2008 Minnesota Twins season
Encyclopedia
The Minnesota Twins
season was the 48th season for the franchise in Minnesota
, and the 108th overall in the American League
. After tying the Chicago White Sox
for first in the AL Central Division with an 88–74 record, the team lost a one game playoff
to finish second and miss the league playoffs.
for the previous 13 years, Terry Ryan
stepped down into the role of Senior Advisor in September 2007 and was replaced by Bill Smith, formerly the assistant general manager. Scouting director Mike Radcliff was named vice president of player personnel and director of baseball operations Rob Antony was named assistant GM.
The offseason between the 2007 and 2008 seasons saw many rumors surrounding pitcher Johan Santana
, but little action until shortly before the start of spring training. Typically standing still in the off-season, the Twins made some waves late November when they traded Matt Garza
, Jason Bartlett, and Eduardo Morlan to the Tampa Bay Rays
for power-hitting outfielder
Delmon Young, scrappy infielder
Brendan Harris
and former Twin Jason Pridie
.
Prior to the Rays trade, the Twins traded for outfielder Craig Monroe
of the Chicago Cubs
. Monroe would later sign with the Twins and would be placed on the major league roster soon after. Monroe joined several others including Adam Everett
and Mike Lamb
as those new to the team who made the 2008 Opening Day roster.
On January 18, 2008, the Twins avoided arbitration with three current players: Jason Kubel
, Justin Morneau
and Juan Rincón
. Rincón and Kubel were signed through 2008, while Morneau and Michael Cuddyer
were signed to extended contracts.
The Twins also saw several players depart via free agency
, roster management and trade
. The Twins also released players Jason Tyner
, Chris Heintz, Lew Ford
, Josh Rabe
and Matthew LeCroy
.
Minnesota lost Carlos Silva via free agency, signing with the Seattle Mariners
for a four-year contract. Silva was a starting pitcher for the Twins in recent years after coming over in the Eric Milton
trade.
The Twins also lost perennial Gold Glove center fielder and fan favorite Torii Hunter in free agency, who signed with the Los Angeles Angels of Anaheim
for five years and $90 million.
The Twins traded ace Johan Santana
to the New York Mets
for four prospects: OF Carlos Gómez
and pitchers Kevin Mulvey
, Philip Humber
, and Deolis Guerra
.
On March 27, the Twins announced they had finished signing their entire 40-man roster.
Pitcher Francisco Liriano was unable to report to camp on time due to visa problems. Shortly before the start of the season, Liriano was sent down to the minor leagues to continue his development.
Gómez beat out center field prospects Denard Span
and Jason Pridie
for the starting job.
The team re-signed closer
Joe Nathan
to a four-year contract on March 24.
hit for the cycle
against the Chicago White Sox
at U.S. Cellular Field
in Chicago. He became the fourth major leaguer and second in Twins history to hit for the reverse natural cycle. He also became the third-youngest player to hit for the cycle in MLB history.
During the 2008 campaign, the Twins sent three representatives to the 2008 MLB All Star game: Joe Mauer
, Justin Morneau
, and Joe Nathan
. Morneau went on to win the home run derby
and score the winning run in the 15th inning of the All-Star game.
Joe Mauer won his second American League Batting Title with a .328 average.
Minnesota Twins
The Minnesota Twins are a professional baseball team based in Minneapolis, Minnesota. They play in the Central Division of Major League Baseball's American League. The team is named after the Twin Cities area of Minneapolis and St. Paul. They played in Metropolitan Stadium from 1961 to 1981 and the...
season was the 48th season for the franchise in Minnesota
Minnesota
Minnesota is a U.S. state located in the Midwestern United States. The twelfth largest state of the U.S., it is the twenty-first most populous, with 5.3 million residents. Minnesota was carved out of the eastern half of the Minnesota Territory and admitted to the Union as the thirty-second state...
, and the 108th overall in the American League
American League
The American League of Professional Baseball Clubs, or simply the American League , is one of two leagues that make up Major League Baseball in the United States and Canada. It developed from the Western League, a minor league based in the Great Lakes states, which eventually aspired to major...
. After tying the Chicago White Sox
Chicago White Sox
The Chicago White Sox are a Major League Baseball team located in Chicago, Illinois.The White Sox play in the American League's Central Division. Since , the White Sox have played in U.S. Cellular Field, which was originally called New Comiskey Park and nicknamed The Cell by local fans...
for first in the AL Central Division with an 88–74 record, the team lost a one game playoff
2008 American League Central tie-breaker game
The 2008 American League Central tie-breaker game was a one-game playoff for Major League Baseball's American League Central division. The game took place on September 30, 2008 between the Chicago White Sox and Minnesota Twins at US Cellular Field. It was necessary after both teams finished the...
to finish second and miss the league playoffs.
Player and personnel moves
General ManagerGeneral manager (baseball)
In Major League Baseball, the general manager of a team typically controls player transactions and bears the primary responsibility on behalf of the ballclub during contract discussions with players....
for the previous 13 years, Terry Ryan
Terry Ryan (baseball)
Terry Ryan is the general manager for the Minnesota Twins. Ryan is known for using a low payroll and building up the minor league system to put up contending teams. He resigned as general manager of the Twins on October 1, 2007 but returned to the team as interim GM on November 7, 2011.-Early...
stepped down into the role of Senior Advisor in September 2007 and was replaced by Bill Smith, formerly the assistant general manager. Scouting director Mike Radcliff was named vice president of player personnel and director of baseball operations Rob Antony was named assistant GM.
