The Twins suffered their third straight series loss to open the season, falling 4-1 to the Rays in 10 innings. Simeon Woods Richardson’s strong start was undone by a disappointing finish for the team. The Twins have now been held to one run in four of their nine games.
Woods Richardson’s Impressive Performance
Simeon Woods Richardson delivered a solid performance, pitching 6 2/3 innings and allowing just one run. This was the longest outing by a Minnesota starter this year. Dating back to last June, Woods Richardson has a 2.90 ERA over his last 16 starts.
Manager Derek Shelton highlighted Woods Richardson’s ability to pitch effectively without relying on high velocity or a high number of strikeouts. Shelton said Woods Richardson has the ability to pitch and stay off the barrel. Woods Richardson has adjusted his arsenal, phasing out his curveball and using a splitter more often.
Woods Richardson embraces the challenge of problem-solving on the mound. He acknowledged he doesn’t have 100 [miles per hour] and needs to be creative.
Offensive Woes Continue for Minnesota
The Twins’ offence has displayed power and a good approach early in the season, but is failing to get base hits. Minnesota is tied for eighth in the Majors in walks (40), tied for 13th in home runs (nine) and tied for 15th in runs (38). The team is hitting .192 as a team and .202 with runners on base.
Kody Clemens believes players may be trying too hard for a good start, rather than trusting themselves. He suggested that players are maybe trying to do too much. The Twins have struggled to string together base hits to keep the line moving.
Potential Line-up Changes on the Horizon
The Twins face Casey Mize, Tarik Skubal and Framber Valdez in their next three games. It’s probably too early to start looking at personnel adjustments. However, internal discussions may soon begin about players like Kaelen Culpepper and Alan Roden, who are performing well at Triple-A St. Paul.
Zak Kent was optioned.