The Seattle Mariners earned an exciting 5-3 victory over the Minnesota Twins on Wednesday in Minneapolis, thanks to a strong performance from young infielder Cole Young.
Young played a major role in the win by driving in three runs during the game. His biggest moment came in the ninth inning when he delivered a clutch two-run single that gave Seattle the lead. His hit slipped just past pitcher Eric Orze and got by second baseman Luke Keaschall, allowing two important runs to score.
The Mariners scored three runs in the ninth inning as Minnesota’s bullpen struggled badly. Orze had difficulty controlling the inning, allowing five Seattle players to reach base.
Young had already helped Seattle earlier by hitting a game-tying double in the seventh inning. Over his last 13 games, he has been one of Seattle’s hottest hitters, batting .383 with 10 RBIs.
Seattle closer Andrés Muñoz then sealed the win with a perfect ninth inning, earning his sixth save of the season.
For Minnesota, Victor Caratini briefly gave the Twins a 3-2 lead with a pinch-hit single in the eighth inning, but the advantage did not last.
Twins starter Taj Bradley pitched very well, giving up only four hits and two walks while striking out seven batters over seven innings. Despite his strong outing, Minnesota’s bullpen could not hold the lead.
The Twins also struggled offensively in key moments, going just 3 for 22 with runners in scoring position, which hurt their chances to secure the win.
With this victory, the Mariners have now won eight of their last 11 games and continue to build momentum.
Next, Seattle will return home to face the Kansas City Royals in a three-game series starting Friday. Meanwhile, Minnesota will host the Toronto Blue Jays for a four-game series beginning Thursday.