A first-inning run couldn’t hold up for the Oakland A’s, as the Minnesota Twins scored two runs in the eighth inning of their home opener, en route to a 2-1 victory on Friday afternoon.
A’s Vs. Twins: Carl Pavano Outlasts Brett Anderson In Pitchers’ Duel
The Twins finally got to Oakland starter Brett Anderson in the eighth after being stymied for most of the day. With two outs and Danny Valencia on first base, Jason Kubel, Denard Span, and Joe Mauer rapped out three straight singles for the only two runs Anderson gave up. Despite throwing eight strong innings, Anderson took the loss.
While Anderson was spinning his gem, Twins starter Carl Pavano was matching him inning for scoreless inning. A walk to Daric Barton, a subsequent wild pitch, and a throwing error set up a sacrifice fly from David DeJesus to give the A’s an early lead. That was all that Oakland would get, though, as Pavano allowed only four more base runners in his eight innings of work. Closer Joe Nathan came on in the ninth to save the game.
The series continues Saturday night, with Gio Gonzalez throwing for the Athletics, and Nick Blackburn going for the Twins.
For more on the A's and Twins, please check out team blogs Athletics Nation and Twinkie Town.
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