The offseason between the 2007 and 2008 seasons saw many rumors surrounding pitcher Johan Santana
Johan Santana
Johan Alexander Santana Araque is a Major League Baseball left-handed starting pitcher who is currently playing for the New York Mets. He is a native of Venezuela....
, but little action until shortly before the start of spring training. Typically standing still in the off-season, the Twins made some waves late November when they traded Matt Garza
Matt Garza
Matthew Scott Garza is a United States professional baseball pitcher with the Chicago Cubs of Major League Baseball.-Amateur career:He attended Washington Union High School and Fresno State.-Minnesota Twins:...
, Jason Bartlett, and Eduardo Morlan to the Tampa Bay Rays
Tampa Bay Rays
The Tampa Bay Rays are a Major League Baseball team based in St. Petersburg, Florida. The Rays are a member of the Eastern Division of MLB's American League. Since their inception in , the club has played at Tropicana Field...
for power-hitting outfielder
Outfielder
Outfielder is a generic term applied to each of the people playing in the three defensive positions in baseball farthest from the batter. These defenders are the left fielder, the center fielder, and the right fielder...
Delmon Young, scrappy infielder
Infielder
An infielder is a baseball player stationed at one of four defensive "infield" positions on the baseball field.-Standard arrangement of positions:In a game of baseball, two teams of nine players take turns playing offensive and defensive roles...
Brendan Harris
Brendan Harris
Brendan Michael Harris Brendan Michael Harris Brendan Michael Harris (born August 26, 1980 in Albany, New York is a Major League Baseball utility infielder who is a free agent.Brendan grew up in Queensbury, New York and led the Spartans to the 1998 State Baseball Tournament. He graduated from the...
and former Twin Jason Pridie
Jason Pridie
Jason Orville Pridie is an American professional baseball outfielder for the Oakland Athletics of Major League Baseball.-Tampa Bay Rays:...
.
Prior to the Rays trade, the Twins traded for outfielder Craig Monroe
Craig Monroe
Craig Keystone Monroe , nicknamed "C-Mo," is a Major League Baseball outfielder who most recently played for the Pittsburgh Pirates.-Professional career:...
of the Chicago Cubs
Chicago Cubs
The Chicago Cubs are a professional baseball team located in Chicago, Illinois. They are members of the Central Division of Major League Baseball's National League. They are one of two Major League clubs based in Chicago . The Cubs are also one of the two remaining charter members of the National...
. Monroe would later sign with the Twins and would be placed on the major league roster soon after. Monroe joined several others including Adam Everett
Adam Everett
Jeffery Adam Everett , is an American professional baseball shortstop who is a free agent. He played collegiate baseball at the University of South Carolina...
and Mike Lamb
Mike Lamb
Michael Robert Lamb is an American professional baseball Utility Player for the New York Yankees of Major League Baseball. He can play the infield but shortstop, corner outfield and catcher...
as those new to the team who made the 2008 Opening Day roster.
On January 18, 2008, the Twins avoided arbitration with three current players: Jason Kubel
Jason Kubel
Jason James Kubel is an American professional baseball player. A Belle Fourche, South Dakota native, Kubel was drafted by the Twins in the 12th round of the 2000 Draft after playing high school ball at Highland High School.-Early life:...
, Justin Morneau
Justin Morneau
Justin Ernest George Morneau is a Canadian Major League Baseball first baseman for the Minnesota Twins. At 6 feet 4 inches and 225 lbs, Morneau was originally drafted as a catcher by the Twins in 1999. He converted to first base in the minor leagues and made his MLB debut in 2003...
and Juan Rincón
Juan Rincón
Juan Manuel Rincón is a Major League Baseball relief pitcher who is with the Bridgeport Bluefish in the Atlantic League of Professional Baseball. Rincón bats and throws right-handed. He throws a low 90s fastball and a mid low 80s slider...
. Rincón and Kubel were signed through 2008, while Morneau and Michael Cuddyer
Michael Cuddyer
Michael Brent Cuddyer is a Major League Baseball right fielder who is currently a free agent. He bats and throws right-handed, and wore number 5 for Minnesota Twins.-High school:...
were signed to extended contracts.
The Twins also saw several players depart via free agency
Free agent
In professional sports, a free agent is a player whose contract with a team has expired and who is thus eligible to sign with another club or franchise....
, roster management and trade
Trade
Trade is the transfer of ownership of goods and services from one person or entity to another. Trade is sometimes loosely called commerce or financial transaction or barter. A network that allows trade is called a market. The original form of trade was barter, the direct exchange of goods and...
. The Twins also released players Jason Tyner
Jason Tyner
Jason Renyt Tyner is a former Major League Baseball outfielder. Tyner stands at 6'1" tall and weighs 175 pounds...
, Chris Heintz, Lew Ford
Lew Ford
Jon Lewis "Lew" Ford is a former MLB outfielder who is currently playing for the Long Island Ducks of the independent Atlantic League. Ford was a member of the Ducks in 2009 when he posted 10 home runs, 2 triples, and 55 RBI in 93 games. The Texas native finished second in the league in batting...
, Josh Rabe
Josh Rabe
Joshua Wayne Rabe is a former Major League Baseball outfielder with the Minnesota Twins and current head baseball coach for Quincy University in Quincy, Illinois.-Quincy University:...
and Matthew LeCroy
Matthew LeCroy
Matthew Hanks LeCroy is a former Major League Baseball catcher, first baseman, and designated hitter...
