Great ride comes to an end

I am a Oakland A's fan, but I wanted to be the first to say, Congratulations to your team for an awesome year! I always dreaded the Twins/A's games because you always gave us a run for our money. You're a great team.

I was at the game today, and it was my first playoff game. I cannot lie, and say that I am sorry about the results, but at the same time, I know the disappointment of my team losing the first round too. It's not fun.

Good luck to you all. I lived in Minnesota for two years of my life, and still have a soft spot for you all!

God bless!

Thank you thank you thank you for the most amazing year! It's a tough loss not being able to get to the World Series this year, but I can't thank you all enough for the great year you gave the fans! I hope you are all proud of yourselves because you pulling off one amazing deficit to come out as our Central Division Champions! I hope you and the rest of the Team get the rest you deserve and we'll see you again in 2007!!

Thank you thank you thank you for the most amazing year! It's a tough loss not being able to get to the World Series this year, but I can't thank you all for the great year you gave the fans! I hope you are all proud of yourselves because you pulling off one amazing deficit to come out as our Central Division Champions! I hope you and the rest of the Team get the rest you deserve and we'll see you again in 2007!! Go Twins!

Thanks to you & the rest of the team for such a great run! I'm so proud of all the team accomplished this year. Enjoy the offseason!

Congratulations on a great year! Thank you for putting your all into every game. All of you worked as a team and accomplished a lot as individuals and a team on and off the field. You have a lot to be proud of. I'll be looking forward to next season. God bless!!!

You captured my imagination back in June with back to back grand slams and I've been a solid fan ever since. Literally the best season of baseball I've ever watched. Entirely proud of all of you and thank you for all the "edge of the seat" excitement throughout the season. Hold your heads high and keep making the game so fun to watch!

It was a heck of a year for the fans too! thanks so much for the ride! We will look forward to Twins Fest and the 2007 season. You guys are the best! As sad as I am that you are done for the season, you brought us so much joy for so many months, that is what matters!

Michael,
I agree, we can't get all upset about the losses in post season. I know you all tried your best and yes it hurts that we didn't make it out there, i'm not blaming you guys. I couldn't even imagine the pressure all of you had. I will continue to support all of you. I love this team. I am so proud of the baseball that you all have played. I'm proud to call myself a Twins fan and thanks for making this year my most memorable year yet. I'll miss you in the off season and i'll be one of the first in line for Twins Fest 2007!

Thank you for bringing me back to baseball. This years Twins made me realize just what I was missing. I can't wait to see what kind of magic is made next season.

Michael- we are so proud of you guys. You gave us one **** of a ride, one I'm not gonna forget for a long time. Try to enjoy your off season and we can't wait till next season when we can see you and the rest of the teams fine *** playing everynight! WE LOVE YOU! CONGRATS ON A GREAT SEASON DIVSION CHAMPS!!

Michael, I just wanted to say great playing out there today! The game was a nailbiter, but you guys played your hearts out and thats all that counts, the team again was successful in touching their fans hearts with every play and at bat...I just want to thank you for a great season, the whole team is something special and I am really happy to hear that some of the guys will be back with the team next year, but hopefully you can hold on to the rest of them too...you all make such a great team that the fans fall in love with (I definitley did this year)...I hope you all have a great off season and I will be waiting impatiently for next year to start, I can't wait to watch you guys take the field again! I will definitley be there...Thank you for all the great memories in 2006 (an unforgettable year! everytime I hear Green Day's song "Time of your life" I think of the Twins 'cause watching this season I did have the time of my life!) and for taking the time to connect with fans, its the greatest gift the fans could ask for from you guys! Love y'all!
Love,

Kati

**Twins Baseball is #1**

Michael,
As disappointing as the end of the season was, the season as a whole was awesome for me as a fan. I think it's really neat that you shared your thoughts on your blog. It's really neat to get a "sneak peak" into the thoughts of people I really admire and don't know a lot about personally. Congratulations on your success this year. You've really refined your skills over the years and deserve everything that has come to you. The Twins are a team everyone in Minnesota is proud of. Thank you for all you do for us as fans and for the community. See you in 2007!

-Adam

Michael-

The early exit only hurts so much because this team was so special. But as much as I'm hurting right now, no way does it compare to the joy you and the guys have brought to my summer. Whether I had to sneak my phone into the dugout during legion games, or run out to my car to turn on WCCO radio during a wedding, I want you to know that I, as well as many thousands of other dedicated fans were right there behind you guys the whole way. And we still are.

PS-

You've been my favorite player since I was 13 years old, watching you step up last time we played Oakland in the ALDS. I'm so glad you finally got your shot, and took advantage of it. Good luck in 2007. I can't wait.

Hi, I'm Kyler Olson. I'm from Bismarck N.D. and I'm the biggest Twins fan in my school and I asked my teachers everyday if I could listen to the Twins game on the radio. I have loved the Twins my whole life and plan on being one forever! It's been awesome watching the Twins make a great come back this year and get the spot that they had. Miracles happen! Thanx for a great year Twins!!!!
From Kyler

#1 Twins fan!

