Twins Defeat Tigers 4-2 in Rough Outing for Skubal

Taj Bradley shines with 10 strikeouts as Minnesota takes series opener

Apr. 8, 2026 at 2:57pm

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The Minnesota Twins defeated the Detroit Tigers 4-2 on Tuesday night, with Taj Bradley tossing 6 1/3 innings with 10 strikeouts and only giving up one run to earn the win. The Twins roughed up Tigers starter Tarik Skubal, scoring four runs over his 4 2/3 innings of work. Ryan Jeffers paced the Twins' offense with two RBIs, while Luke Keaschall and Josh Bell each added an RBI.

Why it matters

The win improves the Twins' record to 5-6 on the season as they look to build momentum in the AL Central division race. For the Tigers, the loss continues their early-season struggles as they try to bounce back and compete in a tough division.

The details

Taj Bradley was dominant on the mound for the Twins, striking out 10 batters and only allowing one run over 6 1/3 innings. The Twins' offense was able to get to Tigers starter Tarik Skubal, scoring four runs during his 4 2/3 innings of work. Ryan Jeffers led the way with two RBIs, while Luke Keaschall and Josh Bell each added an RBI.

  • The game was played on Tuesday, April 8, 2026.
  • First pitch was scheduled for 6:40 p.m. local time.

The players

Taj Bradley

The Twins' starting pitcher who earned the win, striking out 10 batters over 6 1/3 innings.

Tarik Skubal

The Tigers' starting pitcher who struggled, giving up four runs over 4 2/3 innings.

Ryan Jeffers

The Twins' catcher who led the offense with two RBIs.

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What they’re saying

“Taj was really dialed in tonight and kept us in the game. The offense did a great job of capitalizing on their opportunities against Skubal.”

— Rocco Baldelli, Twins Manager

What’s next

The Twins and Tigers will continue their series on Wednesday night, with first pitch scheduled for 6:40 p.m. Bailey Ober will start for Minnesota, while Framber Valdez takes the mound for Detroit.

The takeaway

The Twins' win over the Tigers showcases their ability to bounce back from an early-season slump and get strong pitching performances to support their offense. As the AL Central race heats up, this victory could provide Minnesota with the momentum they need to climb the standings.