Slowey finds his form -- and a future

Last update: March 20, 2008 - 10:36 PM

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TWINS 4, CINCINNATI 0

Up next: 12:05 p.m. today vs. Philadelphia • Fort Myers, Fla.

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FORT MYERS, FLA. - After a rocky start to spring training, Kevin Slowey is finishing strong, and his performance Thursday night might have sealed a spot in the starting rotation.

Slowey gave up just three hits with no walks and five strikeouts over five innings in a 4-0 victory over the Cincinnati Reds.

In his first three starts, Slowey gave up 15 hits in 6 2/3 innings, but he's allowed just five hits in nine innings in his past two starts, while lowering his ERA to 4.02.

Slowey, 23, credited pitching coach Rick Anderson and Manager Ron Gardenhire for "reinforcing that every time out isn't a trial."

"Andy and Gardy certainly didn't set off any sirens when I struggled," Slowey said. "[Catcher Mike Redmond] took me aside and said, 'Look, you're fine. Keep doing what you're doing and get guys out. You're going to be fine out there. I think that means a lot to us young guys."

JOE CHRISTENSEN