In a thrilling 13-inning game on Thursday night, the Miami Marlins emerged victorious over the struggling Minnesota Twins with a final score of 8-6. Otto Lopez played a significant role in the win by doubling home the decisive run in the 13th inning, pushing the Marlins ahead. Additionally, Carlos Correa contributed to the Twins’ efforts with a home run.

The Twins had a challenging night, going 2 for 19 with runners in scoring position and leaving a total of 15 runners on base throughout the game. This defeat marks the Twins’ sixth loss in their last eight games, putting them three games behind both the Tigers and Royals in the race for the final two AL wild card spots. Another loss for the Twins or a victory by either Detroit or Kansas City would result in their elimination from playoff contention.

Lopez’s crucial hit in the 13th inning, bringing home Dane Myers, proved to be the turning point in the game for the Marlins. Griffin Conine further solidified their lead with a two-out, two-run single later in the inning. Anthony Maldonado pitched two scoreless innings to secure his first career victory, while Darren McCaughan closed out the game by allowing only one run in the 13th inning, earning his first save.

After falling behind 4-0, the Twins mounted a comeback, eventually tying the game at 6-6 with Brooks Lee’s two-run double in the eighth inning. Both teams managed to score a run each with sacrifice flies in the 10th inning, prolonging the thrilling contest.

Miami took an early lead in the first inning with Jake Burger’s RBI double, setting the tone for the game. David Festa, the Twins’ starting pitcher, was pulled from the game in the fifth inning after giving up multiple singles. The Marlins capitalized on the opportunity, scoring three runs off Festa and an error by Twins catcher Ryan Jeffers.

Looking ahead, the Marlins will send RHP Adam Oller to the mound as they kick off their final series of the season in Toronto on Friday. Meanwhile, the Twins will rely on RHP Pablo López for their upcoming game against the Orioles, as he aims to bounce back from a tough outing in his last start against Boston. The Orioles have yet to announce their starting pitcher for the game.

Overall, the Marlins’ victory over the Twins adds another chapter to each team’s season as they approach the final games of the regular season.