After getting one hit the day before, the Twins decided to make up for that lack of hitting in a major way, as the bats just kept going in a 13-1 win over the White Sox. Just like Gavin Floyd had his no hit bid broken up in the 9th yesterday, so did Livan Hernandez’s shutout attempt end in the 9th. It was a stellar pitching performance to go along with the offensive outpouring.
The offensive spotlight belonged to Carlos Gomez as he made history by hitting for the cycle. He began that with a solo shot to start off the game, and completed the cycle with a single in the 9th, tallying 3 RBIs in the process. Shortstop Nick Punto also had a great night as his two hits, a double and a triple, drove in 5 runs total. Catcher Mike Redmond, subbing for Joe Mauer, had 2 hits and knocked in 3 runs. Craig Monroe, Justin Morneau and Michael Cuddyer had 2 hits each.
Hernandez pitched a gem, allowing only 5 hits entering the 9th with the shutout intact. However, with one out, Jermaine Dye homered to erase that possibility. The wheels came off a bit for Hernandez as he then loaded the bases, but he was able to work out of the jam to get the complete game and improve his record to 5-1.
The Twins wanted to bounce back after almost being held hitless yesterday and they accomplished that in a big way tonight. Hernandez answered Floyd’s outing yesterday with one that was far better. Even when they had a 7-0 lead going into the top of the 9th, they didn’t stop there, tacking on 6 more to firmly seal the deal. The offensive outburst is that much more surprising when one considers that Mauer, their most consistent hitter this season, was not in the lineup. The Twins are proving they can get it done with anyone on the squad.
