Canning Anchors the Back End
Griffin Canning was the defining figure for the San Diego Padres, pitching 3.1 innings while allowing three hits and one walk while recording one strikeout. He did not allow any earned runs, a critical performance that helped keep the game within reach. Canning received the win, extending his save count to 32, though the decision was officially credited as a win.
His outing was part of a collective effort that saw the Padres' bullpen hold firm after the initial damage was done.
Early Twins Lead
The Minnesota Twins took an early advantage, scoring three runs in the first two innings. Keaschall opened the scoring with a home run to left field in the first inning. The Twins extended their lead in the top of the second inning with two more home runs, one from Lee to left center and another from Culpepper to left field.
Merrill added a solo shot to center field, giving Minnesota a 3-1 lead after the second inning. The Padres responded in the bottom of the third when Clemens singled to center, allowing Jeffers to score and cutting the deficit to 3-2.
Padres Rally and Reclaim Lead
San Diego continued to chip away at the Twins' lead. Keaschall singled to center in the fourth inning, allowing Lee to score and giving the Padres a 4-1 lead. The Twins managed to score two more runs in the sixth inning, narrowing the gap to 5-2.
