Found a preview of TF on another site. Most of the information is probably known by most people here already but there is a few interesting things in the article. Click the link if you wanna read it.

Clyde Doepner's display has always been merely a very small slice of his private collection, usually with some sort of theme to it. Last year, for instance, he had a lot of the uniforms that have been worn through the years - how many people here remember the crimson alternate jersey? Odd that he now does not get to add to his own collection but, rather, anything/everything he "gets" becomes a part of the Twins' collection he is now responsible for. I would be curious to know what is in it for him. He is one of the planet's foremost nice guys and now gets to do something he absolutely loves to do. That just might be payment enough for him.

So I received a forward from my boss today. The forward was a personal email that he received from a corporate friend of his. My boss himself is not a baseball fan, but the gentleman that he received the email from is a avid baseball fan and knows some people throughout the industry. The email read:

"I just received word that Joe Mauer was quietly signed to a 10 year 220 Million dollar contract today (Sunday).

Look for the breaking news to hit Monday or Tuesday"

Now, I have no idea if this is true, but my boss is not one to forward this type of info unless he feels it is from a good source. If this is not true, please do not be angry with me. I just got quite excited when I read this this morning.

Crossin' my fingers!!

That's a pretty nice article. It sounds like they were more than impressed with the place and think it will stay "iconic" long after new stadiums are built.

I'm also excited for some Loon Cafe chili, if they select it to be an item! That is the first time I heard they ere considering bringing it to the stadium.

Buster Olney seems to think the Twins are going after Hudson...

Click name.

I was told by the ticket agent when I bought my 40 game package in Oct that the full STH would have the opportunity to buy twice the number of seats to the opener. I was told I would not have a chance at the opener even as a 40 gamer. I don't know if they have changed that, but haven't heard any different.

trosy29,

You know, that post is like when you're in 8th grade and there are rumors that the hot chick you drool over might like you. You don't really believe the rumors, you're pretty sure your buddies are jerking you around, but you can't help but hope beyond hope that it's true.

Faber,

I did some research on the gentleman who sent the email to my boss to try to get some validation. He is a Owner and CFO of a nationwide company that is based out of the Twin Cities and is also involved in the sports scene in the area.

I know that it is completely non validated, but any info is good. I just found it odd that he got on his email specifically on a Sunday night to send it out to his some of his close friends. Why would a someone like that do that?

Here's to hoping it is true, but if it does come to be, I expect some props!! ;-)

Supporting evidence from JC at the Strib"

"Everybody I spoke with during TwinsFest believes the team soon will have Joe Mauer signed to a contract extension. Two people, who have their own information pipelines, claimed that the deal's basic framework -- the number of years and guaranteed money -- is already set, with the sides negotiating things such as deferred payments, etc."

Not quite sure that a contract has been signed, but from a Joe C article earlier it sounds like years and money has been agreed on, it is now on to the little details. These Orlando Hudson rumors that have been swirling are really getting me excited. Do you think the front office would have time to take away from Mauer's negotiations to get a deal with him done? Do you think Mauer is pressuring them into it before he inks? He would be so good on our team, for his D, switch hitting, being able to bat 2nd, and as a clubhouse guy too.

MLBtraderumors.com also reporting on JC's Article.

I have a great feeling about this week! I will be at my local establishment throwin' back some cold ones if this happens.

Click name,

A friend of a friend who works at Perkins just sent me a text saying Joe had a Denver omelette for breakfast. Looks like he's headed to the Rockies.

TTH - I get the dig...but I hope you all are eating your words that are giving me shit about this...;-)

Personally, I think $22 million per year and 10 years is too much. Funny, we wouldn't pay Torii a percentage of that, but because Joe is "our own" we'll pay a king's ransom.

We'll be lucky to get 10 good years out of a catcher.

TTH - I do somewhat agree. 10 years is a long haul for a catcher. I am sure that a no trade clause is not part of the SUPPOSED contract. They also may have plans to move him from catcher sometime. Let's just hope that the org. has more of a long term plan (8-10 years) for the team in place more that a short term (4-5 years) that they have had for the better part of the last two decades.

TTH,

Are you just stirring the pot? Or do you actually think there is any valid basis for comparing Torii Hunter and Joe Mauer?

All this contract talk is getting me excited!!!! Made hotdogs for lunch!

Opening Day presale for partial plan ticket holders (2009 and earlier) will be Feb 23 or 24. As we had previously heard, any new partial plan holder for 2010 must register for the opening series lottery.

Season ticket presale for exhibition games on Feb 18.

The April 2nd exhibition game is included in the following partial plan accounts: 40-Game Plan A, 20-Game Plan C and 20-Game Plan D.

The April 3rd exhibition game is included in the following partial plan accounts: 40-Game Plan B, 20-Game Plan E and 20-Game Plan F.

All 40-Game Plan accounts will receive their same regular season seats for these historic games.

All 20-Game Plan accounts will be assigned seats in the same price category as their regular season seats.

Mike has the full post. Mine is the Reader's Digest version. :)

Sorry, Mike and Rock - didn't see the full post before I did mine.

In terms of contract amount per year, I think there is a valid argument for comparing Torii's offer and what Joe is "reportedly" being offered.

At the time, Torii was the team's HR leader and hitting just south of .300. Pay him $15 million for a few years and you would now have, theoretically a lineup of Span (LF), Hardy, Mauer, Morneau, Cuddyer, Kubel ... that lineup probably beats the Yankees in the playoffs -- once.

TTH, I'm suprised we haven't heard from Luke yet wanting to know if you have any other info on those Mauer to the Rockies rumors...

Interesting note from that longer preview article from Ballparkdigest.com:

"The concourse signage is subtle but very memorable: the integration of the Target bulls-eye logo into the section signage is amazingly effective, and the concession signs are clear without being overwhelming."

Clear without being overwhelming. After the nitpicking done about the concession signs around here, I couldn't have said it better myself.

TTH,

I can see what you're getting at. Hope my post didn't sound like I was coming at you.

The difference is that Torii was an above average overall player on the back half of his career. He had good power, decent contact, elite defense and was probably one of the top 5-10 center fielders in the game. Joe Mauer is 26 years old and is already arguably the best catcher to ever play the game. That is a huge difference.

I still agree with the Twins' decision to let Torii go. Would it have been nice to have him? Yes. But $15 mil a year for a player of his ability/age (at the time he left the Twins)? No. I've said it before, but almost no one thought he would produce like he has since heading to LA.

I do agree that the length of the SUPPOSED contract is worth thinking about... 10 years is a long time for a catcher.

Man I hope these rumors turn out to be true!!!

Tolleson is no longer a Twin. Claimed by A's.

Click name

Thatcher & TTH

You're both sorta right. It would have been great to have Torii around for a FEW more years. But players his age want security, and the Angels were the only ones dumb enough to give him SEVEN years.

Anyone have an ESPN Insider membership? There is a like to a Mauer deal to be done soon, but you need a membership to view the article. Lookin for a copy and paste.

**link**

The big market teams are already licking their chops to see Joe Mauer on the free agent market next year, but the Twins might be ready to give Mauer a huge deal.

At TwinsFest, the Star-Tribune writes that Twins CEO Jim Pohlad told the audience he lost his wallet and he asked fans to bring it to his table, if they found it. "Actually," he said, "you may as well take it over to Joe."

So Pohlad and Co. are ready to pay up.

But how much? The two sides have officially opened contract negotiations, and it's hard to imagine him signing a deal for less than $20 million a season. It's also hard to imagine the Twins giving 30 percent of their payroll to one player.

Could the sides be getting closer? Bill Madden of the New York Daily News reports today that Twins manager Ron Gardenhire is "confident" Mauer will sign a long-term deal before spring training.

The ESPN rumor central bit on Mauer is nothing new...its essentially the same information that we got in the Star Tribune from Joe C...

The big market teams are already licking their chops to see Joe Mauer on the free agent market next year, but the Twins might be ready to give Mauer a huge deal.

At TwinsFest, the Star-Tribune writes that Twins CEO Jim Pohlad told the audience he lost his wallet and he asked fans to bring it to his table, if they found it. "Actually," he said, "you may as well take it over to Joe."

So Pohlad and Co. are ready to pay up.

But how much? The two sides have officially opened contract negotiations, and it's hard to imagine him signing a deal for less than $20 million a season. It's also hard to imagine the Twins giving 30 percent of their payroll to one player.

Could the sides be getting closer? Bill Madden of the New York Daily News reports today that Twins manager Ron Gardenhire is "confident" Mauer will sign a long-term deal before spring training.

This image and this image have to be my favorite views of the park to date. How about that afternoon sun/shade spanning that beautiful green outfield grass?

Rosen reporting on KFAN now that Mauer has agreed in principle to a 10-yr deal, and they're working out the "incentives" before anything is announced.

2 quick questions: 1. Does anyone know the status of Pat Neshek's health? I can't help but think that if he comes any where close to the level of dominance he was at before his string of injuries a 7,8,9 combo of Guerrier, Neshek, and Nathan would be one of the best in baseball. 2. When is the ticket trading go online for this site? I joined a partnership a few months back in a prime spot for 20 games only to just find out that my dad bought a 40 game package for us to use all season. The seats aren't as good, but who cares, they're free. Now I need to find a way to unload the 20 games I bought in the partnership.

BEAUTIFUL THING!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Faber, TTH...I'll take a Surly on opening day...;-)

YES!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

10-year EXTENSION!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

"Pat Neshek's health?"

Neshek says he is ready to roll.

The best news is that Liriano may well be back to his 2006 form (although we went through all that last year at this time).

i wonder if i will be able to afford Season tix for the next 10 years. lol

Buster Olney reporting that a deal is not been agreed upon. AHHHHHHHHHHH.

Yep....DVS2008...just read that too...not worried yet, just probably needs some clarification.

Heyman said the same thing too on Twitter...he says 7-8 for $150-$180.

Joe C. says inside sources are denying WCCO reort:

"For Twins fans anxiously awaiting news of a contract extension for Joe Mauer, there is growing speculation that a deal is close.

But the wait continues.

Two people familiar with the negotiations denied a report by WCCO-TV that the sides have reached preliminary agreement on a 10-year contract."

Often times, denials like that mean nothing. It's like the owner giving the coach a "vote of confidence." No one believes it. The Vikes denied they were after Favre for a while too.

Does anyone know what they are doing to the outside of the twins pro shop?...check it out on webcam 1

Looks to me like they're making snow. [shrug]

Go back to Rick's previous thread "Signs and Portents" and look at my post from Friday.

My source was right.

Reusse on Garage Logic speculated that a couple of family members have been talking, and that Rosen ran with the story. My sense was Reusse had heard the same chat, but wants more confirmation before running with the details. Patrick guessed Wed or Thurs for an announcement (if there is to be one), after Joe is back from doing some work in LA on the MLB 10 video game. Rosen better hope that is true -- though in today's reporting world being first gets more points than being right.

My own speculation, given the rumors above, is there is general agreement on the per-year rate and that it will be a long-term contact, but they are playing between a longer contract with less incentives, vs. a slightly shorter contract with more incentives. I'm also sure they are arguing about the value of the no-trade clause, since the Twins hate giving those out (though of course they will in this case...they just have to determine it's structure and value).

And, I'm sure Joe's agent is asking for all sorts of special clauses and such (good old Joe would never ask, of course....just those evil agents). I wouldn't be surprised if they give Joe a point or two of the club if he stays the whole term of the contract, or something like that. What would be better than re-signing Mauer in 2020 to final 2 year deal and announcing he has an ownership percentage -- a small one of course. I think he means that much as the face of the club. More than Kirby. More than Killebrew.

We can argue later if a 10 year deal for a catcher with an injury history is wise or not, if we should be putting 35% of our payroll into two players, and so on.

Incidentally Faber - I wasn't going to give the Mauer/Rockies rumor or whatever the hell it was, another look. That was probably the stupidest thing I've seen on this blog in a LONG time.

Check that Luke, it was one of the funniest things on this blog in a long time...

I did laugh at that one when i read it.

Couple pics from MLB The Show 10 (click name)

And the other one(click name)

I would like to think that this site had a lot to due with them getting Target Field done in the game. I sent them numerous links and photos from the site and the encouraged many more. So thank you everyone for your help here, not sure if they used any, but like I said, I would like to think they did.

Not seeing the limestone on that 2nd pic is disappointing

Not to mention Punto's enormous ass. They didn't do him any favors.

A good luke joke never gets old.