.
Minnesota lost Carlos Silva via free agency, signing with the Seattle Mariners
Seattle Mariners
The Seattle Mariners are a professional baseball team based in Seattle, Washington. Enfranchised in , the Mariners are a member of the Western Division of Major League Baseball's American League. Safeco Field has been the Mariners' home ballpark since July...
for a four-year contract. Silva was a starting pitcher for the Twins in recent years after coming over in the Eric Milton
Eric Milton
Eric Robert Milton is a former American left-handed starting pitcher in Major League Baseball...
trade.
The Twins also lost perennial Gold Glove center fielder and fan favorite Torii Hunter in free agency, who signed with the Los Angeles Angels of Anaheim
Los Angeles Angels of Anaheim
The Los Angeles Angels of Anaheim are a professional baseball team based in Anaheim, California, United States. The Angels are a member of the Western Division of Major League Baseball's American League. The "Angels" name originates from the city in which the team started, Los Angeles...
for five years and $90 million.
The Twins traded ace Johan Santana
Johan Santana
Johan Alexander Santana Araque is a Major League Baseball left-handed starting pitcher who is currently playing for the New York Mets. He is a native of Venezuela....
to the New York Mets
New York Mets
The New York Mets are a professional baseball team based in the borough of Queens in New York City, New York. They belong to Major League Baseball's National League East Division. One of baseball's first expansion teams, the Mets were founded in 1962 to replace New York's departed National League...
for four prospects: OF Carlos Gómez
Carlos Gómez
Carlos Argelis Gómez Pena, nicknamed "Go-Go", is a Major League Baseball outfielder for the Milwaukee Brewers.-Minor leagues:...
and pitchers Kevin Mulvey
Kevin Mulvey
Kevin John Mulvey is an American professional baseball pitcher for the Arizona Diamondbacks of Major League Baseball. He has previously played for the Minnesota Twins.-Early life:Mulvey is a New Jersey native...
, Philip Humber
Philip Humber
Philip Gregory Humber is a Major League Baseball pitcher for the Chicago White Sox.-Early life:Humber attended Carthage High School in Carthage, Texas...
, and Deolis Guerra
Deolis Guerra
Deolis Alexander Guerra is a minor league right-handed pitcher in the Minnesota Twins' organization currently assigned to the Twins' Double-A affiliate, the New Britain Rock Cats....
.
Spring training
The Twins, as per long-standing tradition were the last team to begin spring training on February 17, 2008.On March 27, the Twins announced they had finished signing their entire 40-man roster.
Pitcher Francisco Liriano was unable to report to camp on time due to visa problems. Shortly before the start of the season, Liriano was sent down to the minor leagues to continue his development.
Gómez beat out center field prospects Denard Span
Denard Span
Keiunta Denard Span is an American Major League Baseball outfielder for the Minnesota Twins. He was selected by the Twins with the 20th overall pick in the 2002 Major League Baseball Draft from Tampa Catholic High School...
and Jason Pridie
Jason Pridie
Jason Orville Pridie is an American professional baseball outfielder for the Oakland Athletics of Major League Baseball.-Tampa Bay Rays:...
for the starting job.
The team re-signed closer
Closer (baseball)
In baseball, a closing pitcher, more frequently referred to as a closer , is a relief pitcher who specializes in closing out games, i.e., getting the final outs in a close game. Closers often appear when the score is close, and the role is often assigned to a team's best reliever. A small number of...
Joe Nathan
Joe Nathan
Joseph Michael Nathan is an American professional baseball pitcher for the Texas Rangers of Major League Baseball . Nathan started out his baseball career as a shortstop in high school but converted to a pitcher after being drafted by the San Francisco Giants...
to a four-year contract on March 24.
Notable events
On May 7, 2008, Carlos GómezCarlos Gómez
Carlos Argelis Gómez Pena, nicknamed "Go-Go", is a Major League Baseball outfielder for the Milwaukee Brewers.-Minor leagues:...
hit for the cycle
Hitting for the cycle
In baseball, hitting for the cycle is the accomplishment of one batter hitting a single, a double, a triple, and a home run in the same game. Collecting the hits in that order is known as a "natural cycle". Cycles are uncommon in Major League Baseball , occurring 293 times since the first by Curry...
against the Chicago White Sox
Chicago White Sox
The Chicago White Sox are a Major League Baseball team located in Chicago, Illinois.The White Sox play in the American League's Central Division. Since , the White Sox have played in U.S. Cellular Field, which was originally called New Comiskey Park and nicknamed The Cell by local fans...
at U.S. Cellular Field
U.S. Cellular Field
U.S. Cellular Field is a baseball ballpark in Chicago, Illinois. Owned by the Illinois Sports Facilities Authority, it is the home of the Chicago White Sox of Major League Baseball's American League. The park opened for the 1991 season, after the White Sox had spent 81 years at old Comiskey Park...
in Chicago. He became the fourth major leaguer and second in Twins history to hit for the reverse natural cycle. He also became the third-youngest player to hit for the cycle in MLB history.
During the 2008 campaign, the Twins sent three representatives to the 2008 MLB All Star game: Joe Mauer
Joe Mauer
Joseph Patrick Mauer is a Major League Baseball catcher for the Minnesota Twins. He is the only catcher in Major League history to win three batting titles...
, Justin Morneau
Justin Morneau
Justin Ernest George Morneau is a Canadian Major League Baseball first baseman for the Minnesota Twins. At 6 feet 4 inches and 225 lbs, Morneau was originally drafted as a catcher by the Twins in 1999. He converted to first base in the minor leagues and made his MLB debut in 2003...
