Metrodome Memories

Twins starter Kevin Slowey turned in a very solid start in a 4-0 win over the Reds. He tossed 5 shutout innings, while striking out 5 and giving up 3 hits and no walks. Adam Everett went 2 for 2 and Carlos Gomez went 2 for 4 with a double, further solidfying his case to be the center fielder on Opening Day. Prospect Drew Butera had a 2 out, 2 RBI single in the seventh.

While it was an all around great effort by the Twins, the most important aspect is Slowey’s start. This is the kind of outing the Twins will need all season long from their young starters. The lineup looks solid, with Morneau, Mauer and Cuddyer and the bullpen is set, especially if Joe Nathan is signed to an extension before the season starts. The area of concern for the Twins is the rotation, with the departure of Santana, the recovery of Liriano and the rest being inexperienced. Slowey and the other young starters will need to provide solid outings like today if the Twins are to be any sort of successful this season.