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Lefthander Mason Melotakis missed all of 2015 as he recovered from Tommy John surgery. Other than instructional league in October, Friday was his first time on a mound competing against another team.
It was tense at times, as Melotakis gave up a run and had the bases loaded. But he limited the damage to just one run while showing his strong fastball and a sharp slider.
``I told him that was pretty good," Twins manager Paul Molitor said.
Melotakis walked the leadoff batter and gave up a single when Pittsburgh's Allen Hanson hit into a force play at third for the first out. Adam Frazier singled to left on the play that scored the run. An intentional walk loaded the bases, but Melotakis got a ground ball that led to a force out at home, then a fly ball to end the inning.
Adrenalin was definitely a factor as he failed to command his fastball and made his other pitches less effective.
Melotakis was a second round pick in 2012 who hasn't pitched above Class AA yet. But he's healthy, indications are that he's hitting 97 mph on the radar again and he could be an option for the Twins later in the season.
``It was nice to be able to finish strong," Melotakis said. ``I wish I could have taken this game for us."
