Twins vs. Washington series preview

Last update: June 7, 2007 - 8:11 PM

THREE-GAME SERIES AT THE METRODOME

Tonight, 7:10 p.m., FSN, 1500-AM

RHP Carlos Silva (3-6, 3.86) vs RHP Jason Simontacchi (2-4, 5.61).

Saturday, 6:10 p.m., FSN, 1500 AM

LHP Johan Santana (6-5, 3.30) vs RHP Levale Speigner (1-2, 9.10).

Sunday 1:10 p.m., WFTC, 1500 AM

RHP Scott Baker (4-2, 4.12) vs Mike Bacsik (1-2, 4.13).

Key matchup

Former Tigers masher Rob Fick, left, is batting .308 with a homer against Twins righthander Carlos Silva.

Twins update: The Twins need to take advantage of the Nationals, a team with the second-worst record in the National League. After Washington, the Twins have a series at home against Atlanta, which is second in the NL East, at home against NL Central-leading Milwaukee, and then at the NL East-leading Mets. The Twins must beat teams that present favorable matchups. ... Luis Castillo has hit safely in 23 of his past 26 games.

Nationals update: The Twins connections are strong with the Nationals. Shortstop Cristian Guzman is batting .327 since returning from the disabled list after a strained left hamstring ... Tony Batista, the Twins' Opening Day starter at third base last season, was recently called up from the minors and is batting .316. ... Both Jason Simontacchi and Levale Speigner pitched in the Twins' minor league system. ... Nationals righthander John Patterson has been out since May 6 because of a pinched nerve in his throwing arm.

LA VELLE E. NEAL III

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