Byron Buxton's lead off sixth inning triple set up Trevor Larnach to drive in the opening run of the 2023 season. Three pitches later, Larnach did just that and the Twins were on their way to their first win of the season.
Twins hitters got off to a good start connecting for 10 hits and drawing four walks Thursday afternoon.
New Twins ace Pablo Lopez made a strong debut pitching five and a third, striking out eight on his way to his first win as a Twin. Jhoan Duran sealed the win with his first save of the season striking out Michael Massey for the final out of the game.
The Royals loaded the bases on Lopez in the fifth but the new Twins starter worked a six pitch at bat to get MJ Melendez to hit into a double play to end the inning.
Five Twins pitchers held the Royals to just two hits on the afternoon.
Also notable, was a brisk gametime of of two hours thirty two minutes to kick off a new era of baseball with the much talked about new rules in full effect.
Twins and Royals return for game two of their season opening series Saturday with first pitch set for 3:10pm.
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