- Twins score 11 runs with explosive 4th inning rally
- Larnach drives in 4 runs with homer and double
- Buxton continues hot streak with 3 RBIs
- Angels pitchers issue 7 walks in loss
The Minnesota Twins delivered an offensive masterclass at Target Field on Friday, overwhelming the Los Angeles Angels 11-4 in front of a energized home crowd. Pablo López made a strong return from injury, pitching five innings with six strikeouts, while Twins hitters capitalized on Angels starter Kyle Hendricks' command struggles. The game turned decisively in the 4th inning when Minnesota batted through the order, scoring six runs on just two hits but leveraging five walks.
Trevor Larnach emerged as the night's standout performer, going 2-for-4 with a three-run homer that cleared the right-center field scoreboard. The 27-year-old outfielder now boasts eight RBIs in his last four contests, cementing his role as Minnesota's clutch hitter. Byron Buxton complemented Larnach's power display with a 422-foot solo shot to the second deck, his third homer in seven games.
Minnesota's pitching staff demonstrated strategic efficiency despite surrendering home runs to Mike Trout and Logan O'Hoppe. López's economical 78-pitch outing set the tone, with relievers maintaining pressure through late innings. The Twins' bullpen has now posted a 2.89 ERA in home games this season, a key factor in their 12-5 record at Target Field.
Industry Insights
- Teams scoring 10+ runs win 92% of MLB games (2024 season data)
- Pitchers with 5+ walks have 1-8 record in AL this month
- Players returning from hamstring injuries see 18% power surge in first week
The Twins' offensive explosion comes at a critical juncture in the AL Central race. Minnesota now sits just 2.5 games behind division-leading Cleveland, with 14 of their next 17 games at home. Target Field has become a fortress this season, with the Twins boasting MLB's third-best home OPS (.814) through April.
Regional analysis shows Minnesota's success stems from disciplined plate approaches. Twins hitters have reduced their chase rate by 7% compared to 2023, ranking 4th in MLB for walk percentage. This patient strategy proved devastating against Angels pitching, as Minnesota drew seven walks and forced three pitching changes before the 6th inning.
Saturday's matchup features an intriguing pitching duel between Yusei Kikuchi and Simeon Woods Richardson. The Twins will look to extend their home winning streak while the Angels attempt to avoid falling below .500 for the first time this season. First pitch at Target Field is scheduled for 1:10 PM CT, with weather forecasts predicting ideal hitting conditions (72°F, 8 mph winds).