* Let me first say, be sure to tune into AM 1130 KFAN throughout Monday morning for postgame audio from Sunday’s game 3 loss. Nick Punto was very candid about his baserunning blunder, and Carl Pavano talked about his potential future in Minnesota. Great stuff.

What a depressing way for the season to end. The Twins flushed away so many chances over the last two games to beat the Yankees. Carl Pavano pitched out of his mind on Sunday night too.

Ultimately, fans will remember three things from this buzzkill of a series: Joe Nathan blowing a two-run lead in the bottom of the ninth of game two, umpire Phil Cuzzi blatantly blowing a call down the left field line in extra innings of game two to rob Joe Mauer of a double, and Nick Punto overrunning third base with nobody out and the Twins trailing by one at the end of game 3.

After spending 30 minutes in the Twins’ clubhouse after the loss, I’ve never seen an athlete feel more terrible after a game than Nick Punto tonight. He looked like he had seen a ghost, but he stood in front of his locker and answered question after question, even the repeats.

Pointing fingers and passing blame is pointless right now. The Twins gave us a hell of a ride, including Game 163 — one of the greatest baseball games ever played.

Instead of looking back and what could have and should have been, it’s important to analyze what IS and what the Twins need to do heading into 2010.

Another post for another time.

As for the Metrodome… well… it’s been a good run. You ran out of baseball magic, and that’s OK. Or maybe the Twins just ran out of ammunition against a team that is far superior.

Probably a bit of both.

Talk to you all soon.