I can’t believe it. I’m honestly in shock. How could the team that was 25-33 on June 7th possibly be in contention for the AL Central crown, let alone win the crown? To be honest, I’m not sure how they did it. The only reason that I can think of is summed up in one word: Toughness

The Twins had the toughness to fight through a season full of adversity. When most teams would have thrown in the towel, these Twins believed. They believed that they could do the impossible. They believed that a 12 1/2 game deficit was not too big of an obstacle. They believed that behind good hitting, defense and the occasional win by people not named Santana - they could go far.

Most people see adversity as something bad. These Twins saw adversity as something to survive. They see adversity as that thing that gives them the drive to win.

In a season that saw it’s ups and downs these Twins persevered. All of their hard work and teamwork came to fruition today when the Royals swept the Tigers. When all was said and done the Tigers lost their last 5 games. All they needed was 1 win. Just 1. On behalf of the state of Minnesota to the state of Michigan let me be the first to say that I’m sorry. All the wonderful Tiger baseball fans must have a collective upset stomach over what has transpired. We know too well what that feels like… Don’t know? Just think 1998 Vikings vs. Falcons. Enough said.

After the Royals finished off the Tigers, the 30,000 or so fans left at the Metrodome erupted with joy! The Twins did their victory lap and off it was to the clubhouse to have fun with champagne.

I don’t know how far the Twins will get in the post season. I do know this. I know that 2006 will go down as one of those years that all Twins fans talk about. In 30 years, we’ll be talking about the Twins like we talk about Killebrew, Allison and Kaat. We’ll be throwing out memories that include Morneau’s homerun against Zumaya in Detroit. We’ll be talking about Hunter and his second half. We’ll be talking about the sweet swing of a kid named Mauer.

Don’t let these moments pass you by. This Twins team will forever go down in history as one of the most beloved teams in our history. Just sit back, relax and for goodness sake… Wave that Homer Hanky!!!!