Times staff
Thursday, April 14, 2011
. UP NEXT
vs. Twins
Tonight-Sunday
What's new: Despite the return of former MVP Justin Morneau, who missed half of last season with a concussion, the two-time defending AL Central champion Twins have the fewest runs in the majors with 33 and are in last place at 4-7. They've hit only three home runs, none by Morneau, Joe Mauer, Delmon Young or Michael Cuddyer. Atypically, their pitchers are having trouble throwing strikes: A year after walking an AL-best 2.37 per nine innings, Twins pitchers are averaging 3.71, 13th in the league.
Key stat: A first-inning run Wednesday marked the first time all season Minnesota has scored in the first two innings.
Connections: Young is a former Ray, and Twins CF Denard Span is a Tampa Catholic product.
Series history: The Rays won five of eight last season and split four games at home. All-time, the Twins lead 56-44; it's 24-24 at the Trop.