The San Francisco Giants (24-14) and Minnesota Twins (18-20) meet Friday night in Minneapolis, Both teams have been playing well, as the Giants have won five of their last six, while the Twins are on a five-game winning streak.
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A strong bullpen behind a struggling starter
The Giants enter this matchup in strong form, having won five of their last six games, including a 3-1 victory over the Cubs on Wednesday. They sit third in the NL West at 24-14, just behind the Dodgers and Padres. Offensively, San Francisco ranks 9th in MLB in runs per game (4.82), though their .236 batting average is just 24th. They’ve hit 39 home runs (16th) and have a mid-tier .701 OPS (14th). Jung Hoo Lee leads the team with a .301 average, while Matt Chapman tops the home run chart with seven.
On the mound, Jordan Hicks (1-3, 6.03 ERA) starts Friday. He’s struggled, especially on the road, posting a 6.35 ERA in three away starts this season after a 4.14 road ERA last year. However, the Giants’ bullpen has been a major strength, ranking third in MLB with a 2.47 ERA. Defensively, San Francisco is 20th in MLB with 21 errors committed.
Going for 6th straight win
The Twins are surging, riding a five-game win streak and winning six of their last ten. They’re 18-20, fourth in the AL Central, but have been much better at home (12-6). Minnesota’s offense averages 4.0 runs per game (20th), with a .237 batting average (22nd) and .680 OPS (20th). Byron Buxton leads the team with nine home runs and an .844 OPS, while Ty France is batting .277.
Chris Paddack (0-3, 5.57 ERA) starts for Minnesota. He’s struggled with command, allowing 16 walks in 32.1 innings, and has yet to earn a win. Although Paddack has struggled this season, he has a 3.86 ERA in three home starts, and a 1.80 ERA in his two night games, which is encouraging for the Twins. The Twins’ bullpen is also reliable, ranking eighth in MLB with a 3.42 ERA. Defensively, Minnesota has but committed 22 errors, ranking 23rd.
Best Bets for San Francisco Giants vs. Minnesota Twins
Full-Game Side Bet
Insiders Status:
Backing the Giants as slight underdog is attractive given their recent form, stronger bullpen, and a day off to rest key relievers. While Jordan Hicks has struggled, especially on the road, San Francisco’s offense has been more productive than Minnesota’s, and their bullpen is one of the best in baseball. The Giants’ ability to win tight games and limit damage late gives them the edge in a matchup where both starters have been shaky. The Twins’ home record and current winning streak are notable, but Minnesota is also just 1-6 in Chris Paddack's starts this season, including two losses to the Chicago White Sox. The value lies with the Giants’ depth and relief pitching.
Full-Game Total Pick
Insiders Status:
This game sets up well for the over, with both starting pitchers carrying ERAs over 5.50 and struggling with command. Jordan Hicks has a 6.35 ERA in road starts this year, and Chris Paddack has allowed plenty of baserunners. Both offenses are capable of putting up runs, and the Giants, in particular, have been efficient at capitalizing on scoring opportunities. Recent trends also support a high-scoring game, with both teams seeing the total go over in several recent contests. Expect both bullpens to be tested, but early runs should push this game past the 8.5 total
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