2010 they gave up nearly 6 runs a game
2009 they gave up nearly 5 runs a game
2006 they gave up 13 runs in the two games Johan didn't pitch
Not many offenses can compensate for that kind of pitching. I'm not saying the lack of playoff success is entirely the fault of the pitching staff, but against elite level pitching offenses are going to have 2 or 3 run games.
I would love it if MN had some young arms with elite potential. It's certainly more cost efficient and less risky than spending in FA, but the reality is the Twins have failed in that area for a while now, so their options are limited at the moment. Yes, teams that can grow elite pitching leave themselves with financial resources to commit elsewhere but in that group of teams mentioned earlier many have made big signings or trades.
I get what you are saying and I am not making excuses, but the bats didn't give us a chance either.Johan needed to shut the Yankees out for us to win our last playoff game.We only scored two runs that game.As big an issue has been the pen, in my opinion.
I guess I REALLY want to see us raise our own pitchers for once. It has been frustrating watching the litany of starting pitcher FA signings we have made.SOmeone like Cobb or Lynn would be a couple of clicks above the Ponsons, Marquis, Corrieas, etc.....etc....we have signed in the past.