A Rough Start Defines the Night
The Houston Astros found themselves in a difficult position from the opening moments of Thursday’s contest at Daikin Park. Minnesota Twins pitcher Taj Bradley established immediate control, striking out the side in the first inning before inducing a two-run home run by the Twins. The early deficit proved insurmountable as Bradley dominated the Houston lineup, ultimately securing the win with a career-high performance.
The scoring began in the top of the first inning when the Twins capitalized on a long ball. Bell launched a 452-foot home run to center field, driving in Larnach to give Minnesota a 2-0 lead. Houston responded in the bottom of the frame with a single run. Paredes grounded into a double play, allowing Altuve to score while Alvarez was thrown out at second, making the score 2-1.
Clemens Powers Through the Middle Frames
Minnesota extended their advantage significantly in the second inning. Clemens hit a 399-foot home run to right-center field, a three-run blast that also scored Keaschall and Lee. The hit pushed the Twins ahead 5-1 and shifted the momentum firmly in their favor. The Twins continued to apply pressure in the fifth inning, adding two more runs. Larnach singled to center field, bringing Caratini and Keaschall home to extend the lead to 7-1.
Houston managed to score two runs in the sixth inning, but it was not enough to overcome the deficit. Loperfido singled to left, allowing Matthews to score and putting Smith on third. Allen then singled to right, scoring Smith and moving Loperfido to third, making the score 7-3. Despite the late scoring, the Astros could not close the gap.