BOSTON – Rafael Devers made a significant impact for the Boston Red Sox by breaking a seventh-inning deadlock with a crucial two-run single, leading to a 6-1 victory over the Minnesota Twins on Friday night. Unfortunately, the win was overshadowed by what appeared to be a severe left knee injury to Triston Casas.
Casas, the 25-year-old first baseman, exited the game in the second inning because of a lower-body injury. Attempting to beat a slow roller up the first-base line, Casas fell awkwardly and was taken off the field on a stretcher. His replacement, Romy Gonzalez, contributed to the team’s success.
David Hamilton showcased his skills with three hits and two stolen bases, while Alex Bregman added to the excitement with a home run and a two-hit evening. Gonzalez played a pivotal role in the eighth inning by doubling in a run during a three-run surge for the Red Sox.
Bregman’s homer came in the first inning, marking his eighth long ball of the season and giving the Red Sox an early 1-0 lead. Meanwhile, Ryan Jeffers responded for Minnesota with a solo home run in the top of the third inning. Louis Varland, with a record of 1-3, was tagged with the loss after surrendering consecutive hits in the seventh inning.
On the mound for Boston, Brayan Bello pitched effectively, allowing just one run on four hits over 6 2/3 innings. He was relieved by Justin Wilson, who recorded a win for himself with a record now at 1-0. Wilson made his mark quickly as Edouard Julien was caught attempting to steal second base, effectively ending the top of the seventh inning. Greg Weissert then took over pitching duties heading into the eighth.
The Red Sox demonstrated their offensive prowess by accumulating 13 hits, marking their 11th victory this season with at least 10 hits in a game. This achievement underscored their strong batting performance throughout the year.
One of the pivotal moments came in the seventh inning when the Twins brought in left-handed reliever Danny Coulombe to face left-handed batters Jarren Duran and Devers with runners on second and third. After Duran struck out, Devers seized the opportunity by delivering a two-RBI single that gave Boston a lead they maintained for the rest of the game.
With Red Sox starters achieving their sixth consecutive quality start, the team reached its longest stretch of consistent pitching performance since 2017. This rotation stability has been key to their successful run.
Looking forward, the three-game weekend series continues on Saturday. The Twins are set to start with right-handed pitcher Bailey Ober, who holds a 3-1 record and 4.13 ERA, while the Red Sox plan to counter with right-handed pitcher Hunter Dobbins, boasting a 2-0 record and 2.45 ERA.