Tigers, Twins Open Series at Target Field

BLOOMINGTON, Minn. (Interstat) — The Detroit Tigers and Minnesota Twins open a three-game series at Target Field on Monday, each looking to gain early traction in the American League Central.

First pitch is scheduled for 6:40 p.m. CDT under cloudy skies with a game-time temperature near 48 degrees.

The Tigers (4-4) arrive after splitting a four-game set with the St. Louis Cardinals, including an 11-6 victory Saturday powered by a trio of three-RBI performances. Detroit has alternated wins and losses over its last six games.

Minnesota (3-6) seeks to halt a skid after dropping two of three to the Tampa Bay Rays, including a 4-1, 10-inning loss Sunday. The Twins have lost four of their last five.

Detroit will send right-hander Joe Ryan (0-1) to the mound. Minnesota counters with right-hander Simeon Woods Richardson, who has been a bright spot despite an 0-2 record. Woods Richardson delivered a quality start in his last outing, allowing one earned run over 6 2/3 innings in a loss to Tampa Bay.

A player to watch for Detroit is utilityman Zach McKinstry. He is coming off a strong performance Saturday, going 2 for 4 with a home run and three RBIs against the Cardinals.

According to Interstat’s game simulator, the projected final score is Tigers 5, Twins 4. Despite the projection, Minnesota has been installed as a pregame favorite with a spread of -1.5. The over/under is set at 7.5 runs.

This series begins a 10-game homestand for the Twins. The Tigers continue a six-game road trip before returning to Detroit on Friday to host the Miami Marlins.