For the first time in nearly 30 years, the Twins went outdoors and opened Target Field with an impressive 94-win campaign. Joe Mauer hit over .300 again, leading an offense that ranked in the top five in batting average, hits, doubles, runs and triples. Justin Morneau batted .345 before missing the final three months with a concussion. Delmon Young continued improving by setting career highs in home runs, RBI and doubles (46).

Finally, the offense also was aided by Jim Thome’s bat, which provided 25 home runs in 340 at-bats. On the mound, Carl Pavano was steady while Francisco Liriano made a successful return to the rotation. In the pen, Jon Rauch saved 21 games while midseason acquisition Matt Capps added 16 saves in place of Joe Nathan.