JD_logo3.png

Sports History

Minnesota Twins

Our Book is Out!
Who was the MOST DOMINANT team in Pro Football History? We have the answer in the latest Pigskin Dispatch book

The World's Greatest Pro Gridiron Team
Email:  pigskindispatch@gmail.com Phone/Text:  814-636-0745
Please note, that we include affiliate links to support the maintenance and development of this site and to help promote our guests and fellow sports historians. Your support is appreciated! _________________________
Please note, we may include affiliate links within this post to support the maintenance and development of this site.

Pigskin Dispatch
Your Portal to Positive Football History. We have an extensive library of posts and podcasts on the history of North American Football. From the innovators, teams, and coaches to legendary players, we cover them all with new items daily!

Minnesota Twins

The Minnesota Twins were founded in 1901. The franchise Also played as Washington Senators. The Minnesota Twins have claimed 6 Pennants, played in 17 playoff series, and won 3 World Series. So far there are 28 players that have been inducted into the Baseball Hall of Fame that played for the club. 

  • The Twins retired the jersey number 3 in honor of Harmon Killebrew.
  • The Twins retired the jersey number 6 in honor of Tony Oliva.
  • The Twins retired the jersey number 7 in honor of Joe Mauer.
  • The Twins retired the jersey number 10 in honor of Tom Kelly.
  • The Twins retired the jersey number 14 in honor of Kent Hrbek.
  • The Twins retired the jersey number 28 in honor of Bert Blyleven.
  • The Twins retired the jersey number 29 in honor of Rod Carew.
  • The Twins retired the jersey number 34 in honor of Kirby Puckett.

Results 1 thru 10 of 11 for "Minnesota Twins"
Go To Page: 1 2

Paul Molitor

Born August 22, 1956, in Saint Paul, Minnesota, was Baseball Hall of Field Infielder, Paul Molitor. This legend was a seven-time MLB All-Star with the Milwaukee Brewers, and won the 1993 World Series MVP award while on the Toronto Blue Jays. After his playing career be managed the Minnesota Twins from 2015-18.

David Ortiz

Born November 18, 1975, in Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic, was Baseball Hall of Fame Designated Hitter David Ortiz. This legend was a ten-time MLB All-Star and won three World Series Championships. Ortiz was also a Silver Slugger winner and a Home Run Derby Champion. His explosive power with a bat in his hand helped elevate the Boston Red Sox to the top spot in the MLB rankings for much of his career. 541 Career Home Runs with 2472 hits and a .286 Batting Average make David Ortiz a great player in the game's history. Ortiz played for the Minnesota Twins and the Red Sox during his 20-year career in the Bigs.

Jack Morris

It had started out as the Worst-to-First World Series: Twins vs. Braves, 1991. But by Game 7 -- what was to become one of the most memorable title clinchers in the history of the sport -- it had simply become one of the greatest World Series ever played.
The Braves — www.mlb.com

Born May 17, 1955, in Saint Paul, Minnesota, was Baseball Hall of Fame pitcher Jack Morris. Morris was a 5-time MLB All Star and played on four World Series Championship teams (1984 Tigers, 1991 Minnesota Twins, and 1992–1993 Toronto Blue Jays). The legendary arm of Morris won the Babe Ruth Award in both 1984 and 1991, and was named World Series MVP in 1991.
This story famously recalls the pleasing of Morris in Game 7 of the WS to stay in the game when his Manager Kelly wished to replace him.

Jim Kaat

Born November 7, 1938, in Zeeland, Michigan, was Baseball Hall of Fame Pitcher Jim Kaat. This legend won 16 Gold Gloves and was a three-time MLB All-Star. Kaat took the mound for the Washington Senators, the Minnesota Twins, the Chicago White Sox, Philadelphia Phillies, New York Yankees, and the St Louis Cardinals during his 27-year MLB career. He helped the Cardinals win the 1982 World Series and had a career ERA of 3.45 with 2461 strikeouts and 17 saves.

