The Twins Are In Town

Tonight the Twins come to New York for a 4 game series.  The Twins, who were nearly swept by the Blue Jays this past weekend, seem to be struggling.  Even with their win yesterday, Nathan came awfully close to blowing a save.  It doesn’t help that they lost Jesse Crane, Matt Guerrier and Jon Rauch, as their relievers from last season.  The depleted bullpen doesn’t fare well for them against the Yankees, whose offense has been explosive over this last weekend. 

The Twins have dropped the last 17 of 19 games against the Yankees.  This includes both 2009 & 2010 Divisional Series which they were swept.  The Twins only have one win in the new Yankee stadium so far.  Last year the Yankees went 2-1 at home against the Twins.  The Yankees went 4-2 against them on the season.

Pitching Matchups

Monday/Tonight:  Ivan Nova v. Scott Baker

                -Nova has had a terrific spring which included a no hitter over 6 innings against the Orioles.   I saw his final start of the spring against the Astros and although he wasn’t as sharp, he pitched very well.   He seems to have problems the second and third time going through the order.

-Nova’s ERA in spring training was 1.80   over  5 starts. 

-As long as he keeps that fastball down, he will dominate! 

                -Nova will pitch again on Saturday in Boston against Bucholz

                -Baker faced the Yankees last years on May 14 and took the loss. 

Tuesday:  CC Sabathia  v. Brian Duensing

                -It looks like Sabathia is being lined up to face Beckett on Sunday night in Boston!

Wednesday:  Freddy Garcia v. Carl Pavano

                -I am still living up that glory from the ALDS when Pavano got shelled by the Yanks!  

                -Pavano gave up 10 hits over 6 innings  taking the loss in Game 2.

Thursday:  AJ Burnett v. Francisco Liriano

                -1PM Game…. Anybody need a ticket?  I can’t miss work for the Yankees….. or can I?

                -Liriano had second best strikeout rate in AL in 2010 (9.4 per 9 innings)