Twins Beat Indians, 5-1

Now that is more like it. The formula the Minnesota Twins used in defeating the Cleveland Indians last night was the one they want to see more often. Seven innings for the starter, one inning for the setup man, and then turn it over to the hammer. Nick Blackburn was magnificent over seven, Jose Mijares made quick work of the Indians in the eighth, and Joe Nathan was his usual self in the ninth. Starting pitching is so critical to the Twins' success because they don't have a powerful lineup. Blackburn gave the Twins exactly what they needed. Talent wise, I think the Twins have the best rotation in the division, and one of the best in all of baseball. However, they haven't performed like it so far. Glenn Perkins has been phenomenal and Blackburn was on last night, but Baker, Liriano, and Slowey have all been dreadful so far. Slowey did have a good last start against the Angels, so we'll see if he can keep it going tonight. This is a group of young pitchers that are very good friends and try to feed off each other's success. Hopefully, Blackburn started something the others can build on. The Twins need that to happen in order to be successful. One other note: Justin Morneau hit an absolute bomb in the third inning. I can't wait to see him hit behind Mr. Mauer when the catcher returns on May 1.