Minnesota Twins Baseball Team History

From their Washington roots to their present-day home run roars at Target Field, the Minnesota Twins have woven a rich tapestry of baseball history. This series will delve into the heart of this beloved team, exploring the triumphs, challenges, and iconic moments that have shaped their story.

More Than Just Stats: We'll go beyond box scores and batting averages, exploring the legends who donned the Twins uniform – from Harmon Killebrew's mighty swing to Rod Carew's graceful batting to Kirby Puckett's unforgettable "walk-off" swing. We'll relive the electrifying energy of World Series victories in 1987 and 1991, and examine the grit and resilience that kept the team fighting through leaner years.

A Community Tapestry: This isn't just a baseball story; it's a tale intertwined with the fabric of Minnesota itself. We'll explore how the Twins became a cultural touchstone, uniting communities across the state with a shared passion for the game. We'll hear from fans whose lives have been touched by the team, showcasing the emotional connection that extends far beyond the diamond.

Beyond the Headlines: We'll delve into the fascinating stories that often fly under the radar. We'll explore the impact of ownership changes, the evolution of the game itself, and the social and cultural shifts that have influenced the team's journey. We'll celebrate the unsung heroes – the pitchers, coaches, and front office personnel who played vital roles in shaping the Twins' history.

Join Us on This Journey: So, put on your Twins cap, grab a hot dog, and settle in for a captivating exploration of the Minnesota Twins.

Kirby Puckett Could Do it All Well in Baseball

Kirby Puckett's baseball career transcended statistics. He was a player who embodied joy, clutch hitting, and defensive brilliance, leaving an indelible mark on the Minnesota Twins and the game itself.

Born in Chicago in 1960, Puckett's journey to baseball stardom wasn't conventional. Undrafted after high school, he eventually earned a spot with the Minnesota Twins in 1982. His impact was immediate. Puckett captivated fans with his infectious smile, dazzling defense in centerfield, and a knack for clutch hits. He won the American League Rookie of the Year award in 1984, a sign of things to come.

Puckett's offensive prowess blossomed throughout the 1980s. He led the league in batting average in 1989 with a stellar .339, solidifying his reputation as a pure hitter. But his true magic unfolded in the postseason. In the 1991 World Series against the Atlanta Braves, with the score tied in the bottom of the 11th inning, Puckett launched a walk-off home run that became an iconic moment in baseball history. His signature celebration, leaping and pumping his fist as he rounded the bases, perfectly captured the joy he brought to the game.

Beyond his offensive contributions, Puckett was a defensive stalwart. His speed and agility made him a nightmare for opposing hitters, as he consistently robbed them of home runs with spectacular catches. He won six Gold Glove Awards, a testament to his defensive mastery.

Tragically, Puckett's career was cut short in 1995 due to a detached retina sustained from a line drive. He retired with a .318 career batting average, 10 World Series hits (including his legendary 1991 walk-off), and two World Series titles with the Minnesota Twins.

Harmon Killebrew A Homerun Machine

Harmon Killebrew, nicknamed "Killer" and "Hammerin' Harmon," was a feared slugger who spent most of his 22-year career with the Minnesota Twins. Drafted by the Washington Senators at 17, his power hitting eventually made him the American League's all-time home run leader for right-handed batters by the time he retired in 1975.

Killebrew was known for his towering home runs and amassed an impressive resume:

573 career home runs (12th all-time at retirement)
8 seasons with 40 or more home runs (second only to Babe Ruth in the AL)
6-time American League home run leader
3-time American League RBI leader
1969 American League Most Valuable Player Award
Though a quiet man off the field, Killebrew's bat spoke volumes. He helped lead the Twins to the postseason three times and was inducted into the National Baseball Hall of Fame in 1984.
Born June 29, 1936, in Payette, Idaho, was Baseball Hall of Fame First base and Utility man Harmon Killebrew. Harmon was a thirteen-time MLB All-Star; AL MVP 1969; and a six-time AL Home Run leader during his illustrious career in baseball. He played on the rosters of the Washington Senators and Minnesota Twins. The man could make the ball find the back of the fence, Killebrew had the fifth-most home runs in major league history at the time of his retirement. He was second only to Babe Ruth in American League (AL) home runs, and was the AL career leader in home runs by a right-handed batter. Harmon was known for both the frequency and distance of his homers. He hit the longest home runs ever recorded at Minnesota's Metropolitan Stadium [520 ft (160 m)], and Baltimore's Memorial Stadium [471 ft (144 m)], and was the first of four players to hit a ball over the left field roof at Detroit's Tiger Stadium.

