One Ryan, Lights Out. Another to the Moon!

Although the Minnesota Twins have been in the news for maybe not the best reasons recently, they finally might have gotten something going to start this week off with a winning record. The Minnesota Twins were able to win their series against the Houston Astros after splitting the first two games on Monday and Tuesday. They defeated the Astros 4-1 after impressive outings from Joe Ryan, Yoendrys Gomez, and yes Ryan Kreidler.

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JOE RYAN The winning pitcher and perhaps the Twins best active pitcher, Joe Ryan really showcased all that he is capable of in today's appearance. He threw 6 innings, only gave up one run, and most importantly struck out 9 batters. It seemed like Ryan was determined to have one of his best performances and he certainly did, leading the Twins to a much needed win. Despite the Twins level of competitiveness, if Ryan continues to have these seller games, it could either lead to the Twins winning some close, unexpected games or also in getting a huge haul for him come trade season. Right now, all that matters is that Joe Ryan is playing some of the best baseball of his career and the Twins are winning games while also building up trade value, if that is needed later this year.

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Yoendrys Gomez Since the Twins bullpen has been as reliable as a toddler, it is always a pleasant surprise when a certain reliever has an amazing day. That was the case today for Yoendrys Gomez. Gomez came out of the bullpen, after those six impressive innings from Ryan, trying to defend the 3 run lead the Twins had built up earlier in the game. To say Gomez played good or even great would be a total understatement. He posted two scoreless innings striking out 5 of the 7 batters he faced. His velocity was present and perhaps more importantly his control was on point. I was extremely surprised but yet happy, that this 26 year old pitcher, who I had never really heard of, played this well, against a very skilled Astros team.

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Ryan Kreidler Lastly, the Twins of course needed to score in order to win this game, and if I am being honest, this was not the most productive day for the Twins offense. That is until Ryan Kreidler stepped up the plate in the 4th inning, with two men on, and launched the baseball "to the moon." It was a gigantic home run that broke the 1-1 tie, quickly giving the home team a 4-1 lead. Kreidler, who has not been known for his power, has been playing shockingly well this season in response to being the replacements for injuries and demotions. Ryan, provides a young veteran mind and likeable mind that is definitely missing within the Twins clubhouse. Coming into this season, he had played in 89 in which he only had 2 home runs. Now with just 10 games as a member of the Twins, he has 3 of them including today's shot to left field. I hope we can continue this success from such an amazing guy, who has never gotten a real chance in the big leagues.

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With this game now in the books, the Twins now have completed their lengthy 9 game home stand, going 5-4 in that time. They now have a much needed day off on Thursday, before kicking off their 10 game road trip that will include visits to Boston, Chicago (White Sox), and Pittsburgh. Hopefully they can continue to win these close games, to try to step closer to a playoff spot. Obviously there are still many months to go but as we like the say, don't let the Twins get hot!