FORT MYERS, FLA. — The Twins set a spring training high for runs scored on Sunday as they routed the Orioles 14-5.
Trevor Plouffe fueled the offensive show by going 2-for-2 with 4 RBI, including a three-run homer in the second that broke a 3-3 tie. Five Twins had two hits in the game.
Righthander Ricky Nolasco put the Twins in a 3-0 hole in the first inning but recovered with two scoreless innings. Over three innings, Nolasco gave up three runs on four hits and two walks. He has not had a smooth spring, posting a 7.36 ERA, but feels he's on track to be ready for Opening Day.
"For the most part, I felt I made some good pitches," said Nolasco, who has to battle for a spot in the rotation.
Meanwhile, four Twins pitchers appeared in a minor league game that was played on the back fields of the CenturyLink Sports Complex.
Righthander Tyler Duffey threw 59 pitches over four innings and gave up two earned runs on four hits with one strikeout. Duffey said he felt good on the mound as he worked on throwing his changeup, a new pitch for him this season.
Glen Perkins, Kevin Jepsen and Casey Fien each pitched a scoreless inning in the minor league game. Now that minor league spring training games have started, the Twins will occasionally send their players down there for extra work or, for pitchers, to stay on schedule.
La Velle E. Neal III • 612-673-4888