MINNEAPOLIS -- Homer Hankies will be flying again in the Metrodome.

The Minnesota Twins announced Thursday that they will release the 2002 edition of the Homer Hanky as the team makes a run for the AL Central championship and its first playoff appearance in 11 years. The Hanky was the hallmark of the team's runs to World Series titles in 1987 and 1991.

The first 20,000 fans at Friday's game against the Oakland Athletics, who will be going for their 21st win in a row, will receive free hankies. They will also be sold for $1 at the Metrodome and Twins Pro Shops starting Saturday.

The Homer Hanky was introduced during the Twins' championship run in September 1987. The hanky immediately became a calling card for rabid Minnesota fans as they cheered their team to its first World Series championship over the St. Louis Cardinals.

The hankies emerged again in September 1991 during the Twins' drive for their second title in five years, which culminated with a World Series win over the Atlanta Braves.

"The Twins organization is thrilled to bring back one of the most popular collectibles in Minnesota sports history,'' Twins chief operating officer Kevin Catoor said. "We look forward to watching a sea of hanky-waving fans at the Metrodome while helping raising funds for local charities.''

A portion of the proceeds from the sale of Homer Hankies will benefit the Minnesota Twins Community Fund and the Children's Hospitals and Clinics of the Twin Cities.