Astros Set to Face Twins in Thrilling Season Opener

MINNEAPOLIS, Minn. — The Houston Astros will take on the Minnesota Twins in a highly anticipated season opener this Thursday at Target Field, with first pitch scheduled for 4:10 p.m. ET. Astros’ Hunter Brown (0-1, 3.00 ERA) aims to secure a victory against Twins’ Joe Ryan (0-0, 1.80), who pitched a solid game in his season debut.

Brown recorded a quality start in his last appearance, allowing three runs—two earned—while striking out seven in a game against the New York Mets. Despite this performance, he faces a tough challenge as he heads to Minnesota, where the current Twins lineup has posted a .296 batting average against him.

Ryan, on the other hand, displayed impressive command in his first start of the season, allowing just one earned run over five innings and striking out five without issuing any walks. His strong performance, coupled with a noteworthy career ERA of 3.36 in day games, positions him as a formidable opponent for the Astros.

In their last meeting, the Twins claimed a 4-2 advantage in the series during 2024. This matchup holds special significance as it marks Minnesota’s home opener, setting the stage for a thrilling contest in front of their home crowd.

Astros first baseman Yordan Alvarez, after starting the season sluggishly with just one hit in 16 at-bats, showed signs of improvement with a two-hit game against the Mets. He has demonstrated a powerful matchup against Ryan in past performances, boasting a 1.512 OPS across 12 at-bats, which includes three home runs.

Jose Altuve has also been on a hitting streak, securing hits in each of the six games thus far this season. His ability to adapt to a new position in left field has not hindered his offensive output, where he holds a .391 batting average—ranking sixth in the American League.

Despite early struggles, the Astros are looking to capitalize on their chances against a Twins team currently facing a -12 run differential, one of the worst in the AL. As the game approaches, both teams are looking to set the tone for the remainder of the season.

The opening matchup between the Astros and Twins is expected to be an exciting head-to-head clash, with both teams eager to establish an early lead in the 2025 MLB season.