Minnesota baseball fans have a lot to be excited about this year with the excitement of the new Target Field, and the return of the crowd favorite Joe Mauer who signed the fourth largest contract in Major League Baseball history. Twins fans said goodbye to the Hubert H. Humphrey Metrodome last year, with the American League Central Pennant, and are very excited to bring baseball back where it belongs this 2010 season – outside. Everyone is very excited about the new Target Field, including T.C. the Bear, the Twin’s enthusiastic mascot, because we all know that bears belong outside.

As Twins fans welcomed in the new field, they also welcomed a new menu. The Hormel Dome Dog that many have enjoyed in previous years has been replaced by not one, not two, not even three, but four different kinds of hot dogs! Target field will be offering the Dinger Dog, the Twins Big Dog, the Original Twins Dog, and the Dugout Dog courtesy of Schweigert meats. Of course , there is more than just the classic baseball game hot dog. There are a variety of foods available with a Minnesota-focused signature inspired by local restaurants that Minnesota fans love, along with all the classic baseball foods.

Although the capacity of Target Field will be slightly smaller than that of the Metrodome, the new $545 million dollar state of the art field will offer larger seats and more leg room for the comfort of the fans. When the weather isn’t the best, fans can take refuge in the heated concessions and restrooms, as well as the restaurant and lounge areas on each level of the ballpark. The roof canopy, which is one of the largest in baseball today, will also provide some protection from the unpredictable Minnesota weather.

On April 12, 2010 the Minnesota Twins won their opening game against the Boston Red Sox 5-2. The day couldn’t have been better, with blue skies, a slight breeze, and a sunny afternoon. Jason Kubel hit the first- ever home run (388 feet) in Target Field into the right field seats in the 7th inning, finishing the game with three hits and two RBI’s.

Of course, with the big news of Target Field, came some other news that Minnesota fans love. Joe Mauer, who finished out the first game at the new stadium with three hits and two RBI’s, signed a $184 million dollar contract over the next eight years. $23 million dollars per season is a small price to pay to keep the 26 year old who won the American League MVP Award, a Gold Glove for his catching skills, and three ALC batting titles. “It's only fitting, a Minnesota boy playing in his home ballpark," teammate Denard Span said.

If you are looking to make it to a Twin’s game in the new stadium, you better hurry and order your tickets! Tickets are being bought at a rapid rate because of the novelty of the new stadium and fans love of the Twins. An estimated 3 million people will make their way through the stadium during the 2010 season. So, with all the ruckus and excitement of the new Target Field, there is only one thing left to do—“Play Ball!”