team for years at a time over those issues. The new stadium will cushion some of the blow if Mauer goes. However, I don't think it will be enough to prevent long term damage. My final take on the Mauer money issue is not necessarily how much the Twins would pay him, but rather what percentage of his salary would be legitimately spent on other players if not on him. This team's history suggests not much.

Another day of mail, another day without my season tickets :(

I am hoping my tickets are there when I get home today too. Each day that passes makes me less excited for them to actually show up. Weird?

"Baseball needs a hard salary cap"

Pretty much everyone agrees - except for the teams themselves. The "big" teams don't want it because they then would not be able to as easily "buy" a team. The "small" teams, ironically, don't want it either because their fans would then expect them to spend up to the cap in order to compete. Catch 22.

I just read a tweet that the twins are going to be testing fireworks soon.

Seems odd that they would test them during the day. Where's the fun in that?

I cant belive im saying this but im getting a lil sick of the mauer crap...trade him? man you see how billy f'd that up with sanatana..

if they dont sign him then they cant trade him, they would get nothing in return cuz they will know the twins are desperate just like the sanata trade, just get what we can get out of him this year then i guess... I tell you one thing if that boy leaves town his familys car dealership can just as well fold the day he leaves.

maybe joe wants to go to nyc to be a rapper?

If he doesn't/won't sign:

Don't trade him, let him walk in FA, and get the compensatory picks.

We do a better job of drafting than trading, anyway.

Ben, with a "hard salary cap" at least the smaller market teams have the option to spend closer to the cap. Also, its not up to the fans on how much an organization spends on their team. A cap will also allow more teams to compete for the bigger free agents. Also a cap will show off an organizations ability to develop talent in the minor leagues.

But then what would happen to all the hate for the Yankees and Red Sox? I do enjoy the David versus Goliath theme that the Major League has. I honestly I can't picture it any other way, its all I know. There is nothing better in my opinion then seeing the nig market teams fall to the smaller market teams. Eventhough the success rate for that hasn't been too high in previous years.

For those who got their ST packages in the mail, any photos? Is there special packaging that they came in? I remember after the '03 season the tix came in "fancy" packaging. Some kind of cool boxed set, maybe?

No season tickets yet for me either! But I did get a postcard explaining the Metropolitan Club. 

It will be open from when the gates open until an hour after the game ends. A $29/person buffet is served until the 4th inning. An ala-carte "5th to 9th Menu" after the 4th. 

$5/person table fee to sit at viewing table or drink rail during the second seating. 

Reservations may be made within 2 weeks of each game.  4 people max per reservation. 

Season ticket or ST I.D. for access.

Another day of mail with no season tickets.

However, I did receive a card about the Metropolitan Club.

Hours of operation-- Upon gates open until 1 hour following conclusion of the game

Buffet style themed cooking stations $29/person + tax
Buffet available until the 4th inning

reservations required. book them anytime within 2 weeks of each game.
First come first served basis for reservations.

Access to the club by showing season ticket holder game tickets or STH ID

Max of 4 guests per reservation

Two seatings each game, pregame and during the game.

$5 table fee which will be applied to each order for watching the game at a viewing table or drink rail location during the second seating.

The STs came in a 12 x 9 x 1.5 box with all the usual pictures and propaganda (including a StubHub insert). Also included is the coupons for the yearbook, etc.

Here is a photo of the fireworks test from TF today. The last big ad on the scoreboard is FS North.

Minn55441,
JINX! You owe me a Coke!

click my name for a picture of the fireworks

hot off the press i guess

Jorge,

I don't actually think my comments were all that aggressive. There's no animostiy, and my post wasn't directed to you and you alone.

With regard to the Puckett reference... Compare what the Twins experienced after signing him with what has gone on in Baltimore since they "opened up the wallet" to get one of the best players in the game (Albert Belle).

I'm not saying the Twins were mistaken in signing Puck, but if we're going to talk about the Twins' team history let's talk about it. There are a lot of reasons why in this situation it's not as easy as pulling the trigger on a blockbuster deal. But man, I hope it gets done!

Regarding twinlvs photo of the fireworks, Is it really worth the money the Twins get to have those ugly Best Buy, US Bank and Treasure Island signs dominate both sides of the main scoreboard? They are pretty distracting if you ask me.

