TwinsFest 2005

TwinsFest gets more crowded every year, though I imagine having the reigning Cy Young Award winner there doesn't exactly decrease attendance. That's one of the down-sides of having a team that will be shooting for a fourth consecutive playoff berth after nearly a decade of immense suckitude--long, long lines at TwinsFest. (And the annual Autograph Party in June.)

A few impressions:

--Pitching prospect Pat Neshek was either thrilled to be there, or doing a very good impression of someone who was thrilled to be there. And he has the best signature EVER. Not the neatest, but how can you fail to be charmed when someone takes the time to put little arcs of stitches, as on a baseball, inside the loop of his "P"?

--You wouldn't think Johan "Cy" Santana would look surprised when his passing generated spontaneous applause and cheering, but he did.

--Juan Rincón should seriously consider going into radio when he retires (many years from now). He really has the most beautiful voice.

--Nick Punto, our 2005 shortstop if there is any justice in the universe and the only Twin who can consistently bunt worth a damn, is a very friendly guy.

--Carlos Silva must be working diligently on his English. It has noticeably improved since the start of last season.

--It's just not the same without Corey Koskie.