it’s a process

His ninth error in 40 games in the big leagues cost the Minnesota Twins three runs in a 9-1 loss to Pittsburgh on Thursday. Brian Dozier, the rookie shortstop from Tupelo by way of Southern Miss, has had some hiccups in the field but generally has gotten good reviews for his defense. In fact, Thursday’s error was his first since June 6. In 93 games at short in the minors last season, the 5-foot-11, 190-pound Dozier made just nine errors. Things happen faster in the big leagues; even the seemingly routine plays can be tougher to make. Dozier’s bat has been lagging a bit, as well. He is hitting just .237. But he has driven in 16 runs and scored 14 in his 40 games. The Twins aren’t about to give up on him. P.S. Props to Oak Grove High for earning a No. 2 national ranking in USA Today’s final prep poll. The 6A state champion Warriors went 34-3. The recognition is good for all of high school baseball in Mississippi, which often gets sold short on the national scale.