Minnesota @ Houston preview

Last Meeting ( Sep 3, 2013 ) Minnesota 9, Houston 6

The Minnesota Twins erupted for 19 runs and 29 hits over their last two games, continuing their mastery of the Houston Astros in 2013. The Twins, who have won four of their last five overall, try to complete a three-game sweep Wednesday afternoon, when they visit the slumping Astros. Trevor Plouffe is 7-for-9 with a pair of homers and Chris Colabello has two blasts and five RBIs in the series for Minnesota, which has captured all five meetings with Houston this season.

The Twins have prospered against American League West opponents this season, winning 17 of 24 games. The Astros have picked it up offensively in the series with 12 runs but have dropped seven of their last eight games and own the worst record (45-93) in the major leagues. Houston could be without talented rookie outfielder Robbie Grossman, who left Tuesday's 9-6 loss in the 12th inning with an undisclosed injury.

TV: 2:10 p.m. ET, CSN (Houston)

PITCHING MATCHUP: Twins RH Liam Hendriks (1-2, 5.13 ERA) vs. Astros RH Jordan Lyles (6-7, 5.12)

Hendriks defeated Texas in his last start, allowing two runs (one earned) over six innings for his second victory in 14 career decisions. The Australian, who has yet to pitch at home this year, has served up six home runs over his last four outings. Hendriks never has faced Houston, but Astros slugger Chris Carter is 0-for-3 against him.

Lyles has pitched well of late, collecting two victories, a save, a hold and a loss while posting a 3.91 ERA over his last five appearances. The 22-year-old, who has yielded 142 hits over 123 innings this season, is 3-14 in day games during his major-league career and 10-13 at night. Alex Presley is 4-for-11 with a homer against Lyles, who will be facing Minnesota for the first time.

WALK-OFFS

1. Minnesota C Josmil Pinto has six hits and a walk in his first 10 major-league plate appearances after recording three singles and a double Tuesday.

2. Houston acquired C Matt Pagnozzi from Atlanta on Tuesday as insurance. The Astros have two other catchers on the disabled list, and Jason Castro (knee discomfort) is listed as day-to-day.

3. Twins LHP Glen Perkins is 32-for-36 in save opportunities after blowing his first chance since July 23 on Tuesday.

PREDICTION: Astros 4, Twins 3