, and Joe Nathan
Joe Nathan
Joseph Michael Nathan is an American professional baseball pitcher for the Texas Rangers of Major League Baseball . Nathan started out his baseball career as a shortstop in high school but converted to a pitcher after being drafted by the San Francisco Giants...
. Morneau went on to win the home run derby
2008 Major League Baseball Home Run Derby
The 2008 Major League Baseball Home Run Derby was held on Monday, July 14, 2008, at Yankee Stadium in The Bronx, New York City...
and score the winning run in the 15th inning of the All-Star game.
Joe Mauer won his second American League Batting Title with a .328 average.
Game log
| 2008 Game Log | |
|---|---|
Roster
| 2008 Minnesota Twins | |||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Roster | |||||||||
| Pitchers | Catchers Infielders |
Outfielders Other batters |
Manager Coaches (pitching) (bench) (bullpen) (third base) (hitting) (first base) |
||||||
Regular season transactions
April 5, 2008: Placed outfielder Michael CuddyerMichael Cuddyer
Michael Brent Cuddyer is a Major League Baseball right fielder who is currently a free agent. He bats and throws right-handed, and wore number 5 for Minnesota Twins.-High school:...
on the 15-day disabled list
Disabled list
In Major League Baseball, the disabled list is a method for teams to remove their injured players from the roster in order to summon healthy players.-General guidelines:...
; recalled outfielder Denard Span
Denard Span
Keiunta Denard Span is an American Major League Baseball outfielder for the Minnesota Twins. He was selected by the Twins with the 20th overall pick in the 2002 Major League Baseball Draft from Tampa Catholic High School...
from Rochester
Rochester Red Wings
The Rochester Red Wings are a minor league baseball team based in Rochester, New York. The team plays in the International League and is the Triple-A affiliate of the Minnesota Twins major-league club. The Red Wings play in Frontier Field, located in downtown Rochester.The Red Wings were an...
of the International League
International League
The International League is a minor league baseball league that operates in the eastern United States. Like the Pacific Coast League and the Mexican League, it plays at the Triple-A level, which is one step below Major League Baseball. It was so named because it had teams in both the United States...
(AAA).
April 11, 2008: Placed pitcher Kevin Slowey
Kevin Slowey
Kevin Michael Slowey is a Major League Baseball relief pitcher for the Minnesota Twins. Slowey was selected by the Twins with the 73rd pick in the 2nd round of the 2005 Major League Baseball Draft.-College:...
on the 15-day disabled list, retroactive to April 4.
April 12, 2008: Recalled pitcher Francisco Liriano
Francisco Liriano
Francisco Liriano y Casillas is a left-handed Major League Baseball starting pitcher for the Minnesota Twins.-Professional career:...
from Rochester.
April 19, 2008: Placed shortstop Adam Everett
Adam Everett
Jeffery Adam Everett , is an American professional baseball shortstop who is a free agent. He played collegiate baseball at the University of South Carolina...
on the 15-day disabled list, retroactive to April 15; recalled third baseman Brian Buscher
Brian Buscher
Brian Phillip Buscher , nicknamed "The Urban Legend", is a retired Major League Baseball third baseman and served in 2011 as the undergraduate assistant coach for the South Carolina Gamecocks baseball team....
from Rochester.
April 24, 2008: Optioned outfielder Denard Span
Denard Span
Keiunta Denard Span is an American Major League Baseball outfielder for the Minnesota Twins. He was selected by the Twins with the 20th overall pick in the 2002 Major League Baseball Draft from Tampa Catholic High School...
to Rochester of the International League (AAA).
April 25, 2008: Activated outfielder Michael Cuddyer
Michael Cuddyer
Michael Brent Cuddyer is a Major League Baseball right fielder who is currently a free agent. He bats and throws right-handed, and wore number 5 for Minnesota Twins.-High school:...
from the 15-day disabled list.
April 26, 2008: Optioned pitcher Francisco Liriano
Francisco Liriano
Francisco Liriano y Casillas is a left-handed Major League Baseball starting pitcher for the Minnesota Twins.-Professional career:...
to Rochester of the International League (AAA); recalled pitcher Bobby Korecky
Bobby Korecky
Robert John Korecky is a Major League Baseball relief pitcher who is currently in the Toronto Blue Jays organization...
from Rochester.
April 30, 2008: Optioned third baseman Brian Buscher
Brian Buscher
Brian Phillip Buscher , nicknamed "The Urban Legend", is a retired Major League Baseball third baseman and served in 2011 as the undergraduate assistant coach for the South Carolina Gamecocks baseball team....
to Rochester of the International League (AAA).
May 2, 2008: Activated infielder Adam Everett
Adam Everett
Jeffery Adam Everett , is an American professional baseball shortstop who is a free agent. He played collegiate baseball at the University of South Carolina...
from the 15-day disabled list.
May 8, 2008: Placed pitcher Scott Baker on the 15-day disabled list, retroactive to May 4; activated pitcher Kevin Slowey
Kevin Slowey
Kevin Michael Slowey is a Major League Baseball relief pitcher for the Minnesota Twins. Slowey was selected by the Twins with the 73rd pick in the 2nd round of the 2005 Major League Baseball Draft.-College:...
from the 15-day disabled list.