Great season Michael. You guys came out of nowhere to beat a very good Tigers team. I'm sure the story would have been different if Liriano hadn't gotten hurt.

Thank you so much for an awesome year. We could all tell you guys were having a blast each and every game. You were so much fun to watch. Every twins fan is extremely proud of you guys. I'm counting down the days until the opening game..can't wait! Have a fun and relaxing off season!
Love, Shantel

I can identify with the fan that said he needed to run to the car to turn the radio on for an update. I really hope Torii comes back next year, and the rest of the team. Looking forward to 2007, hope it's as great as 2006.
Thanks

Thank you guys for such an amazing year! Even though I would've loved to see you guys go on to win the ALDS and beyond, you have brought so much joy to me these past 6 months! I love to curl up and watch you guys play, and I absolutely love going to the dome to cheer you on! I'm definitely looking forward to dominating the American League Central next year with all of our fabulous players returning and the great potential that's in the new guys! Only 6 more months :) Go Twins!
Love, Kristen Freppert

Great season Twins! I was glued to my radio all year this year! John Gordon and the rest of the guys do a heck of a job calling the game. They have a heck of a team to call. Thanks for the great year! Can't wait until 2007!

Thank you all for the amazing season! I can't wait for the 2007 season...it has been awesome to watch you guys prove all the critics wrong and come back and win the AL Central Divison! Way to go and you guys have nothing to be sad about...it was an amazing season and maybe next year we can make it to the World Series and sweep Oakland!

I just want to thank you and the rest of the guys for such a great season and that I can't wait until next spring!! This time last year I was in Australia and I had a couple of schedules in my room and would check scores as often as I could! While I was down there I went sky diving wearing a Twins shirt!Again thanks for making this season so enjoyable and you guys are amazing and did an outstanding job! Thanks and see you in the spring!

Michael,
Thanks for a great year and an unbelievable comeback! The way you guys went out and came back from being a dozen games down and fighting for .500 to winning the division on the last game of the season was everything a Twins fan could ask for. Thank you for stepping up this year and coming through in the clutch, even though sometimes what you did wasn't enough. Good Luck in 2007!

P.S.-Hope Shannon and Torii come back next year. Oh yeah, and I almost forgot something.....I'm boycotting Jesse Crain....

Cuddy,
Thank you for an exciting year. The team had it ups and downs but it the end it came out ok. Good comeback on the division. I was wondering if you would do a magic show for my birthday party which is 3 days after yours.

Michael,
I had season tickets with my dad for half of the season, along with playoff tickets for all the games. I was a great time seeing you guys all come back from such a huge deficit around the allstar break. I can't wait till next year...with getting liriano back healthy! And also having mostly everyone there that was there this past year. We will surely have one of the most dominant pitching rotations in the majors and hopefully the bats will come too! Great year this year, and for the past few days i've been depressed with the loses but i know that you guys take it hard too. I feel some of the pain to! Good Luck next year!

Michael,
Wow, what a year. For you and for the team. I really hope Torii comes back and the rest of the boys will continuing doing what you guys do. Great year for you and the team. I am in high school and we had a football game today, but I did listen to the game until I got off the bus. After, when I heared the Twins lost, my heart sunk. Then I looked back on what you did and I thought wow what a year. You guys did great, thanks for the memories and never giving up. We will be back in 2007. Go Twins.

Nelson

As a lifetime Twins fan I would just like to say I have been with you guys in the ups and the downs and one thing is for sure, the Twins will awlawys fight to be there in the post season. Thanks for the great season filled with lots of memories and I can't wait to see you guys next spring.

Cuddy,
Let Brad know that every Twins fan on the planet will support his decision to retire or come back whatever he does. Also would you tell Jesse Crain to shave his Amish style beard cuz we might have to send him to the Pirates if he's gonna keep giving up runs w/ that goat!

CUDDY!
*GREAT BIG HUG!* A HUGE group of fans is looking for the info about how to meet up with you boys at the airport. If you could pass that info along to the fans we would love you even more forever! Youhad a good ride, now you get to start another!

Amish style beard...oh too funny, however have you seen Crain with out facial hair...it's not normal!

Congrats on a great 2006 season!! You guys are the reason that I love baseball - you're awesome! I hope you have a great off-season and congrats on your upcoming marriage, Michael!

Blessings,

Kristen

Thank you so much. Baseball is everything that I live for :) You and the rest of the guys provided so much joy and excitement for me this season... too bad it ended too early. I love you guys and thank you all for being so good to and for your fans. Cant wait to see the Boys of Summer return in the spring for the beginning of yet another amazing season. 2007 sounds good, huh? Thank you to Brad Radke also.. PLEASE COME BACK !! We <3 #22. Thank you twins.

It was a spectacular year. Thanks for the ride. Can't wait to do it again next year.

**Cuddy**
Thank you so much for a great season!!! You guys were just awesome this year and it's sad that it had to end this early in the playoffs. I think every Twins fan will miss Brad Radke and I know I will! I hope to see you at Twinsfest! Hope you and the rest of the team have a great offseason! Can't wait until next season!!

