Tampa Bay Rays vs Minnesota Twins Picks and Predictions May 26th 2025

Rays Aim to Extend Winning Streak in Clash With Red-Hot Twins

There’s nothing quite like a dominant sweep to shake off a sluggish start. After months of inconsistency, the Tampa Bay Rays are heating up at just the right time.

Their 13-0 blowout win over the Toronto Blue Jays on Sunday wasn’t just another victory—it was a statement. Tampa has now won five straight games and sits at an even .500 for the first time in over a month.

Sunday’s starter Ryan Pepiot was practically untouchable, allowing just three hits and one walk over seven sharp innings.

“We’re just trusting the process,” Pepiot said. “Over 162 games, the results will come.”

That faith is starting to pay off. With offense firing and the bullpen settling down, Tampa looks poised to turn a slow start into a playoff push.

To track the Rays’ continued climb, visit the MLB Team Page.

Twins Playing Through Injuries, Still Winning

Don’t let the Twins’ 2-1 loss in extra innings to Kansas City on Sunday fool you. This team is 16-5 in May and playing some of its best baseball of the season—even with key players sidelined.

Byron Buxton and Carlos Correa both hit the injured list after a scary outfield collision on May 15. Correa is already back, while Buxton is traveling with the team and could return any day now.

Meanwhile, outfielder Matt Wallner, who’s been out since mid-April, may rejoin the lineup at some point on this three-city road trip through Tampa Bay, Seattle, and Sacramento.

Despite the injuries, the Twins continue to win thanks to depth, hustle, and team-first mentality.

“We’ve played some of our best baseball without some of our best players,” said catcher Ryan Jeffers. “Getting them back is a bonus, but we’re proud of what we’ve done.”

Need help projecting injury impacts and lineup shifts? Check out the latest insights on the MLB Expert Betting Guide.

Pitching Matchup: Paddack vs. Littell

Two right-handers will go head-to-head in the series opener Monday night: Chris Paddack for Minnesota and Zack Littell for Tampa Bay.

Chris Paddack (Twins)

• Record: 2-4
• ERA: 3.98
• Last Start: 5 1/3 IP, 2 ER, 7 H, 2 BB vs. Cleveland
• Fun Fact: First career start vs. the Rays

Paddack is coming off a no-decision in a tough loss to the Guardians. Though his stat line wasn’t flashy, he managed to keep Minnesota in the game.

Zack Littell (Rays)

• Record: 3-5
• ERA: 4.25
• Last Start: 5 IP, 2 ER, 7 H, 6 K, 0 BB vs. Houston
• Career vs. Twins: 0-2, 4.50 ERA in 18 IP

Littell’s numbers against the Twins don’t paint the prettiest picture—he’s allowed four homers and a WHIP over 1.30 in those games. But don’t let that fool you: he’s won three straight decisions and looks confident on the mound.

Want to see real-time updates on pitcher props and trends? Visit the MLB Pick Page for projections and expert analysis.

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What’s Fueling the Rays’ Resurgence?

Tampa’s turnaround can be credited to more than just talent—it’s about timing and chemistry.

• Powerful Lineup: Sunday’s 13-run barrage wasn’t a fluke. Multiple hitters are heating up at once, giving pitchers little room for error.
• Rotation Settling Down: With Pepiot, Littell, and Glasnow (before injury) showing consistency, Tampa’s starters are delivering quality innings.
• Depth on Display: Just like the Twins, the Rays have rotated younger players into key roles with success.

And let’s not forget manager Kevin Cash, whose decision-making and bullpen management has been spot-on during the streak.

For betting odds on the Rays’ postseason chances, hit the MLB Odds Page.

Can the Twins Keep Winning on the Road?

This road trip could be a defining moment for the Twins. With three games in Tampa, followed by series in Seattle and Sacramento, Minnesota will need to stay sharp against unfamiliar foes.

Keys to their success:

• Stay Healthy: Correa’s return is a plus. Buxton and Wallner will offer huge boosts when available.
• Ride the Hot Hands: Jeffers, Alex Kirilloff, and Willi Castro have been timely at the plate.
• Pitching Depth: Paddack doesn’t need to be dominant—but five or six solid innings will do the trick if the bullpen holds.

With May almost in the books, a successful road trip would put Minnesota in a prime position heading into summer.

FAQs

What’s the Rays’ current record?

After sweeping Toronto, the Rays are at .500 for the first time in over a month and currently sit at 27-27.

Who’s starting for each team in the opener?

The Rays will start Zack Littell (3-5, 4.25 ERA), while the Twins counter with Chris Paddack (2-4, 3.98 ERA).

Are Byron Buxton and Carlos Correa playing?

Correa has returned from the concussion IL, and Buxton is expected to join the team in Tampa. Both are being monitored daily.

How many games have the Rays won in a row?

Tampa has won five straight and owns the longest active winning streak in Major League Baseball.

How are the Twins doing in May?

Minnesota is 16-5 this month, even without some of their top hitters in the lineup. They’re playing some of their most consistent ball of the season.

Where can I find expert picks for this game?

Head to the MLB Pick Page for daily betting analysis, over/unders, and player props.