Minnesota Twins Sweep Orioles, Tapani Pitches Complete Game

Strategic Insights -

The Minnesota Twins continued their momentum, completing a three-game sweep of the Baltimore Orioles with a 5-2 victory. Kevin Tapani pitched a five-hitter, striking out four and walking one, as the Twins moved to 9-3 in May and within one victory of .500. The Orioles, who came to Minnesota with a 21-10 record, were swept for the first time this season. Tapani, who had a 7.78 earned run average at the start of the game, credited his improved location and notes that he has a history of pitching well from June to October.

Key Takeaways:

  • The Twins have won seven of their last eight games, improving to 9-3 in May after a 9-16 April.
  • Kevin Tapani pitched a complete game, his first of the season, and improved to 3-2 overall.
  • Tapani has a 3.52 earned run average in games from June to October, but was just 11-12 with a 4.85 earned run average in April-May games.
  • The Orioles were swept for the first time this season, and were outscored 17-8 in the series.
  • The Twins' starters, including Pat Mahomes and Scott Erickson, allowed just seven earned runs in 23 and two-thirds innings, with a 2.66 earned run average.

Statistics:

  • The Twins are 9-3 in May, after a 9-16 April.
  • The Orioles were 21-10 before the sweep, but have now lost three straight series.
  • Kevin Tapani has a 3.52 earned run average in games from June to October.
  • The Twins have won seven of their last eight games.
  • The Orioles have been swept for the first time this season.

Sources:

  • USA Today (no date, exact citation unknown).