**Alyssa**

Mikey,
Twins fans have nothing to be ashamed of, you guys had a good season and you guys gave it your all. When the Yanks advance to the ALCS, we'll beat the A's and do it for you guys!! Once you guys get Liriano back, and good luck on your blessed union!

Great Job CHAMPS!!

Cuddy,
First off, thanks for a great season! From where you started and where you've ended, the team definitely has something to be proud of! I am very proud to say that I'm a Twins fan! Can't wait till next season, but until then, I hope you and the rest of the team have a great offseason and I hope I'll see you at Twinsfest!

bailey

McDimples,

I just wanted to write to tell you that the Twins really helped keep me entertained in a otherwise dull and difficult summer. I followed all the games and was there both times you all clinched, playoff birth and division.

You guys are amazing. There's nothing to be ashamed of, it was magical. Next year will be even better for you and the team.

I hope Brad knows that we all love and care about him, no matter his decision. He'll always be a hero to me, personally.

Have a great off season and see you next year!

All the best,

Lauren

Ok, first of all... Brad Radke, I wish I could have seen your last game live, you've always been my favorite pitcher (no disrespect to other Twins pitchers) and I would like to give you a tip of the hat and a big THANK YOU for all you've done to inspire me and others all these years!

Twins- What can I say? Nothing except THANK YOU for all you've put us through, the low-lows and the even higher-highs, it was a great ride and once again you brought America (not just Twins fans) back to the love of baseball. And it'll look better to bring the World Series back to MN 20 years after the 87 series anyway... 19 or 15 years after just isn't as cool as the big 2-0!

P.S.- Klapp 06, why take shots at a good pitcher? Jesse Crain, you got screwed, you're a great pitcher, do not let that inning stay with ya any longer than today, you've got good stuff and we know it!

Thank you Michael "Goodyear" and all the Twins for the most exciting year in baseball I've ever been a witness to. and thanks again for the best game I've ever been a part of, I bought tickets to last sunday's game when you won the division expecting to maybe see a race for a playoff spot, little did I know that a month later we would win the division. Thanks and good luck next year

Cuddy,

Thanks for the great season. Seriously. I've never been so into a team as I was this year, and although the end result wasn't what I had expected coming into the post-season, I can take solice in the fact that you guys really weren't supposed to end up how you did, and how next year is going to be that much more exciting knowing what we have and how you all can take this year and learn from it. See you at Twinsfest broseph.

You guys have been phenomenal this season. You did what no one thought was possible back in May, and you won the division in the most dramatic way imaginable (I don't think they could have scripted it better in a movie).
Clearly not advancing is disappointing, but nothing can take this season away from you guys, and from the fans. You play baseball the way baseball should be played.

I can't even express to you what this team means to me, and what it means to so many of your fans. The Minnesota Twins are a small glimmer of hope in a corrupted world of professional sports. Don't ever stop what you're doing, and don't let the losses get you down. You guys are an inspiration. Thank you, simply for being the team that you are. As a Twins fan going to school in St. Louis, I am proud that my state is represented by such a classy, hard-working baseball team.

You guys are amazing, and I can't wait until next April.

-anna

Today was a tough loss. But don't get down over that. You guys had an amazing year! I can't wait for next season, since I live in KC I'm gonna try and get to all the games here; Thanks for a great year! Go Twins!
-Andrea

Thanks to all the guys! Very proud to be a Twins fan!

Michael, Before this summer I was not a baseball fan at all and then I went to my very first Twins game and that magic the entire team had and still has in my opinion captured me that day and I fell in love with the Twins. It wasn't just because some of the guys are gorgeous (which is what many girls think), but because you play as a team, you win as a team and you also lose as a team. You guys hold such a great deal of respect for one another and that to me is such a wonderful thing. Yesterday just wasn't the Twins day, but that was one day; this past summer was YOUR summer. Coming back from a 12 game defecit is unheard of. But the Twins did it and did it as a team. So I want to thank you and the rest of the team for capturing my heart and giving me this huge passion for baseball. I will never forget meeting some of the team, including you and I hope that I will get that opportunity again. Let Brad Radke know that he is an inspiration to all of us and that he is an amazing player. Spring Training 2007 here we come. Everybody watch out here come the Twins!! I love you guys!
-Courtny

Cuddy
Thanks for the great year. As we were driving home on Tuesday one person with us said "it's been so much fun watching them" It will be a quiet winter for us with no games to watch. Only 4 months to go. Have a good break.

Lea

Cuddy ~ Here is a big bear hug! First of all it was great watching you guys, I have been following the Twins since I was little! It was sad to see the 06 season come to an end and sad to see Brad step off the field.

I think you should go on the Twins Caravan to Winona, and if I know you'll be there, so will I!!!

Have a great off season, congrats on getting married, you can give me some tips, I'm getting married in June! Tell the guys Hi and we love our MN TWINS!!!

