What a way to start the season! A cold Thursday afternoon in middle America with a four game series against the Twins.
Game 1 - 5-3 W - Gilbert got the Opening Day start and didn't disappoint going six innings with 6K, 1BB, 4H and 2R and the offense backed them up with J Rod and Moore going back-to-back in the 1st and a superb rally in scoring three in the 9th capped off by Raileigh's 2-run single.
Game 2 - 2-3 L - Unfortunately for us, Paddack had a great game only giving up 4 hits in 6 innings and Robbie Ray having a shocker in 5.1 innings giving up 3 walks,5 hits and 3 runs including 2HRs. Only highlight for us was a Haniger homer with 8 LOB.
Game 3 - 1-7 L - Wow. This went downhill fast. 0-0 after three innings and then Matt Brash just capitulated with a five run fourth. He gave up 8H, 5R and 2BB in four innings of work and no help from the bats.
Game 4 - 2-5 L - Much like Game 3. Had a 2-0 lead going into the 4th and Elias had to leave the game injured so in comes Steckenrider and in 1.2 innings has 5H, 4R and 2 in 47 pitches. Never recovered from there.
So after our first series we sit on 1-3 with some serious questions needing to be asked of some players like Brash, Steckenrider, Moore, and Kelenic.
Trade: Was out of options for Marco and didn't need another pitcher so off to Oakland with you and we might have a use for Pinder.
Time to pack the bags and head to Chicago for three against the White Sox where hopefully we can improve our fortunes.