Here is a nice video from WCCO from a recent tour. The video is on the right side of the page. Sorry guys, I don't know how to directly link just the video. The page web page also has an Interview of Gardy in his new digs.

The funnier joke Margaret was your namesakes run as Prime Minister of England. Now, that was a joke...

The lights are on this morning.

also this morning the shaking hands sign was flashing with strobe lights. as my bus went past, i couldn't tell if the hands were shaking or not but it looks like it will be quite the show for homeruns!

also some lighting on the wind veil and topiary bats that I hadn't seen before, barely noticeable in the 7am webcam shot but you can see them.

Perhaps they are lighting up the place in anticipation of the signing of the Joe Mauer contract extension in the near future?

I hope that's a joke, Mike. Pretty sick of the Mauer Frenzy already. Can we calm down until something is actually announced? And quit calling him "Joe" like he's a drinking buddy? No news is no news.

I agree, lets stop refering to mauer as if he is God(please no baby jesus jokes here) I think everybody here knows he will sign with the twins and for a nice chunk of change.. all this hype is doing is putting the Twins in a corner and driving up his price... the Twins know they have to sign him, and have to pay big time..but remember it not like we are adding a new player here to help we have had mauer for a long time and hes great but he will bring nothing new to the team in the next 10 years (omg thats not true i hope)...

now dont get your panties in a bunch cuz im not praying to your man crush but lets just chill out, "turn on the lights at TF for him" like Keyshawn Johnson says on the fox pre game on sundays "COME ON MAN!!!!!!!!!"

I love when the enthusiasm cops come out and start pissing in people's cheerios. Hilarious. Preaching rational thought on a blog about a ballpark where people sit and post all day long seems like an excercize in futility to me.

Mazaratirick, you can't possibly be serious about the growing excitement about him signing and the recent hype around him driving his price up, can you? I mean, I think his price is pretty well set at this point. Not much is going to drive it up any more, short of him hitting the open market.

And let people be excited. The temperature is in the teens outside and many of us had a monstrous commute through snow and traffic. Let us enjoy some baseball talk that doesn't revolve around which lights are being turned on at the ballpark or what the concession signs look like.

Since we can't talk about the Mauer signing or the lights at Target field, I do have something up a totally different avenue. I was not at any of the final games at the metrodome(regular season, 163 or post season), however I do remember seeing something about homeplate being dug up. What did they do with it? I would guess that Target field gets a band spanking new home plate. So, the old home plate just gets added to the collection?

The real reason I bring this up, at Twinsfest I was surprised to see the kids standing at home plate during the home run derby. Did they install a new home plate just for twinsfest? I would guess that the dome will still host some college games this spring and will need a home plate for those games. Like any other bases, it takes some wear and tear and would need to be replaced every few years. I'm sure we have some readers with some knowledge on this topic.

I hope Mr. Mauer (is that an acceptable designation?) absolutely brings nothing new to the Twins for the next 10 years. If we are stuck with him batting .365, only getting 28 home runs per year, and a mere 1.031 OPS, well damnit I'll just have to suck it up and take it. I guess that is the price I'll pay for being excited about having him around.

I know that is not what you meant, Maz :).

It looks like the wind veil scaffolding over hanging the parking lot is finally coming down.

"Click for the article which contains the video."

I re-read the piece, having forgotten what a great piece it is ---

"But the Metrodome, by virtue of being nothing like a baseball place at all, has made things worse. It has actively encouraged fans to come to a game but not watch it. And it has encouraged the purists to stay away. It has invited in those who would not come for a game unless the conditions are always perfect.

So the most beautiful thing about this moment? That's all about to change dramatically. From what I've seen, Target Field has the potential to breathe all of that life back into the fan base -- primarily because it is so focused on the game itself. Distractions, in the design at least, are kept to a bare minimum. You will want to sit on the edge of your seat and watch baseball."

Then, I started to wonder if maybe, just maybe, the Twins have overbuilt TF. We may have to wait a year or two to find out but there are a hell of a lot of folks who go to a baseball park to watch a baseball game - to, as Rick puts it, focus on the game itself. Maybe the guys in charge of cooking the Murray's sandwiches and polishing the bar in the Legends/Champions Clubs will, at some point, wind up standing around with their collective thumbs up their collective asses while people walk right past on their way to watch a beautiful game being played in a beautiful park. Will we return to "Once upon a time?"

Wow,

who the hell said we cant talk about mauer? as you are saying right now i just gave my OPINION!! folks here must understand that if you can dish it out(Moda you sure can dish it out on here) you need to be able to take it...all im saying is he will be a twin for a long time and be paid very well.. and like Linc said (without trying to be a asshole) that Mauers numbers are the best so he wont nor shall he be expected to improve on them..we get to keep what we already had and its great but its not like they are signing top notch free agent for 3rd base or anything... i guess i just always expected them to extend him anyway. i would be more than shocked if they dont so it is just not that big of news to me.

yes , i do think its silly that they would turn on the lights and have a wind vail show for him when he gets a contract because he is ONE player on a WHOLE team... so its just my OPINION...

sometimes i thing guys troll bolgs waiting to find somthing to jump on and rip into...

and yes do you think if Joe Mauer was not the hometown kid that the twins would feel obligated to pay him whatever he wants???? so i am serious about that... he is as good at catching/hitting as johan was at pitching, THE BEST! and they let him go for some trash so they did not have to pay him...if you dont agree with me thats fine its just my OPINION

I can't wait for warm weather now! My STH guy said there would be tours before the park opened for STH. Anybody else heard anything about this?

I think people just aren't getting the sarcasm people put in their posts, it doesn't translate well in written form. OF COURSE Mike was kidding about the lights and wind veil in celebration of a new contract! Am I the only one who instantly knew he was joking?

Folks need to keep one thing in mind - read very carefully:

THE TWINS DO NOT, REPEAT, DO NOT "HAVE" TO RESIGN MAUER.

Where does information to the contrary come from? Local boy - yes. Wildly popular player - yes. A good idea PR-wise for the fan base - yes. Etched in stone - NO! Joe Mauer is a big boy and can go wherever he wants. AND, there is a tremendous amount of pressure on him (player's union, etc.) to at least test what the market will bear. I would like to see him retire in a Twins uniform and think that will happen. I want some little kid one day to say to me "Wow, did you really get to watch Joe Mauer play ball" - but reality speaks for itself.

Ben-

You must be naive if you think the Twins wouldn't suffer a catostophic PR mess if they fail to ink Mauer. One of the reasons they stated for building this new park was so they can spend more money on putting a good product on the field. They simply can't let one of the top 5 players in all of baseball, and who also happens to be a home-town kid, leave town. Everyone knows that: the Twins, the fans, the media and yes, even Joe, himself. He's got all the leverage right now....but my bet is that he will give up a few million per season to stay home because this is where he wants to be.

I'm confident the deal will get done sometime between now and when pitchers and catchers report to Ft Meyers. My guess is a contract somewhere between 6-8 years in length and between $22-$25 million per season.

I'm not one to nitpick, but if you're the beat writer of the Twins, writing about Target Field, wouldn't you get Puckett's number right? That seems like a glaring error.

Thanks Faber! I was by no means trying to start a controversy over the Mauer status...

It really does make you wonder why they would have the lights on during the early morning hours on an early February morning. The "burn in" process of the lighting system was completed last fall along with the testing and approval by MLB officials. Not that it matters to me, I just find it a little out of the ordinary.

Anyone hear what spring training games will be televised? What about the exhibition games? I would hope one (or both) of those games would be televised just to allow FS North and the Qwest Twins Live pre-game to set up their cameras and adjust to the new ballpark settings.

I know DSP said most, if not, all games televised on FS North will be in HD.

As high as the Twins TV ratings have been in recent years, there is no excuse not to televise them in HD, the expense of HD is definitely offset by the TV ratings and advertising revenues. As far as that MY29 goes, I hope the Twins land on channel 9 or channel 4 as their next over-the-air station when the current MY29 deal ends. Just don't like the quality of MY29 on those Sunday games.

I just cannot wait to see that limestone backstop on television for the first time, it is going to be surreal...No more blue padded wall!!

This jumped out at me from the Ballpark Digest piece and I hope Fox Sports North read it and took it to heart:

"Really, the centerpiece of the signage is the 57’-by-102’ full high-definition scoreboard from South Dakota-based Daktronics, surrounded by ad spots. It’s not the largest such scoreboard in the majors, but the scale of the ballpark doesn’t necessarily lend itself to a gigantic scoreboard. The ballpark was wired with high def in mind: everything related to signage, including video, is high def. Perhaps Fox Sports North can be persuaded to broadcast Twins games in true high-def instead of the wussy 720p they use for most local telecasts."

I'd watch a Twins game in "fuzzy cinemax" definition right now. (I know that's not funny, but I have cabin fever right now up at Lake of the Woods).

---Linc furrows his brow and attempts to read very carefully---

I have to conclude Ben is correct! I believe Major League Baseball will continue to exist regardless of where Mr. Mauer plays, or even if he decides to quit altogether. I believe the Twins will play in Minnesota at least through the 2039 season. I further believe that the impending 2012 toppling of the IDS Center, which will crash into and topple the Multifoods tower (hooray!), but then causing an unfortunate chain reaction of building collapses resulting in ramp B ending up in right field of Target Field, forcing the Twins to play at Midway Stadium as the Metrodome will have been raised the month before for the building of Farve Field....this all will happen regardless of Mr. Mauer's choices.

I'm not sure how ignoring Mr. Mauer's choice set due to the inevitability of the single dimension of a future that we will realize out of many possible dimensions is more fun for me as a fan, but I can't argue with the premise.

Fred ---

Please point out to me where I wrote (or indicated I thought that) "the Twins wouldn't suffer a catostophic (sic) PR mess if they fail to ink Mauer." My point, since you apparently need help with it, is that a great many posters, here and elsewhere, are stating flat out that Mauer WILL be or HAS to be signed by the Twins. Not so. Period. PR disaster if not --- yes, definitely (see Carew, Rod). But, the premises are invalid and that leads to a fallacious conclusion. We think we know what is going on in Mauer's mind or the Twins' front office but we do not. It is possible, although I think it unlikely, that Mauer, in concert with his agent, has put forth "demands" (player signing-wise, contract-wise, competitive-wise, or otherwise) that the Twins are quite simply unwilling or unable to handle. If Mauer simply wanted to remain a local boy Twin the deal would already be done. Think about it.

LOL Rick.

Ben-

Obviously, we all understand there is an infinitesimal chance that Mauer won't sign. However unlikely that will be, the Twins know that they can't (nor won't) allow Mauer to leave under any circumstance. Money talks, B.S. walks, and the Twins know they HAVE to sign him to a long term deal. It would cheaper for them, in the long run, to sign him for what he wants, then to let him walk away and lose all the fan support because of it.

Fred ---

I'm sure both the Twins and Mauer are well aware of the overall situation, and any dope can figure out that Mauer has the upper hand leverage-wise. I'm merely pointing that there is a choke point somewhere - there always is. It's one of those death and taxes things.

wow..the plaza looks beautiful right now

For those of you with MLB network. The Caribbean baseball series started today. 4 teams play a double round robin. Liriano will be pitching at least one of the games for the Dominican team. Anyone know the day and time of his start?

Apparently he feels he is back to his old self.

"I've got my confidence back," Liriano said. "This winter is the best I've felt."

Liriano finished off his tremendous run in winter ball as the winning pitcher for Leones del Escogido in the Domincan Winter League championship game on Thursday night. He pitched five scoreless innings, striking out 10 while allowing one hit, to defeat Gigantes del Cibao -- the club of his current Twins teammate, Alexi Casilla.

If you haven't checked it out, take a look at the Mexican uniforms. They but NASCAR to shame with all of the endorsements.

Fred, I'd like to see B.S. walk.

Celebration sign is lit up. Wish that the webcam 2 was behind home plate...also, the gate directional signage has lights - didn't know that.

Walked by TF tonight. Snapped some shots quick. Frankly I was a wuss tonight and was cold otherwise there would have been more. So ladies and gentlemen, for your viewing pleasure....Click my name for a link to the plaza lit at night (INCLUDING a lit Wind Veil).

Oh and sorry, no lit celebration sign images.

I got goosebumps from that lit-up veil picture!

trosy -- It's Wednesday. There's no signed contract made public. I'll take a Schell's Dark, please.

I'm more interested in Hudson right now than Mauer. Guy is supposed to make a decision this week, but B.S. is supposedly working on Mauer. I have a pretty good source that says the Twins are going to land Hudson, but I just don't want to get my hopes up. Anybody heard anything? Guy would really make our team better.

