Anyone doubting the star power of Favre and the popularity of the Vikings in this town received a jolt of realty on Tuesday when his arrival at Winter Park received live news coverage (breaking into regular programming) on KARE 11, KSTP, Fox 9 and WCCO.
Lurtsema said some players come to training camp acting arrogant and not in shape, but he’s been impressed with rookie running back Toby Gerhart and second year cornerback Asher Allen. He loves Gerhart’s “old school” attitude of extra effort and said the former Heisman Trophy runner-up has “great acceleration.”
Lurtsema said Allen’s “heart is as big as Antoine Winfield’s,” the veteran cornerback known for his fearless attitude. He admires Allen’s love of the game, speed and aggressiveness for his size (5-9, 194 pounds).
The Vikings, who began play in 1961, are celebrating 50 seasons and a commemorative patch will be worn on uniforms this year. Recognition of the anniversary will also include fan balloting for the 50 greatest players in franchise history.
Twins vice president of marketing Patrick Klinger said he has watched Justin Morneau “slugging the ball” while taking batting practice and the organization anticipates the All-Star first baseman will receive clearance about concussion concerns and resume playing for the Twins in 2010.
Carl Pavano, who has already won two games this season against Chicago, pitches tonight’s series finale against the White Sox. He pitched seven innings and allowed two runs to win against Chicago in May. Then last month went nine innings and again gave up just two runs.
The Twins, with sponsorship by Treasure Island Resort & Casino, are promoting their annual diversity celebration before tonight’s game at Target Field. Fans attending will receive 10,000 “Chief” Bender baseball cards.
Charles Albert Bender, a Chippewa Indian, was from the Brainerd area and an accomplished major league pitcher during the first quarter of the last century. Klinger said Bender led the American League in winning percentage three times with records of 23-5, 17-5 and 17-3.