BOSTON — It was a memorable debut at Fenway Park for Kody Clemens, who hit a crucial two-run homer, helping the Minnesota Twins secure a 4-3 victory over the Boston Red Sox on Saturday. Notably, Kody’s celebrated father, former Red Sox ace Roger Clemens, was present at the game, witnessing his son’s achievement from a luxury box just along the first-base line.
In an electrifying moment during the sixth inning, Kody Clemens stepped up to the plate and sent an 0-1 slider from Red Sox pitcher Hunter Dobbins soaring over the short right-field wall, marking a pivotal home run. This significant play pushed the Twins into a 3-1 lead. The Red Sox, despite efforts from Jarren Duran, who contributed both an RBI triple and a double, have now dropped three of their last four games. Romy Gonzalez filled in at first base for Triston Casas, who is sidelined with a knee injury, and managed to get three singles.
The sixth inning proved to be decisive for the Twins, who added three runs, securing a 4-1 advantage. Minnesota’s starting pitcher, Bailey Ober, delivered a strong performance on the mound, pitching for six innings and limiting the Red Sox to just one run across seven hits. The save was sealed by Jhoan Duran, who skillfully stopped the Red Sox from tying the game in the ninth inning, marking his third save of the season.
Boston made an earnest comeback attempt in the seventh inning. Jarren Duran, who had already scored with a triple, crossed home plate following Rafael Devers’ timely single, which cut the deficit to 4-3. Nonetheless, a 72-minute rain delay disrupted the game in the seventh, slightly stalling momentum.
Key moments in the ninth inning included Jhoan Duran facing a challenging situation with runners on first and second. He successfully closed out the game by retiring left-handed hitter Wilyer Abreu for the final out, having strategically walked Alex Bregman to prevent any more runs.
Bailey Ober’s performance is worth mentioning, as he has shown consistency in his recent outings, allowing only one run in five of his last six starts after a rocky season opener.
Looking ahead, the series will conclude with Twins’ right-handed pitcher Chris Paddack facing off against Red Sox’s left-hander Garrett Crochet on Sunday. Both pitchers are set to showcase their skills in what promises to be an exciting climactic game.