Minnesota Twins 2006 Betting Preview

The Minnesota Twins have dominated the AL Central in recent years, but regressed slightly in 2005 to just 83 wins after posting 90+ wins in each of their previous 3 seasons. With the AL Central continuing to improve, pushing the AL East into the top division in baseball, the Minnesota Twins will have their work cut out for them again this year.

Keep in mind that the Twins went 16-21 against the world champion White Sox and the emerging Cleveland Indians last season. They will have to do a better job against the best teams in the division if they are to return to their AL Central dominance. One sign of a good team is beating the teams you are supposed to beat. The Twins were very successful against the rest of their division foes, the Tigers and Royals, winning 24 of 38 games. You can expect this intra-division dominance to continue, especially at home, as Minnesota is a remarkable 108-49 home favorite within their division over the past 5 seasons. You can also expect another great season from ace Johan Santana. When he’s on the hill, the Twins are a sure bet.

It doesn’t look like Minnesota can get over the slump in the division again as Cleveland continues to improve and could emerge as the division favorite, though I think the White Sox pitching staff keeps them on top. No one thought the White Sox had a chance in 2005, and most, including me, are writing off the Twins in 2006, but their ability to play small ball and stellar defensive play keeps them going every game. If they can beat their peers, the Twins could be the surprise in the AL Central this season.