Scott Baker will look to win his third straight decision in the final game of the series while taking on the Indians' Mitch Talbot who is coming off of a complete game effort of his own.
Talbot is not a strikeout pitcher and will need to attack the strike zone early against a patient Twins lineup. Jim Thome will likely get the start in the DH spot while Jason Kubel will take over left field for the final game of the current homestand. No Twins hitters have faced Talbot at the major league level.
The Indians will get their first look of the year at Scott Baker who has gotten a bit roughed up by the Indians in the past. Travis Hafner has hit .387/.441/.935 against Baker in 31 at bats, including 4 HRs and 5 2Bs. Mark Grudzielanek has also had success against baker, hitting at a .471/.471/.647 clip against the righty in 17 ABs. Baker will look to draw upon Kevin Slowey and Francisco Liriano's success against the Indian line-up as each were able to go 8 innings. The Twins pitching staff has only allowed 1 ER to the Indians throughout the first two games in 18 innings pitched.
The Twins have won 5 straight series to enter the season, but are looking to make their first sweep. They begin a 9 game road trip after the game this afternoon. The weather looks beautiful outside and it should be another great day of outdoor baseball in Minneapolis.
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