Twins Overcome Late Tigers Rally for 8-6 Win

Minnesota's big first inning proves enough to hold off Detroit's comeback attempt.

Apr. 9, 2026 at 8:46am

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An abstract, energetic painting featuring bold strokes of neon colors representing the action and excitement of a high-scoring baseball game between the Minnesota Twins and Detroit Tigers.The Twins' offensive outburst in the 1st inning proved too much for the Tigers to overcome, despite Detroit's late rally.Minneapolis Today

The Minnesota Twins jumped out to a 6-run lead in the first inning and then held off a late rally by the Detroit Tigers to win 8-6 on Wednesday night at Target Field in Minneapolis.

Why it matters

The Twins' victory keeps them in the hunt for a playoff spot in the American League, while the Tigers' loss continues their struggles to climb back into contention in the AL Central division.

The details

Twins shortstop Royce Lewis went 2-for-3 at the plate with two RBIs to lead Minnesota's offensive outburst in the first inning. The Twins scored six runs in the opening frame, chasing Tigers starter Matt Manning from the game early. Detroit mounted a comeback attempt, scoring four runs in the eighth inning, but the Twins' bullpen was able to close out the game and preserve the victory.

  • The game was played on Wednesday, April 9, 2026 in Minneapolis.
  • The Twins scored 6 runs in the 1st inning.

The players

Royce Lewis

The Minnesota Twins shortstop, who went 2-for-3 with two RBIs in the game.

Matt Manning

The Detroit Tigers starting pitcher, who was chased from the game in the 1st inning after giving up 6 runs.

Minnesota Twins

The MLB team that defeated the Detroit Tigers 8-6 on Wednesday night.

Detroit Tigers

The MLB team that mounted a late comeback attempt but ultimately fell short against the Minnesota Twins.

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What they’re saying

“We knew the Tigers would make a push, but our guys did a great job of holding them off in the end.”

— Rocco Baldelli, Minnesota Twins Manager

What’s next

The Twins and Tigers will play the rubber match of their three-game series on Thursday afternoon in Minneapolis.

The takeaway

Despite the Tigers' late rally, the Twins were able to hang on for the victory thanks to their big first inning and solid bullpen work, keeping them in the hunt for a playoff spot in the American League.