Problem innings

The Twins' first-inning problems, acute in May, have improved, though they still have allowed more first-inning runs (and been outscored by 34 runs) than any other team. But Toronto's problems in the second inning have been worse. Entering the weekend, here are the leaders for most total runs allowed in an inning:

Runs Team Inning

97 Blue Jays Second

84 Astros Fourth

82 Twins First

78 Astros Eighth

76 Giants Third

76 Orioles Sixth

Not-so-mighty Giants

The Giants' fall to last place, entering the weekend, puts them in danger of joining the 1998 Marlins as the only defending World Series champion to finish in the basement. They also need to rally in order to avoid becoming the 15th world champ to finish with a losing record the following year. The past five:

Year Team Finish Record

2003 Angels 3rd 77-85

1998 Marlins 5th 54-108

1994 Blue Jays 3rd 55-60

1991 Reds 5th 74-88

1989 Dodgers 4th 77-83

Source: beyondtheboxscore.com