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In 1987, the Twins defeated the St. Louis Cardinals four games to three, and in 1991, they defeated the Braves by the same margin. The Metrodome has hosted the World Series, a final four, a super bowl, and an all-star game. The most notable feature of the dome is the turf. Until the 2004 season, the turf in the Metrodome played incredibly fast, with routine groundballs seemingly skipping by infielders. For the 2004 season and beyond, the turf will remain, but in a different style. The hope is that this new turf will slow the ball down to resemble the type you’d see in a natural grass stadium.
Ron Gardenhire will step up as manager for his 3rd season. In his first two seasons, Gardenhire has compiled a 206-153 regular season record, but is only 5-9 in the postseason.
In 2003, the twins only hit 155 home runs, not even one a game. Leading the way at the plate is Torii Hunter, a player quite capable with a bat in his hands, but more recognized for what he can do in the field. Jacque Jones and Corey Koskie are also expected to contribute big numbers this season, following the loss of catcher A.J. Pierzynski to the San Francisco Giants. Pierzynski was expendable following the development of minor league all-star Joe Mauer. Mauer is only 21, but he looks to be the cornerstone of the franchise for years to come.
Pitching will be rebuilt in the 2004 season following the losses of Eddie Guardado, LaTroy Hawkins, and Kenny Rogers. To compensate, the Twins will ask Johan Santana and Brad Radke to go longer innings. The pitchers will all be trying to get the ball to Joe Nathan, the Twins new closer. In his previous four major league seasons, Nathan has never worked strictly as a closer.
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