This is an 8* play on MINNESOTA

Once upon a time, the Twins had an 11.5 game lead over the Indians in the AL Central. That lead was still at 7.5 games coming out of the All Star break. But it's all basically gone now and for a brief time, they even fell behind the Indians by a half game. Despite losing yesterday, they're back up by a half game as Cleveland has lost two in a row. From the Minnesota perspective, they are desperately hoping the Indians plataeu. The Twins have more games remaining against the other three teams in the division (all of whom are very bad) and this weekend they're in Arlington while Cleveland is in New York. Minnesota must take advantage. With an offense that averages 6.0 runs/game on the road, scoring should not be an issue for the Twins in this series. Texas gives up 5.5 runs/game at home and for tonight they are going with Payano, who has a 2.13 WHIP in three starts. If Smeltzer can be like he was vs. Milwaukee and Kansas City (combined 12 scoreless innings), then the road team wins big here. We think they will. Play on MINNESOTA

AAA