Gibson Cruises, Vargas, Mauer Push Twins Past Astros

In an afternoon matinée, the Minnesota Twins faced off with the Houston Astros in the decisive third game rubber match of the series. With the Twins having taken game one before dropping game two last night, they turned to Kyle Gibson to lead them to victory. Gibson responded in a big way.

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Coming off a tough outing against the Oakland Athletics, Gibson rebounded to the tune of 7.2 innings pitched while striking out four, walking only two, and giving up only one run.

Minnesota broke open the scoring in the sixth inning when Joe Mauer, fresh off his return from the disabled list, homered to right center. A pulled home run was a nice sight for Twins fans and it gave Minnesota a 1-0 lead. In three games since his return from the disabled list, Mauer is batting .417 and has 1 home run, and two RBI (both eventual game winning).

The Twins would strike again in the top of the 8th inning. After a Danny Santana base hit was followed up by a Brian Dozier double, the Astros decided to walk Mauer to load the bases. Switch hitting Kennys Vargas stepped up an smacked a single to center scoring Santana and Dozier.

Minnesota would head into the bottom of the 8th inning with Gibson still on the mound, and a 3-0 lead. Gibson surrendered his first and only run to none other than Chris Carter (who homered twice last night), when a single drove in Jose Altuve from second base.

Glen Perkins would come in for the 9th inning to slam the door on the Astros.

The Twins have a travel day tomorrow as they head back to Target Field to prepare for the AL Central leading Kansas City Royals. Friday’s matchup pits Ricky Nolasco against the Royals Danny Duffy. It will be Nolasco’s first start since coming off the DL.

First pitch is scheduled for 7:10pm central time.

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