Angels Battle Fatigue and the Twins in Series Opener
The Los Angeles Angels land in Minneapolis Friday night with little rest but a renewed sense of confidence after a tight 4-3 win over the Pirates. They rallied behind a go-ahead homer from Zach Neto, snapping a two-game skid.
While the cross-country flight after a night game wasn’t ideal, that win might be just enough to carry some energy into this three-game set against the Minnesota Twins.
The schedule is tough—especially with a day game looming Saturday—but this is the kind of stretch that tests a team’s depth and resilience.
Want team depth charts and injury reports? Visit the MLB Team Page for real-time updates.
Zach Neto Comes Up Clutch in Return
Zach Neto, who missed time recovering from shoulder surgery, delivered in a big way Thursday night. After going 0-for-8 earlier in the series, he bounced back with a standout performance, including the game-winning solo homer in the eighth inning.
“It’s a sigh of relief,” Neto said. “Getting back to what I do. Hitting my pitches. I had a pretty good day.”
His timing couldn’t have been better. Neto’s presence deepens a lineup that needs consistent production with Mike Trout and others adjusting to the travel grind.
To track player trends and streaks like Neto’s, explore daily updates on the MLB Pick Page.
Pitching Preview: Hendricks vs. Lopez
Veteran righty Kyle Hendricks (0-2, 4.50 ERA) is still hunting for his first win of the season. His past starts against the Twins have been mixed—1-3 with a 4.01 ERA—but he has the experience to manage games when his control is sharp.
Pablo Lopez Returns to the Mound
Twins ace Pablo Lopez (1-1, 1.62 ERA) is back from the injured list. After a strong rehab stint in Triple-A and a sharp bullpen session, Lopez appears ready. He’s 3-1 with a 3.38 ERA against the Angels in his career and will be looking to dominate early.
“I’m feeling good,” Lopez said. “Everything’s moving well, feeling natural.”
For the latest matchup stats and betting angles, head to the MLB Odds Page.
Twins Look to Bounce Back After Rainy Loss
The Twins dropped a rain-shortened 3-0 game to the White Sox on Thursday, failing to score despite six hits. They went 0-for-9 with runners in scoring position—a stat that continues to haunt them this season.
Slugger Carlos Correa is in a cold spell, going hitless in his last 12 at-bats. With Willi Castro now on the injured list (strained oblique), Minnesota is juggling their infield options.
They’ve called up Mickey Gasper and sent David Festa back to Triple-A. With Lopez back and a few lineup tweaks, the Twins are hoping for a quick turnaround at home.
Get expert takes on the Twins’ injury impact and lineup shifts on the MLB Expert Betting Guide.

FAQs About Angels vs Twins Series
How did the Angels perform in their last game?
They defeated the Pirates 4-3, with Zach Neto hitting a go-ahead homer in the eighth inning.
Is travel affecting the Angels?
Yes, they had a late flight after Thursday night’s game and now face a day game on Saturday in Minnesota.
Who are Friday’s starting pitchers?
Kyle Hendricks (Angels) vs. Pablo Lopez (Twins). Both bring experience, though Lopez returns from a short IL stint.
What’s Carlos Correa’s recent form?
Correa is in a slump, currently 0-for-his-last-12 at-bats.
What roster changes have the Twins made?
They placed Willi Castro on the IL and recalled Mickey Gasper from Triple-A St. Paul.
Where can I find picks and predictions?
Check the MLB Pick Page for updated game previews and betting advice.