Kyle Gibson pitched six important innings for the Twins in his best outing of the season. The Minnesota Twins defeated the Seattle Mariners on Thursday night by a score of 2-1. The Twins offense was lead by Jason Castro who extended his hitting streak to 10 straight games after a 400-foot home run.
“We were encouraged that some of the work he had done over the winter would bring his offense back. He’s had some rough patches, but generally he has had good at bats,” Paul Molitor told the Star Tribune.
The fourth inning proved to be the most important inning for the Twins. Castro knew that he hit a home run the moment he swung at the slider. After Castro tied the game at one, Mauer continued his solid hitting with a base hit to score Adrianza after Robinson Cano made an error.
“I’ve been feeling good. I’ve been hitting some balls right at guys. I think just the goal that I’m trying to stay with is just not trying to do too much and fall into that trap. A hit a day- I’ll take it,” Jason Castro told the Pioneer Press.
Since being called up from Rochester, Gibson has helped the Twins win with a 3-0 record and 4.50 ERA.
“I think mindset’s had a lot to do with it. I’m not putting too much pressure on myself each pitch, each at bat. You’ve got to be able to let yourself focus and let yourself execute,” Kyle Gibson told the Pioneer Press.
Mike Zunino almost provided an important RBI for the Mariners, but Taylor Rogers made a spectacular play to catch the ball and throw to second base for the double play to get out of the 8th inning. Brandon Kintzler got the much needed save for the Twins after blowing a one run lead the day before.
“I think you’re always happy to get your closer back out there if you can after a little bit of a hiccup. Our bullpen did a really nice job,” Paul Molitor told the Pioneer Press.
The Twins continue the road trip as they travel to San Francisco for a three-game series against the Giants.
-Scott Jordahl
[Pioneer Press, Star Tribune.]
