The game was decided before Boston could settle in. Minnesota exploded for 11 runs in the first two innings, turning what began as a competitive matchup into a rout en route to a 13-6 victory at Target Field.
Ryan Jeffers carried the offensive surge, going 3-for-4 with a home run and three RBIs. The catcher drove in runs in both of the decisive early innings, singling home Keaschall in the first and adding a solo homer in the fifth. Victor Caratini provided the knockout blow with a three-run homer in the second inning, capping the 11-run outburst that put the game out of reach.
The Twins struck immediately in the first inning. Keaschall doubled to left, scoring Martin, then Jeffers singled him home. Brooks Lee reached on an infield single that brought home Jeffers, while Caratini scored on a throwing error by shortstop Story to make it 4-0. The second inning brought even more damage as Jeffers singled home Buxton, Bell doubled home two more runs, then Caratini homered to left for three runs. Ryan Kreidler added a solo shot to complete the 11-0 advantage.
Garrett Crochet absorbed the loss, lasting just 1.2 innings while allowing nine hits and 11 runs. His ERA now sits at 7.58. Bailey Ober earned the victory for Minnesota, working six innings and allowing four earned runs while striking out seven to improve to 2-0 with a 5.49 ERA.
Minnesota extended its winning streak to two games and improved to 9-7, maintaining first place in the division. Boston fell to 6-9 despite having its own winning streak snapped.