Pat Dean (0-1, 4.50 ERA) and the Minnesota Twins (10-31) meet J.A. Happ (5-1, 3.40 ERA) and the Toronto Blue Jays (21-23) in the third of a four-game series at Target Field. The Twins lost the last game 9-3, extending a five-game losing streak. The game gets underway at 2:10 p.m. ET on Saturday, May. 21 and will air on FSN and RSN.
In his last start, Dean pitched 5.1 innings, giving up two runs and striking out four in a 10-8 loss to the Tigers. Miguel Sano (.235, 18 Rs, 7 HRs, 19 RBIs, 1 SB) continued his strong season yesterday, going 2 for 4 with one run. The Blue Jays were unsuccessful against the Rays 13-2 the last time Happ pitched. He went 2.0 innings, allowing eight runs, striking out two and walking one. Michael Saunders (.317, 21 Rs, 7 HRs, 14 RBIs) has been hitting the ball well for the Blue Jays, going 3 for 5 yesterday with two runs, one home run, and one RBI.
Notes
Minnesota has won 25% (4-12) of its games when leading after seven innings. However, Toronto has won 35% (6-11) of its games when taking a late lead.
The Blue Jays are coming into this game after allowing no walks during their last outing. The Twins have a 0-4 record when opponents don’t give up any walks.
When they are outhit, the Twins are 3-25. The Blue Jays have a 4-16 record when opponents outhit them.
Minnesota ranks in the bottom half of the league when it comes to home runs, hitting 39 this season. Toronto ranks in the top 10 at sixth with 54.
Ranking 19th, Minnesota is in the bottom half of the league in walks, notching 121 this season. Toronto ranks in the top 10 at sixth with 158.
The Twins are 8-19 in games where they hit one or more home runs. The Blue Jays are 18-13 when they hit at least one homer.