Michael,
Thanks for an amazing season of Baseball. This team, this year, has been the most exciting and personable team that MN has had in years. I have had so much fun watching the game! You guys should only look back at this season with smiles, it was unbelievable. You played the best baseball in the league for the past few months, and that is an incredible accomplishment. So, thank you to you and the team for such an amazing display of athleticism, sportsmanship, humility and hunger for the game. You have made me, and the ladies here at the Health Dept, love baseball all over again. See you next year! Good luck with the wedding!

"...but there is no joy in Mudville..." Must admit that I feel sad today with no Twins baseball to watch! Guess that's because its been such a great and wild ride! I'll never forget last Sunday's game and winning the division! Most amazing thing I've been to! Rest well, enjoy the off season, and let's do this again next year!

Michael,
What a great season for you and the entire team. I love the spirit of the team; when we lost Kirby I wasn't sure how the season was going to end up; but you all played it like Kirby, for Kriby, for your fans! I don't know if any other team in the MBL has fans like Minnesota Twins, we're dedicated to you guy's. Thanks for the most amazing season of baseball, lets pray next season is even better....have a great off season! And you deserve the Clemente Award!

WOW!! What a ride!! It was heart wretching to see you guys lose those playoff games when everyone in the dome and in minnesota knew it was possible to win! Including you players. What a team to never give up and it will be just as great or even better next year. Congrats to all you guys who are newlyweds or are getting married in the offseaason. It is the greatest time in your life! It is great to have that family support!! Have an awesome offseason and we will see you in 2007 and the playoffs too!! Thanks for the most amazing season!! Next year will be "our" time!!! :-)

Carrie

GO TWINS!!

SMELL YA NEXT YEAR!!

michael, you're on a helluva team! i've watched every game this summer, and the twins have resparked a love for baseball that i haven't had since i was ten. see you next april!

Michael-

Thanks for such an amazing season. I hate that it had to come to an end, but I enjoyed the ride. Have a great off-season, and I'll see you guys in March. I hope everyone comes back to such a spectacular team, including Radke (as a pitching coach maybe). Enjoy your family and take some time to relax. You guys deserve it.

As always, you biggest fan in Indiana,

Lisa

While attending a Senators' double-header sweep at the Yankee Stadium,in the 1950s! I cried my allegiance to (then-Senator)Billy Martin: "I've been rooting for this team for five years"! Martin's reply: "My condolences kid."
You've (We've)come a long way baby.

This is my first ever blog entry(or will be if it gets through). I am 2x+ as old as Brad R! & have been a Senator's/Twin's fan for most of my time. I followed a bunch of games this year: via USAToday &/or the Twins site & MLB connection--about as high-tech as the ticker-tape scores that came through in my youth! Maybe I'll move up to the radio-package for 2007!

The Twins & their fans are great!

Peter, Richmond, VA

hey michael-

you guys put on a heck of a fight out there. kirby would be proud. i love watching you guys play, it looks like you guys have fun. you guys make it look so easy. you all seem like good guys. can't wait till next season.

-mandy-

michael--congrats on a great year, both you and the club...my children and I first met you at Hammond Stadium, your grace and personality immediately made us fans. It is unfortunate the playoff season doesnt always measure or reflect the six months of great work the twins acomplished; but your breakout year now establishes you to a long and prosperous career as a big leaguer, and that cannot be taken from you-- best wishes in 2007 and beyond, Dr G at unioncol@aol.com

michael---congrats on yur break out year in the bigs---finally given the chance of 600 at bats, you performed beautifully--loved watching the twins fight back and excel--go get em in 2007--LSG.com

Michael,
This year was amazing, its been a while since I've watched baseball, and I picked a fantastic year to get into it again. You guys had an amazing year, its incredible to think about how far you guys came in a short while, really it is. I hadnt been to a twins game sinve the Kirby hall-of-fame induction, but I went to one this summer and it was the most fun I'd had this summer. Thanks for always having a good attitude about sports, it makes them all worth it.

Watching from Vermont,

Rachael

Congrats on your year and the year that the twins had, all the fans should be proud.

Thanks for a truly great baseball season - this was my first year getting to watch a lot of Twins games (thanks to mlb tv), and it was one heck of fun time. I'm only sorry that after all the excitement and celebration of winning the division, it had to end with disappointment for you guys (well, for me, too - but I think you're right about next year!). It was worth taking the afternoon off work yesterday to watch the game and cheer for you one last time this year, if also kind of agonizing...really, I wouldn't have wanted to miss seeing Radke pitch, Torii get a double when I wasn't expecting it, Justin getting a homerun (again), Rondell consistantly getting hits, the relief of watching you get fly balls or Jason throw the A's out at home plate, Nick getting a hit, and I could go on.

See you next year! Love from a fan in Montana.

Cuddy & Team,
2006 will be remembered as an amazing season for the Twins. Coming back from a 12 ½ game deficit to win the division was huge. This team is something special to say the least. From the piranhas to the M & M boys and everyone in between, you guys show character and heart every time you put on that Twins uniform. The 2006 post season didn’t go as planned but you got there and you can get there again. For you Joe, congratulations on getting to the all-star game and especially on winning your first batting title. MN couldn’t be more proud. For you and the rest of the Twins, relax, recuperate and enjoy the off-season. . . Look forward to seeing you guys at Twin’s Fest 2007, along with spring training 2007.