So they basically threw an FS North ad up there because nobody else wanted to be the 4th major partner?

that's what I was thinking MB! I don't know, maybe they should have put a big Rochester Mayo ad up there. Mayo has been featured in several of the ribbon board tests - and we've mentioned here that they must be some sort of new sponsor. DVS' photo of the fireworks shows the FSN ad - and compared to the other three, it looks bland and totally out of place.

Rick, did you get the email I sent you earlier today about TC Traders? I sent it to the trade (at) ballparkmaigic one - I wasn't sure if I should have sent it to the rick (at) ballparkmagic one.

Bob,

I disagree with you. If you look around at other sporting venues I think our ad space is subtle. I like that it is symmetrical in size on each side of the board. Take a hard look at new Yankee Stadium, I think we've done a good job.

My only hope is that the don't go overboard on the outfield wall, or at least keep the ads white.

The Twins were going to have a pretty nice team in '96 before Puckett had to retire.

I don't think the lack of talent in subsequent years was because he was taking up most of the payroll. It had more to do with the overall cheapness of the Pohlads during those times...and the poor scouting.

Kirby could have been making 1/4th of that contract and they still would have refused to sign big name players.

The 4 ad space boards are okay by me. If only they will keep it at that. No way I want to see baggie-sized Dodge truck pics or Stanley logos or giant milk jugs dominating the TF landscape.

Yes, I think Bud Deck is sold out but there may be day of game or individual ticket sales on Thursdays and Saturdays.

I ordered a couple of Budweiser Roof Deck tickets from some guys that Tweeted (@twinsmeetup) about them a month ago. They bought the group package (250 people max) for Labor day Monday (9/6). They are selling them for $35/ticket (not sure if the $5 extra is their fee or the Twins'). I think he is more worried about getting his $7000 back than he needs to be. I want to go to get as many different TF experiences as I can this first year. Click name for their Facebook info page.

You're right, Dre, the comparisons only go so far... it's also true that organizational mindset had a lot to do with how the Twins played things post-Puckett. But still, the similarities are interesting.

I just think it's worthwhile considering whether/how the Puckett deal (and what followed) may impact the Twins mindset in approaching other mammoth deals.

1995 and 1996 were the post strike years and nearly all the teams were having a hard time putting people in the seats. Remember the strike really struck a hard blow to MLB until the home run derby (steroid era) of '98.
Throwing Kirby in the mix for not bringing fans to the game was a bit short sighted.

maybe when mauer plays a game at target field that will put him over the edge into signing this deal, and by the way, to the guys who posted the fireworks pics, great pics! if you clikc on full view you really get a awesome picture of everything, great job guys!

Rick, I too once made $4.25 an hour. Lol. Let's not tell the kids here what year it probably was.

Target Center Exterior Renovation...

That would be nice as it's a pretty dated look already.

Met Center was much nicer looking imho.

At least unifying the look between the two sports venues, both with Target name branding...Would be nice since Target appears to be very image conscious.

Really OldMetFan? The Met Center was, IMHO, aesthetically unappealing. See also: Metrodome and Saint Paul Civic Center. The exterior was nothing to look at. Bland, concrete walls. No windows.

Quite honestly, if you weren't well-versed in Twin Cities lore or the NHL, an untrained eye would have mistaken the Met Center for a Montgomery Wards warehouse or a 15,000 seat bomb shelter.

Inside was a different story. The Met was one of the best arenas in the NHL. That was until of course, evil man Corporate took over and reupholstered the seats to a very dismal maroon (replacing the specialty multi-coloured seats which matched the North Stars colours for 24 years). Then, it just looked like any old hockey arena.

I think the Met Center exterior was very good. Tasteful, well-proportioned, and gracefully understated. If you want to see a hideous arena exterior, take a look at photos of the old Spectrum in Philadelphia. THAT'S an ugly building.

By the way, Luke, are you Canadian, by chance?

I was a North Stars STH too. Loved the Met.

Channel 9 was just live at Target Field (10pm Thursday) and there is already one fan camped out for single game tickets to go on sale Saturday morning...

Also, there will be more exhibition game tickets on sale on Saturday as there were extras returned by the construction workers.

