Twins Edge Cubs 4-2 Behind Early Offense and Solid Pitching

MINNEAPOLIS, MN — The Minnesota Twins capitalized on another fast start Wednesday night, scoring two first-inning runs for the second game in a row en route to a 4-2 victory over the Chicago Cubs.

Ryan Jeffers and Carlos Correa each drove in a run in the opening frame, giving starter David Festa a cushion he managed to hold onto. Festa (3-3) pitched 5 1/3 innings, allowing two runs in the fourth but keeping the Cubs in check otherwise.

Matt Wallner added to Minnesota’s lead with a solo home run in the third inning. He also played a key role in the fourth, extending a rundown between first and second long enough for Royce Lewis to score an insurance run.

The Twins bullpen locked things down from there, with 3 2/3 scoreless innings. Closer Jhoan Duran, unavailable Tuesday due to illness, returned to notch his 14th save of the season.

However, the win came with a concern: All-Star center fielder Byron Buxton left the game after being hit in the hand by a pitch in the first inning. Though he stayed in the game briefly, he exited in the second. The team later announced he suffered a left hand contusion. The severity of the injury is still unclear, but it could impact his availability for the upcoming All-Star festivities, including the Home Run Derby in his home state of Georgia.

Buxton did manage to swipe his 17th base of the season before leaving the game, remaining perfect on steal attempts at 17-for-17.

Cubs starter Cade Horton (3-3) lasted just 4 2/3 innings, allowing four runs on six hits. It marked the third time in his last four outings he’s failed to finish five innings.

Up Next:
The series concludes Thursday with Cubs right-hander Colin Rea (6-3, 4.13 ERA) set to face Twins right-hander Chris Paddack (3-7, 4.64 ERA).