TAMPA, Fla. (AP) — The Minnesota Twins showcased their offensive firepower Thursday, defeating the New York Yankees 8-4 in a spring training matchup at George M. Steinbrenner Field. Minnesota jumped ahead early and never looked back, delivering a statement performance against one of the American League’s top teams.
Early Offensive Surge
The Twins wasted no time asserting their dominance, erupting for five runs in the second inning. Mickey Gasper started the rally with an RBI single, followed by a sacrifice fly from Mike Ford. Matt Wallner then delivered the decisive blow, launching a three-run homer off Yankees ace Gerrit Cole. The early offensive explosion put the Twins in firm control with a 5-0 lead.
Cole’s Struggles on the Mound
Gerrit Cole endured a rough outing, surrendering six runs on five hits over just 2 2/3 innings. The Yankees’ ace struggled with his command despite registering solid fastball velocity. His issues allowed the Twins to capitalize on scoring opportunities and build an early lead that proved insurmountable.
Twins Keep Applying Pressure
Minnesota continued to pile on runs in the following innings. Brooks Lee homered off Cole in the third, extending the lead to 6-0. In the fourth, Mike Ford added a solo shot, further padding the Twins’ advantage. By the fifth inning, Gasper’s second RBI of the night pushed the score to 8-0, leaving the Yankees searching for answers.
Yankees’ Late Push Falls Short
New York showed signs of life in the latter innings but never managed to fully recover. The Yankees scored in the sixth, seventh, and ninth, with J.C. Escarra providing a two-run single and a solo home run. Despite their late efforts, the deficit was too large to overcome.
Pitching Highlights
Joe Ryan set the tone for the Twins on the mound, pitching two scoreless innings while striking out four. The bullpen maintained the lead, despite allowing some runs in the later innings. Minnesota’s pitchers executed with precision, limiting the Yankees’ big bats and controlling the tempo of the game.
Injury Concerns for Yankees
The Yankees’ pitching depth took a hit as Luis Gil’s second MRI confirmed a high-grade lat strain, sidelining him for at least three months. The injury raises concerns for New York, which is already dealing with rotation questions ahead of the regular season.
Looking Ahead
Both teams continue their spring training schedules with roster decisions and strategy refinements in focus. The Twins’ offensive display signals promise for their lineup, while the Yankees must address their pitching inconsistencies and injury setbacks. With Opening Day fast approaching, both clubs will look to fine-tune their performances in preparation for a competitive season.
Born in Harrisburg, Pa., Houghton was raised in northern Pennsylvania. His father was a sports editor and reporter, so he was immersed in sports as a child. Houghton graduated from Pace University in 2000 with a journalism and digital major and a studio art minor.