Sid got a tour of Target Field on Thursday and says, "You have to sing the praises of everyone, including Jerry Bell, St. Peter and Mortenson Construction because I don't believe there is a better stadium anywhere."

DSP also mentions that its very possible all games (home games) could be sold out before the season begins. At least the Twins acknowledged in their press release today that phone lines will be jammed on Saturday and that tickets will be very limited this year and that transactions will take longer than in the past due to more questions and such.

All I can say is its finally baseball season boys! Home Opener just ONE MONTH away!

Winona - Nope, I'm a cold-blooded American. Born and raised.
I also agree with you about the Spectrum. That wasn't a pretty building either.

Just received my season tickets today and gotta say I am not too impressed by the packaging this year. I have been a season ticket holder for 6 years and they typically have a season ticket guide and misc. literature along with the tickets. It was pretty bare bones this year - just the tickets, stubhub insert, and the twins publication coupons. Usually full season ticket holders get to see a batting practice on the field, but I didn't see any info on that this year either. I listed some tickets on Stubhub from the Twins website and it was pretty simple. Looking forward to listing some tickets on TC Traders now that the tickets are "live".

anyone else notice they fixed the target field sign on the puckett gate? finally....

I am also sick of the Mauer saga...$200 million for 8 years is just rediculus, but it's the world we live in now. Just think, that is hlmost half of the cost of Target Field, which will take 30 years for the county to pay off (and also took over 10 years to come to an agreement). So, there is a total of 40 years invested into what Mauer could be pocketing in just 8 years, while hindering the competitiveness of the franchise. I think the Twins should play their hand and I guarantee Mauer don't have the balls to walk away from what is still a legit salary for his beloved home town team, especially what it would do to his reputation and family-not having them there for all of his home games, etc...But, I know that isn't the way it works. Why dont we just have the legislature vote to tax the county and give it all to Joe Mauer(sarcasm).

Mauer has the option to work for less as well, just as Rick could have stayed at his job for less money. If the Players Association has all of the power, why aren't the Twins just negotiating with them instead of Mauer and his agent?

The Twins could recover if he left, as long as they win a WS or two, but Joe's reputation woundn't EVER recover from looking like a gold digger...Sorry for the rant...

correction b4 the trolls call me out on it:
So, there is a total of 20 years(40/2) invested by the county into what Mauer could be pocketing in just 8 years, while hindering the competitiveness of the franchise.

I already acknowledge that players are paid what they are worth to their teams and owners, and their value is measured in how well their performances improve the team on the field and at the gate.
That being said, in a day and age when we're looking at an unemployment rate hovering around 10%, people losing their homes left and right, and painfully slow, if any, recovery, wondering whether Joe Mauer or any other big leaguer will sign for a couple hundred million dollars to play a game seems surreal to me.
The money in sports, both professional and college, is almost too much for me to accept anymore. The Redskins and Falcons, both playing in state-of-the-art stadiums less than twenty years old, are already entertaining pitches from those interested in building them newer stadiums. The Chiefs, as it has been said on this site, will be looking for a new stadium in fifteen years even after Jackson County has put $350M more into Arrowhead. The Yankees, already the highest revenue team in baseball, now play in an obscenely expensive and oppulent stadium where they charge rediculous prices for tickets and concessions.
When does all this even slow down? At what point do we see sports reach their maximum earnings because people have said enough is enough?
I enjoy following the Twins as much as the next person, but if they fail to sign Mauer, it won't be the end of the world, and it won't keep me from going to a game now and again. If they do sign him for some incredible amount of cash, it just might be my personal tipping point.
Maybe I'm just some old, grumpy guy complaining about the modern world, and my views on this subject easily dismissed. But perhaps the time is drawing near for me to put away the pursuits of the young and the young-at-heart, and accept that sports, and to a larger degree, modern, popular culture, have passed this old geezer by.

But then again, maybe Mauer signs for a reasonable (relatively speaking) amount of money and the Twins have a terrific season with actual playoff advancement.

Go Twins!

Got my season tickets today, noticed on the corner of the inside flap it says "All games on KSTP AM 1500 and Treasure Island Baseball Network." Is that new? I don't think I've heard that before. I sent scans of the box to Rick if anybody is interested.