Fernando Romero struck out seven in seven innings and limited the Seattle Mariners to two runs Friday night, but M’s starter James Paxton was just a little better after he struck out 11 batters in a 2-1 victory.
The Twins mustered four hits and Max Kepler had two of them, including his seventh home run of the season.
Jake Odorizzi gets the ball Saturday.
Extra innings…
-While the Twins and Mariners were locked in a pitchers’ duel, the Cleveland Indians’ bullpen had a terrible night. Corey Kluber, the defending AL Cy Young award winner, pitched six-plus scoreless innings against the Houston Astros, then handed the ball to the bullpen. And the bullpen imploded, giving up 11 earned runs in two-plus innings. Ouch. The final score: 11-2, Houston.
-Every team in the AL Central has a losing record.
-Miguel Sano has finally returned to the lineup after an extended stay on the disabled list. He played first base and struck out three times Friday night.