Thompson said the Gophers have had “Cadillac” runners in the past but now with Maroney and Gary Russell gone since last season, and Barber having left for the pros after the 2004 season, the talent level has obviously dropped. …

Russell is not playing this season but will he enroll at Minnesota in January to regain his eligibility? …

Matt Spaeth has been named a second team pre-season all-American by Street and Smith’s college football magazine. …

Sports Illustrated was here to write about Joe Mauer for the current issue cover story.  Coverage included a stop at Canterbury Park where Joe’s grandfather Jake sells his tip sheet. …

You wonder how long Mauer will be a catcher.  With the physical demands of catching, his effectiveness as a hitter probably could be extended by moving to another position.  With his athleticism and size, he might be a nice fit at third base. …

Maybe pitching phenom Matt Garza will join the Twins this season but it’s no secret the team seems concerned about moving him to the majors when in 2006 he has already pitched at three minor league levels including AAA.  “One thing you don’t want to do is hurt his arm,” manager Ron Gardenhire said on his WCCO Radio show.