March 13
Atlanta Journal-Constitution
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Will John Smoltz be closing games for the Minnesota Twins, the team that beat the Braves, and the longtime Brave righthander, in a grueling Game 7 of the 1991 World Series. Maybe. At least if Smoltz's friend and former battery mate in Atlanta has his wish. Former Braves catcher Greg Olson, who now lives in Minnesota, text messaged Smoltz after learning Twins closer Joe Nathan would undergo surgery to repair an elbow ligament, according to an article posted on the Pioneer Press Web site. "Perfect. Closer in Minny. Here comes Johnny," Olson messaged Smoltz. Olson meant it in a lighthearted way, according to the article. Olson has not heard back from the Atlanta resident, who, at 42, is an ..."
January 27
St. Paul Pioneer Press
columnist Charley Walters
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Pssst: That was Minnesota Twins general manager Bill Smith and Baltimore-based Ron Shapiro, who represents American League most valuable player Joe Mauer of the Twins, spotted Tuesday at a restaurant at the downtown Minneapolis Westin Hotel. Though there has been substantial buzz this week that the Twins hoped to announce a new contract for Mauer at the team's TwinsFest this weekend, that's not going to happen. A little birdie says there have been only preliminary talks for a new deal for the three-time batting champion, who can become a free agent after the coming season. When talks get serious, they are expected to center on an eight-year, $200 million contract for Mauer, 26, an all-star ..."