5. 1970 Minnesota Twins (98 – 64)
The 1970 Minnesota Twins were a solid team led by 31 year old Tony Oliva and 34 year old Harmon Killebrew, managed by Bill Rigney. At this time, the Twins were still in the AL West, along with 5 other teams.
Minnesota finished the season at the top of the AL West. They did it with solid pitching and some veteran bats. While Killebrew and Oliva were nearing the end of their respective careers, one young star by the name of Rod Carew was rising to the occasion.
Killebrew had a slash line of .271/.411/.546 with 41 home-runs and 113 RBI’s, putting together another spectacular season.
Oliva had a slash line of .325/.364/.514 with 23 home-runs and 107 RBI’s, one of the best of his careers.
Carew had a slash line of .366/.407/.524 with 4 home-runs and 28 RBI’s in only 191 at-bats coming off the bench.
Entering the post-season as the favorites to take home the World Series, the 1970 Minnesota Twins went home disappointed. Unfortunately, they were swept by the Baltimore Orioles in the ALCS, ending their year early.