Miami (58-100) at Minnesota (82-76)
- When: Sep 26 2024, 7:40 PM
- Where: Target Field, Minneapolis
- Where to watch: BSFL
Game Odds, Spread, Moneyline & Total
Miami Marlins @ Minnesota Twins
Moneyline
Miami Marlins +205
Minnesota Twins -250
Miami Marlins @ Minnesota Twins
Runline
Miami Marlins 1.5 (-105)
Minnesota Twins -1.5 (-115)
Miami Marlins @ Minnesota Twins
Total
Over 8.5 (-120)
Under 8.5 (EVEN)
- Odds source: Bovada Sportsbook
- Get real-time live scores & latest betting odds here!
Probable Pitchers:
Miami: Valente Bellozo (3-4, 3.82)
Minnesota: David Festa (2-6, 4.80)
Team Stats
| Marlins | Twins | |
| 58-100 | Record | 82-76 |
| 28-49 | Away & Home | 39-42 |
| 3-7 | Last 10 | 4-6 |
| L1 | Streak | W1 |
Game Preview
The Minnesota Twins recognize that every game left on their schedule is essentially a must-win if they hope to secure a playoff spot.
Their latest critical matchup takes place Thursday night as they host the Miami Marlins in the deciding game of a three-game series in Minneapolis.
Coming off an 8-3 victory over Miami (58-100) on Wednesday, the Twins (82-76) are two games behind the Kansas City Royals and Detroit Tigers in the race for an American League wild-card playoff berth, with just four games remaining.
Twins manager Rocco Baldelli expressed optimism about his team’s resilience in Wednesday’s win, where they overcame an early 3-0 deficit by scoring eight unanswered runs.
"There’s a toughness in our players," Baldelli said. "Staying focused after falling behind early is a challenge, but we handled it well."
Scheduled to pitch on Thursday for his 13th start of the season is Twins rookie right-hander David Festa (2-6, 4.80 ERA). He’s seeking his first win since August 5 against the Chicago Cubs.
In his last appearance, Festa recorded a no-decision on Friday, allowing one run on four hits over five innings against the Boston Red Sox. He struck out six and walked three, with the Twins eventually winning 4-2 in 12 innings.
This will mark Festa’s first career start against the Marlins.
On the other side, the Marlins will send right-hander Valente Bellozo (3-4, 3.82 ERA) to the mound, also making his 13th start this season.
Bellozo aims for consecutive victories after picking up a 4-3 win against the Atlanta Braves in his last outing, during which he allowed three runs on seven hits over 5 1/3 innings.
This will be Bellozo’s first encounter with the Twins in his career; he holds an 0-1 record with a 4.50 ERA in two interleague starts.
Baldelli mentioned that the Twins might lean more on top relievers Griffin Jax and Jhoan Duran in the series finale. Both pitched in Wednesday’s game, but Carlos Santana’s bases-clearing single in the seventh extended their lead and allowed Baldelli to conserve his key bullpen arms.
"That hit was crucial," Baldelli noted. "It helped us avoid overextending our top relievers, which puts us in a better position for tomorrow."
Meanwhile, Marlins reliever Lake Bachar is eager for another chance to pitch. The 29-year-old threw 1 1/3 scoreless innings in the series opener and has recorded nine strikeouts in 6 2/3 innings.
"This is a special moment for me," Bachar said. "After nine years, I’ve always believed I could compete at this level, and I’m grateful for the trust in those situations. It’s been a whirlwind."
Bachar added, "I don’t think the reality of this journey will hit me until the offseason, but I truly appreciate every opportunity."
MLB Parlay Picks & Predictions
Final Score: Miami 4-3
The Pick: Miami +205 & Under 8½ (+100)
A $100 Parlay Bet will return $610
- MLB Odds source: Bovada Sportsbook
