Taj Bradley Dominates as Twins Top Tigers 4-2

Rookie pitcher strikes out 10 in 6 1/3 innings to lead Minnesota to victory.

Apr. 8, 2026 at 5:07am

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An abstract, expressionist painting using bold, neon-like brushstrokes in shades of blue, orange, and green to capture the dynamic motion and energy of a professional baseball pitcher in the middle of his delivery.Taj Bradley's dominant performance on the mound propels the Twins to a crucial divisional win over the Tigers.Minneapolis Today

Rookie right-hander Taj Bradley delivered a dominant performance on the mound, striking out 10 batters over 6 1/3 innings to lead the Minnesota Twins to a 4-2 victory over the Detroit Tigers.

Why it matters

The Twins' win keeps them in the thick of the AL Central division race, as they look to make a return to the playoffs after missing out last season. Bradley's strong outing is an encouraging sign for the team's young pitching rotation.

The details

Bradley allowed just two runs on four hits while walking two in his 6 1/3 innings of work. Catcher Ryan Jeffers provided the offensive support, driving in a pair of runs for the Twins. The Tigers scored single runs in the 6th and 9th innings but were unable to mount a full comeback.

  • The game was played on April 8, 2026 in Minneapolis, Minnesota.

The players

Taj Bradley

A 23-year-old right-handed pitcher for the Minnesota Twins, making his 4th start of the season.

Ryan Jeffers

The Twins' starting catcher, who drove in two runs to provide the offensive support for Bradley's strong outing.

Minnesota Twins

The MLB team based in Minneapolis, Minnesota that won this game against the Detroit Tigers.

Detroit Tigers

The MLB team based in Detroit, Michigan that lost this game against the Minnesota Twins.

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What they’re saying

“Taj was just dominant out there today. When he's locating his pitches like that, he's tough to beat.”

— Rocco Baldelli, Twins Manager

What’s next

The Twins and Tigers will play the second game of their 3-game series on April 9th in Minneapolis.

The takeaway

Bradley's strong outing is a positive sign for the Twins' young pitching staff as they look to make a push for the playoffs this season. The team's ability to win close games against divisional opponents will be crucial in a tight AL Central race.