The Twins moved within a half-game of the Chicago White Sox for the top spot in the AL Central after they, and the Cleveland Indians, rallied to beat their respective teams on Tuesday.
The Twins topped the Tigers in 10 innings and the Tribe, incredibly, losing 3-1 going into the bottom of the 10th inning, scored four runs to knock off the Pale Hose, 5-3. That kind of loss just might break the White Sox, and yet they still have two more games against the Indians.
Once again, Max Kepler played the role of hero. After powering the Twins win over the Cubs, Kepler went 3-for-5, including a home run, and also hit the game-winning, walk-off single to edge the Tigers, 5-4. Eddie Rosario scored the winning run.
Byron Buxton and Mitch Garver also hit home runs to back starter Homer Bailey, who was finally activated from the 45-day injured list. Kept on a short leash, Bailey struck out three over three innings and allowed a run. That meant Rocco Baldelli had to empty the bullpen and use six relievers. The win finally went to closer Taylor Rogers, who improved to 2-4.
Kenta Maeda gets the ball on Wednesday.
-The Twins are 22-5 at Target Field.
-According to MLB.com, Twins third baseman Josh Donaldson bought his teammates personalized robes, which the Twins wore in the dugout during Tuesday’s game. After a good play, such as hitting a home run, the player donned the robe and strutted down the dugout.
-Kepler’s batting average has jumped 30 points. He was hitting around the Mendoza line, but it has jumped up to .231 after two good days at the plate. I hope it continues.
-Rosario also had a good game. He had two hits and threw out a Tigers player at home. And once again, Rosie beat the runner by quite a margin.