Twins vs Mets: How to Make Money Betting Thursday’s MLB Slate

The New York Mets enter Thursday’s matchup against the Minnesota Twins at Citi Field riding a wave of momentum that was unimaginable just 24 hours ago. After enduring a brutal 12-game losing streak—their longest since 2002—the Mets snapped the skid with a gritty 3-2 victory on Wednesday night. That win not only halted the bleeding but ignited hope that a new winning streak could begin tonight against a solid but beatable Twins club. With the Mets listed as modest moneyline favorites at -103, there are compelling reasons to back New York to secure the victory and start climbing back into contention.

The biggest catalyst for the turnaround was the return of superstar Juan Soto. Activated from the 10-day injured list (right calf strain) and slotted as the designated hitter, Soto went 1-for-3 with a walk in his first game back. His mere presence in the lineup provided an immediate lift, both offensively and psychologically. The Mets are now 1-0 since Soto’s return, and his elite plate discipline and power bat give the offense the star power it desperately lacked during the skid. Soto doesn’t need to homer every night; his ability to get on base and set the table for hitters like Francisco Alvarez, Mark Vientos, and Bo Bichette creates lineup depth that wears down opposing starters.

On the mound, the Mets turn to right-hander Christian Scott in what will be his first MLB start since undergoing Tommy John surgery in 2024. While Scott’s minor-league numbers this season have been modest, the 26-year-old prospect brings fresh arm strength and high-upside stuff to Citi Field. After a full rehab, Scott is eager to prove himself at the big-league level, and home crowds at Citi Field have a way of fueling young pitchers. Scott’s command and strikeout ability could neutralize a Twins lineup that has been streaky at best on the road.

Opposing him is Minnesota’s Joe Ryan (2-2, 3.29 ERA, 0.88 WHIP). Ryan has been one of the American League’s more consistent starters early in 2026, posting back-to-back quality starts and limiting hard contact. However, his road splits (1-1, 3.86 ERA) show a slight dip away from Target Field, and the Mets’ righty-heavy lineup is well-positioned to exploit any early-count mistakes. Ryan’s one previous start against the Mets (in 2025) resulted in a no-decision but highlighted how New York’s patient approach can extend innings and force him into the bullpen earlier than he’d like.

Beyond the individual matchups, several intangibles favor the Mets at -103. First, the home-field advantage at Citi Field cannot be overstated. After finally tasting victory Wednesday, the energy in the ballpark should be electric, giving the Mets an extra edge in a close contest. Second, the Twins (12-12) are essentially a .500 team that has yet to find consistency away from home, while the Mets—despite their 8-16 record—have shown they can compete when their stars are healthy. Snapping the losing streak removes the psychological weight that had been crushing the club.

Baseball is a streaky game. Teams that break long skids often ride the positive momentum into winning streaks, and the Mets’ young core plus Soto’s veteran presence makes them dangerous. Thursday night offers the perfect opportunity for New York to build on Wednesday’s breakthrough. With Soto back in the fold and the pressure finally lifted, expect the Mets to grind out another low-scoring win—likely 4-3 or 5-3—and cash that -103 moneyline ticket. The skid is over; the turnaround starts now.