Hudson would be a "real" addition. Hardy has barely been MLB quality the last two years, meaning Punto might end up at short. The Twins could show their fanbase they really are going to be "competitive" by signing this guy now.

I don't know how you say "the last 2 years" for Hardy, seeing as he hit .283 with 24 dingers and 74 RBI's in 2008 at short stop. Those are pretty good numbers.

TTH - Just wait on that, but I will gladly serve you up a shells dark if I am way off on my info.

Alright, so I was thinking about this last night. I have a sneaking suspicion that a contract is already done, they are just not releasing the info right now. My thought is that maybe they are trying to get another deal or two done before the announce the Mauer extension. ie: Hudson, or trade of Perkins etc. Put the focus on the Mauer deal so they can try to get some other things done with out the media following that. Kinda like a decoy. I am probably way off on this, but it was just a thought.

According to Sid this morning on 830 WCCO, he said the Twins would have no interest in Orlando Hutchinson. Yes, he said Hutchinson.

I also believe that when Spring Training opens, Sid will mistakenly spend the first day at Tinker Field.

Or a Schell's Pilsner

Sid too far gone to be making statements like that. I wonder where he fabricates this stuff.

I just find it funny how so many media outlets are claiming that the WCCO report is false of Mauer signing a 10-year deal.

Rosen NEVER said that Mauer signed a 10 year deal. He simply said a source told him that the Twins and Mauer have agreed in principal to the basic framework of a 10-year deal, but no contract was signed and details are still being worked out as far as incentives, etc. He emphasized a contract was NOT signed and no deal was done, so its funny how the other media outlets continue to claim his report was wrong when he never said a contract was signed in the first place...gotta love the media.

Rick

On the video of Home plate being dug up after game 163, Gardy digs something out that was under the plate. While watching on T.V. it looked like a Dollar bill (which tore in half when stretched). Even though there was video camaras filming him doing this, I haven't seen any film or heard any media talk about what the significance of that was. Do you have any more (dirt...pun intended)info on this?

Good article why Hudson should come to the Twins...

So can I assume no one here has any faith in Casilla manning 2nd base?

HH16- I have faith in Casilla, but Hudson would be a much better player overall to fill the position.

Well, I guess the Twins HAVE to sign Hudson.

From what I'm reading, Hudson would be a Twin today if BS would give him $4 mil guaranteed....seems reasonable to me for a guy who can be a staple in the 2nd spot, has a good OBP% and is a switch hitter....

Sid also announced that the Pohlads were giving $3.5M to the U to rebuild Siebert Field, though there has been no mention of that from the U to date. Would be sweet, especially since--according to one of the Gophers at Twinsfest--the Gophers are playing their entire home season at the Metrodome "to send a message."

Ugh...even with a falling-down grandstand, Siebert is a great place to see a ballgame. The player even said that they still consider the playing surface one of the best in the Big Ten.

good lord maxarati, you are sure one easy one to spin up aren't ya? Holy cats man take a tranquilizer or four.

Pohlad's paying for a new baseball stadium for the Gophers was announced months ago.

Hardy was sent down to the minors last year in August. His numbers were awful. Hopefully a new team and competition will motivate him to get back to MLB form.

That said, Hudson would take the pressure off the rest of the infield to hit well.

Context: Little Nicky Punto is making 4M this season. O-Dawg at or around 4M is an absolute no brainer. A switch hitter who plays Gold Glove defense and able to break up all the Left handed hitters in the lineup. I hope Mauer is holding out for specific demands the Twins must maintain as far as roster structure during his tenure. Make the Pohlads put the money back into the baseball team or fear losing their most valuable asset to Free Agency. I am glad he is not laying over and accepting whatever Jim Pohlad throws at him. No player in the history of baseball has ever been in a better negotiating position. Force the Twins hand and make sure they are guaranteed (in writing) to maintain/improve a competitive team around Joe Mauer in the next 8-10 years.

I agree with much of what you say, in principle, but there is no way they (the Twins) are going to make him (Mauer) King with a 10 year reign and/or allow him to govern by executive fiat.

Ben-

You make it sound as if the Twins would even entertain the possibility of not signing him. Do you understand the implications of such a move? BS would be tarred and feathered and run out of town. Not re-signing Joe Maurer would be "Mother of All Disasters" for this franchise and would pretty much kill a large segment of fan support for this franchise who were teetering anyways after watching the team let Hunter go and getting peanuts in return for Santana.

Mauer IS essentially "governing by executive fiat". The Twins organization knows how important he is to both the team and the fanbase and if demanded 10 years and $275 million, I'm pretty sure they would pay it, in the end. They have NO choice.

If the Twins don't re-sign Mauer, it will be more difficult to get Timberwolves tickets than it would be tickets for the Twins. And we all know that the Wolves are essentially GIVING away tickets.

...but in the end, I think Mauer will be reasonable in his demands, and the contract won't be for 10 years......

I can't tell very clearly on webcam 1, but do I see scaffolding around the Pro Shop at the moment? What's going on there? "Exterior decorating"?

Well if the Twins have to pay whatever it takes to keep Mauer, there will than be those fans who complain that the Twins are using 25% (give or take) of their entire payroll on just one player and are "too cheap" to sign other players.

Some people think the Twins have no limits on payroll due to the personal wealth of the Pohlads along with the new stadium. The reality is, the Twins still have to budget within their means and their business model. You need to compare the Twins to other similar mid-sized markets such as Seattle, Cleveland, St. Louis, Detroit, Colorado and Arizona as it relates to payroll and not compare them to Boston, New York, Chicago and Los Angeles.

Mike-

I'm not comparing the Twins to the Yankees, Red Sox and Angels...what I'm saying is that we have one of the top 5 players in baseball, and oh yeah, he's a local boy. If we can't re-sign him due to a "business model", then let's just pack it in right now. I don't think the Twins need to go out and purchase the top talent in the league to compete like those other big market franchises do, but we DO have to keep our core of good players together if we ever want to get over the hump and challenge for another World Series.

It's only speculation on my part, but my guess is that last post-season may have panned out a bit differently had Hunter still been on the squad.

Natron - that is scaffolding. They are probably putting the signage up for the new proshop. Is this the pro shop that is the Majestic one?

I wasn't directly referring to you Fred, I was just saying there will be a group of fans that complains regardless of what the Twins do.

Mauer is to the Twins what Jeter is to the Yankees and Manning is to the Colts...only thing Mauer is missing is that World Series ring.

I agree with max and fred...and it basiclly just confirms my opinion... it will get done...it MUST get done or there will be a empty TF in 2012

trosy29 - Yes, that is the Majestic one. The Pioneer Press called it the "Majestic Clubhouse" in a recent article.

Natron and trosy;
From our trip by TF last night...that is scaffolding but what it is being used for wasn't apparent at the time. There was no additional signage going up that I could see from the sidewalk. That doesn't mean there isn't going to be, we just couldn't see it. No doubt they were pre drilling holes and such before putting up the signs themselves. And as far as I understand the majestic store was the one going in the lower levels of the admin portion out in LF. Also, there was quite a bit of materials in the pro shop there (shelving and such) some in boxes while some parts were assembled.

My mistake, Jeff is right. Sorry for the double post.

Jared - I believe the all glass store that is in the Twins administration building is the New Era store.

To all you "ninjas" out there... where can you walk to at this point? Can you get onto the plaza and touch the gates or what?

Thanks.

If anyone is interested, it seems as though they will be doing more testing of the Target Plaza lights and the celebration sign lights tonight up until 10 pm. Who knows how much testing will actually be done tonight, but it could be a good photo opportunity.

From the Ballpark Authority -

This Update is the 125rd in a series of informational alerts to let you know about the construction going on related to the Twins Ballpark that could affect traveling (or living or working) by the site.

Tuesday (2/2)

The electrical contractor will check the operation of the celebration sign and plaza lighting using the programming/controls in the scoreboard room. (This is much more complicated than programming your DVR). The sports lighting will get turned on for approximately 30 minutes between 8:00 and 9:00 p.m. The contractor will finish around 10:00 p.m. Wednesday (2/3)

The contractor will review the architectural lighting throughout the building. This work will include adjusting the aim of fixtures. Work will end around 9:00 or 10:00 p.m.

Sounds like a perfect opportunity for some ninjas tonight to get some photos of the celbration sign lit up...I wonder if you can see the celbration sign from the promenade through the "non-numbered gate" near the circulation building?

There are parallels here to Rod Carew - were you guys even born yet? If you were "of age" and had more than a passing interest in Twins baseball you must remember the firestorm that the Twins went through (and survived) when they cut Carew loose. Like Mauer, Carew was a god in these parts. Like Mauer, Carew was upset that the team was lackadaisical when it came to retaining talent and maintaining a competitive posture. I agree with much that is being written here and AM NOT trying to be contrary just for the hell of it. The fact of the matter is that the Twins have parameters they must address and it is possible, however unlikely, that Mauer could be placing himself outside of that fence. Earlier I mentioned the player's union for instance - that situation is a very real issue which Mauer can not ignore - he is pressured to accept no less than maximum value so that the next guy can say "here's what Mauer got" ("here's what Mauer could have, or should have" does not count). I think it likely that a framework is, indeed, in place - mainly because I do no not think Rosen was just wasting oxygen. And my guess is that competitiveness is an issue being seriously discussed. But the notion that Mauer can or will "Force the Twins hand and make sure they are guaranteed (in writing) to maintain/improve a competitive team around Joe Mauer in the next 8-10 years." is way over the edge. "In writing"!!!!! Why not get real here? The most likely thing, in my opinion, is that Mauer (more likely his agent - let's not forget him) is negotiating some variation of an "escape clause" in concert with whatever "no trade" clauses are being discussed. But, writing a contract containing language relating to overall team success and how that would impact a given player's employment would be an incredibly complicated thing to do. Maybe that's what's holding things up?

Rick, I'm curious about your comments concerning the Central Corridor alignment. The U's "Northern Alignment" was DOA, and for good reason. It doesn't make sense to route around a central destination at more cost resulting in fewer riders. Not to mention the fact that that alignment would have required the destruction of section 8 housing (a big federal no-no) and would have bypassed a very transit-dependent West Bank community.

I, for one, am thrilled with the proposed Washington Ave. mall. It was in Cass Gilbert's original campus plan, after all.

What we should have is some kind of streetcar running along University Ave' from Columbia Heights (perhaps around 44th Ave. N. or 49th Ave. N.) to Washington Ave. coupled with a Central Ave. line to intersect with LRT downtown. Of course, the funding for that is a long way off unless something at the state and federal level changes. The Obama administration's change to the evaluation criteria is a big positive step in the right direction.

Yep Jeff, I got them confused.

As late as last night you can pretty much walk all the way around the park. You can't yet go onto the plaza or up to the building on the 7th street side. The promenade and 5th street sides are pretty well wide open. As for seeing the celebration sign, it was on when we walked around the park yesterday and we had a hard time seeing much inside the park. The club level obstructs much of the view. There may be some nooks we didn't encounter but i think most views of the celebration sign are obstructed from the outside. I was hoping the plaza lights would be on again tonight so I could setup some better shots than I was able to last night and potentially get a couple shots of the topiaries lit as well. They just turned off when we arrived to the park last night. Don't be afraid to say hi if you see me and the little lady around the park tonight.

Holy cow, how would you determine a metric to measure steps toward competitivenes in a Mauer contract? What Billy Smith or others might see as a move toward a more competitive team may differ vastly from Mauer's idea of a positive move. You'd be dealing with different people's subjective ideas of what would constitute a positive roster move or signing.
Mauer's stats are at least a quantifiable element in dealing with contract incentives and so forth, but how in the world would you write a contract that gives Mauer an out if the Twins fail to make strides toward a championship?
For example, there are a lot of Punto bashers on this page, and yet Gardy thinks the world of the guy. Who's to conclusively say that resigning Punto, for example, is a step in the right direction or not? how do you make these determinations within the framework of Mauer's contract?

It doesn't seem possible to me that such wording or agreements can be put into mauer's contract.

Was the Harmon Killabrew plaque from the Hall of Fame on display somewhere at Twins Fest? I was at the Hall of Fame last Saturday and the only plaque not on display was Killabrew's. They had a basicaly a printed reproduction of it in it's place. His was the one I was most looking forward to seeing since I got to meet him several months ago on a flight to DesMoines several months ago that I was working on. He likes tomato juice with no ice. I got an autograph and asked if he had a chance to see Target Field. At that time he had not.

huh, I'll keep that in mind next time I see Harmon, Roger! Thanks!

