Winning six of seven series to start the season, the signing of the hometown hero to a long-term contract, and the opening of a new ballpark has many fans thinking World Series.

The first Twins’ first World Championship occurred in 1987. For many fans, this team will always have a special place in our hearts.

This was the first professional team to win a title for the state of Minnesota.

As then second baseman Steve Lombardozzi proclaimed after the Twins defeated the St. Louis Cardinals four games to three, “We are no longer the Twinkies!”

Comparing this year’s team with the Twins’ 1987 World Championship team provides many similarities—and a lot of hope.

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