52-56 - Gallo’s traveling dong show reaches Minnesota, Rangers win

The last time A.J. Griffin pitched for Texas, Yu Darvish was still a Ranger, we still thought Jonathan Lucroy was good but having a slow start, Texas was still a contender, and Adrian Beltre hadn’t yet made his 2017 debut.

Tonight, in his return to the mound, Griffin went six innings, allowed two hits, one run, struck out four and walked just one. The only thing missing was the prerequisite solo home run from your usual A.J. Griffin start.

Also, Joey Gallo hit another monster dong — his 29th of the year — and the Rangers started off a weird six game (four in Minnesota, two in New York against the Mets) road trip with a win.

Also, make that 1-7 for Houston, New York, and Cleveland since they decided they didn’t need Yu Darvish. Good job, chumps.

Player of the Game: Gallo’s eventual game-winning blast to the upper deck beyond center field at Target field was only like the third most impressive thing he’s done this week.

Up Next: The Rangers and Twins reconvene Friday night at Target Field with Martin Perez set to make the start for Texas against Bartolo Colon of Minnesota. First pitch is scheduled for 7:10 pm CT.