The plaque was right between the 2 world championship trophies at Twinsfest.

Orlando Hudson would be a HUGE addition for the Twins. He would fill not just second base, but a major weakness for the team as well -- the #2 spot in the lineup.

ESPN's Buster Olney and the Star Tribune's Joe Christensen both say the Twins have interest. Olney even used the word "serious". It sounds like he isn't happy with the Nationals offer of 1-year and $3-4 million.

I think the Twins can beat that, and if they do, it'll be a very, very solid off-season.

An awesome new picture from MLB '10: The Show showing off Target Field.

...right before a Baker HR...

BTW, Valencia is playing on MLB channel. He's 1-3, reached on an error.

Wrong hat Baker...

Do the Twins wear the "m" hats with those uniforms? I don't remember...

For some of you, this may be like getting a peek up a hot girl's skirt but not getting to completely see the goods.

This is the best view I could find of the LIT Celebration Sign from outside of the stadium.

By the way, if you walk along the promenade, you can walk up to the building and look right into Hrbeks Bar. Not much in there right now but it pretty much looks like all they have to do is move in things like tables and chairs and its ready to go.

oooooh

That. Sign. Is. Awesome.

Sry for the double post, but to add a bit. My main mission was to get more shots of the plaza. Of all the luck, the lights were on in the webcam when we left my apartment. We could see they were on when we went under the stadium on 394 into downtown. When we park, walk and finally get to the plaza, off. Lol. What we did see on the drive in, the wind blowing the panels, all lit with the LED's, it looked great.

I see the ripples in the river aren't lit. do you suppose they flash on and off to create a flowing water sense to the sign while the players are shaking hands? That might be a nice touch if that were the case.

It's got that old school flair to it...definitely going to be the center piece in the outfield!

I was looking at the renderings for the marlins' new ballpark. When the roof is in the closed position, the place reminds me of a George Foreman grill.

I can't stand the Marlin's new park! Just imagine we would have ended up with some monstrosity like that for a ballpark. Unfortunately we'll probably end up with one like that for the Vikings....YUCK!

There wasn't any motion to the sign while i was shooting. Since the light for the water is pretty dim if not lit, I think we can safely assume that the flowing water is part of the "moving" aspect of the sign. However, my original photos do make it appear that they are somewhat lit all the time. Although this could just be light bouncing from the other lights on the sign, but I doubt that is the answer and would like to think its the former of my options.;) Oh and i would like to think too that the Target Field Sign underneath the celebration sign would be eventually lit as well.

Either way, it will look great in center field and the light show after a home run has the potential to be really cool.

Rick- Just out of curiosity, when/how did the killebrewfield domain come about?

Jared, that's a super awesome sneak peek pick. Love it.

That true "Sneak Peek" gave me chills. How hot is that going to be?!

Jared - Thanks for the sneak peak!!

Yes Jared, thanks again for ruining another one of the Twins a-ha moments for us! Keep up the good work! Sneak in there and get me a picture of the shitters!

Has anyone heard from their rep when season tickets will be printed/shipped?

I got season tickets at Twinsfest, at the time they said I would get the tickets in early March.

LOL Winona...I have a Foreman Grill, and I never even made that connection, but you are very right!
Double LOL Kevin, thinking about the one we were supposed to build on the site of what is now the new Guthrie, I'm glad we ended up with TF.

Rick, I think you run a great ballpark blog and I've been following it for years, but I consistently disagree with some of these things you are saying about central corridor. It is an area of great interest to me and I've done quite a bit of research on it. You simply do not route a light rail line down a freight corridor. People do not walk down freight corridors or run businesses along freight corridors. The idea of light rail is to go where people live, work, and play. The idea of the central corridor is to connect one of the most densely populated parts of our state by rail, not to make them have to take a bus a half mile to a mile north to some desolate stop along a freight line to catch a light rail train. That simply makes zero sense.

I will not only get photos but I will give a full review. I will make sure to cover topics such as sink water temp, tp and paper towel quality and average available area for a person with a wider stance (for all those toe tappers out there.)

So, I had a Target Field dream last night. I was with a group getting a sneak peek at the stadium (even though there was a game going on, go figure). I immediately checked out sight lines from those right field bleachers near the foul pole that we think will be blocked from center and left field views. In my dream, I was happy to report that the views were good and couldn't wait to get home and post a report on this blog.

God, I'm pretty pathetic...

I think a lot of people have a misconception of the purpose behind the Central Corridor. It is not really to move people from DT Saint Paul to DT Minneapolis (though you can certainly use it that way it would still be faster to take an express bus). It's to move people within the corridor - effectively replacing the 50 bus which has been running at full capacity for some time now - and spur development in a long-neglected area. Think moving students to and from the U, Frogtown workers to and from jobs in the downtowns, etc.

Faber,
Don't feel bad, I had that same exact dream last night. Field of Dreams

I cannot see Jareds pics. Anyone else have this problem?? The suspense is killing me!!!

J2k - put your email available in a post and I will try to email it to you...

@brandon t the promenade is open.

Trosy/Jeff,

The glass store on the plaza is called Twins City. It's the main store, but not the "on-field store" that Majestic and New Era are sharing. The on field will be in the left field corner with glass walls on the lower level below the administration building. We were in there a couple weeks ago and it's going to be a cool space!

Thanks Trosy29.
I owe you a beer next summer!!

I was going to mention also, the scaffolding on the plaza, we noticed last night that they had a bunch of the soffit (i think that is what it is called) ripped out and they were doing some work inside there. I couldn't really tell what it was though. Could only really see the gaping hole.

It will be interesting to see the celebration sign in "motion": the waves moving, the hands shaking, the bridge collapsing...

TTH - that's just wrong...but funny...

Rick

Some quick responses, Do you or anyone else know the answer to my question on post #111 ??

Thanks again for a GREAT site!! (67 day's to go!!)

Thank's Rick, Hopefully someone will have an answer. ( I won't loose sleep over it...but it will bugg me, LOL ;=D

Damn that's going to be a hell of a view with the bats, windscreen, celebration sign, and skyline all lit up at night! Cannot wait. I'm starting to become a little obsessed. I found myself carving a sculpture of Target Field in my mashed potatoes last night. "That's it, I'm going to clown college!"

"Clown College....you can't eat that"

J2k - Did the email work?

So I was thinking, that all of us that post often here need to meet up at a game sometime and have a beer a shoot the shit for awhile. Maybe Hrbeks or something. Anyone wanna grab the bull by the horns and set something up?

Got it Trosy29. Thanks much!
I got a 20 game pack sec 203 so I'm down with your idea any time!

I'm glad the ads at TF are going to be more subtle than at most ballparks in the majors. I wonder when we will see the ads go up around the scoreboard, above the grandstand in rc, etc...What companies do you think will advertise in these areas?

This is my first post-love the site and have followed it every day for almost 2 years. One question I had which I havent seen brought up if any of you insiders would know answer to or know who to ask? UNtil maybe 3 years ago Target Center used to have red and blue neon on outside back wall of the stadium which would be able to be seen from the ballpark facing the plaza and make a nice backdrop especially since they happen to be the Twins colors. They used to be on every night, then for awhile just event nights and I think past 2 years not at all. Does anyone know if they were ripped down like the neon display in the lobby or just turned off? I think that would be great if they could turn them on again for Twins night games. I dont have the connections you guys have-could someone look into this or direct me who to contact? Thanks-again awesome site!

Can you imagine the arguments??? ha

Luke,

Double LOL? wtf

Twins are scheduled for the max of 9 Fox Saturday games this year!!!

My guess is that the ads will start appearing when it warms up in March around the same time they remove the winter covering from the field. I am sure they will want them up before the Minnesota Gophers game on March 27, if not, they will have them up the following week in time for the exhibition games.

We already know 3 of the 4 "founding partners" which are US Bank, Best Buy, and Treasure Island. My money on the 4th one is Pepsi. If not Pepsi, I would say Dairy Queen for the 4th and final spot around the main scoreboard. Pepsi has signed an agreement with the Twins that has yet-to-be announced for some reason. We all know Dairy Queen is a big sponsor as well.

Aside from Pepsi and Dairy Queen, the only others I can think of are Cambria, Delta Airlines, Stanley, Land O'Lakes and possibly Budweiser (even though they already have their signage on the roof deck, they might have another sign on the outfield walls).

The first exhibition game is just EIGHT weeks from tomorrow!

Excellent Foxnews article from yesterday:

[i]Imagine Joe Mauer returning to Minneapolis-St. Paul if he left for Boston, New York or some other larger market.

I can't.

And I bet Mauer can't, either.

Mauer will stay with the Twins. Mauer always was going to stay with the Twins. Any other outcome is simply unthinkable -- for the team, yes, but for the player, too.

Mauer is Cal Ripken in Baltimore, Tony Gwynn in San Diego – a native son so strongly identified with his hometown team, his image would be ruined if he went anywhere else.

Imagine Mauer stepping to the plate in a Yankees or Red Sox uniform at Target Field in 2011.

Imagine him facing his good Midwestern neighbors after bolting for, say, an extra $50 million.

Imagine him enduring a generation of kids in the Twins Cities howling, "Say it ain't so, Joe" – and much worse.

Some will say the Twins need Mauer more than Mauer needs the Twins, and to an extent that is true. If the Twins lose Mauer, they should be contracted – for real this time – or better yet, condemned.

Yet, it's not unusual for sports teams to part with legends, particularly in the age of free agency. Heck, even in the so-called good old days, the Giants lost Willie Mays, the Colts lost Johnny Unitas, the Red Wings lost Gordie Howe – when he came out of retirement to leave their front office for another league.

Dumb as the Twins would be for losing Mauer, they would remain part of one of America's most lucrative monopolies. Mauer, meanwhile, would reach another level of stardom – and wealth – if he signed some ridiculous contract with the Red Sox or Yankees.

He just would not be regarded as highly.

As Ripken and Gwynn can attest, there is a certain value to staying with the hometown team, even for less money. Yes, the demands of friends, family and neighbors on such players are greater, even a source of occasional frustration. But Ripken, in particular, profited from staying in Baltimore. His participation in a "Like a Rock" campaign for Chevrolet was based not just on his consecutive-games streak, but his tried-and-true American virtues, not the least of which was loyalty.

Ripken's agent? Ron Shapiro, the same guy who represents Mauer – and who once represented Kirby Puckett, who spent his entire Hall of Fame career with the Twins.

Shapiro, the author of a book called "The Power of Nice," is sort of the anti-Scott Boras. He believes in win-win negotiations. If he sacrifices a few dollars to keep a player comfortable, so be it.

In Mauer's case, what kind of sacrifice are we even talking about? The difference between $200 million and $250 million?

Somehow, Mauer, the republic and even the players' union would survive.

Few players can relate to Mauer's unique position; many seek the best financial package, and free agency gives them the right to choose. Take Alex Rodriguez. He relishes being the game's highest-paid player. And he surely would have followed a much different career path if, as an amateur, he had not picked Boras over Shapiro.

It's difficult to argue that A-Rod made the wrong call; see his $252 million contract with the Rangers. But who knows? If A-Rod had chosen Shapiro, he might have stayed with the Mariners – not his hometown team, but his original one – and become the game's most revered player, with minimal drama.

Mauer does not crave money and status the way A-Rod does; he is wired more like Ripken and Gwynn. Those two Hall of Famers, however, combined to win one World Series in 41 seasons; Gwynn, in particular, suffered from playing for a low-revenue club.

Surely, Mauer harbors concerns that the Twins will be unable to sustain a contender if his salary is too high. For that reason, his deal is almost certain to include significant deferrals. The rest,

it's up to the Twins to figure out.

Baseball's economic system isn't perfect, and never will be. Still, some of the recent signings are encouraging: Felix Hernandez stayed in Seattle, Zack Greinke in Kansas City, Josh Johnson and Hanley Ramirez in Florida.

True, the Indians moved CC Sabathia and Cliff Lee in back-to-back seasons, the Blue Jays just traded Roy Halladay and the Padres' Adrian Gonzalez and Rays' Carl Crawford will be the next to go. But the Twins' signing of Mauer would be, without question, a positive development for the sport.

He's going to stay. He needs to stay.

About the last thing Joe Mauer wants is to be persona non grata in the only place he has ever known.[/i]

Rosenthal and Morosi say we have stepped up our pursuit of Hudson. Great news!

