April 6, 1951
Bert Blyleven – I usually try to avoid any Twins broadcast that falls on April 6 lest I be bombarded with reminders about Bert’s birthday (which is why I am happy that Sunday’s game was included in my season ticket package). Whether or not he is a Hall of Fame caliber broadcaster (I have my opinions) it is difficult to argue that his pitching performance for the Twins and other teams doesn’t merit a spot in Cooperstown. Those who do argue against it are the ones who thinks wins and losses are the best indicator for a pitcher, or that Blyleven lacked some intangible dominance factor during his career. In my opinion, the longer Blyleven is left out of the Hall of Fame, the less credibility the BBWAA and HOF itself have. I would also like to see his number retired by the Twins, something that may still happen down the line, but I am still going to turn my TV volume down when watching Twins games.
April 6, 1959
Bret Boone – I was one who thought taking a chance on Bret Boone was a good idea back in 2005. Though it turned out I was wrong, it really didn’t cost the Twins that much to give him a shot in the middle of the season.
April 7, 1955
Bobby Mitchell – Acquired from the Dodgers in a trade after the 1981 season, Mitchell was the every day center fielder for the Twins in 1982. He was replaced by Darrell Brown in 1983, who was to be replaced by Jim Eisenreich for the 1984 season. Eisenreich had to leave the team early that season, making room for Kirby Puckett to make his debut for the Twins. Mitchell went on to do some coaching, including a short term as manager of the Rancho Cucamonga Quakes in the Angels’ organization.
April 8, 1949 – Mac Scarce
April 10, 1949 – Tom Lundstedt
April 10, 1975 – Mike Lincoln
April 11, 1970 – Sean Bergman
Tags: Players, Twins History