May 9, 2008: Placed pitcher Pat Neshek
Pat Neshek
Patrick J. Neshek is an American professional baseball pitcher who is a free agent. Neshek is a graduate of Park Center Senior High School in Minnesota and of Butler University.-Early career:...
on the 15-day disabled list; recalled pitcher Glen Perkins
Glen Perkins
Glen Weston Perkins is a Major League Baseball relief pitcher for the Minnesota Twins. He made his major league debut with the Minnesota Twins in 2006. Perkins attended the University of Minnesota in Minneapolis-St. Paul and Stillwater Area High School in Oak Park Heights...
from Rochester.
May 11, 2008: Placed infielder Nick Punto
Nick Punto
Nicholas Paul Punto is a Major League Baseball utility player. He has played second base, third base, shortstop, and center field. Punto is a switch hitter and throws right-handed....
on the 15-day disabled list; recalled infielder Alexi Casilla
Alexi Casilla
Alexi Casilla Lora is a Major League Baseball second baseman and shortstop for the Minnesota Twins.-Professional career:...
from Rochester.
May 17, 2008: Placed infielder Matt Tolbert
Matt Tolbert
Christopher Matthew Tolbert is an American professional baseball second baseman who is a free agent. After graduating from Centreville Academy in 2000, Tolbert attended University of Mississippi for four years; he was later drafted by the Baltimore Orioles in 2003 and the Minnesota Twins in 2004...
on the 15-day disabled list; purchased the contract of infielder Howie Clark
Howie Clark
Howard Roddy Clark is a Major League Baseball utility player who is currently a free-agent. Clark made his Major League Baseball debut with the Baltimore Orioles in and has played at the major league level in parts of six seasons with the Orioles, Blue Jays, and Minnesota Twins...
from Rochester.
May 22, 2008: Placed shortstop Adam Everett
Adam Everett
Jeffery Adam Everett , is an American professional baseball shortstop who is a free agent. He played collegiate baseball at the University of South Carolina...
on the 15-day disabled list; recalled infielder Matt Macri
Matt Macri
Matthew Michael Macri is a Major League Baseball player who plays third base.Macri graduated from Dowling Catholic High School in 2001 and went to the University of Notre Dame. He played ball there briefly his Freshman year before undergoing Tommy John surgery...
from Rochester.
May 29, 2008: Claimed pitcher Craig Breslow
Craig Breslow
Craig Andrew Breslow is a Major League Baseball relief pitcher for the Oakland Athletics. He throws left-handed, and is considered a lefty specialist....
off waivers
Major League Baseball transactions
Major League Baseball transactions are changes made to the roster of a major league team during or after the season. They may include waiving, releasing, and trading players, as well as assigning players to minor league teams.-25-man and 40-man rosters:...
from the Cleveland Indians
Cleveland Indians
The Cleveland Indians are a professional baseball team based in Cleveland, Ohio. They are in the Central Division of Major League Baseball's American League. Since , they have played in Progressive Field. The team's spring training facility is in Goodyear, Arizona...
; transferred pitcher Pat Neshek
Pat Neshek
Patrick J. Neshek is an American professional baseball pitcher who is a free agent. Neshek is a graduate of Park Center Senior High School in Minnesota and of Butler University.-Early career:...
to the 60-day disabled list; optioned pitcher Bobby Korecky
Bobby Korecky
Robert John Korecky is a Major League Baseball relief pitcher who is currently in the Toronto Blue Jays organization...
to Rochester.
May 31, 2008: Activated infielder Nick Punto
Nick Punto
Nicholas Paul Punto is a Major League Baseball utility player. He has played second base, third base, shortstop, and center field. Punto is a switch hitter and throws right-handed....
from the 15-day disabled list; designated infielder Howie Clark
Howie Clark
Howard Roddy Clark is a Major League Baseball utility player who is currently a free-agent. Clark made his Major League Baseball debut with the Baltimore Orioles in and has played at the major league level in parts of six seasons with the Orioles, Blue Jays, and Minnesota Twins...
for assignment.
June 2, 2008: Outrighted
Major League Baseball transactions
Major League Baseball transactions are changes made to the roster of a major league team during or after the season. They may include waiving, releasing, and trading players, as well as assigning players to minor league teams.-25-man and 40-man rosters:...
infielder Howie Clark
Howie Clark
Howard Roddy Clark is a Major League Baseball utility player who is currently a free-agent. Clark made his Major League Baseball debut with the Baltimore Orioles in and has played at the major league level in parts of six seasons with the Orioles, Blue Jays, and Minnesota Twins...
to the minor leagues.
June 5, 2008: Optioned infielder Matt Macri
Matt Macri
Matthew Michael Macri is a Major League Baseball player who plays third base.Macri graduated from Dowling Catholic High School in 2001 and went to the University of Notre Dame. He played ball there briefly his Freshman year before undergoing Tommy John surgery...
to Rochester of the International League (AAA).
June 6, 2008: Activated pitcher Scott Baker from the 15-day disabled list; placed infielder Nick Punto
Nick Punto
Nicholas Paul Punto is a Major League Baseball utility player. He has played second base, third base, shortstop, and center field. Punto is a switch hitter and throws right-handed....
on the 15-day disabled list; recalled infielder Matt Macri
Matt Macri
Matthew Michael Macri is a Major League Baseball player who plays third base.Macri graduated from Dowling Catholic High School in 2001 and went to the University of Notre Dame. He played ball there briefly his Freshman year before undergoing Tommy John surgery...
from Rochester.
