Twins at Rays Preview

TAMPA, Fla. (Interstat) — The Tampa Bay Rays aim to complete a four-game sweep of the Minnesota Twins on Sunday afternoon at George Steinbrenner Field, where the forecast calls for 84-degree temperatures and cloudy skies.

The Rays (15-11) have dominated the series, winning the first two games by identical 6-1 and 6-2 scores. Tampa Bay has beaten Minnesota six consecutive times dating to last season, including three straight here after taking two of three at Target Field earlier this month.

The Twins (12-15) enter the finale having lost four of their last five. During that stretch, Minnesota has scored two or fewer runs three times.

Pitching matchup

Minnesota’s probable starter had yet to be finalized as of Saturday, with the Twins deciding between right-handers Simeon Woods Richardson (0-3, 5.63 ERA) and Jesse Scholtens (1-1, 4.50). Tampa Bay will counter left-hander Shane McClanahan, who was sharp in Saturday’s series opener, allowing three hits over five scoreless innings with seven strikeouts in a 6-1 victory.

McClanahan (3-2, 3.15) has been especially effective at home, where he has posted a 1.80 ERA across two starts. Over his last three outings, the lefty has surrendered just four earned runs in 14 1/3 innings while striking out 16.

Players to watch

Bailey Ober remains a key arm for Minnesota despite Saturday’s loss. Over his past six outings, the right-hander has posted a 2.70 ERA with 27 strikeouts in 32 innings, though he took the loss Saturday after allowing two earned runs in six innings. Ober has struck out 10 or more batters in two of his last four starts.

For the Rays, McClanahan has been the stopper Tampa Bay has needed. After a brief rough patch, he has allowed one earned run over his last 10 innings while fanning 12.

Recent history

The Rays have outscored the Twins 23-7 over the last four meetings. Tampa Bay’s offense has been balanced, with contributions up and down the lineup. Minnesota’s bullpen has been taxed, throwing nine innings over the first two games of this series.

Betting line

Tampa Bay opened as a -1.5 favorite, with the over/under set at 8.5 runs. The game simulator projects a 6-3 Rays victory.

Up next

Following Sunday’s game, the Twins travel home to open a six-game homestand against Seattle on Monday. The Rays head to Cleveland for a three-game series beginning Monday.