October 12, 1987 at Tiger Stadium
Twins 9, Tigers 5
Twins Win Best of Seven Game Series 4-1
The Twins wrapped up the ALCS and won the American League pennant as they dismantled the Tigers pitchers in a game five blowout. The Twins scored four runs in the second inning and never looked back and while the Tigers closed the game to 4-3, the Twins scored five runs in the final three frames to walk away with the win.
Bert Blyleven wasn’t perfect, but he didn’t have to be. He gave up three runs in six innings and while Juan Berenguer and Jeff Reardon were also tagged for a run a piece, the hitters kept the Twins well above water.
Tom Brunansky had a big day at the plate. He went three for five with a double and a solo homer. Dan Gladden also hit well with two doubles, a single, two RBIs and three runs. Steve Lombardozzi pitched in with two hits and two runs.
The Twins didn’t know it at the time, but they’d be playing the Cardinals in the 1987 World Series. That series would go seven games though, so the Twins had four days off between their pennant win and game one of the World Series.