It's a 10 minute drive between downtown Mpls and St. Paul? I would challenge you at anytime to drive between Union Station and Target Field in 10 minutes. Even at 3:00am.

During the day I would bet it would take you almost 45 minutes to drive from Union Station to Downtown Mpls, park, and walk to a gate at Target field.

OG Jeff - I don't disagree with you about the main store being called Twins City, but from a recent article by the Pioneer Press, they labeled the main store as the Majestic Clubhouse. That is why I called it the Majestic Clubhouse. Click my name for Pioneer Press picture with caption.

According to the Twins pocket schedule, the "Pro Shop" along 7th street (near Gate 29) is labeled as as the "Majestic Twins Clubhouse Store"

Sounds like the Twins are going to land Orlando Hudson. Goodbye Alexi Casilla, hello decent two-hitter.

FANTASTIC NEWS!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! CLICK LINK!!!

This is actually more exciting right now than a Mauer extension. Punto - watch your ass for splinters on the bench...

Twins are scheduled for the max of 9 Fox Saturday games this year!!!

http://www.startribune.com/sports/twins/83559077.html?elr=KArksLckD8EQDUoaEyqyP4O:DW3ckUiD3aPc:_Yyc:aUac8HEaDiaMDCinchO7DU

My source, who is pretty solid, had been telling me all week it was going to get done. Can't believe it. Can't wait for this to be official, our roster is going to be so stacked.

This is great news... Lock him up, Twins!

Jeff, thanks for the link - I just confirmed the same with my source -you're right Trosy. Twins approached both Majestic and New Era about having their "own" store, but at first both were hesitant. Looks like the New Era area of the left field corner store is going to be called "the Cap Corner" and will have a giant cap near the entrance.

Span, Hudson, Mauer, Morneau, Kubel, Cuddyer, Hardy, Young, Harris

Damn. That is going to be a tough one for the opposition.

Thome off the bench with Punto as utility...

April 5th cannot come soon enough!!!

The only way this can get much better is if Washburn can get off his high horse and sign a deal.

God no on Washburn. I am just as happy because this closes the door on him. He is not an upgrade over anything we have, and we already are going to have to get creative with the 25 man roster. Please let this ODog signing become official...he was my favorite player last year not on the Twins.

No interest at all in Washburn DVS? What happens when Liriano implodes 3rd start of the season, I would think besides Pavano, Washburn could be somewhat of a Veteran Leader? He has some playoff experience too! I have forgotten about the 25 man roster though! I guess I will be happy with Orlando and Thome. Ok Scratch Washburn then, bring on April 5!

Somebody, somewhere, (I don't think I dreamed this but who knows?) said or wrote that one of the sticking points in the Mauer negotiations is how large a "piece" of the team Mauer will get. A % of team ownership, however token, would qualify as deferred payment and even make some sense (unless your name is Pohlad). Actors/entertainers have been doing that for decades.

Uh oh....Buster Olney reporting the Indians are still in play with regards to Hudson....

Indians? Even their Asian groundskeepers know "they're shitty."

Would the team keep Punto if Hudson is signed? He would be an excellent choice in a super utility role, but at 4M???

Uh oh....Buster Olney is reporting that the Indians are still very much in play with regards to Hudson....

"Buster Olney of ESPN.com reports that free agent second baseman Orlando Hudson is deciding between the Twins and Indians.
On pure speculation, you'd have to take this to mean that the Indians have offered a greater guarantee, something that could have some appeal to Hudson after what he went through with the Dodgers last season. It would be shocking if the Twins would give him the $6 million he covets, so they'll have to hope that the better chance to win makes the difference. Feb. 4 - 2:11 pm et
"

Here's a little roster break down if the Hudson contract works out. Going to have to stay busy FO, because Casilla and Perkins now would have to be moved. Anyone else heard that Neshek will start on the DL and then take Condrey's spot?

25 Man Roster

SP – Scott Baker
SP – Carl Pavano
SP – Nick Blackburn
SP – Kevin Slowey
SP – Francisco Liriano

C – Joe Mauer
1B – Justin Morneau
2B – Orlando Hudson
SS – JJ Hardy
3B – Brendan Harris
LF – Delmon Young
CF – Denard Span
RF – Michael Cuddyer
DH – Jason Kubel

Bullpen

Matt Guerrier
Jesse Crain
Clay Condrey
Jose Mijares
Jon Rauch
Joe Nathan
Brian Duensing

Bench – Jose Morales
Bench – Jim Thome
Bench – Nick Punto
Bench – Jason Pridie?

Where do I fit?
- Matt Tolbert – Options left probably means minors
- Alexi Casilla – Trade
- Glen Perkins – Trade probably, options left?
- Pat Neshek – probably going to start on the DL, then take Condrey’s spot when fully back

Keep Casilla since he's only 25. Pridie to minors or wherever. Punto could honestly play all three outfield positions. Remember he was the starting CF when Hunter was injured several years ago.

I like that idea too. I don't really want Pridie using up a bench spot, especially since Kubel will be taking starts in right and left from Delmon on days Thome DH's and in right when Cuddy is playing 1st to give Morneau a break. Let Punto grab a random game in center when need be and keep the switch hitting Casilla on the bench too. I think Perkins might have 1 option year left? Trade him anyway I say. Good problems to have!

TTH, I just spit my diet coke all over my monitor!

That was classic.

Perkins is a jerk and the Twins usually broom jerks.

Nick Punto is not a 4th OF. It's Pridie or someone else, but it has to be a real OF.

Same guy that has cracked this wide open says that he thinks the Nats have struck a trade for a 2B. Sign Hudson and trade Casilla in the same day?

strategery is right on about the goals for Central Corridor. I think the purpose has not been blurry to those involved in the development. Everyone I've ever talked to always makes clear that the line will primarily serve those who live and work along University Ave. But I agree the communication to the public about this has been atrocious.

The purpose is very clearly to serve the people in the University Ave. corridor and that downtown-to-downtown rides are secondary (the ridership projections back this up). This makes perfect sense. Someone living in Minneapolis is much more likely to work downtown Minneapolis than downtown St. Paul (of course I myself fall into the minority!) and vice versa. Moreover, those who live in the Midway often have jobs out in the suburbs. That's why through-routing Southwest, Bottineau and Hiawatha is so important. Central Corridor is an important link for people living in the city and working in the suburbs.

Of course, there will be much travel from point-to-point along University Ave. itself. That's the primary trip generator.

Central Corridor as envisioned will be faster than the current route 50 and not all that much slower than route 94. And it will help an economically challenged area. That's a directly stated and understood goal of Central Corridor. There are still some issues to be worked out however:

Local route 16 service needs to be maintained at current or better levels. The plan right now is to reduce its frequency. That's unacceptable to the many elderly and disabled that travel along the corridor.

Gentrification is a huge issue. Despite what the Strib and some others think, the choice is not between keeping people poor in the Midway or moving them out to be poor somewhere else. This is a huge opportunity to build wealth in the Frogtown/Midway community so the people aren't poor anymore at all. The economic benefits of the corridor must be accessible to those who live there and they shouldn't be forced out by rising property taxes and other things they can't currently afford.

Feeder bus service must be hugely improved. This is in the plans but it's still pretty hazy. The corridor must be conveniently accessible to those who live more than 1/2 mile away from University Ave.

Parking will be an issue. With 80% of the on-street parking removed, it's going to be a challenge for small businesses and their customers to change behavior and maintain viability. There are some plans in the works to do shared parking (the right approach IMHO) but there's simply not enough of it to handle the current volume. I believe over time people WILL change behavior and parking will become less of an issue but in the near-term it's a real problem that has to be dealt with.

What SHOULD have happened is a two-lane avenue design with left turn lanes and on-street parking. It's worked in many places around the country. Unfortunately, Ramsey County and St. Paul aren't quite ready for a radical change like that. Maybe someday.

Many other issues have been brought up, particularly by the Concerned Asian Business Owners and the Preserve & benefit Historic Rondo committee. While these groups have been called NIMBYs I can say with full authority that they are no such thing and are serious about working toward solutions that benefit everyone. Far from being opposed to the project, they actually want to make it better.

Just twitted O-Dawg to come to minny...

O-DAWG AGREED WITH THE TWINS! OUR NEW SECOND BASEMAN!!! Damn sam!!! What a crazy week!!!

Click my name for a pretty low-budget "tour" of TF given by none other than the Number 11's Tim McNiff and Kim Insley. Apparently, this was some "off-time" whilst they were at the park shooting a promo video...

Sounds like the Hudson deal will be 1 year $5 million.

Here's a link to a recent Joe Mauer interview he did while doing work for MLB 10 The Show. It's hard to believe the game will be out in less than 4 weeks and they are still tweaking it. I like the Mauer line "The catcher mode I think is going allow fans to go through a bunch of the things things that we're thinking, having pitchers try to throw certain types of pitches, and them not being able to execute it..." Ha Ha Ha. Blame it on the pitcher. I can't think of any Twins pitchers not being able to execute a pitch. It's gotta be the catcher's call or the batter being on top of his game.

Reminds me of Joe's line at the homecoming taping when asked if there was anything that he sucked at. After a long pause he responded "this interview"

Orlando Hudson Updates

ESPN.com - Buster Olney:
[i]Orlando Hudson is on the verge of a one-year, $5 million deal with the Minnesota Twins, sources told ESPN.

There are details to be worked out on the contract, but Hudson has chosen the Twins over the Indians and Nationals.[/i]

FoxSports.com - Ken Rosenthal:
[i]The Twins are in the final stages of negotiating a one-year, $5 million contract with free-agent second baseman Orlando Hudson, according to major-league sources.

Several hurdles remain before the deal will be completed, including Hudson passing a physical, the source said. But Hudson clearly has chosen the Twins, and the momentum for an agreement continues to build. [/i]

As happy as I am that Orlando Hudson will be our starting 2B this season, am I the only one who's afraid that we will trade Casilla when his value is the lowest and he will mature to a good player with a different team. What could we even get for him, and do we even have the ability to demote him to the minors without placing him on waivers?

I say screw looking towards the future...the Twins have been doing that for too long. I'm glad they are looking towards THIS season.

Does anyone remember when they are going to turn on the heating system under field?

I talked to Larry Devito the head groundskeeper on Saturday and he said they will plow off the field and start turning the heat up on March 1st. I asked him twice about the plowing part and he said yeh we will plow all the snow off. I guess my thought was to let the heat of the sun and underground pipes do the work. The only thing he can't control is the sun.

I forgot, the heat has been on all winter set to 40 so the frost doesn't go too deep.

Maybe the drainage system can't accomodate all the water that would be created by the melting since there's a tarp underneath the blanket of snow. All the water would have to flow to the warning track, and perhaps the drainage pipes in just that area wouldn't be sufficient to the task.

Hudson will really fill out our infield, and i like the idea of punto as a utility player. I'm down for the getting together at a game for a beer or something

It's official: Twins set to announce they have signed Orlando Hudson to a one-year, $5 million deal.

Span, Hudson, Mauer, Morneau, Kubel, Cuddyer, Hardy, Harris, Young

Baker, Blackburn, Pavano, Slowey, Liriano

I think I like this!

Twins Land Second Baseman Hudson (click)!

Another article about the Hudson acquisition from the strib...

I just think it's awesome we have a guy who's nickname is "O-Dog."

Liriano as a starter I dont think so. A reliver sure satrter not so much. The video from kare11 does show where the ws trophies are no doubt there anymore. To bad that most of us unless were lucky wont get to go in Champions club and see that stuff but hey one can dream cant one heheheheh.

Anyone else notice in that KARE11 video how much of the field you can't see from the Budweiser roof deck?

This has to be the best roster going into the spring in the last 20 years...atleast that i can think of..the window is now, there is no waiting around for casilla to "get it" hes another luis rivas had a grat few months in a 4 year carrer with the twins and never got it done.

punto can play any position if needed except C...and if memory serves me correct he did play the outfield for a while when people where hurt a few years back and cuddy had to play first base when injurys come up..

Im ready for opening day!

The first video shot is from the other bar not the party deck on the very top. The second view is from the party deck but I think there is seats in front of that railing so you might see more of the field from up top than you would see from a few levels lower. But I could see people pushing foward just to get a better view of the action from either place.

I say keep casilla (for late inning pinch-running and bench), you never know when a battle of wits can come down to a speedster on the basepaths...we traded Gomez, so he is the fastest guy we have left...

