The Cleveland Guardians and Minnesota Twins face off in an American League Central battle on Monday, May 19, at Target Field in Minneapolis, Minnesota. The Guardians are looking to snap a four-game losing streak, while the Twins aim to bounce back after their 13-game winning streak was halted on Sunday.
Cleveland Guardians (25-21)
The Guardians struggled over the weekend, getting swept by the Cincinnati Reds and scoring just six total runs across three games. Their offense has been inconsistent, ranking in the bottom half of MLB in slugging percentage and OPS.
Despite the team’s struggles, José Ramírez has been a bright spot, extending his hitting streak to 12 games while batting .357 in May. Steven Kwan has also been productive, leading the team with a .311 batting average. However, Cleveland will need more contributions from the rest of the lineup to compete with Minnesota’s strong pitching staff.
Minnesota Twins (26-21)
The Twins saw their 13-game winning streak snapped in a 5-2 loss to the Brewers on Sunday. Despite the setback, Minnesota has been dominant, ranking third in MLB with a 3.20 team ERA. Their pitching staff has recorded three shutouts in their last four wins, showcasing their ability to control games.
Offensively, Trevor Larnach has been a key contributor, tallying seven home runs and 23 RBIs. Byron Buxton, who leads the team with 10 home runs and 27 RBIs, is currently on the 7-day injured list due to a concussion. The Twins will need others to step up in his absence.
Starting Pitchers
- Guardians: Logan Allen (2-2, 3.70 ERA) – Allen has been solid but inconsistent, posting a 1.52 WHIP and struggling on the road.
- Twins: Bailey Ober (4-1, 3.72 ERA) – Ober has dominated Cleveland in the past, holding their lineup to a .191 batting average across 98 plate appearances.
Key Matchups
- José Ramírez vs. Bailey Ober – Ramírez has been Cleveland’s best hitter, but Ober has historically shut down the Guardians’ lineup.
- Trevor Larnach vs. Logan Allen – Larnach has been a reliable power hitter, and Allen will need to limit his impact.
- Minnesota’s bullpen vs. Cleveland’s late-game offense – The Twins have one of the best relief staffs in MLB, ranking Top 10 in FIP and xFIP.
Game Outlook
Minnesota has the edge in pitching, while Cleveland’s offense has been inconsistent. If Ober continues his dominance against the Guardians, the Twins should control the game. However, if Ramírez and Kwan can spark Cleveland’s lineup, this could be a competitive matchup.
Game Odds
Seattle Mariners – 198
Chicago White Sox 8
Odds Courtesy of Sports Odds Direct as of Sunday, May 18, 2025