June 13, 2008: Pitcher Juan Rincón
Juan Rincón
Juan Manuel Rincón is a Major League Baseball relief pitcher who is with the Bridgeport Bluefish in the Atlantic League of Professional Baseball. Rincón bats and throws right-handed. He throws a low 90s fastball and a mid low 80s slider...
designated for assignment
Designated for assignment
Designated for assignment is a contractual term used in Major League Baseball. When a player is designated for assignment, he is immediately removed from the club's 40-man roster. This gives the club 10 days to decide what to do with the player while freeing up a roster spot for another...
; recalled infielder Brian Buscher
Brian Buscher
Brian Phillip Buscher , nicknamed "The Urban Legend", is a retired Major League Baseball third baseman and served in 2011 as the undergraduate assistant coach for the South Carolina Gamecocks baseball team....
from Rochester.
June 18, 2008: Released pitcher Juan Rincón
Juan Rincón
Juan Manuel Rincón is a Major League Baseball relief pitcher who is with the Bridgeport Bluefish in the Atlantic League of Professional Baseball. Rincón bats and throws right-handed. He throws a low 90s fastball and a mid low 80s slider...
.
June 24, 2008: Activated infielder Nick Punto
Nick Punto
Nicholas Paul Punto is a Major League Baseball utility player. He has played second base, third base, shortstop, and center field. Punto is a switch hitter and throws right-handed....
from the 15-day disabled list: optioned infielder Howie Clark
Howie Clark
Howard Roddy Clark is a Major League Baseball utility player who is currently a free-agent. Clark made his Major League Baseball debut with the Baltimore Orioles in and has played at the major league level in parts of six seasons with the Orioles, Blue Jays, and Minnesota Twins...
to Rochester.
June 29, 2008: Placed outfielder Michael Cuddyer
Michael Cuddyer
Michael Brent Cuddyer is a Major League Baseball right fielder who is currently a free agent. He bats and throws right-handed, and wore number 5 for Minnesota Twins.-High school:...
on the 15-day disabled list, retroactive to June 28; recalled outfielder Denard Span
Denard Span
Keiunta Denard Span is an American Major League Baseball outfielder for the Minnesota Twins. He was selected by the Twins with the 20th overall pick in the 2002 Major League Baseball Draft from Tampa Catholic High School...
from Rochester of the International League (AAA).
July 31, 2008: Placed infielder Alexi Casilla
Alexi Casilla
Alexi Casilla Lora is a Major League Baseball second baseman and shortstop for the Minnesota Twins.-Professional career:...
on the 15-day disabled list; activated infielder Adam Everett
Adam Everett
Jeffery Adam Everett , is an American professional baseball shortstop who is a free agent. He played collegiate baseball at the University of South Carolina...
from the 15-day disabled list.
August 1, 2008: Designated pitcher Livan Hernandez
Liván Hernández
Eisler Liván Hernández Carrera is a Cuban professional baseball pitcher. He is the half-brother of pitcher Orlando "El Duque" Hernández.-Playing career:...
and outfielder Craig Monroe
Craig Monroe
Craig Keystone Monroe , nicknamed "C-Mo," is a Major League Baseball outfielder who most recently played for the Pittsburgh Pirates.-Professional career:...
for assignment; recalled pitcher Francisco Liriano
Francisco Liriano
Francisco Liriano y Casillas is a left-handed Major League Baseball starting pitcher for the Minnesota Twins.-Professional career:...
from Rochester; purchased the contract of infielder Randy Ruiz
Randy Ruiz
Randy Radames Ruiz is a Nippon Professional Baseball designated hitter and first baseman for the Tohoku Rakuten Golden Eagles. He stands 6'1" and weighs 240 pounds. Born in The Bronx, New York to parents from Santurce, Puerto Rico, he attended James Monroe High School, and played baseball under...
from Rochester.
August 11, 2008: Signed former Twin Bobby Kielty
Bobby Kielty
Robert Micheal Kielty is an American professional baseball outfielder for the San Diego Padres of Major League Baseball.-College :...
to a minor league contract.
August 21, 2008: Activated infielder Alexi Casilla
Alexi Casilla
Alexi Casilla Lora is a Major League Baseball second baseman and shortstop for the Minnesota Twins.-Professional career:...
from the 15-day disabled list; assigned pitcher Brian Bass
Brian Bass
Brian Michael Bass is a Major League Baseball relief pitcher, who is with the Philadelphia Phillies organization.-Kansas City Royals :Bass, a graduate of Robert E...
to Rochester of the International League (AAA).
