What A Difference A Week Makes!

Then

On August 5, just one week ago, the Twins were down in the dumps big time and many thought their season was over. They were in third place and seven games out of first place. They were behind six teams in the race for the second AL wild card spot. Cleveland and Kansas City, the teams ahead of Minnesota in the AL Central standings, were playing extremely well. Twins management seemed to think this was the beginning of the end of the Twins’ 2017 season as well, as they traded starting pitcher Jaime Garcia and closer Brandon Kintzler for prospects.

Now

But just when you thought the season was over for the Twins…it’s not! Out of nowhere, the Twins have won six games in a row and are now in the second wild card spot, having passed six teams in just one week. With Kansas City now really struggling, the Twins are in second place in the division, 1.5 games ahead of the Royals. Minnesota is also just 3.5 games behind Cleveland for first place.

During this winning streak, the Twins have played well in all areas. The offense has been good, especially Jorge Polanco, Eddie Rosario and Brian Dozier. The defense, especially in the outfield, also has been good (Byron Buxton and Max Kepler made spectacular catches in last night’s game). What is really surprising though is how well the bullpen has pitched. I thought the Kintzler trade might demoralize the other relievers, but it has been the opposite.

Conclusion

I guess this shows fans how quickly things can change in MLB. The Twins management had seemed to give up on 2017 just a week ago, and now Minnesota is right in the middle of the playoff picture! Let’s hope the Twins keep it up!

Written by: Sam Graves