What a great signing!

who do you propose loses a roster spot to Casilla at this point?

he is days,weeks, months of futility with 2-3 big memorable moments to his credit.

Not to mention - speed doesn't mean a thing if you don't know how to tag up.

After reading post #214 a little birdie told me that the Twins will pay up to one million dollars of Punto's salary this season. And if Nicky P brings his contract to the Twins Administration Building Bill Smith will take it from his hands, drop it to the floor, unzip his fly, piss on it, and respond "I don't see any 4 million"

I really like Alexi's attitude, but there were long stretches last season where he looked as disciplined as Gomez at the plate, and he makes his share of mental mistakes. If Pridie and Tolbert both still have options, you can start with a bench of Punto, Thome, backup catcher, and Casilla, but if Pridie or Tolbert are out of options, I'd want one of them and you'd have to trade/release Casilla.

None of the three that I would keep are as fast, but I think all are more valuable given a four man bench. When Thome pinch hits and gets on base, you'll have to pinch run for him. I'm liking the Thome pick up the more I hear, but you have to have an extremely flexible other 2 guys on the bench to make that gambit work. I just don't think Casilla is that guy.

I'm not sure you absolutely need a 5th outfielder. I think it will come down to who looks more shaky in spring training -- Delmon or Harris. That will determine if Tolbert or Pridie gets the last spot.

Are the Twins going through adolescence and actually growing a pair or do you think that this "agressiveness" in getting their recent acquistions is temporary? I am hoping not the latter.

Not sure what you mean about Alexi's attitude. He got sent down last year after bitching to Gardy about not getting enough playing time and contract talk, etc. His head got big quickly.

Trade Lexi and Perk for a GREAT bench guy with speed.

I realize everybody is enjoying their glass of T.C. Bear p!ss right now, but we haven't seen any of these acquisitions step onto the field yet. What looks good on paper may not look so good on the Colorado sod. We're getting excited over a guy who hit nine home runs and batted .283. Jim Thome hasn't been on roids in a couple years and can't even play the field anymore. J.J. Hardy? Everyone is banking on the fact that his one fluke year wasn't just that. Who's to say Liriano returns to be servicable, let alone half what he was before the injury? Is Delmon Young nothing but dead wood?

Before we start talking playoff sweep over the Yankees, only one thing is certain: walleye on a stick.

coley14,
I 2nd your comments. I talked to Larry the groundskeeper for awhile at Twinsfest. He said they will blow of the snow starting March 1 with little snow blowers and crank up the heat so they can get the grass out of dormancy and ready for mowing. The tarp will come off ASAP after March 1. He is hoping we don't get 12 inches of snow in late Feb. That would delay things quite a bit.
Go O-Dawg!

Truth,
You are correct! The Twins might as well board up Target Field and forfeit all their games. Shoot, while their at it trade Mauer, Morneau, and Span for what we can get and hope we can hold our own against KC.

Look at it this way, truth: Even if O-dogg and JJ has "off" years (say each bats .260), that is SIXTY points higher a piece than Punto/Casilla. Logic would indicate that the twins lineup would be more potent than last year.

Now, I agree, that doesn't automatically = World Series. But the market for Hope just got bigger.

Locker, you missed my point completely. Not shocked there.

DreDogg, I can't disagree with you on that point.

"we're getting excited about a guy who hit 9 home runs and batted .283."

. . . who ALSO played gold glove defense 3 out of the last 4 years at the 2nd base position, including last year. Nothing wrong with restrain or even devil's advocacy, but please don't forget that little factoid.

We've had the high-end talent for a while now. The frustrating thing was that with all the dead weight on the roster it resulted in an average offense. And upgrading from dead weight to average production isn't terribly expensive but we never seemed willing to do it. Now it seems like we're trying and that's what is so encouraging to me. Hardy + Hudson + Thome is greater than Punto + Casilla + Buscher.

It's that simple.

As far as defense goes, I don't recall second base defense being bad last year. I thought Punto and Harris handled 2B fairly well. Maybe it's just me, but there's a name for players in their 30s who play on three teams in three years. They're called Rondell White.

I hope I'm wrong.

Truth, you are such a pessimist it's not even funny. What's your deal? And did you seriously just compare Orlando Hudson to RONDELL WHITE??? Look up consistency in the dictionary and what will you see--Orlando Hudson. The guys statistics barely ever change, aside from the 41 RBI's in 08 due to only playing 107 cuz of injury. Compared to Rondell White, whose statistics were all over the board. White was a guy that DH'ed a lot too, and was usually hidden somewhere in the OF--and you're comparing him to a guy who plays a premium defensive position at a gold glove level 3 of the last 4 years????

On top of that, White had played for the Tigers for 2 years before we picked him up, so your whole argument doesn't even make sense. I guess you only come here to troll anyway though so you probably didn't look ANYTHING up.

Thanks for topping off my cheerios TTH.

Truth's point on defense has got me thinking...

Is second base (or all of the infield for that matter) going to be easier or harder to defend at TF, compared to the dome?

I would think easier. Real grass will slow the ball down more, making it harder for gounders to make it though the infield.

The only negative i can think of is that you won't get a "true" hop, like on turf. But then again, the seams in the turf have caused many a wild hop. Not to mention, the real field will be groomed immaculately. It won't be like playing on a local softball field.

Thoughts?

Dang DVS jsut delivered a knock out flurry.

Bottom Line: Twins are going to have a better product on the field this year than in years past. We won the division last year. We are likely to win it again. Attendance will be VERY strong this year with TF. Home field advantage is more based on the 10th man in the stands rather than the building they play in. There is no World Series guarantee, but it is going to be one hell of a fun year to watch this team. As Twins fans, we have to be happy about all of these things, and we now need to get behind our team in full force and enjoy a great season of baseball in a brand new stadium. This year is going to be a blast. 58 DAYS UNTIL OPENING DAY!!!

DreDogg,

I think every position will require an adjustment period, 2B included. I do worry a bit about a loss of advantage though. It seemed in the dome that every time a fluke bounce or lost ball in the roof it was to the Twins' benefit. That won't be the case anymore.

Additionally, with such limited foul territory, most balls hit on the grass will likely be fair and lead to more running by defensive players. I think Delmon may need to lay off the Old Country Buffet because he could see a lot of scampering to the LF line at this new ballpark.

...and until proven otherwise, every Twins free-agent pick up is a Rondell White to me, IMHO.

TTH - Delmon is reportedly coming in the Spring Training in the best shape he has been in since being a Twin. Just thought I would throw that in there...

Orlando Hudson is no Rondell White. I've seen him play a lot - he is a great addition to the club - very solid player, well above average defense, perfect for the Twins in the 2 hole, great clubhouse guy and makes Punto what he should be, at least for now, a bench/utility guy.

I bitch about Billy Boy, but this offseason has actually been better than I expected. If Hardy returns anywhere near to form, O-Dog has an average year and the pitching doesn't implode, Twins have a legit shot at the Central and I can think about a Twins-Rockies World Series this year and not be considered completely insane.

Just watch - June 15,16,17 will be a preview of the World Series, just like it was in 2007 when the Rockies visited Fenway. I'll be there for the entire series - three games I don't really care who wins. Go Twins! Go Rockies!

Hand-breaded fried chicken! Fried chicken!! The man stands no chance.

Infield defense is far harder on turf, than grass, no matter how short you cut it, primarily because of the speed factor. As for the "true hop", I don't think that's a big factor at all.

TTH,
I know you want to stir the pot but come on....

you know that its a upgrade anyway u look at it...just accept it

and punto will stay with the club as a over priced untility and prob play 3rd if harris has problems..nobody here said we are gonna head to the ws but its the best put together roster in years and you can all thank.........JOE MAUER... i feel that he has made it clear that he wants to compete if he is to sign long term...

delmon needs to do more than lose weight.. this is the year that will make or break his life... if he gets benched and kuble takes lf with big jim dh.. man he will be spending the next 6 years with the Nats...

I don't think injecting a bit of reality makes a guy a pessimist - and I, for one, appreciate TTH's commentary. Things are, indeed, looking up but the proof is in the pudding and the pudding is still on the stove (sorry).

"Delmon is reportedly coming in the Spring Training in the best shape he has been in since being a Twin."

My son saw Young in a joint he works and reports that Delmon is slimmed down and looking great. He also took a picture of Casilla over to Young and asked him to sign ---------

TTH, you're implying that Delmon Young can't stay away from the fried chicken at the OCB?? Wowza...that is just wrong on so many levels.

And I fail to see how having less foul territory means more running?? Balls roped around the bags are going to bounce off the walls way earlier than they would have in the Metrodome, meaning that outfielders will be able to read angles earlier. You won't see the ball bouncing around in the corner near the outfield walls like you did at TF. You're pretty good at trolling though, gotta give you that, seeing as I am replying to your comments instead of working.

I think you're giving Delmon a lot of credit if you think he's going to react quickly to fair balls bouncing off the third-base-side fence back into fair territory. Losing weight doesn't make you more instinctual or smarter. Then again, I don't think Kubel is a vast improvement over Delmon in LF either.

And, whatever shape Young's body is in there is still his head.

Don't get wound up about TTH. It is all an act. It's king of a fun persona he has created but definitely a character. I do find it funny that Ben has fallen for his act though. ;)

If it's a "fun persona," where's the fun?

This from the Twins:

[i]Minneapolis/St. Paul, Minn. - The Minnesota Twins, in conjunction with advertising partner Periscope, today announced the second commercial of the 2010 "This is Twins Territory" campaign will debut during the first half of the Super Bowl on Sunday, February 7, 2010.

The new spot is entitled "Minnie and Paul" and features characters from the Twins original logo and iconic center field sign at Target Field coming to life in celebration of outdoor baseball. The ad was produced by Periscope, the team's long-time Minneapolis-based advertising agency. It's the first animated commercial in the "This is Twins Territory" campaign.

Following the Super Bowl, fans can view and share the new commercial at www.twinsbaseball.com. The remaining 2010 television spots are slated to debut this spring.[/i]

That's an expensive ad buy. Can you imagine the outrage here if BS hadn't signed Hudson and then went and spent $3M on a Super Bowl ad. I realize he has nothing to do with ad buys, but perception...

That's a good point Buffalo.

Good point, Buffalo. If this were a persona, wouldn't I try to be "fun" and engaging? Nope. This is the real deal, I'm afraid. Otherwise you'd be reading crap like this:

Hot dog! With Hudson at second base and hitting in front of Mauer, there's NO STOPPING us now! Can't wait to see the looks on those White Sux fans' faces when they walk out of TF with brooms banging their asses out the doors. We haven't had this much talent since 1991 - Mauer and Morneau = Puckett and Chili!! Look out, world. Here come the Twins!!!!!!!!!!!!!

DVS - not as expensive as you think. It will only be played in this market, not nationally. The national ads are the ones that demand millions of dollars.

What's with the fried chicken comment? Wow. That's kind of fucked up right there.

Exactly Moda...yikes.

Twins did a Super Bowl commercial last year too. The cash is rolling in now, boys. No need to worry about expenses.

Truth, you're just a cynic with a dry sense of humor. Be aware that this combination will get you into trouble from time to time...

Very predictable that just hours after the Hudson signing, the cynics have moved on to the next liability in their eyes: D Young and his big head? Man, you guys are more predictable than those of us who drink the kool-aid!

Nice to see the P.C. crowd has checked in. Don't ever watch "Blazing Saddles" or your heads might explode. I'm pretty sure the rest of the Twins like chicken too. And Joe Mauer probably eats hotdish because he's a white Minnesotan.

Anyone who is not at least a little bit of a cynic has not spent very much time as a Twins fan. Anyone can drink kool-aid - as a practical matter that is just what the Twins want.

Calling the P.C. police...funny. I'm typically not, but come on man--there's no place for crap like that on this site. The funny thing about your statement anyway is that Delmon Young has a very strict diet...doesn't eat processed carbs.

P.S. I love Mel Brooks movies. I have seen Blazing Saddles so many times.

I like fried chicken, too...never had OCB's, though.

It is one of the most fattening foods out there...I am assuming that is where TTH was taking his comment.

While it's great to hear that Delmon has lost weight and is in great shape, I'm not sure that will prevent him from being one of (if not the) worst outfielders in baseball. It also won't stop him from having a horrible eye at the plate.

