Buxton's homer spoils Berríos’ return; Twins beat Jays 3-1

MINNEAPOLIS (AP) — Byron Buxton’s two-run homer spoiled José Berríos’ return to Minnesota and dealt a blow to Toronto's postseason hopes as the Twins beat the Blue Jays 3-1 on Friday night.

Buxton hit his 15th home run of the season in a three-run third inning against Berríos (12-9), who was making his first start in Minnesota since being dealt to Toronto at the trade deadline. Berríos pitched six seasons for the Twins after being a first-round draft pick by the club in 2012.

The final road trip of the season has complicated the Blue Jays’ chances for a playoff spot. Toronto is 1-4 on the trip after going 1-2 in Tampa Bay and losing the first two games in Minnesota.

The New York Yankees beat Boston 8-3 on Friday, with the teams tied for the top AL wild-card spot. The Blue Jays are three games back.

Marcus Semien hit his 42nd home run for Toronto, a solo shot to the bullpens in left-center in the sixth inning. Semien is one homer shy of the all-time record for second basemen, set by Davey Johnson with Atlanta in 1973. He equaled Minnesota’s Brian Dozier (2016) and St. Louis Hall of Famer Rogers Hornsby (1922).

Bailey Ober (3-3) surrendered one run over 5 1/3 innings for Minnesota, which has won four in a row, yet still sits in last place in the AL Central.

Berríos, who is 12th on the Twins’ all-time list in strikeouts and 15th in wins, received a warm ovation from the crowd after being announced. He walked Andrelton Simmons to open the third and Luis Arraez followed with a triple. Then, Buxton unloaded deep to straightaway centerfield for a homer against his former teammate.

Berríos finished with three runs allowed in six innings with 10 strikeouts.

GOOD AND BAD

Toronto manager Charlie Montoyo said the news on Lourdes Gurriel Jr.’s injured hand was good and bad....

source https://www.chron.com/sports/article/Buxton-s-homer-spoils-Berr-os-return-Twins-16486490.php