Edouard Julien hits 3-run homer, Twins beat Rays 4-3 after 13-minute delay

ST. PETERSBURG, FL – Edouard Julien’s three-run homer was a pivotal moment as the Minnesota Twins edged out the Tampa Bay Rays 4-3 on Thursday. The game featured a significant 13-minute delay due to a video review in the seventh inning. The interruption stemmed from a play where Tampa Bay’s Yandy Díaz hit a drive that Matt Wallner caught on the bounce. Wallner’s momentum carried him into a camera well, leading to a review that resulted in Díaz being placed on second base.

Despite the interruption, the Twins managed to hold on to their lead. Pablo López, who had a solid outing with three runs allowed over seven innings, was replaced by reliever Griffin Jax, who closed out the inning. Jhoan Durán secured the win with a perfect ninth inning, earning his 22nd save of the season.

Minnesota’s victory helped them move a half-game ahead of Kansas City in the American League wild card standings. Julien’s home run in the second inning and Wallner’s in the third provided crucial runs for the Twins. On the other hand, Taj Bradley, despite striking out 10 batters, struggled with the long ball and fell to 0-6 in his last seven starts.

In roster moves, the Rays recalled Austin Shenton and selected Mason Montgomery for his MLB debut, while Tyler Alexander was optioned and Alex Jackson was designated for assignment.

Looking ahead, the Twins will send Zerby Matthews to the mound for his fifth career start against Kansas City, while the Rays will have Shane Baz pitching at Baltimore, aiming for his third consecutive win.

(Photo courtesy of Twins/MLB)