TWINS REACH INTO THEIR PUCKETT FOR STADIUM SUPPORT

     The Twins plan to use Kirby Puckett, "the most popular
player in team history," in their push for financial aid to build
a new stadium, according to the Minneapolis STAR  TRIBUNE.
According to team consultant Pat Forciea, Puckett "is willing to
be actively involved in getting a new stadium" and could be
"invaluable" in generating public support.  Twins Owner Carl
Pohlad said he will need help financing for a new stadium that
could cost up to $300M.  Puckett's popularity was tested in a
Twins poll last year on a potential referendum.  Forciea:
"Kirby's positives were 98 percent.  There's never been a
Minnesotan with those figures; never will be.  You kinda wonder
who are the 2 percent of the people who don't like Kirby.  What's
their problem?" (Robert Whereatt, Minneapolis STAR TRIBUNE,
7/17).