Randy Arozarena scored the winning run for the Tampa Bay Rays on a throwing error by Minnesota’s Royce Lewis in the 10th inning, securing a 3-2 victory that halted the Twins’ six-game winning streak on Wednesday.
The Rays, known for their success in close games with a league-best 25-11 record in games decided by one or two runs, snapped a tough stretch with just their fourth win in the last 12 games.
“We didn’t hit the ball exceptionally well, but we managed to score when it mattered at the end,” said Rays manager Kevin Cash, highlighting Arozarena’s pivotal stolen base that put him in position to score. “Those late-game plays are crucial in critical moments.”
Jason Adam (4-1) pitched a flawless ninth inning for the win, while Phil Maton closed out the game with a perfect 10th inning for his second save, as closer Pete Fairbanks was unavailable.
Jorge Alcala (1-2) hit Arozarena with a pitch to start the 10th inning. A wild sinker bounced off the backstop and was quickly recovered by catcher Christian Vázquez, who threw out automatic runner Jose Siri at third base.
Despite Lewis having a strong defensive and offensive game, his errant throw on a ground ball by Jonny DeLuca allowed Arozarena to sprint home for the winning run.
“When I released the throw, it just cut. That’s all I can say,” Lewis explained. “I wouldn’t change anything about that play. I set myself and made the best throw I could.”
Lewis finished the game going 3 for 4 with a walk and a go-ahead home run in the fifth inning that damaged part of a video board at Target Field.
Isaac Paredes hit his team-leading 11th home run in the third inning off Twins starter Joe Ryan, who impressed with six strong innings, allowing just one run on six hits and one walk in his bid to earn his first All-Star selection.
