For those who believe the Mayan prophecy predicting the world ends in 2012 these are stressful times. Even right here on the prairie it seems like the sky is falling with our pro sports teams.
While now may not be the end games, these are historic times for the Timberwolves, Vikings, Wild and Twins. Pivotal moments, perhaps unprecedented locally, lie ahead for the four franchises.
No franchise is more troubled than the Timberwolves who have made a habit of annually losing most of their games and a lot of money. Despite dismal performance on the court and attendance, Minnesotan and owner Glen Taylor perseveres. He’s searching for a general manager and coach who can make a sweet future out of a failed past. Whoever is hired must make the most out of three first round draft choices this June and lots of salary cap room to pursue free agents in 2010. If things don’t improve, go ahead and wonder how long Taylor wants to own and operate the team at 600 First Ave. North. Timberwolves might not be the best fit for a nickname in Las Vegas, but Lakers has thrived in southern California.
While a few folks are jumpy about the Timberwolves moving, thousands fret about the Vikings home grounds after 2011 when their Metrodome lease expires. The world will end for the Purple faithful if the Vikings relocate in 2012. While it seems far-fetched to speculate on a move to the Mayan’s home country of Mexico, something must be done to provide the franchise with more revenues than is possible in the Metrodome. Without a new stadium, it’s common belief that owner Zygi Wilf will sell the franchise to someone who says adiós to Minnesota. Does Adrian Peterson’s astrology chart have him giving football tutorials on Central American TV for the Mexico City Vikings? Nice fit, huh?
The “warming house” where fans wait to buy Wild season tickets has an air of anticipation these days. For the second time in franchise history the general manager and coaching jobs are open. The men who fill those roles will be expected to put the team into the playoffs on an annual basis. Nothing is more exciting than winning, but a product with more offense sounds good to those tired of the defense obsessed philosophy of the past. Short term, the franchise’s No. 1 need is to retain the most gifted player in Wild history, free agent Marian Gaborik. At 27, Gaborik can headline a franchise that for many years can keep Xcel Energy Center full and the “warming house” open where about 7,500 potential ticket buyers are waiting.
You don’t need a regular diet of Rolaids to talk about the Twins. Lots of good players, capable manager in Ron Gardenhire and that beautiful ballpark opening next year. Things are pretty good except there’s always something to fret about in baseball and life. Short term, the starting and relief pitching demands keeping the Pepto Bismol handy. Then there’s the economy and the question of how the club will do in attracting fans and sponsors in challenging times. Make costs too pricey and even a new stadium doesn’t guarantee success. Example A is the new Yankee Stadium where fans have been disguising themselves as empty seats. Twins worry-warts also have their eye on Joe Mauer’s contract which ends in 2010. That’s awful close to 2012 but it’s hard to see the hometown catcher and batting champ going anyplace else to play.
See, there is good news.
Comments Welcome