The Big Inning

The Twins did it again, the offense couldn't get going all game until the 5th were they scored 5 runs. It seems like a pattern lately especially in this series which they scored18 runs and 17 of them were scored in 3 separate innings in 3 different games. Either way it was an excellent sweep of a team definitely on the decline. The win puts the Twins at 40-36, 4 games over .500 for the first time this season, the sweep of the White Sox of the Cubs puts the Twins only 1.5 games back in the division. Just about 2 weeks ago, things looked awful as the White Sox were completing a 4 game sweep and the Twins found themselves 6.5 back. Now they are in the best position of the season.
Now to discuss the future of this team. Jim Souhan of the Star Tribune wrote a column about how none of the Twins offseason acquisitions are working out. Read it here:
http://www.startribune.com/sports/twins/20645814.html?location_refer=Sports:highlightModules:1

I somewhat agree with him. The Twins do what they always do and go after the cheap veteran free agent who had his best year 3 years ago (Mike Lamb, Adam Everett, Craig Monroe). But does it ever work out? Remember Tony Batista? I agree that the young players should get the chance and the Twins should cut ties with Lamb and Everett if they can find anyone to take them. I also agree that they can't give up on Delmon Young, but his fielding mistakes are costing this team. Platooning Young with Span, Monroe or Kubel might be a good idea, until Young can get a hot bat going. I agree the Rays got the better of the Garza/Young trade, but the Twins have to be patient with young and maybe he will come around. As for Brendan Harris, I would like to see him keep starting at shortstop. Tolbert could be the future at that position but Harris is hot right now at the plate and hasn't made a lot of errors in the field. He is a perfect #9 hitter in the AL. Punto should be kept around to back up middle infield and 3rd when need be. But the Twins have built a good young core of talent and maybe they can shock some people.
By the way since the start of the Milwaukee series, Twins starters have provided 9 quality starts in a row. The rotation was in shambles 2 weeks ago. Lets hope they can keep it up. The Twins will be out west in San Diego for 3 before coming home for 9 more.