TIPSHEET

Compiled by Ken Chia

KNOW THIS

The AL second wild-card leader with three weeks to go has made the playoffs each of the past two seasons. The last one to fall short was Seattle in 2014, when the Mariners led Detroit by a half-game on Sept. 7.

WATCH THIS

You might have heard the Vikings season is beginning on Monday night. Remember, though, it's part a of an ESPN doubleheader, meaning an earlier start time than usual. The road to Super Bowl LII begins at 6:10 p.m.

RANDOM FANDOM

"Yes, two admittedly lousy opponents but team showing great discipline and understanding of the PJ system. Very few of the stupid mistakes that played down to inferior opposition in the past."

"dlang07" on P.J. Fleck and Gophers football at startribune.com.

TWEETED

"The guys caught me off guard today. It's an honor to be a part of this group but an even greater honor to play with this team."

— Glen Perkins, given a bottle of Dom Perignon in honor of reaching 10 years in the major leagues with the Twins.

@glenperkins