Brandon Valenzuela smashes maiden homer as Toronto Blue Jays overpower Minnesota Twins 10–4 in dominant win
Explosive fourth inning and power-packed hitting help Toronto snap slump and halt Minnesota’s winning run
TORONTO — Brandon Valenzuela delivered a breakthrough performance with his first Major League Baseball home run, powering the Toronto Blue Jays to a commanding 10-4 victory over the Minnesota Twins on Friday night.
Toronto turned the game in its favour with a decisive five-run fourth inning, highlighted by Valenzuela’s go ahead two run shot. The rally also featured key contributions from Davis Schneider and Jesús Sánchez, who both delivered crucial extra base hits, along with an RBI single from Andrés Giménez.
The Blue Jays’ offense fired on all cylinders, registering a season-high run tally and equalling their best hit count, with a remarkable nine extra-base hits, including seven doubles. Vladimir Guerrero Jr. added three hits and an RBI, while Schneider contributed across the board with two hits, two runs scored, and an RBI.
Daulton Varsho extended the advantage in the fifth inning with a leadoff home run, marking both his first of the season and the 100th of his career.
On the mound, Joe Mantiply secured the win with a flawless relief outing, striking out all three batters he faced. Starter Patrick Corbin, making his debut for Toronto, conceded four runs over four innings but held firm after an early setback.
Minnesota struck early through a three run homer by Ryan Jeffers in the first inning, while Brooks Lee added another long ball in the third. Jeffers ended with a perfect night at the plate, going 3 for 3.
However, Simeon Woods Richardson struggled on the mound, allowing five runs as the Twins saw their four game winning streak come to an end.
The series continues on Saturday, with Eric Lauer set to start for Toronto against Minnesota’s Joe Ryan.
