Dodgers vs Twins Preview: Pitching Showdown Under Lights

The Los Angeles Dodgers roll into Target Field with one of baseball's scariest pitching staffs. Their ace Yoshinobu Yamamoto already proved he's a big-game hero during last year's World Series run. Behind him? Blake Snell and Tyler Glasnow—both elite starters working their way back from injuries. The Twins counter with Zebby Matthews on the mound, leading a rotation built on steady, reliable arms rather than superstar names. Minnesota's pitchers keep games tight, but facing Dodger hitters is always a test. This matchup shapes the entire series.

Los Angeles is dealing with some tough losses right now. They're on a two-game losing streak and several key arms are sidelined. Will Smith, their veteran catcher, won't travel for this road trip after neck inflammation sidelined him. Teoscar Hernández, the powerful left fielder, is rehabbing a hamstring injury but expected back soon. Blake Snell and Edwin Díaz are both recovering from elbow surgery. Despite these absences, the Dodgers still won six of their last ten games. They're 49-29 overall and hungry to stay competitive during this challenging stretch.

Minnesota is building momentum at home with two straight wins. The Twins sit at 38-41 overall with a 7-3 record in their last ten games. That's the kind of stretch that builds confidence. But their pitching staff faces serious depth issues right now. Bailey Ober is dealing with an elbow strain and hopes to throw soon. Mick Abel had a setback in his recovery and is out indefinitely. These injuries force Zebby Matthews and other arms to shoulder the load. The Twins need steady pitching performances to stay competitive against a lineup like Los Angeles's.