Chart: Guide to buying a cheap ticket at Target Field

Your quest should begin on Twins.com or with a pocket schedule. Find the seating chart of Target Field. Decide where you want to sit. Next, find the face value of a ticket in your area of choice. Now you're ready to begin the discount process.

There are numerous secondary-ticket resellers that will aid your search for cheap tickets, including Stub Hub, Craigslist and Ticket King. Sample each and determine the one that best suits your needs. Here you should find the true market value of the ticket you are interested in. In a bad market, seats are priced as low as single digits. Most games will feature several thousand ticket options, ranging from premium seats to upper deck. If your goal is to avoid scalpers and go to the stadium with a ticket in hand, purchase now.

For the brave and money-conscious fan, take your research (steps 1 and 2) with you to the streets surrounding Target Field where the scalpers will find you. Don't be shy, tell them what you are looking for and ask the price. Respond with a counteroffer. If you get what you want, enjoy the game. If not, continue the process. There are numerous scalpers eager to make a sale. And often the longer you wait, the cheaper the ticket.

Remember, in a bad market, you're in control. And if you're wondering what this market looks like, view the MLB standings. You'll find the Twins in last place.