Here are three thoughts following the Twins' loss to Kansas City
1. THIS COULD GET UGLY: You look at the startling lineups for both teams on Thursday, and there might be just one position where the Twins had a better matchup - second base with Brian Dozier. That explains why the Royals went 15-4 against the Twins this season. It also says something about the Twins. The Royals are a handful of games over .500 but have dominated the Twins. And Yu Darvish is waiting for them in Texas on Friday night.
2. INJURIES: You had to feel that Samuel Deduno's season was going to end this way when he revealed some shoulder soreness a couple weeks ago. Deduno was removed after three innings, and it looks like he's headed for an MRI. Whatever happens, it's been a successful season for Deduno. Wilkin Ramirez was in a lot of pain after fouling that pitch off his left shin. I still remember when Jermaine Dye broke his leg on a similar play, Either way, look for the Twins to get another outfielder to the majors. They can't move forward with Ramirez and Oswaldo Arcia nursing injuries. And the Twins might need a replacement for Deduno. This can be tricky, with Class AAA Rochester in a playoff race.
3. TRADES: I don't expect the Twins to make any trades before the deadline - at least involving Justin Morneau or Josh Willingham. I'm getting indications that the interest in Morneau isn't that significant. They would have to eat salary if they move either Morneau or Willingham (which they are willing to do), but will that be enough to get a decent prospect in return? I just don't see it. And my complaint is that they would be dealing players at low value again.
