A little momentum helps after all.
A win over the Tampa Bay Rays on Wednesday carried into Thursday after the Twins came from behind in the top of the ninth to beat the Kansas City Royals, 4-2.
The Twins got enough pitching, enough hitting and plenty of defense, with the team turning four double plays in Thursday’s game. Starter Kyle Gibson exited with a no-decision, but he still pitched another quality start by limiting the Royals to two runs in seven innings. Trevor Hildenberger got the win and Matt Belisle picked up the save, his sixth.
Jorge Polanco, Robbie Grossman and Joe Mauer delivered extra-base hits, including Grossman’s ninth home run this season.
Ervin Santana gets the ball Friday.
Extra innings…
-The Los Angeles Angels of Anaheim were idle Thursday, so the Twins extended their wild card lead to one game after beating the Royals. The Twins are 73-67.
-Welcome back, Grossman. Since coming off the disabled list, Grossman is hitting .400 with a double and two home runs, including a splashdown in the center field aquarium at Tropicana Field.
