39-35 this season

Series is tied at one game a piece. Today is the rubber match. Given where the Sox are headed, it is really important to take a win today.

This afternoon, Robin is sending out the following guys to win the series:

Alejandro De Aza CF, Eduardo Escobar 3B, Youk 1B, Big Donkey DH, Alex Rios RF, AJ Pierzynski C, The Cuban Missile SS, Jordan Danks LF, O-Dawg 2B.

Chris Sale will start for the Sox. Sale is again looking to get his ninth win of the season. Chris’ last start against the Brewers was masterful. He threw eight scoreless innings while striking out seven Brewer batters. He also only allowed them just four hits. Unfortunately, the offense didn’t come around to score on Zack Greinke and Chris ended up with a no-decision.

In his career against the Twins, Chris is 1-0 with a miniscule 0.56 ERA with two saves over nine career appearances. One of the nine appearances a start. Chris has pitched 3.2 innings of scoreless ball at Target Field. He did pick up his first only win against the Twins this season on May 23 at home where he pitched seven scoreless innings. And Dandruff Boy and Justin Morneau will get to look silly again against Chris.

30-43 this season

Ron Gardenhire will counter with the following guys:

Denard Span CF, Ben Revere RF, Dandruff Boy DH, Josh Willingham LF, Justin Morneau 1B, Trevor Plouffe 3B, Ryan Doumit C, Brian Dozier SS, Jamey Carroll 2B.

Nick Blackburn will start for the Twins. Nick earned the victory in his last start against the Cincinnati Reds last Friday. He did allow four earned runs in that game. On the season, he has only had one quality start in his 11 tries. However, the Twins have managed to win six of the games.

In his career against the Sox, Nick is 9-6 with a 3.87 ERA. He does have 43 strikeouts against the Sox in 107 innings.

*Notes: The Sox now have the third best road record in the AL after last night’s win. Carl Pavano, who has been on the disabled list since June 4, played catch on Monday. He is slowly making progress from the shoulder strain that landed in him on the disabled list.