As kind of an offshoot to the topic (I love days when the boss is out, btw):

We all blush when we read something like the connection with African-Americans and chicken (see link), but think about this. Isn't what's happening with some of the concession stands at TF the same thing? I mean, Senor Smoke's and Frankie V. Pizzaria?? Does Juan Berenguer eat tacos every day? Does Sweet Music stuff his face with calzones every chance he gets?

I know, the response will be: The Twins are honoring them this way. Are they? Was Berenguer a prominent enough Twin deserving of special recognition and this is the best way to do that? Or were they thinking: "Well, we want a taco stand, and Juan is from Mexico, so let's put his name on it!" It just seems odd to me that not only has the P.C. crowd (and the Twins) dismissed this, they've chosen to celebrate it.

If you put it in that context, "Delmon's Chicken Shack" at TF isn't that far-fetched. Or is it?

I agree 100%, Truth.

...To shed some comedy on the subject...

as long as TTh does not go back to his old ways when he first come here with the " eww look at the rubes rub!!! wee i have control over minds chicken man !!!! run mouse like hamster in maze, run!!!! arrrrrrrhhhhg !

or some shit like that

Delmon's defensive problems (just as an observer) is that he just doesn't have the instinct for what the ball is going to do once it gets to the outfield. TTH mentions the ball bouncing off the 3rd base angled wall. I'm willing to bet we see Delmon sitting in the left field corner on those every time and THEN breaking back to grab the ball. Span and Hardy will retrieve more of those balls than Delmon will. I also routinely see him break the wrong way on fly balls and he doesn't seem to have great range. If he can finally hit .290 with some power, I can deal with it, but if he is going to slap balls around at .240 and strike out a lot, well then it is not worth it.

However, put Pridie into the Minor League Equivalency calculator, and you get a .232 average and .326 slugging average in the majors. He is not the solution there, at least not yet.

I'm not saying I could do the job, but I'm not getting paid to do it!

linc,
not to mention he throws to the wrong base or misses the cutt off man on about 45% of the plays

where the hell is Luke? i need to be entertained, its a slow day when we are talking about delmon... this i agree on..Luke pull one of those funny ass stats out of your arse and include a link to something we all already know (Like unlike the dome TF with have grass)lol

ahhh, yes I am bored, need a job

After signing Hudson, the Twins only need to find a 3rd baseman now. I LOVE THE HUDSON DEAL!!!

Touché TTH...

The Twins' third baseman is Harris/Punto. They are done spending money for this year, they're already at $96 million.

This is a solid lineup provided people stay healthy. The bench is now also solid.
Regarding the Central Corridor: What exactly are they going to do to the Washington Avenue bridge to make it able to support the trains? I can't believe that in it's current state it can do that.

John -- you mean that fracture-critical bridge that was we had to restrict pedestrian traffic on last year? Why would you worry?

Here is the answer:

http://www.startribune.com/local/stpaul/78929962.html

The Wash Ave bridge will have to be at least heavily reinforced to support the light rail. I still remember when the story came out in 2007, discussing how that bridge would have to be reinforced. You hear a story like that and can't help but flippantly contemplate a bridge collapsing. I think it was literally the very next day, the 35W bridge collapsed. (Insert Twilight Zone music here)

Maz...

Ponder this: after shovelling today for the umteen-millionth time...this week, don't you think to yourself that TF will be abandoned by the year 2015 if weather like this insists on continuing?

"Build an outdoor ballpark" they say. "We'll do fine" they say...
what a load of shit.

Luke - I think it's a bit of a stretch to say that shoveling in early February means we'll have problems in April.

The "weather" discussion has been beaten to death I know but with facts like this I'm hardly concerned:

April 12: Avg temp in Mpls: 56*
April 30: 64*
Oct 3: 64* (last day of the regular season.)

Note, too, that in April the Twins have all of three evening games.

K

I suppose that could be true Kramer. I looked back on the webcam on April 2 and also April 12, 2009, and there was not even an indication of snow.
2008 - a slightly different story. April 2, 2008, snow still hung atop many buildings around TF...including Target Center, and snow was still visible on the ground below. By April 12, 2008, according to the webcam, all that was left was a few little hills of snow atop Ramp B.
I seem to remember however, probably 2008, a massive snowstorm blew threw on like March 30. That, cuts it a little close for me.

Weather...my predictions are in the very first decade of Target Field we will have:

1. An honest to goodness Cleveland-style 8-12 inch snow out. The fact that we have a heated field means we will not lose a full series and we will not have to move our games to Milwaukee/Metrodome.
2. There will be an April evening game where light sleet is coming down at 7:05 but we still start playing.
3. The temp of the last inning of an extra inning game will be 28 degrees.
4. There will NOT be a season equaling the Met Stadium record of 7 rainouts, due to much better drainage and the willingness of MLB to allow 2 hour rain delays. There will be great local outcry about not starting a Tuesday night game until 8:45, and why people weren't allowed to get a raincheck. This will be a two-part story in the Strib.
5. The Twins will play a post-season game and the applause will be completely muffled by gloves and mittens. It will not be as loud as the dome. National media will make a big deal of this.
6. There will be a Sunday game where the 7th inning will have an on field temperature at 100 degrees with a dewpoint above 70.
7. There will be incredible Minnesota summer evenings, lovely 75-80 degree summer days (as we had almost all last summer), and spring and fall days and evenings between 45-68 degrees, none of which will be written about by the local or national media. Thank goodness I'll be able to experience those as well.

Oh, and I should have added that despite all of the weather variations, somehow people will still enjoy watching their hometown team in April, people from greater Minnesota and beyond will still drive in and enjoy major league baseball, some unlucky folks will drive 400 miles only to have their game rained out, and some lucky folks will drive 400 miles and experience a wonderful 5-4, 9th inning Twins win on a 70 degree cloudless day.

There is no perfect solution....I like the one we have coming.

Click my name for a link recaping the 2009 season by MLB Network. At the end they show some clips of TF.

Sorry the link starts from page 1. You need to go to page 9 and its the first video on that page. Also there is a video explaining the renovation planned for Wrigley Field called Wrigley 2014. If the renovations are completed I bet Target Field will lose the bid for the 2014 All-Star Game to Wrigley Field.

Juan is from Panama.

I had a 1987 flashback on my way home from work yesterday when I was listening to the radio and "We Will Rock You/We Are The Champions" came on the radio.

Does anybody else remember the morning guys at either KQ or another rock station locking themselves in the booth and playing those 2 songs over and over and over -- probably 20 times -- the morning after the Twins won the World Series in 87?

you see that Luke knows how to play along......

A cuantos polacos les toma comerse un
burrito?

Dos!

A cuantos polacos les toma manejar a
Panama?

That was pretty good Linc...

how many

kudos for the South Park reference, DreDogg. classic

Jax,

That was Buck and O'Connor from KDWB who locked themselves in the control room and played that song non-stop. It wasn't long after that they were off the air. The corporate radio douchebags don't care for stuff like that!

Someone says "Panama" and that is the first thing I think of. HA!

This picture from MLB 10: The Show seems to confirm that those blue circles on the admin building are indeed for retired numbers:

I'm sorry but I hate that Jackie Robinson's #42 is up there. It's stupid, he never played for the Twins, regardless of why his number is retired.

It's probably that way for all the teams on MLB 10...Robinson's 42 was a league-wide retire, like Gretky's 99 in the NHL.

"I hate that JR number is up..."

Get over it.

I am assuming they are shown in the order the numbers were retired.

I'm guessing that error we had was by the left fielder?

Here's hoping Twins (aka Vikes) doesn't have any kids who ask him who or what the significance of #42 is. I can only imagine the response.

Am I being baited here??? What's going on?

I hope Twins (aka vikes) is saying that it should still be displayed at the park but just not there. The #42 is honored in every stadium. MLB Network even has studio 42. If he is saying that it shouldn't be anywhere, he needs a major readjustment. The retired 42 means much much more than the game of baseball itself.

Well said, Trosy.

anyone know what food/beer stands will be in the grandstand in right field? I have not seen many images of the concourse in that part of the stadium. thanks

With the potential of a large number of fans spilling in and out of Target Field from downtown on foot, I'm wondering if the City of Minneapolis might consider shutting down a small area of 1st Ave around the Target Center to automobile traffic, similar to Yawkey Way around Fenway Park before and after games? IMO, it would be a great gathering place of fans before the game. You would have the bars in the area in addition to concessionaires and vendors selling their stuff to fans.

Ah, thanks Kevin! I knew I wouldn't be the only one to remember that!

In that screen shot, we're losing to Detroit in TF in the 3rd inning? Who is pitching, Liriano? :D

Only 55 more days till exhibition baseball, folks... I can't wait till the STH open house so I can get a look at the inside.

lol Jax...I was thinking the same thing.

I would assume the pitcher was "Moonshot Scott" Baker

Here's what a game at the new ballpark might look like. Looks like Cabrera's rehab will help the Tigers.

Trosy said it best, it should be displayed somewhere else.

It's funny how people totally forget how good Liriano was in 06 (better then Santana), hopefully a couple years after Tommy Johns surgery he can come close to that form again (I can dream right?)

Also am I the only one concerned about Joe Nathan? He's definitely on the decline. The last two years his arm has worn out in the 2nd half of the year. Come playoff time when it counts, well we all saw what A-Rod did. I just hope he can prove me wrong because this year is going to be a blast in TF!

In case anyone was at all interested click on my name for the link to my website with my pictures from my Hall of Fame visit that I posted about earlier in the thread. The link goes to the pic of me next to the fake Harmon Killabrew plaque. http://www.welcometoamerica.us/ny/bhf-killabrew.html

TwinsTerritory,

Where did you find that photo of Left Field from MLB The Show 10? I have been looking everywhere for some sort of shots of left and right field.

I meant to post the link to the video afterward. This is the link to one video, and the next comment is a link to a second. Target Field is getting the love...

it's from this clip, Josh - click link

Second TF 'MLB 10: The Show' video...

Can't wait for that game! Still wondering why they forgot the limestone on the backstop? Hopefully they include this in the final version...

That game looks so amazing!

It's Saturday night, those screenshots are great, the O-dawg signing is awesome, and here's to hoping we get some Mauer news soon!

Seems like a festive time in Twins Territory... I hope to see many drunken posts tonight!

Valencia went yard!!

nice green backstop

Goodness gracious RE: MLB 10. How do I justify to my wife buying a PS3 when I already have Xbox 360 and she wants a Wii???

the game looks great - Joe looks tougher in the face than in real life. lol

Agreed Ace.. the limestone backstop is pretty big detail to miss. Kind of sours the look of the game for me.

They are still finishing development...If enough people say something, they'll fix it.

Dude, Joe Nathan saved (a record setting) 47 games in 2009 and didn't give up a single home run with men on base (until the fated NY playoff game.)

He did this with bone chips in his elbow. I think he'll be fine.

get off this site, Reusse!! lol

I did send them a message about the backstop. The game hits shelves on March 2nd and production/shipping likely starts much sooner. I know they just added Mauer's actual animations this last week when he was in town though.

We'll see if they can get it changed. Otherwise, the rest of the park seems very nice, and I hear the centerfield sign will work in the game!

I think it's been well known for quite some time that there was going to be limestone behind the plate. I don't think the developers wanted to duplicate it to be quite honest with you.

The same problem occured with TCFBS in EA Sports' NCAA Football release last year. EA Sports put in a crappy, generic, horseshoe stadium for TCFBS. When I heard about that, I was utterly disappointed. There had been enough drawings, renderings, webcam images and so forth - they could have easily duplicated the stadium for the game. Maybe not perfect - maybe they'd have to wait a year to get the nitty gritty details right, but I think they still could have done it.

I watched the preview clip, and by the time it was over, Baker was getting creamed. If you look closely, perhaps you can see why: His back foot is planted behind the pitching rubber instead of in front for the push-off.

Before everyone jumps, let it be known that I was making a bad joke.

Only 6 weeks to go before the "open house" weekend on March 20/21!!

Also looks like all old Twins logos in the MLB game. They have the new circle logo right, but the script is the old S.

TwinsTerritory - while you're at it, let them know they omitted Inge's 'bad-ass' forearm tattoos.

So a unfortunate few of you think Jackie Robinson's retired number should be displayed in a "separate but equal" place in Target Field than the retired numbers of Twins players? And you don't see the problem with saying so?

Bottom line: The number is fine right where it is. It's where it belongs.

Another change of subjects.

