Signs of spring. Twins Hope Opener

The temperature hit 62 yesterday in the Twin Cities Metro and the Twins’ Home Opener is today, so let’s just declare winter over.

I’ve never had the opportunity to attend a Home Opener, though I did attend a Home Opener in Kansas City in 1974 between the Royals and the Twins.  However I’ve spent plenty of time at Target Field the past four seasons.  Our neighbors and I have split a 20-game season ticket package for the Twins for the past four years.  Even though the Twins’ record over the past three years has been terrible, I’ve never thought about not renewing.  Our first game is this Friday night, and I can’t wait to go.

The Home Opener is all about hope.  Who cares is we’ve lost 90 games the past three years—we haven’t lost a game at home yet.  Who cares if our starting line-up doesn’t look that much better than last year—we’ve scored the most runs in the American League so far this season.  Who cares if there is still snow on the ground—Target Field is ready! 

My Dad and I had the privilege of watching the Twins in Fort Myers two weeks ago.  The Twins played well, though everyone we talked to were concerned about their hitting.  But no matter –today is the Home Opener—and we’re all filled with hope.

I’ve been a Twins fan every since I could turn on a Radio.  I have wonderful memories of listening to Herb Carneal on WCCO and attending games on Knothole Day at Metropolitan Stadium.  I spent plenty of time at the Metrodome and forgot how much fan it is to watch baseball outdoors.  I could tell you exactly where I was in 1987 and 1991 when the Twins won the World Series.  I’ve done plenty of cursing too—but let’s save that for another day—today is the Home Opener.

I’m a Twins fan for life.  They are probably the only professional team in the Metro for whom I won’t jump off the wagon.  I’ve been very critical of their play the past three years, but I’ll always be a fan.

It will be hard to work this afternoon while the Twins are playing at Target Field.    Go Twins!