Winter Meltdown Recap

This was our first year holding the event at The Pourhouse, which proved to be a perfect venue thanks to its proximity to Target Field, its spacious confines, its excellent stage and audio set-up, and its friendly and accommodating staff.

Carl Pavano, who was the planned first speaker, unfortunately did not make it into town for TwinsFest due to a family matter, but Mike Pagliarulo stepped up as a pinch-hitter and delivered in a big way.

Pagliarulo was a very fitting guest, given that 2016 marks the 25-year anniversary of the 1991 World Championship he helped win. Speaking with John Bonnes and guest emcee Paul Lambert (aka "Meatsauce") of KFAN, Pags shared stories about that team, and reflected on the evolution that the game has undergone in a quarter-century since.

Pagliarulo was followed by another World Series champ: Tim Laudner, who served as catcher on the 1987 club. Laudner is a natural on stage and in the spotlight, so he had no trouble captivating the audience with memories of that classic group. As a current Fox Sports North analyst, he also had plenty of thoughts and insights on the current club. He didn't miss the opportunity to make a few snarky remarks about sabermetricians.

After the two featured guest speakers, Lambert moderated a blogger panel in which Bonnes, Seth Stohs, Aaron Gleeman and myself answered questions submitted by the audience. The topics ranged from Miguel Sano's transition to the outfield and the state of the bullpen to the real killer of Theresa Halbach and the quality of John's dance moves.

The panel, and both former player Q&A sessions, were recorded and will be available on a special edition of Gleeman and the Geek this week, so keep your eyes peeled for that.

In addition to the speaker sessions, we enjoyed delicious beers from the folks at 612 Brew and gave away a ton of great prizes, including starter kits from Harry's Razors, a unique art piece from S. Preston, big bags of 612 Brew swag, and Twins tickets courtesy of the Star Tribune's Howard Sinker.

The turnout was amazing, the enthusiasm was palpable, and the setting was ideal. Huge thanks go out to The Pourhouse for hosting; to 612 Brew for supporting in so many ways; to Meatsauce for lending his skills on the mic; to our distinguished guests for sharing their stories and insights; to Gleeman for helping drive the event; and most of all to everyone who came out and made it such a good time.

Twenty-one days until pitchers and catchers report.