2008 Minnesota Twins

The Minnesota Twins had a respectable 2007 season, ending up with a win average of .488 that placed them in the center of the AL Central Division. The Twins made some hotly debated moves in the off season, most notably trading starting pitcher Matt Garza for outfielder Delmon Young, and Cy Young award-winning pitcher Johan Santana for centerfielder Carlos Gomez and pitchers Phil Humber, Deolis Guerra, and Kevin Mulvey. Will the changes be enough to make the Twins real contenders for the 2008 World Series? Get your tickets to HHH Metrodome to see what the Minnesota Twins can do in 2008!

From the Senators to the Twins

The Minnesota Twins were founded in 1961 when the original Washington Senators relocated to the Minneapolis-St. Paul area and were renamed the Twins to reflect their new Twin Cities locale. The Senators were one of the historically poor MLB franchises, winning only 1 World Series over 60 years.

Early Success

The Twins left their losing ways in Washington and proceeded to win the West Division 3 times between 1965 and 1970, reaching the World Series once. The core of that team was filled with perennial All Stars Harmon Killebrew, Rod Carew, and Jim Kaat. Following the 1970 season the Twins went into a period of decline. Despite the batting heroics of Killebrew (who hit 573 homeruns) and Rod Care (who won 7 batting titles as a Twin) the team would not return to the playoffs until 1987.

World Series Winners

In 1987 the Twins, under second year manager Tom Kelly, won the World Series in a thrilling 7 game series, coming from behind to win the last two games at home. Kelly’s team was led by Hall of Fame Centerfielder Kirby Pucket whose hitting, defense, and leadership carried the team to both the 1987 and 1991 titles.

Following the 1991 season the team once again went into a period of decline. In 2002 Kelly retired and was replaced by Ron Gardenhire who proceeded to lead the team back to the playoffs for the first time in 11 years. Despite playing in the extremely competitive AL Central against the White Sox, Tigers, and Indians, the Twins have won 4 of the last 6 division crowns.