It’s the fourth and final game of the Minnesota-Detroit series today at 1:05 p.m., and for the Twins, it could be the last meaningful game they play in 2009. With a three-game lead in the AL Central and their magic number at two, a win today by the Tigers and they would clinch the division, ending any hopes the Twins have of postseason play. If Minnesota were to stave of elimination, they would still have to make up two games over the weekend, a formidable task if there ever was one. But first, the Twins need a win today, and Twinkie Town has hope.
Minnesota Hopes To Keep Season Alive Today In Detroit
Fortunately for the Twins, our most consistent pitcher is on the mound this afternoon. For the most part, Baker’s 2009 numbers are a repeat of his solid 2008 season. K/9: 7.48 (2009) to 7.36 (2008). BB/9: 2.05 to 2.19. BABIP: .288 to .290. Opponent’s batting average: .251 to .249. GB/FB: 0.73 to 0.72. Etc. The only real difference in Baker’s peripherals is a higher HR/FB rate (10.1% to 8.5% – suggesting a regression to mean) and a large drop in LOB% (69.4% to 78.7%), both of which drive a higher FIP (4.02 to 3.79) and much higher ERA (4.48 to 3.45).
Bless You Boys knows beating Baker won’t be easy, and they’re doing their best not to look too far ahead, but really, who can blame them for being a tad excited?I’ve become pretty jinx-conscious in writing these GameThread posts, so I hesitate to say exactly what could happen this afternoon at Comerica Park if the Tigers win. But it would be pretty cool. And something that hasn’t taken place in 22 years. Tiger Town feels ready for it.
It’s technically still just regular season baseball, but it sure feels like the playoffs already. What a wonderful way to spend a Thursday afternoon in October.
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