Batting
Note: G = Games played; AB = At Bats; R = Runs scored; H = Hits; 2B = Doubles; 3B = Triples; HR = Home runs; RBI = Runs batted in; AVG = Batting average; SB = Stolen bases| Player | G | AB | R | H | 2B | 3B | HR | RBI | AVG | SB |
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| Scott Baker | ||||||||||
| Brian Bass Brian Bass Brian Michael Bass is a Major League Baseball relief pitcher, who is with the Philadelphia Phillies organization.-Kansas City Royals :Bass, a graduate of Robert E... |
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| Nick Blackburn Nick Blackburn Robert Nicholas Blackburn is a Major League Baseball pitcher in the Minnesota Twins system. He graduated from Del City High School in Del City, Oklahoma. He attended Seminole State College. The 6-4, 227 pound right-hander was originally drafted by the Tampa Bay Devil Rays in the 34th round of the... |
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| Boof Bonser Boof Bonser Boof Bonser is a professional American baseball player. He is currently a pitcher in the New York Mets organization of Major League Baseball.-High school career:... |
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| Craig Breslow Craig Breslow Craig Andrew Breslow is a Major League Baseball relief pitcher for the Oakland Athletics. He throws left-handed, and is considered a lefty specialist.... |
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| Brian Buscher Brian Buscher Brian Phillip Buscher , nicknamed "The Urban Legend", is a retired Major League Baseball third baseman and served in 2011 as the undergraduate assistant coach for the South Carolina Gamecocks baseball team.... |
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| Alexi Casilla Alexi Casilla Alexi Casilla Lora is a Major League Baseball second baseman and shortstop for the Minnesota Twins.-Professional career:... |
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| Howie Clark Howie Clark Howard Roddy Clark is a Major League Baseball utility player who is currently a free-agent. Clark made his Major League Baseball debut with the Baltimore Orioles in and has played at the major league level in parts of six seasons with the Orioles, Blue Jays, and Minnesota Twins... |
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| Jesse Crain Jesse Crain Jesse Alan Crain is a Canadian professional baseball pitcher with the Chicago White Sox of Major League Baseball.-High school and college:... |
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| Michael Cuddyer Michael Cuddyer Michael Brent Cuddyer is a Major League Baseball right fielder who is currently a free agent. He bats and throws right-handed, and wore number 5 for Minnesota Twins.-High school:... |
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| Adam Everett Adam Everett Jeffery Adam Everett , is an American professional baseball shortstop who is a free agent. He played collegiate baseball at the University of South Carolina... |
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| Carlos Gómez Carlos Gómez Carlos Argelis Gómez Pena, nicknamed "Go-Go", is a Major League Baseball outfielder for the Milwaukee Brewers.-Minor leagues:... |
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| Matt Guerrier Matt Guerrier Matthew Olson Guerrier is an American Major League Baseball relief pitcher for the Los Angeles Dodgers. He attended college at Kent State University, and made his major league debut on June 17, .-Chicago White Sox:... |
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| Brendan Harris Brendan Harris Brendan Michael Harris Brendan Michael Harris Brendan Michael Harris (born August 26, 1980 in Albany, New York is a Major League Baseball utility infielder who is a free agent.Brendan grew up in Queensbury, New York and led the Spartans to the 1998 State Baseball Tournament. He graduated from the... |
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| Liván Hernández Liván Hernández Eisler Liván Hernández Carrera is a Cuban professional baseball pitcher. He is the half-brother of pitcher Orlando "El Duque" Hernández.-Playing career:... |
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| Bobby Korecky Bobby Korecky Robert John Korecky is a Major League Baseball relief pitcher who is currently in the Toronto Blue Jays organization... |
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| Jason Kubel Jason Kubel Jason James Kubel is an American professional baseball player. A Belle Fourche, South Dakota native, Kubel was drafted by the Twins in the 12th round of the 2000 Draft after playing high school ball at Highland High School.-Early life:... |
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| Mike Lamb Mike Lamb Michael Robert Lamb is an American professional baseball Utility Player for the New York Yankees of Major League Baseball. He can play the infield but shortstop, corner outfield and catcher... |
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| Matt Macri Matt Macri Matthew Michael Macri is a Major League Baseball player who plays third base.Macri graduated from Dowling Catholic High School in 2001 and went to the University of Notre Dame. He played ball there briefly his Freshman year before undergoing Tommy John surgery... |
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| Joe Mauer Joe Mauer Joseph Patrick Mauer is a Major League Baseball catcher for the Minnesota Twins. He is the only catcher in Major League history to win three batting titles... |
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| Craig Monroe Craig Monroe Craig Keystone Monroe , nicknamed "C-Mo," is a Major League Baseball outfielder who most recently played for the Pittsburgh Pirates.-Professional career:... |
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| Justin Morneau Justin Morneau Justin Ernest George Morneau is a Canadian Major League Baseball first baseman for the Minnesota Twins. At 6 feet 4 inches and 225 lbs, Morneau was originally drafted as a catcher by the Twins in 1999. He converted to first base in the minor leagues and made his MLB debut in 2003... |
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| Joe Nathan Joe Nathan Joseph Michael Nathan is an American professional baseball pitcher for the Texas Rangers of Major League Baseball . Nathan started out his baseball career as a shortstop in high school but converted to a pitcher after being drafted by the San Francisco Giants... |
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| Glen Perkins Glen Perkins Glen Weston Perkins is a Major League Baseball relief pitcher for the Minnesota Twins. He made his major league debut with the Minnesota Twins in 2006. Perkins attended the University of Minnesota in Minneapolis-St. Paul and Stillwater Area High School in Oak Park Heights... |
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| Nick Punto Nick Punto Nicholas Paul Punto is a Major League Baseball utility player. He has played second base, third base, shortstop, and center field. Punto is a switch hitter and throws right-handed.... |