Joe Mauer A Pillar of Excellence Behind the Plate

Joe Mauer carved out a remarkable career as a catcher for the Minnesota Twins, becoming one of the most respected and accomplished players of his generation. Here's a glimpse into his achievements:

-A Model of Consistency:

-Drafted first overall by the Twins in 2001, Mauer spent his entire 15-year career with the team, a rarity in modern baseball.

-Renowned for his exceptional hitting ability, he captured three American League batting titles (2006, 2008, 2009), a feat no other catcher in history has achieved.

-Mauer finished his career with a stellar .306 batting average, showcasing remarkable consistency throughout his tenure.

-Defense and Durability:

-While known primarily for his offense, Mauer was also a highly skilled defensive catcher. He won three Gold Glove Awards (2008, 2009, 2010), highlighting his defensive prowess.

-Notably, he maintained a high fielding percentage throughout his career, a testament to his ability to handle pitching staffs and control the game behind the plate.

-A Rare Combination:

-Mauer's ability to excel at both hitting and defense made him a truly unique talent. He was a complete catcher, contributing significantly on both sides of the ball.

-In 2009, he achieved the coveted "Triple Crown" for catchers, leading the league in batting average, on-base percentage, and slugging percentage.
Accolades and Legacy:

-Mauer's impact transcended individual statistics. He was a six-time All-Star and an instrumental part of the Twins' success for over a decade.

-In 2024, he was inducted into the Baseball Hall of Fame, a fitting recognition of his exceptional career.

-Summary of Mauer's Life & Career


Born April 19, 1983, in St. Paul, MN, was Joe Mauer, legendary MLB Catcher and first baseman. Joe Mauer played wearing the number 7 on the Minnesota Twins (2004-18) for 15 seasons as he batted 0.306 for his career, had an On Base percentage of 0.439, with 143 career Home Runs, and 3 Gold Glove Awarded Seasons. Mauer, during his career, earned five Silver Slugger awards, an MVP honor, and three Batting Titles. It is no wonder why Mauer is one of the top MLB players to have worn the Number 7 Jersey.

Mudcat Grant Iconic Baseball Pitcher

James Timothy "Mudcat" Grant wasn't your typical baseball star. Emerging from the segregated world of the Negro Leagues, he carved a successful path in Major League Baseball, leaving behind a legacy of resilience, pitching prowess, and a truly memorable nickname.

Born in 1935, Grant's journey began far from the bright lights of MLB stadiums. He honed his skills in Florida, eventually attending Florida A&M University. Denied the opportunity to showcase his talent in the major leagues due to segregation, he played for the Indianapolis Clowns, a prominent Negro Leagues team. Here, he earned the nickname "Mudcat" – a playful reference to his childhood nickname "Mud" and his deceptive curveball, a pitch that seemed to disappear like a fastball sinking into mud.

In 1958, with the dawn of the Civil Rights Movement and the integration of baseball, Grant finally broke into the majors with the Cleveland Indians. He quickly established himself as a force to be reckoned with. His smooth delivery, sharp fastball, and that signature curveball made him a nightmare for opposing batters.

Grant's finest season came in 1965 with the Minnesota Twins. He became a dominant ace, leading the league in wins (21) and complete games (10) while compiling an impressive 3.04 ERA. He was a key factor in propelling the Twins to the World Series, where he even contributed at the plate, becoming only the second American League pitcher to hit a home run in the Fall Classic.

Mudcat's career spanned 14 seasons, during which he played for seven different teams, including the iconic Oakland Athletics of the late 1960s. He later reinvented himself as a closer, recording 24 saves for the A's in 1970 – one of the few pitchers in history to achieve both 20 wins and 20 saves in a single season.