I will be looking forward, for another great season of Baseball in 2007. It's hard to say but, now it's Hockey time for the State of MN.

Until next season.....

GO TWINS!!

SMELL EM NEXT YEAR!!

-Leta-

PS What's the scope on the MVP and Cy Young???

Again, thanks for a great season! I have had so much fun watching you guys prove your critics wrong. I wish all of you would return next year-I know that's going to be THE season. I also hope you'll contribute to a blog next year at some point, too. It has been a blast reading your comments throughout the playoffs. Take care-see ya next season!

Michael,
Thanks for such an amazing season. I've already said that this Twins team is my favorite of all-time (yes, more than the World Champs or 2002) and you have been a very large part of that. It has been inspirational watching your career progress from high expectations to tough years as a utility man and back to where you are now...100+ RBIs batting between the Batting Champ and the MVP. You say that you are excited about having the cornerstones back next year -- Mauer, Morneau, Johan, and Nathan. I definitely put you on that list too and I hope to see you in a Twins uniform for your entire career. We'll see you next year at the dome and hopefully in the 2007 World Series.

First of all I think it is so wonderful that you still have a positive outlook on this season - as you should! It was a tough end to the season and the Twins hitting came a little too late. As a fan, this was such a fun year of baseball to watch. I know you will all come back strong next year with high expectations as you are a team who proved the potential you have to all of baseball. I am happy you got the opportunity to play each day-you earned your right to do this and were consistent in making an impact on this team's success. To one of the best fielder's in the game-with the best arm for sure-thanks for a great season; I can't wait for next year!

I want you to know that my family and I shout "Micheal Cuddyer for MVP" every time you make the play. :)
And tell Brad we miss him already.

Us Minnesotans are so proud of our Twins! You are a magical group of guys and we love and admire each of you. Keep your heads up - we will see you next season! XOXOXO

Champions are made in the off-season! Have a good break, work hard, and come back and do it again next year! I love you guys! A. Baker

Thanks for the Blog Mike,
Awesome year guys,can't wait til next. I'm sure everybody who posts on this site would love to see Tori and Brad and everyone else play next year, heck even in a new stadium down the road. If you look at the '87 and '91 teams there was the consistant core of players, what the Twins need is that same idea going into 2007. I've got two little boys (ages 7 and 9) and they got to watch you guys beat Boston in that June gem (when you went yard and Johan got his 1000 K, Kubel ended up hitting that walk-off Granny). It was their first Major league game and I swear they have been in the back yard practicing baseball every day since, thanks for the inspiration.

Great Season, I love this team! It is going be a long wait for next season.

Michael-
Thank you for a great season! It was so much fun watching you guys play! Enjoy the off season. Congrats and I can't wait for next year!

#1 Twins Fan

Shantell

GO TWINS!

Thank you, Michael.
This was one of the best seasons this team has had. I had a blast watching you guys play these past 6 months, and hearing you speak at Brit's Pub in August! I'm already excited for the next season to start. Enjoy the off season, and your upcoming wedding. Looking forward to seeing you and the rest of the boys at Twins Fest and in Ft. Myers! Take care!

MJSD

NE Mpls, MN

I am so proud of you guys. What an amazing year, especially for you. Enjoy the off season and your wedding, Cuddy. You guys made my summer.

I would just like to say congrats to the whole twins team... u guys had an amazing season, and truly made it fun to watch!! i really enjoyed it!! thanks for the great year!.. im looking forward to next season... GO TWINS!!

Congrats on a wonderful season.
Was great getting to see you play the entire season.

Awesome hitting!!!!!

Good luck on your upcoming marriage.

Pinky

As an A's fan, I enjoyed the competition between the Twins and A's in the post-season. The one thing that I think that has been overlooked, is that America was introduced to two teams that are both young, talented and very competitive. As long as both can keep the nucleus together, these two teams will be fun to watch in the future. Twin fans should be proud of their team and I look forward to watching them next year. Be proud Minnesota, but it is just Oakland's turn to go for the ring.
Looking foward to next year.

Dwayne

I'm already excited for next year, I know you'll reapeat as division champs (or at least wild card as the Tigers are great too). Give em a run for their money though, for us!

Minnesota loves their TWINS!!!! you have made the entire state believers..and you have absolutely nothing to be ashamed of! it was an outstanding season, and i cannot wait until the next!!

all of you guys should be so proud of yourselfs, everyone contributed to this team and thats what made you remarkable. have a great off-season, and expect big things next year.

always remember, Minnesota loves you guys!

I wish I could remember where I read this. To paraphrase as best as I remember it: "That's how you know that you have learned something. At first, it feels like you have lost something." I'm looking forward to next year already.

I want to say thank you for such a great year. It was the best one I can remember. When you guys were so far down in the division, I had faith and took some heat for it. But in the end you came through, and I was never surprised. Thanks again and I'm looking forward to next year. GO TWINS!

