Ty France’s Walk-Off Homer Lifts Twins Over Royals 3-1

MINNEAPOLIS — Ty France delivered a dramatic walk-off, two-run home run in the ninth inning, leading the Minnesota Twins to a 3-1 victory over the Kansas City Royals at Target Field on Friday night. This was France’s first home run in 144 career at-bats at the ballpark.

France’s homer came on the first pitch slider thrown by Royals reliever Lucas Erceg, marking the first walk-off homer for the Twins since Christian Vázquez achieved that feat on July 7, 2024. “It was unbelievable,” said Twins pitcher Pablo López, who had a strong outing against the Royals.

The victory was significant for the Twins (28-22), who have now won 15 of their last 17 games. Before France’s home run, the team managed only four hits against rookie Noah Cameron and Erceg, who both put on strong pitching displays throughout the game.

The scoring started in the second inning when Carlos Correa, making his return from a concussion, hit a solo home run to equalize the game at 1-1. Correa finished the night with two hits, highlighting his importance to the team’s performance. “It was a perfect way to get back,” Correa said.

López faced challenges during his outing, allowing seven hits but only one run. He stated, “It could have been a little crisper, but you have to take what the game gives you.” The Twins’ bullpen also stepped up, contributing to the team’s ability to hold the Royals scoreless after the first inning.

The Royals, who have struggled against the Twins in recent matchups, fell to 28-24 with this loss. Despite several opportunities to score, their pitchers were stymied by the Twins’ solid defense and strategic plays.

As the game concluded, closer Jhoan Duran, who was warming up for a potential 10th inning, celebrated with his teammates as France rounded the bases. This game marked an exciting start to the series for the Twins, offering fans a memorable moment filled with anticipation and triumph.