The Minnesota Twins continued their winnings ways from the 2010 season to the 2011 Grapefruit League. The Twins are currently 19-11 and in 1st place ahead of 14 other Grapefruit League teams. Minnesota looks to avenge an early exit from the American League playoffs with the majority of their 2010 team back. The Twins won the American League Central by 6.0 games, but lost to the Yankees in a three game sweep .
The Twins will start their second season at Target Field under American League Manager of the Year, Ron Gardenhire. Minnesota will welcome back All-Stars Joe Nathan and Justin Morneau in 2011 after injuries shortened their 2010 seasons.
Former NWL alumni Matt Hauser had an impressive 2010 season in limited action in the Twins Minor League system. Hauser was a 7th round pick in the 2010 Major League Draft after playing for the Duluth Huskies in 2008. The 6’2’’ right handed pitcher finished the season with a 1-0 record with four saves while playing for the Elizabethton Twins (Rookie) of the Appalachian League and the Beloit Snappers (Single-A) of the Midwest League.
Unfortunately Twins fan will not get to see Minnesota native and graduate of Park Center Senior High School, Pat Neshek, in 2011. Neshek was waived by the Twins in mid-March and has since been claimed off waivers by the San Diego Padres of the National League West. Neshek has made 132 career relief appearances over parts of four Major League seasons (2006-08, 10) with the Twins. He has gone 11-6 with a 3.05 ERA and 151 strikeouts, averaging 1.16 strikeouts per inning pitched. Neshek has made six relief appearances for the Twins this spring, posting a 4.26 ERA with five strikeouts.
Follow Minnesota’s beloved Twins in 2011 as they look to rebound from a tough ending in 2010.