Thank-you Michael and thank-you Twins for the terrific year! It was a joy to be a Twins fan. If Brad Radke retires, I hope the Twins organization does something special to honor him. I sure hope that Torii is back next year!!

Thank you to the entire Twins team for the best season of baseball I have ever seen. All of you guys have so much passion for the game, and it shows. Everyone can tell that you guys love what you do, and that makes all the difference in the world. I can't say that I'm not sad about the loss, but I can say that I'm not dissappointed. You guys did your best and played passionate baseball. Thank you so much for an incredible season. I'm looking forward to next year!

Thank you for a wonderful and exciting Twins season. I live and breath Twins baseball and it's always strange when the season is over and I don't have the game to look forward to every night. The beginning of the season was hard to watch but this will go down as the most incredible season of baseball I have ever seen. Everyone was counting you guys out and the come back you made was unreal!!! We are so proud of our Twins and can't wait until next year!!!

I enjoyed waching every game I had a chance to see. From all the walk off hits and homers at the dome, its a season that set to be a disappointment but you guys turned it around and made the twins name a household name across the country. I can't wait for the 2007 season. Good luck next year.

I LOVE YOU AND THE TWINS!!!!!!!!!!!!!! YOU DID AWESOME THIS YEAR AND I DON'T KNOW OF ANYBODY THAT ISN'T PROUD TO BE A TWINS FAN!!! I LOVE YOU!!!!!!

Michael,
Thanks for such an awesome year. And thanks for all the blogs, they were fun to read and I hope you do them again next year. Best of luck to you and the Twins in '07. Next year is our year! But for now all we can do is root for our Central Division neighbors. Twins World Champs in 2007!

Michael,
I am from Moorhead, and up here it is truly Twins Territory. Many were cherring you on. I even got to watch part of a game in one of my classes!! Thank you for an awesome year. You did a phenominal job. Are you going to be back next year then? Because, you should be in the group with Mauer, Morneau, Santana, and Nathan. Heck, the whole team should be. You all did a great job and many thought that there would be no chance of the Twins making it to post-season. I was one who belived that you could. It was an awesome experience to watch the last 3 regular season games against the Sox at the Dome. It was a blast to watch the Royals sweep the Tigers. Maybe the Royals will be competition next year...

Blessings and much love,

Emily

Can we call this a rebuilding year with all the changes? Heck a job making the post season in one. Yeah it's heartbreaking, but we do have next year. Just can't wait until Feb. 28th for the first spring training game. See you at the Dome.

Michael& Team,
It was unfortunate and devistating that the season came to an end the way it did, but in my eyes you all should be proud of yourselves for the season that you played and the accomplishments that you made especially winning the Central Division. Thank you for the awesome season you gave us! None of you has any reason to hang your heads. Coming from behind 121/2 games was something I think nobody thought was possible. Sure there were bumps along the way, but you stuck in there and never gave up! That would be an easy thing to do, but you showed everyone just what you are-winners,and even now in my eyes and in my heart you are all still winners. You played the game the right way, and what was most impressive was how you did it! Hitting home runs helps to win games and you did hit them, but you manufactured runs by hitting the ball and getting on base. Each of you pitched in and got the job done by "doing the little things". I wasn't able to get to as many games as I wanted to, but I was sitting in front of the T.V. or listening to the radio cheering you on just as if I were at the dome. I find myself lost now because the season has ended and I can't turn on the T.V. and see you playing. I think I can say that you have captured the hearts of all fans in Minnesota, and we all are so proud of you and we love you all!!!!!!!! To Brad: you have been a rock for the Twins for the past 12 years and I'm sure this is a really hard time for you right now but please know that you have done a lot for the team, good luck in whatever decision you make!!!! You do what's best for you and your family, your fans are behind you! To Torii: don't leave us!!! I know that nobody can ever replace Kirby, but I believe you are the next Kirby Puckett,not just by the way you play the game, but your personality and smile remind me so much of Kirby! The 2007 season seems so far away but you all deserve a long rest,so hold your heads high for the wonderfull season,relax and enjoy the off-season and we'll see you in the Spring!!! Take care and have fun. Love, from your devoted fan....Julie

Hi Michael! We live in Iowa and we watch you on FSN all the time. We didn't miss a game. We were in section 117 on Tuesday and Wednesday. I got to play hooky from school. Your homerun was great! Tell Justin in 13 years I'll be after his job. If you ever need a batboy give me a call. Have a good vacation. My Mom and Dad wish you luck in getting married.

Christopher

Dakota City IA

PS How old were you when you hit your first homerun?

