Minnesota Twins Tickets

2008 Minnesota Twins Playoff Outlook The Minnesota Twins have no business being in the playoff hunt, but here they are in early September battling it out with the Chicago White Sox for the American League Central crown and possibly a wild card spot.

Despite trading away ace Johan Santana for prospects before the start of the season and letting star center fielder Torii Hunter walk in free agency, the Twins have managed to compete for a division title even though analysts predicted a losing record.

Many felt the Twins would be little more than an afterthought, a team in the midst of a rebuilding project after losing its two best players. However, the depth of the minor league system has proven to be their recipe for success.

At the plate, the Twins have gotten some type of production from just about everyone in the lineup. First baseman Justin Morneau and catcher Joe Mauer have led the way as per usual, but the team has received quality contributions from outfielder Delmon Young and other players as well.

The starting pitching has been the major surprise, as the youth and inexperience of the rotation has been overshadowed by all of the talent.

Scott Baker has been the team's best pitcher all season long, but Kevin Slowey has gotten better and better as the year has progressed. Francisco Liriano struggled early, but he has shown significant improvement after getting some time to shake off the rust associated with Tommy John surgery.

There isn't necessarily a true ace on this staff, but all of the pitchers throw strikes and give the team a chance to win.

The bullpen has been solid thanks to closer Joe Nathan, who makes everyone's job a little easier in the ninth inning. To solidify the bullpen, the team acquired reliever Eddie Guardado from the Texas Rangers just a few weeks ago.

Still, the small run differential has those around baseball believing the Twins can't sustain their current pace.

Everyone keeps waiting for the Twins to finally fade away, but it doesn't look like it's going to happen. Expect the Twins to stay in the hunt for the division title or a wild card berth right up to the final game of the season.