Born August 13, 1935, in Lacoochee, Florida, was MLB legendary Pitcher, Jim "Mudcat" Grant. He was an MLB All-Star 1963, 65 and played ball for the Cleveland Indians, Minnesota Twins, as well as some short stints with the Montreal Expos, Los Angeles Dodgers, St. Louis Cardinals, Oakland Athletics, and Pittsburgh Pirates.

Grant's talent went far beyond the baseball diamons as he also was a talented singer and writer with his book titled Black Aces.
Results 1 thru 10 of 11 for "Minnesota Twins"
Go To Page: 1 2

2024-11-01

November 1

.Cooper_1953.jpg

In this edition of the Sports Break, there are baseball accolades a plenty, football stars show their prowess, and so much more as we cover the top events in sports history along with the players and athletes that were a part of them on November 1. As a bonus, we place the jersey number worn at...

  • The use of a "banner" counts as 10 words!

 

2024-11-01

The Greatest Atlanta Hawks of All Time

.NBA_Hawks.jpg

Dominique Wilkins, also known as "The Human Highlight Film," is widely considered to be the best player in Atlanta Hawks history. With his electrifying dunks and explosive athleticism, Wilkins captivated fans and helped to make the Hawks one of the most popular teams in the NBA in the 1980...

  • The use of a "banner" counts as 10 words!

 

2024-10-31

October 31

.lossy-page1-640px-Sammy_Baugh_Sept_11_1937.tif.jpg

In this edition of the Sports Break, we cover the top events in sports history along with the players and athletes that were a part of them on October 31. As a bonus, we place the jersey number worn at the time with the athlete as well.

  • The use of a "banner" counts as 10 words!

 

2024-10-31

The Greatest Anaheim Ducks of All Time

.Bryzgalov_Ducks.jpg

The Anaheim Ducks have had some of the greatest players in NHL history on their roster. From Teemu Selänne to Paul Kariya to Ryan Getzlaf, the Ducks have been blessed with some of the most talented players in the league. In this article, we will take a look at the best players in Anaheim Ducks ...

  • The use of a "banner" counts as 10 words!

 

2024-10-30

October 30

.640px-Babe_Ruth,_Jack_Bentley,_and_Jack_Dunn.jpg

Some BIG-time baseball players received awards, an MLB trade addition, and more in this edition of the Sports Break, as we cover the top events in sports history along with the players and athletes that were a part of them on October 30. As a bonus, we place the jersey number worn at the time w...

  • The use of a "banner" counts as 10 words!

 

2024-10-29

October 29

.640px-Marion_Motley,_American_football_fullback,_on_a_1950_football_card.jpg

We cover the greatest moments in sports history on a daily basis recognizing the athletes that performed them and the uniform numbers they wore for the date of October 29 in history. This edition covers a variety of sports as events in baseball, Canadian and NFL football as well as the NBA...

  • The use of a "banner" counts as 10 words!

 

Remember Sports History Daily
You are only seconds away from receiving the Pigpen's Newsletter everyday filled with new items

[/br]SUBSCRIBE BY CLICKING  

Orville Mulligan: Sports Writer
We invite you to take a ride through 1920's sports history in the audio drama that takes the listener through the sounds and legendary events of the era through the eyes of a young newspaper journalist. You will feel like you were there! Brought to you by Number 80 Productions and Pigskin Dispatch
Please note, that we include affiliate links to support the maintenance and development of this site and to help promote our guests and fellow sports historians. Your support is appreciated! _________________________

Bears versus Cardinals: The NFL's Oldest Rivalry
Author Joe Ziemba the master historian of football in Chicago has released another beauty. It is titled Bears versus Cardinals: The NFL's Oldest Rivalry. _________________________

Hut! Hut! Hike! Book
Historian Timothy P. Brown has released another excellent book to help fill our football minds with knowledge. His latest is called Hut! Hut! Hike!: A History of Football Terminology.

[/br]more information _________________________