Michael and the rest of the Twins Family...What can I say about this season beside's it is unbelievable. I normally do not get into baseball but something about this year I was really into it and can't wait until next season. It is absolutley amazing the momentum you guys had in the last part of the season! I know it is a lot easier said then done that time will heal the pain. I know that there will be many changes this year coming up but just remember God Only gives you what you can handle. You are an awesome team and you know that Kirby is looking down on you and the rest of the team and just cheering with you and crying with you. You should not worry about disappointed anyone look at how far you all have come. you all were the under Dogs. TO TORII!!!I love you. I know that the media has been very hard on you but don't give up you haven't recieved three golden gloves just for being sexy... :)I found myself getting mad at the media because of one mistake so what they act like they have never made a mistake a day in their lives give me a break...I hope that you can make this your team that you retire from...I am praying for that ankle. TO Mr. Radke...Keep your head up you have had a awesome career...To Neshek...I know your former little leaguer friends (Marty Fodstad) Your an awesome pitcher and have a long and prosperous career ahead of you...Joe Mauer you rock winning the batting title you beat out two of the biggest names in baseball...I guess what I am trying to say is that you all need to keep your head up and keep Kirby in mind he would not want you to be sad at all...

I love you all Twins, this season has made me a Twin's fan for life...

Deanna Ruddy

You all have shown me a lot of reality...to life how to keep it real...

p.s. I will also grow my son up with watching you also

HAHA I am an A's fan and it was amazing when we swept you away! YOU DIDN'T HAVE A CHANCE!!!!!!!! A'S ALL THE WAY!!!!

Cuddy,

The best scenario possible...

Trade Stewart, keep Hunter. Add Liriano in place of Radke.

The starting rotation would be Santana, Boof, Liriano, Silva (provided he learns/keeps consistency in his pitching), and Garza.

Keep Morneau at first, Castillo at second, Bartlett at shortstop, Punto at third, Mauer at home. Use White and Ford in left field, Hunter in Center, and yourself in right.

It makes sense to me. Y'all play great together, and it'll be even better now that you have a season with each other behind you.

Of course, I'm not the manager. But I've watched so much baseball that I feel I could manage one day. It won't happen, which is why I'm using this as my opportunity to share my opinion with people other than family and roommates. :-)

Thanks for the amazing season. It's been fun! :-)

Kristin

Sumter, South Carolina

AMAZING!!

Hey guys, first of all, you guys gave us hope and our every breath was with yours. Our hearts broke the same times your's did. We are all behind you now and forever dude. I want Torii to come back, he means more to us than anything, he is our catalyst and not even Soriano can touch him. We want everyone to come back, healthy, and energetic, cause we are on the road for another three-peat in the AL Central...Thank you guys so much, This Is Twins Territory!

Dear Michael,
1st of all - THANK YOU for the blog to allow us fans to share the experience! Reminds me of the days I had my dad & brothers to talk baseball,before & after the games. I so miss that! I attended game 7 ('87) WS & won't forget how Kirby looked back @ us fans in centerfield, padded his glove, nodded his head w/ a determined no-doubt expression. He seemed to calm our jitters in that look that said "No fear...we're going to take this one". Kirby too allowed us to share the experience & acknowledged the connectiveness to the fans. I got lucky to go to playoffs, sat in the bump-out seats in right field & loved how you almost threw out Frank Thomas. AND YES our crowd was cheering Torii to "go for it" on his infamous dive...we know what he's capable of. But like back in the day, my pitcher brother said "(baseball) just as it glorifies you, so shall it humble you." You just gotta respect the game, no one owns it (including Steinbrenner). I can only echo the previous bloggers...This Twins team..you are one heck of a team! The most down-to-earth group of guys that understand the concept of team first and have a respect for the ageless game that threads the generations. You would not believe the JOY you bring into so many lives well beyond what you can see @ the stadiums. I work w/ elderly...the games get them through lonely times. "The Twins are on tonight, that helps..." And yes the 90-year-old widows have a twinkle in their eyes when they talk of THEIR favorite Twins player. The cheers, excitement, optimism as well as the inevitable disappointments are shared. We don't care how many times prime time shows a bloop or a high-risk play that didn't pan out (its not the critic that counts...the credit belongs to the one who is actually in the arena T. Roosevelt) Thank you for being such a down-to-earth team that allows people to feel like they know you & be a part of the game. EASIEST bunch of guys to love ever!

From wear-it-on-your-heart Torii, to the more subtle we-would-be-here-even-w/out the money Mauer & Morneau (don't think the dollars will ruin those too),cool-smooth Santana, sit-em-down Nathan(Lirano please heal, most awesome stature ever, deliciously wicked), proof-in Boof,to you-feel-like-a-brother Cuddyer! I could name every pitcher, position/ bench player, & describe their attributes that positively contributed to this 2006 Twins team...but will take up too much space. My main concern is THIS team stay intact. While we fans go through withdrawal, my hope is that pitchers heal, position & bench players rest/ rejuvenate. And remember the influence of Kirby, the determination, the fine-line psychological edge of hard work, yet "Never forget to have fun", finding the humor, enjoying the ride, to tap that God-given talent to share w/ all of us. Gardenhire, it starts w/ you, you do us proud!

Michale and the rest of the Minnesota Twins,
I just want to give a huge thank you to you guys for another great season of Minnesota Baseball. I love going to the dome, and watching you guys take the field. The way you all work so well together, and just do the things you do, is nothing short of magic. It was sad to see such a great season come to an end, but next year, will be the year for the Twins. You guys will continue to dominate the field. I cannot wait to see what happens in '07. Enjoy the post season, and I really look forward to seeing you guys next spring. Thanks again for a great comeback season, and we will see you in the spring.

