Twins Showcase Dominance as Ryan Shines Against Royals

Twins Showcase Dominance as Ryan Shines Against Royals

Joe Ryan continues to be a dominant force in the pitching rotation, especially against the Kansas City Royals. The Twins’ starter improved his career record against the Royals to 8-0 with a remarkable 1.30 ERA after a stellar performance on Friday night, where he threw five innings, allowing only one run in the Twins’ 9-4 victory at Target Field.

Manager Rocco Baldelli noted that Ryan’s confidence stems from his familiarity with the Kansas City lineup. “You gain some real good confidence in what you have to do and how to make pitches against a certain group,” Baldelli explained, highlighting Ryan’s ability to pitch effectively against the same opponents over time.

Despite giving up a leadoff home run to Mike Yastrzemski in the first inning, Ryan quickly regained his rhythm. The Twins provided ample support early in the game with three runs in the first and two more in the second inning, marking their third consecutive victory.

Rookie Luke Keaschall shone again, tallying RBIs in both the first and second innings to extend his remarkable streak. Keaschall has now reached base safely in all 10 of his major league games, driving in 10 runs—setting a franchise record for the Twins for a player in his first 10 games. Baldelli praised Keaschall’s natural hitting ability, stating, “He looks good.”

The Twins’ offense was further bolstered by home runs from Matt Wallner and Kody Clemens as the team collected a total of 14 hits. Ryan Jeffers led the team with three hits, and several players, including Jeffers, Clemens, Keaschall, and Royce Lewis, each contributed two runs batted in.

In injury updates, pitcher Simeon Woods Richardson is feeling better after being diagnosed with a parasite following a stomach issue that led him to miss games. He has resumed throwing and is hopeful for a return. Meanwhile, Pablo López continues to make progress in his recovery from a Grade-2 strain. He is set to throw a simulated inning on Saturday, with hopes of moving to live batting practice and eventually a rehab assignment.

Byron Buxton is on the mend from rib inflammation and is nearing a return, although still has some ground to cover before resuming full baseball activities without pain. In other news, first-round draft pick Marek Houston had the honor of throwing a ceremonial first pitch on Friday, marking a bright moment for the franchise.

This latest effort by the Twins demonstrates their resilience and development, marking a promising trajectory as the season progresses.

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