Gardy pleased with Twins' patience at plate

MINNEAPOLIS -- The Twins have shown plenty of patience at the plate this year, as evidenced by the fact that they entered Thursday's doubleheader ranked second in the Majors in walks with 65.

It's led to an impressive .340 team on-base percentage, and it's leading directly to runs, as the Twins are averaging 5.4 runs per game in the early going this season. The Twins also lead the Majors in pitches per plate appearance with 4.16.

Twins manager Ron Gardenhire said he's pleased with the way his players are working counts and having better at-bats than last season.

"I was a little worried early when he were striking out a lot, and we still have some guys who will strike out, but the at-bats have been better," Gardenhire said. "I like the way it's going and the way we're swinging. For the most part, we're swinging pretty decent."