Hey michale,

I just wanted to say thank you for an awesome season. Personally I have a new favorite play. During training camp i had the oportunity to watch the twins play a couple times and when i saw you play i said to myself, he is going to have an amazing year. When u didn't get the starting job at first I was frustrated because i knew u deserved it, and it makes me happy to see that you had an amazing year considering you didnt even start every day until about a month in. I have always been a die hard Twins fan, and have always loved watching you guys, but this year was by far the most fun i have ever had watching anyone play the game. You guy played the game the way it was supposed to be played, with heart, passion, and you had fun doing it. Kirby would have been proud and i know Twins fans everywhere are **** proud of you guys. I look forward to next year, and i hope the team is able to keep together for the most part so we can make a run for it again next year! God bless, stay healthy and have a great off season.

JJ, Sioux Falls, SD

I have been a twins fan all my life and can't remember an more exciting regular season than this year. I know that the post season didn't turn out anything like we hoped it would but I have never been more proud to be a twins fan as I am today. The whole team showed heart and determination to not only get back into the race but WIN the Central Division. I truly wish that Brad, if he does choose to retire, could have won I more World Series but it just wasn't meant to be. I can't wait for spring training and next season when you will proudly defend the Central Dvision again. Thanks again Twins for a great season

I couldn't make it to any Twins games this year, which I really regret. But the home opener is already marked on the calendar. Thanks for a great year!!!

Wow! Thank you so much for not only the great baseball but the way you played the game. You have set such a good example for everyone with your team spirit, your respect for each other and your fans. We felt your joy when you won and your sorrow when you didn't win. You all seemed like an extended family to us because we felt that we got to know each one of you just a little better as the season progressed.Thank you for such a wonderful year!

Cuddy, and all of the Twins, and Brad in particular. You guys are all my heroes, every single one of you had to battle through adversity, and come back against all odds and end up on top. That is the story of my life as well.

Being from MN, of course I call myself the biggest Twins fan, there’s no other way, except the Twins way, think and thin. It's funny I was so busy with work this summer, that I couldn't get to a game until I came back to college in Florida. I saw you guys in St. Petersburg on Labor Day. But all throughout the summer and into the fall, I felt the same pain, the frustration, the joy, and excitement that you all felt, either watching it on FSN, or listening on the radio, and watching on MLBTV while here in Florida. You were on the money when you wrote that it’s hard to watch the game as a fan, for the lack of feeling of control. This is true, and sometimes the pain turned unbearable. But other times it adds excitement to the celebration when there is a come from behind, or a walk-off victory, and more often than not, there was.

Even in St. Pete, you guys battled back, and I tip my cap to all of you, and the effort that you guys put into every game. That Rondell White homerun was about 80 feet from where I was sitting. You guys have been such a part of my life for the past 7-8 years that a loss of this magnitude does not invoke the feeling of anger, but sharing in the sadness and the realization that something that was a part of all our lives for the past 6 months is abruptly over. The feeling that I felt when I saw Brad depart from the mound was the worst feeling ever. Having the feeling of seeing a fantastic career end on a sour note brought tears to my eyes. I could not even begin to imagine what Brad was going through.

I, as most Twins fans I know, are diehard. Down here in Florida, I see so many bandwagon fans that buy the cap when a team that they may like wins. My cap is about four years old and is weathered beyond recognition. It is going to stay that way, as a matter of fact I should be getting my Santana jersey in the mail this week, since I can’t find any down here. During the middle of summer at work, even though most of them were Twins fans as well, most of them didn’t see you guys in the playoffs. I never stopped believing as I watched you guys chip away at a lead as big as the Acropolis. I never stopped eyeing the division just as the team and Gardy didn’t.

The next six months will not be the same without you guys, especially if Brad decides not come back. As the heart and soul of the team, he deserves a ring, and I know with this bunch of terrific and awesome guys, that it’s well beyond possible. You never give up on your dreams, and anything’s possible. I thank you guys for everything, all the fun times, all the excitement, all the ups and some of the downs, the inspiration. You guys are awesome.

RAV

P.S. Cy Young, Batting Champ, MVP, Manager of the Year, DHL Delivery Man of the Year, and Rookie of the Year are all coming to Minnesota. Not to mention Gold Gloves.

I was at the game where you came off the bench to hit the home run againest the angels when the team was so far down I thought there was no way the twins could win that game, but you guys did, after that game it was a ride up to the top of the central division which was great, wish you guys could have made it further in the playoffs but the A's had better luck than you guys, hope to see all you guys at the fest in january have a nice winter rest.

Thank you so much for all the memories in the 06 season. My little sister and I watch so many games. The month of august and september was the most intense baseball games I have ever watch. The 06 season i will never forget!! I ran the twins cities marathon and then went to the last game of the season and it was the coolest thing I have ever been too!!! Even though it was a tough lose in the playoffs, I am just happy that you guys made it that fair. It could have been over so many different times throughout the summer, but you guys did something special and won the division. I am a twins fan win or lose and I