The Minnesota Twins will look to keep a couple of impressive streaks going on Friday night at U.S. Cellular Field, as they take on the Chicago White Sox in the second game of a four-game set.
The Twins have won eight consecutive games over their division rivals from the Windy City, which is impressive by itself. But Minnesota has also won six consecutive games against the pitcher that they'll face on Friday night, White Sox right-hander Gavin Floyd (6-8, 4.17 ERA). Floyd is just 4-9 lifetime against the Twins, and in the last six games that he has appeared in against the Twins, Minnesota is hitting an incredible .364 against him.
As if Floyd didn't have enough working against him, the White Sox have lost each of his last five starts, including his last outing against the Chicago Cubs on Sunday. In that game, Floyd allowed three runs on seven hits in seven innings pitched as the White Sox fell to their cross-town rivals, 3-1.
The Twins will give the ball to right-hander Nick Blackburn (6-6, 4.02 ERA). Blackburn got roughed up in his last start on Sunday, as he lasted just four innings against the Milwaukee Brewers. He allowed six runs on six hits, but wound up with a no-decision as the Twins managed to come back and knock off the Brewers, 9-7.
One night after getting his first career start at first base, Joe Mauer is in the lineup again, but back in his familiar position behind the plate. Luke Hughes will get the start at first base instead.
First pitch for this one is scheduled for 7:10 PM Central time from U.S. Cellular Field. Be sure to check out Twinkie Town's Game Thread to talk about all the action while the game is happening, and check back here for the recap when everything has finished up.