Díaz hits a 2-run homer to complete an 8-run 4th inning and the Rays beat the Twins 9-4

ST. PETERSBURG, FL – In a dominant display, the Tampa Bay Rays took down the Minnesota Twins 9-4 on Wednesday night, highlighted by an explosive eight-run fourth inning. Yandy Díaz’s two-run homer was the centerpiece of the rally, which saw the Rays score off Louie Varland (0-6), who was summoned from Triple-A St. Paul to follow opener Ronny Henríquez. The Rays capitalized on Varland’s struggles, also benefiting from a two-run single by Taylor Walls, an RBI single from José Caballero, and some sloppy play from the Twins, including an errant pickoff throw.

Walls continued his strong performance with a sacrifice fly in the eighth inning, giving him three RBIs for the game. The Rays are now six games back of Kansas City for the final AL wild card spot.

The Twins managed a four-run seventh inning, thanks to Carlos Santana’s 20th home run and a solo shot from Kyle Farmer. Despite this effort, the Twins have struggled recently, going 5-11 since August 18, but still hold the second AL wild card position.

Twins manager Rocco Baldelli, who previously coached under Rays manager Kevin Cash, used an opener strategy for the second time this season against his former team. Henríquez had a scoreless inning before Varland’s rough outing.

In the field, Royce Lewis made his first career start at second base as the Twins seek to add flexibility to their infield.

Looking ahead, Tampa Bay’s Bradley (6-9, 4.35 ERA) will face off against Minnesota’s Pablo López (13-8, 4.05 ERA). Bradley, who had a stellar eight-game stretch earlier in the season, is currently struggling with a 9.85 ERA over his last six outings.