In a season where the Twins have looked anything but consistent, they travel to St. Petersburg Florida tonight to take on a very young and talented Devil Rays squad.  Coming into the last series against the Tigers I had my doubts about this team… specifically our ability to score runs.  The supposed weak spot of this team was their starting pitching rotation.  While that seems to be shored up (Thanks Rick Anderson), we have been used to getting little production out of anyone not named Mauer, Cuddyer or Hunter.  Having three guys produce in a lineup won’t allow you to win many games. 

This all changed with a 1-0 extra innings victory over the Kansas City Royals.  That momentum pushed us to win two out of three games against the Motor City Kitties.  While we saw flashes of good team play the Twins will certainly try to continue their winning ways during the next week. 

Sidney Ponson (1-3 8.44 ERA) vs. Edwin Jackson (0-3 6.10 ERA)

After taking two of three from the Tigers, it’s nice to face Edwin Jackson.  While our hometown squad has made mediocre young pitchers look dominant, I think that this will be the game that will get us back in our winning ways.  Sidney Ponson is due for a good game and since Ed Jackson is neither left handed or good I am expecting a run away victory tonight. 

Look for Torii Hunter to have another big game.  Can anyone say contract year? 

Look for Joe Mauer (aka… “the kid” or “baby jesus”) to go 3-4 with a double and two singles.  All of his hits will come with nobody on and two outs.  He’s the best hitter in the history of baseball with nobody on base!

Look for Jason Kubel to hit two doubles tonight…. Both off the fence.  When is this guy going to get his first homerun???  I swear that I saw him hit three balls off of the fence during the last week.

Sidney Ponson will squeak out a victory after pitching only the minimum 5 1/3 innings.  The Twins will put the game away in the 7th when the Devil Rays collective wheels fall off.  They are talented but always find ways to lose the game…. I couldn’t imagine having to cover that team.