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| Mike Redmond Mike Redmond Michael Patrick Redmond is a former Major League Baseball catcher.Redmond graduated from Gonzaga Preparatory School in 1989. He attended Gonzaga University. Mike and his wife Michele have two sons.Redmond made his Major League debut with the Florida Marlins on May 31, 1998... |
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| Dennys Reyes Dennys Reyes Dennys Reyes is a Major League Baseball relief pitcher. He has played for ten teams since his major league career began in . Reyes throws left-handed and is considered a lefty specialist. He stands 6'3" and weighs 250 pounds. His nickname is "The Big Sweat."... |
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| Juan Rincón Juan Rincón Juan Manuel Rincón is a Major League Baseball relief pitcher who is with the Bridgeport Bluefish in the Atlantic League of Professional Baseball. Rincón bats and throws right-handed. He throws a low 90s fastball and a mid low 80s slider... |
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| Randy Ruiz Randy Ruiz Randy Radames Ruiz is a Nippon Professional Baseball designated hitter and first baseman for the Tohoku Rakuten Golden Eagles. He stands 6'1" and weighs 240 pounds. Born in The Bronx, New York to parents from Santurce, Puerto Rico, he attended James Monroe High School, and played baseball under... |
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| Kevin Slowey Kevin Slowey Kevin Michael Slowey is a Major League Baseball relief pitcher for the Minnesota Twins. Slowey was selected by the Twins with the 73rd pick in the 2nd round of the 2005 Major League Baseball Draft.-College:... |
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| Denard Span Denard Span Keiunta Denard Span is an American Major League Baseball outfielder for the Minnesota Twins. He was selected by the Twins with the 20th overall pick in the 2002 Major League Baseball Draft from Tampa Catholic High School... |
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| Matt Tolbert Matt Tolbert Christopher Matthew Tolbert is an American professional baseball second baseman who is a free agent. After graduating from Centreville Academy in 2000, Tolbert attended University of Mississippi for four years; he was later drafted by the Baltimore Orioles in 2003 and the Minnesota Twins in 2004... |
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| Delmon Young Delmon Young Delmon Damarcus Young is an American professional baseball outfielder with the Detroit Tigers of Major League Baseball. He is the younger brother of former major league outfielder and first baseman Dmitri Young. He was born in Montgomery, Alabama.Young is known for having a strong and accurate... |
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Pitching
Note: W = Wins; L = Losses; ERA = Earned run average; G = Games pitched; GS = Games started; SV = Saves; IP = Innings pitched; R = Runs allowed; ER = Earned runs allowed; BB = Walks allowed; K = Strikeouts| Player | W | L | ERA | G | GS | SV | IP | R | ER | BB | K |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Scott Baker | |||||||||||
| Brian Bass Brian Bass Brian Michael Bass is a Major League Baseball relief pitcher, who is with the Philadelphia Phillies organization.-Kansas City Royals :Bass, a graduate of Robert E... |
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| Nick Blackburn Nick Blackburn Robert Nicholas Blackburn is a Major League Baseball pitcher in the Minnesota Twins system. He graduated from Del City High School in Del City, Oklahoma. He attended Seminole State College. The 6-4, 227 pound right-hander was originally drafted by the Tampa Bay Devil Rays in the 34th round of the... |
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| Boof Bonser Boof Bonser Boof Bonser is a professional American baseball player. He is currently a pitcher in the New York Mets organization of Major League Baseball.-High school career:... |
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| Craig Breslow Craig Breslow Craig Andrew Breslow is a Major League Baseball relief pitcher for the Oakland Athletics. He throws left-handed, and is considered a lefty specialist.... |
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| Jesse Crain Jesse Crain Jesse Alan Crain is a Canadian professional baseball pitcher with the Chicago White Sox of Major League Baseball.-High school and college:... |
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| Matt Guerrier Matt Guerrier Matthew Olson Guerrier is an American Major League Baseball relief pitcher for the Los Angeles Dodgers. He attended college at Kent State University, and made his major league debut on June 17, .-Chicago White Sox:... |
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| Liván Hernández Liván Hernández Eisler Liván Hernández Carrera is a Cuban professional baseball pitcher. He is the half-brother of pitcher Orlando "El Duque" Hernández.-Playing career:... |
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| Bobby Korecky Bobby Korecky Robert John Korecky is a Major League Baseball relief pitcher who is currently in the Toronto Blue Jays organization... |
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| Francisco Liriano Francisco Liriano Francisco Liriano y Casillas is a left-handed Major League Baseball starting pitcher for the Minnesota Twins.-Professional career:... |
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| Joe Nathan Joe Nathan Joseph Michael Nathan is an American professional baseball pitcher for the Texas Rangers of Major League Baseball . Nathan started out his baseball career as a shortstop in high school but converted to a pitcher after being drafted by the San Francisco Giants... |
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| Pat Neshek Pat Neshek Patrick J. Neshek is an American professional baseball pitcher who is a free agent. Neshek is a graduate of Park Center Senior High School in Minnesota and of Butler University.-Early career:... |
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| Glen Perkins Glen Perkins Glen Weston Perkins is a Major League Baseball relief pitcher for the Minnesota Twins. He made his major league debut with the Minnesota Twins in 2006. Perkins attended the University of Minnesota in Minneapolis-St. Paul and Stillwater Area High School in Oak Park Heights... |
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| Dennys Reyes Dennys Reyes Dennys Reyes is a Major League Baseball relief pitcher. He has played for ten teams since his major league career began in . Reyes throws left-handed and is considered a lefty specialist. He stands 6'3" and weighs 250 pounds. His nickname is "The Big Sweat."... |
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| Juan Rincón Juan Rincón Juan Manuel Rincón is a Major League Baseball relief pitcher who is with the Bridgeport Bluefish in the Atlantic League of Professional Baseball. Rincón bats and throws right-handed. He throws a low 90s fastball and a mid low 80s slider... |
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| Kevin Slowey Kevin Slowey Kevin Michael Slowey is a Major League Baseball relief pitcher for the Minnesota Twins. Slowey was selected by the Twins with the 73rd pick in the 2nd round of the 2005 Major League Baseball Draft.-College:... |
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