Friday, July 6, 2007

Sunny on the South Side

The weather is pretty perfect right now at U.S. Cellular, though the sun might get a little hot by this afternoon. There is a bit of a breeze, though, and the humidity is low. That might help the Twins get through today's doubleheader without getting too fatigued.

Manager Ron Gardenhire, despite general manager Terry Ryan's contrary belief, said he remains optimistic that Rondell White will return after the All-Star break. White (I know, I know, you all are sick of hearing about this) went 2 for 4 and played left field for 7 innings yesterday for the GCL Twins.

The skipper said the decision to start Baker in the first game today came in part because Baker has proven lately that he's capable of pitching deep into games. That, Gardenhire hopes, will save his bullpen from being depleted this afternoon with another game to go tonight.
If the Twins have to go to the pen early this afternoon, Gardenhire joked they might have to "fly in a reliever from the closest city on a leer jet" to get here in time for game 2.

Game 1 lineups ...

Minnesota
Luis Castillo 2B
Jason Bartlett SS
Joe Mauer C
Michael Cuddyer RF
Justin Morneau 1B
Torii Hunter CF
Jason Kubel LF
Jason Tyner DH
Nick Punto 3B
Scott Baker P

Chicago
Jerry Owens CF
Juan Uribe SS
Jim Thome DH
Paul Konerko 1B
Jermaine Dye RF
Rob Mackowiak LF
Josh Fields 3B
Alex Cintron 2B
Toby Hall C
Jon Garland P