Minnesota Twins vs. Toronto Blue Jays: Preview, Predictions and Picks for May 12, 2024

Published on:
May 12, 2024 6:14 AM
The Minnesota Twins, riding a 23-16 overall record and 12-8 road record, look to take the series lead as they face off against the Toronto Blue Jays, who are 18-21 overall and 9-8 at home, on Sunday, May 12th at 1:37 PM at Rogers Centre. The series is currently tied 1-1, setting the stage for a crucial matchup. Expect a thrilling contest as these American League foes clash in Toronto.
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Minnesota Twins
Toronto Blue Jays

Twins vs Blue Jays starting pitchers

In the upcoming clash between the Minnesota Twins and the Toronto Blue Jays, Bailey Ober is set to take the mound for the Twins, carrying a respectable ERA of 4.42 across 36 full innings with a commendable WHIP of 1.01 this season. Ober's potency with 35 strikeouts indicates a solid ability to dispatch opposing hitters, a trait that the Twins will heavily rely on in this match-up. On the other side, Alek Manoah will be pitching for the Blue Jays. Despite a troubling start to the season, highlighted by a high ERA of 13.50 and a WHIP of 2.50 over just 4 innings with only 6 strikeouts, Manoah's potential cannot be underestimated. The Blue Jays will be hopeful for a turnaround performance from Manoah, making this pitching duel a critical aspect of the game strategy for both teams.

Twins vs Blue Jays game preview

The Minnesota Twins enter the upcoming game with some solid mid-tier offensive statistics among other teams this season, flaunting a particularly impressive stance with their tied 9th position in both team runs scored and runs batted in. With a home runs tally tied for 8th, their ability to drive the ball for power plays cannot be underestimated. Moreover, Ryan Jeffers stands out as a formidable threat with a batting average of .292, leading the team in home runs (9) and RBIs (30), making him a pivotal player in the Twins' lineup. However, their overall team batting average is only 15th at .242 and they rank 21st in leaving runners on base, indicating potential areas of concern in converting opportunities. Their pitching responsibility rests on Bailey Ober, whose performance will be crucial in setting the tone and limiting the Blue Jays' chances to capitalize on scoring opportunities.

On the other hand, the Toronto Blue Jays have been struggling more significantly in their offensive production, positioning themselves towards the lower end of the league in several key stats. They are 28th in both strikeouts and runs scored, which highlights a critical issue in terms of making contact and pushing runs across the plate. The team has a batting average of only .234, ranking them 21st in the majors, and their home run count is also subdued, listed at tied-23rd for home runs hit. Despite these challenges, Vladimir Guerrero Jr. remains a beacon of consistency and a threat at the plate, leading the team with a .272 batting average and 19 RBIs. Alek Manoah, as their starting pitcher for the game, could be a decisive factor; his ability to suppress the Twins' offense could give Toronto the leverage it needs. The Blue Jays will need to sharpen their play both offensively and defensively to overcome their rankings and secure a win.

Toronto Blue Jays injuries

  • Orelvis Martinez (SS): Day-To-Day
  • Joey Votto (1B): Day-To-Day
  • T.J. Brock (2B): Day-To-Day
  • Cade Doughty (2B): Day-To-Day
  • Kevin Kiermaier (CF): Day-To-Day

Minnesota Twins injuries

  • Yohander Martinez (SS): Day-To-Day
  • Cody Laweryson (RP): Day-To-Day
  • Byron Buxton (CF): 10-Day-IL
  • Jair Camargo (C): Day-To-Day
  • Walker Jenkins (CF): Day-To-Day

Twins vs Blue Jays predictions

Let's get into it. The Twins are rolling into Rogers Centre, and I've got my eye on a few guys who are gonna make some noise. I'm thinking Willie Castro is gonna have a big game, something like 2-4 with a double and a ribbie. Carlos Correa's gonna get on base a couple of times, maybe even knocks one out of the park. And Ryan Jeffers, the catcher, is due for a big game - I'm thinking 3-4 with a homer. If these guys come through, the Twins' offense is gonna be cooking.

On the other side, the Jays have some studs of their own. Bo Bichette's gonna be a problem - I think he gets three hits and scores a couple of runs. Vladimir Guerrero Jr. is gonna take one deep, and Danny Jansen's gonna have a sneaky-good game, maybe even drives in a couple. But let's be real, the Jays' offense has been inconsistent all year. If they can't get it going early, it could be a long night.

So, who takes it? I'm gonna ride with the Twins' momentum and say they take it 7-5. I think Bailey Ober outduels Alek Manoah, and the Twins' bullpen shuts the door. The Jays will make it interesting, but in the end, the Twins' bats will be too much. Take the Twins and the over - it's gonna be a wild one in Toronto.

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