Rick, in re-reading your proposed all-star game schedule from last July:
2009 (NL) St. Louis
2010 (AL) Los Angeles (Angel Stadium)
2011 (NL) Arizona
2012 (AL) Kansas City
2013 (NL) New York (Citi Field)
2014 (AL) Minnesota
2015 (NL) Washington
2016 (AL) Toronto (assumes renovation circa 2012)
2017 (NL) Los Angeles (Dodger Stadium)
2018 (AL) Tampa Bay (assumes new ballpark circa 2014)
2019 (NL) Cincinnati
2020 (AL) Oakland (assumes new ballpark circa 2014)
2021 (NL) Chicago (Wrigley Field, post-renovation or rebuild)
2022 (NL) San Diego
2023 (AL) Baltimore
2024 (NL) Miami
2025 (AL) Texas
2026 (NL) Philadelphia

Let's say everything falls into play and Target Field is awarded the 2014 All-star game. How are the tickets handled for such an event? I can't imagine that all season ticket holders would be able to buy tickets to the game. Like the superbowl, there is a huge demand for extra tickets for sponsors and other dignitaries. Is that why they added the home run derby? Give the local fans a chance to get in the park and see the all-stars, without having to part with game tickets for the sponsors? I think the license agreement in Legends club insures that they can buy tickets for any baseball event, but what is available to the rest of us?

I agree that it is probably too early to start worrying about this, but I am curious.

Sponsors are dignitaries???????

The Angels have not released ticket information for this years All-Star game. From reading the message boards it looks like full STH will get their tickets but some will have to be re-located. It does not look like partial plan holders would be guaranteed seats. My guess is that this is how it is done for every All-Star game.

Yup you're right, as always :D

minn55441 - as you said......WAY TOO EARLY to even worry about or discuss the subject. let's get the 2010 all-star game first, then some of you can concern yourself with such things.

:-)

Well, for what its worth, I'm always curious about how they handle these special situations. The use of on-line tools the Twins have used for seating in various games (Game 163, opening day, etc.), while not groundbreaking, are certainly light years ahead of past methods. I think that is interesting. Their ability to set up different types of seat holders with different seat buying permissions will be fun to watch as TF hosts different events as well (e.g, hockey classics, concerts, etc.)

Of course, I won't discuss any of it because it is too early to do so. I still think it is interesting.

People are selling seats to OD on stubhub in the overlook and right field bleacher sections. Does anyone know who got access to these seats as they were not eligible for season tickets?

you just did discuss it. :)

I am curious as to the answer myself. It might provide incentive to hold on to a full season package if they guarantee All Star tickets in 2014. (even if the Twins are in the crapper for some reason by then.) lol

Nice catch Joe.

We are now finding out why only 1000 seats will be available to the general public. Sponsors? relatives of Twins front office? It looks like they only have Opening day. There is nothing listed for the other two games with the Sox.

On the bright side. They only have 8th row tickets in the overlook.

Maybe this is how we are paying for Joe's new contract?

NEW ad is up on the Twins site..Minne & Paulie

Check out this little youtube ditty.

Comedian Bill Burr Talks About Yankees World Series Win on Opie & Anthony. Very funny!

The last 1 1/2 minutes is good if you are a Twins fan and is especially relevant since the 2003 season.

Tickets which supposedly should not have been released yet showing up on Stubhub? Doesn't that put egg on someone's face?

Video game sports talk is just about as boring as fantasy sports talk. Call me crazy, but I much prefer actual sports.

here is an actual link to the new twins/target field commerical airing tonight during the fuck-it-cause-the-vikes-ain't-in-it bowl.

click on my name for the video.

The Twins are selling a lot of OD tickets directly on Stubhub, just like they did for game 163 and the ALDS last year, and just like the Yankees and Phillies did for the World Series, this is common knowledge among ticket brokers, and part of the agreement with Stubhub/MLB...just like the Redskins and SH...

I don't really care if I have to pay stubhub prices for OD, I will be there for sure... According to my account rep, we will be able to buy tickets for those non-ST sections for the Cardinals exhibition on the 18th. I'm going to try getting overlook, I think it would be cool being above the field of play.

I like the new Twins commercial.
Just saw it on the number 4 at halftime of the Super Bowl...

it'd be so sweet if Minnie and Paul did THAT dance for each homer. :d

NeilN "The Twins are selling a lot of OD tickets directly on Stubhub"

I don't think so. Have you looked at the tickets for sale? Right field bleachers section 139 row 4, one seat for sale.

If it were the Twins putting these seats up for sale, they would try and maximize the price. You will not get the best price selling singles. Someone was given that ticket and is now trying to sell it for a profit. Stuff like this happens way more often than any of us would like to think. The part that bothers me, is the fact that the ticket is for sale prior to the lottery and prior to the sale to the STH's with the 20 and 40 game plans.

"Common knowledge among ticket brokers?" I know a fair amount about MLB and ticket sales - show me where in the MLBAM/StubHub agreement does it provide for the club to hold blocks of tickets for direct secondary market sales?

I know clubs put some non-prime seats that are held for full-season sales that haven't sold, but I can't imagine the Twins (or any other club) would be willing to take the PR hit for a game like OD.

(The World Series is "different" - the club doesn't have full control ticket rights and pricing - MLB does. At best, the clubs can choose from pricing levels for parts of the park. And certain seats are reserved for MLB/press/etc., season ticket holders or not. (Full season ticket holders that are "bumped" have the option on "comparable seats")

Just bought 2 tickets for April 14th game! So excited!

Who knows? They might show that part of the commercial on the big video board during HRs.

Off topic question here. Does anyone know why the NFL and all the networks have been refering to this years Super Bowl as being in "South Florida" instead of being in Miami?

I don't remember the NFL refering to Miami generically as "South Florida" before. It just caught my attention this year. Are they mad at Miami and are intentionally not giving them brand recognition for hosting the Super Bowl and Pro Bowl or did some non-Miami Chamber of Commerce pony up money to cause the NFL to be more inclusive in their recognition of the greater geographic area.

The only reason I am asking you all is that you are all so smart on Twins related topics that I knew someone here would have the answer.

Maybe its a new thing because I noticed how next year's Super Bowl XLV in Arlington, TX is being referred to as "North Texas"

I heard one of the networks yesterday specifically say "South Florida" because the stadium is halfway between Ft. Lauderdale and Miami and events/hotels/practice areas are spread out in those areas. Nothing is specific to Miami only. Same thing with Dallas next year. The AFC team will practice at the TCU facility in Fort Worth, 32 miles from the stadium, for example. So "North Texas" and "South Florida" are a more accurate description.

I wonder if we will ever get another one here in East Central Minnesota.

Personally, I think the Super Bowl should only be held in three cities: New Orleans, Miami, and LA. In two years, the Super Bowl will be held in Indianapolis. Who the hell wants to go there? I'm sure the "bustling" Indy nightlife is the place to be.

So it seems like this is PC run amok and taken to an extreme and unneccesary level?

WARNING-SARCASM BELOW!!!!

I agree with Badjuggler, East Central Minnesota is a step in the right direction, although still a polarizing description, I feel. I am offended by the use of the term "Twin Cities" because it ignores the contributions of all the other cities in the metro area, not to mention those non-metro cities that have, each in their own way, contributed to the well being of our great state.

I am also offended by the term "2nd tier suburbs" because it is minimizing and belittling.

lets see you hate video game sports, fant. sports and autographs, do you also hate babys and apple pie?

Not a big fan of apple pie. Or Chevrolet. But most babies and I get along fine! (insert mental joke here)

Indy is actually a great place. Went to the Indy 500 a couple of years ago, stayed right downtown. Had a blast, granted that was the end of May and not February.

Another snow storm here in SE Minnesota means no school mand more time for me to get excited for baseball season. I contacted the Gopher ticket office for info for the Gopher baseball game at TF - got a reply back stating more info will come at end of February. My worst case scenerio - I get tickets, and they end up moving that game to the Dome - that would suck and might break a record for most no-shows at a sports event in history. Psst - I'm not going to watch the Gophers, I'm going to check out TF!

The average fan may like Indy...but the NFL will have a hard time drawing star power to hold before/after parties.

I think Indianapolis will be just fine. It can't be worse than Detroit, can it? Detroit hosted Super Bowl XL in 2006.

DreDogg,

L.A. will not host a Super Bowl again until there's a team there. When was the last time there was a SB at the Rose Bowl, Cowboys v. Bills 1992?

I think a rotation of San Diedo, New Orleans and Miami would be great.

Couldn't they just put the real Bud Selig on the pedestal? I can't imagine he'd be any less stiff.

Not Target Field related, this caught my attention. In my opinion its pathetic and does not say a whole lot about the White Sox organization even if they had a blessing.

From Foxsports.com
CHICAGO (AP)
Omar Vizquel will wear the No. 11 of former White Sox shortstop and fellow Venezuelan Luis Aparicio this season.

The White Sox say they have unretired Aparicio's No. 11 for the 2010 season, with his blessing. Aparicio said Vizquel is the one player he'd like to see don his number.

The 42-year-old Vizquel signed with the White Sox this offseason. He is a three-time AL All-Star and is considered one of best fielding shortstops of all time.

Aparicio was named American League Rookie of the Year as a member of the White Sox in 1956 and the 10-time All-Star played 10 seasons with Chicago. He was elected to the Hall of Fame in 1984, the same year the team retired his uniform number.

Not sure if anyone has commented on this yet.

In the Twins Ad the scoreboard signage had US Bank, Treasure Island, Best Buy, and our own TC. The "trap" signage had a cool twins territory sign, can't imagine that won't be sold.

Does anybody know when those key fobs for TF will be sold/distributed? I would assume they would want to do it soon to get more people set up on it. Will you be able to set up any account to it, or strictly US Bank? Anybody know what they will look like?

Faber,
Your logic makes sense, don't forget that regular games and all star games across a few leagues (NFL, NBA among them) have been in held in cities where there haven't necessarily been teams (at the time). So while the SB is dare i say, a more important game, we can't put it past the NFL (especially the NFL) to host one there if they think it will bring home the green. They don't care as long as it makes them money.

I agree with Jared, there was rumors that Goodell wanted to have a Super Bowl in London in the future.

Had a thought last night after seeing the Twins Ad during the Super Bowl. I thought it would have been a interesting way to announce the Joe Mauer extension during the ad some how, or maybe even with a different ad. I am not a Mauer Worshiper, just thought it would have been cool.

Maybe have clips of Cal Ripken through the years with accomplishments and showing highlights of his career, then Tony Gwynn, then Puckett, and then Mauer, and then say "Like many other greats, he is staying here. Will you be there to see him?"

I know probably dumb, but just a thought.

Josh-
I don't think its dumb. You have an interesting concept going there and quite often the simple ads are the most effective.

Here is another picture of 'MLB 10: The Show". I thought it showed more of right field and a bit of the skyline more than other screens have.

College Alum - the last Super Bowl in Pasadena was actually Super Bowl XXVII, January of 1993 (of course, for the 1992 season, but played in 1993). Super Bowl XXVI, was January of 1992 (Redskins 37 Bills 24 - Mark Rypien MVP) at our very own Humpty Dump.

I was in 1st grade during the '61 season, and became a lifelong fan. Recalling moments from those years that the games were played outside is great fun, and seeing Minnie and Paul so prominently displayed in TF will probably bring tears the first time I see it in person. However, the images of them that I find myself constantly searching for online are those from the old Minneapolis Tribune... On the front page under the fold, in the morning issue after a Twins win, M&P would be arm in arm kicking up their heels. After a loss, they'd be sobbing and consoling each other in an embrace. The morning after a rain-out, they'd be huddled under an umbrella. Has anyone any idea if these images exist anywhere online? And could someone from the StarTribune possibly resurrect this great daily tradition, beginning with the 2010 season?

Ole, why go the Gopher game if you don't care and just go to the open house the weekend before that game for free?

BTW, the special MLB Network is doing on Mauer is on right now (they are also doing one on Pujols). I am sure they will replay it often. So far it is really good! Joe is starting to open up more in interviews.

Jax -

I do care about the Gopher game, but if they were playing in the Dome I wouldn't be there. And, as hard as it may be to believe, I have something else going on the open house day, or else I would be going.

I was actually hoping that Joe was going to surprise us all and announce a contract during the "homecoming" interview. How cool would that have been for us 4,000 strong.

schweady: I remember those images of the two fatguys from the paper very well. I was a "sick kid" at the U of M Hospitals alot during the early years of the team. My Ma would get the Tribune for me whenever I was ill and read me the story about last night's game and there they were. I am sure that a look at old microfische copies of the paper would turn up these old drawings. Win! Twins!