Twins win a thriller!

Given the way that the night started, I was shocked to see the Twins come from behind to steal their first win of the season last night. Everything that could have went wrong seemingly did last night for the Twins. Blackburn was not hit hard and pitched effectively however the Mariners racked up the runs with one seeing eye single after another.

The Twins weren’t much better with their bats either. Most of the game Twins hitters struggled to do what they led the league in last year….get hits with runners in scoring position. There were at least two times last night when the Twins had runners at second and third only to come away empty handed.

I thought that apart from the manufactured run in the top of the 9th the bullpen did a fantastic job. Phillip Humber (who coincidently is out of options) came in for two innings and was able to shut down the bats of the previously hot hitting Mariners. While Humber’s spring was solid (sans his first and last appearance of spring training), he likely made the team only due to Baker’s stint on the DL. I imagine that Gardy will attempt to use Humber several more times prior to Baker coming back. If Humber continues to compete and produce quality innings that will make Gardy’s decision a tough on. Who gets optioned to Triple-A?

Defensively the Twins were consistent, but thanks to Nick Punto and Alexi Casilla’s double play to get out of a sixth inning jam was a game changer and allowed the Twins to start to feel the momentum.

Most Valuable Opponent goes to Brendan Morrow.

Alexi Casilla was clutch and put it in the book.

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