Let the cliches roll in. "It all comes down to this." "Do or die from here on out." "This one's for all the marbles."

Whichever over-used phrase you prefer, the fact that there is extra baseball to look forward to doesn't change. Repeat after me: The Twins are not finished yet. Win one and we're in. Successfully record 27 outs Tuesday while crossing home plate at least one more time than the Tigers, and we'll march right into the playoffs.

Of course, Minnesota has some distinct advantages. One, they're incredibly hot, having won 15 of their last 19 games. Two, we have the benefit of a fully-rested ace in Scott Baker, while the Tiger's Justin Verlander pitched earlier today against the White Sox. Three, Dome-field advantage!

Baker's mound opponent will be 20-year old Rick Porcello, who has put together an impressive 14-9 record and a 4.04 ERA.

Tuesday's game shouldn't be a high-scoring affair. At the first sign of trouble either team will yank their starter in favor of a fully-rested bullpen arm. We may even see some guys from the rotation on the mound if things get dire. Sure, that isn't the best long-term plan, considering the winner of Tuesday's game will be launched into a five-game series against the Yankees the next day, but what's the point of saving a pitcher for the next game if there is no next game?

So, once again, the fate of the entire season rests in Tuesday's game. We're in do-or-die territory. This one's for all the marbles.

Here's hoping the Twins don't disappoint. Stay tuned here at Twins Target for some Game 163 preview later on.

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