Orioles Clinch Postseason Spot with Sweeping Victory Over Twins

In a striking display of baseball prowess, the Baltimore Orioles clinched a spot in the postseason with a decisive 6-2 triumph over the Minnesota Twins, achieving a three-game sweep on Sunday. The winning game was marked by stellar performances from James McCann and Heston Kjerstad, with each delivering a home run that sent the Orioles soaring into victory.

Albert Suárez Concludes Rough September on High Note

Albert Suárez (9-7) executed an excellent performance on the mound, wrapping up a challenging September on a positive note. Suárez weathered solo home runs from Carlos Santana and DaShawn Keirsey Jr. — the latter marking his career’s first — in his six-inning stint, allowing only four hits, one walk, and striking out four.

Jordan Westburg and the Orioles’ Impressive Season

Adding to the Orioles’ momentum, Jordan Westburg contributed a two-run single, aiding the Orioles to close the season with a commendable 91-71 record. This achievement secured them one of the three American League wild-card spots, setting them up for a first-round face-off with the Kansas City Royals.

Despite an eight-game postseason losing streak that dates back to 2014, the Orioles’ potent lineup, filled with young talents such as Gunnar Henderson, Adley Rutschman, and Westburg, offers them a substantial chance at the championship.

Orioles’ Remarkable Home Run Record

The Orioles concluded the season with a whopping 235 home runs, just two short of the Yankees’ major league record. “I’m really proud of this group. Despite the adversities we faced this year, they’ve done an incredible job,” said a visibly pleased manager, Brandon Hyde.

Twins’ Season: A Tale of Two Halves

On the other side of the diamond, the Twins concluded their season with an 82-80 record, after a disappointing loss of 27 games out of their last 39. They experienced a drastic breakdown as the season progressed, according to manager Rocco Baldelli, who is set to return next year.

Looking Ahead: The Postseason and Beyond

This marks the first time since the mid-90s, with Mike Mussina at the helm of the rotation, that Baltimore will participate in two consecutive postseasons. Their most recent World Series title dates back to 1983. Despite Suárez being unavailable for the first round, manager Hyde expressed confidence in his potential contributions should the Orioles advance.

Twins’ starter Bailey Ober (12-9) conceded three runs in five innings, concluding the season with a 0-3 record in his final nine starts. Despite the downturn, he marked a productive season with a 3.98 ERA over 31 starts.

What’s Next for Both Teams?

The Orioles will host the wild card series as the No. 4 seed, starting Tuesday at Oriole Park at Camden Yards. Corbin Burnes (15-9, 2.92 ERA) will pitch Game 1 for the Orioles, with Cole Ragans (11-9, 3.14 ERA) on the mound for the Royals.

As for the Twins, their 2025 season kicks off with a spring training game against Atlanta on Feb. 22, followed by their season opener on March 27 at St. Louis. Their first home game is scheduled for April 3 against Houston.