Polanco, Pineda help Twins beat Tigers 5-2

MINNEAPOLIS (AP) — Jorge Polanco launched a three-run homer and Michael Pineda was solid in his last start of the year as the Minnesota Twins beat the Detroit Tigers 5-2 on Wednesday night.

Minnesota began the game with three hits against right-hander Casey Mize. After singles by Luis Arraez and Byron Buxton, Polanco took Mize deep to center field on the first pitch.

“Our early hitters really set the tone," Twins manager Rocco Baldelli said.

Polanco’s 32nd homer of the season gave him 94 RBIs, both team highs.

Pineda (9-8) allowed one run and scattered eight hits over 5 2/3 innings in what could be his final game with the Twins. The veteran right-hander can become a free agent this offseason. He finished the year with a 3.62 ERA in 22 games after making just five starts in 2020.

Pineda worked around trouble in the second and fifth, stranding a runner on third each time.

“He won the at-bats with two outs,” Tigers manager A.J. Hinch said. “We had a hard time coming up with a big hit again. We have not been as productive offensively as our norm."

Pineda exited to a standing ovation in the sixth. He finished his season with four straight wins.

“I hope that's not the last time we're going to be taking him out of a ballgame in a Twins uniform," Baldelli said. “It was definitely a very nice way to end his season.”

After the game, the 32-year-old Pineda said he'd welcome a return to Minnesota. He has spent three seasons with the Twins and is 22-13 during his tenure.

“I'd be happy," Pineda said of a potential return. “I love the city. I love everybody here. We have a great group of players.”

Mize (7-9) settled down after the first inning but lasted just four. He allowed only one hit in his final three innings.

The 24-year-old...

source https://www.chron.com/sports/article/Polanco-Pineda-help-Twins-beat-Tigers-5-2-16498171.php