Liriano started Game 1 of the 2010 American League Division Series for the Twins. He received a no-decision, pitching 5 and innings, while giving up 6 hits and 3 walks, striking out 7, and allowing 4 runs, all earned. The Twins lost Game 1 to the New York Yankees, 6–4, and were swept 3 games to none in the series, marking the end of Liriano's season. Liriano finished tied for eleventh in the voting for the American League Cy Young Award alongside Justin Verlander, receiving one fifth-place vote. He also signed a 1-year contract after the season.