Byron Buxton's Epic Catch Secures Twins' 4-2 Victory Over Struggling White Sox
In a nail-biting finish, the Minnesota Twins triumphed over the Chicago White Sox with a score of 4-2 on Tuesday night, thanks to a stellar performance from Bailey Ober and a game-saving catch by Byron Buxton. Ober pitched six solid innings, marking his second consecutive win, while Trevor Larnach contributed with a two-run homer that helped secure the victory.
The drama unfolded in the ninth inning when the White Sox loaded the bases, putting pressure on Twins closer Jhoan Duran. After an infield single and two walks, Duran faced a critical moment. However, he managed to limit the damage to just one run. The highlight of the inning came when Buxton made a spectacular diving catch at the warning track in right-center, snatching a line drive from Andrew Benintendi with runners on second and third, sealing the game for the Twins.
Ober, who improved his record to 2-1, allowed only one run on eight hits while striking out six batters. After a rough start to the season where he gave up eight runs in just 2 2/3 innings, Ober has bounced back impressively, allowing only six runs over his last four starts, spanning 22 1/3 innings.
Rookie Luke Keaschall, who was recalled just a few days ago, had an impressive outing, recording a single, drawing two walks, stealing two bases, and scoring two runs. His performance was crucial in helping the Twins snap a three-game losing streak.
Larnach's two-run homer, his second of the season, came in the eighth inning after Keaschall had walked and stolen second base, adding to the Twins' lead.
On the other side, Chicago's Davis Martin (1-3) pitched five innings, allowing two runs—none of which were earned—while giving up three hits and three walks. Rookie catcher Edgar Quero shone for the White Sox, achieving a career-high three hits in just his sixth game. Unfortunately for Chicago, this loss marked their eighth in nine games, dropping their record to a dismal 5-18.
Keaschall's go-ahead run in the third inning was a result of a misplay by the White Sox. Quero's throw to first hit Larnach in the back, allowing Keaschall to score from second base, highlighting the defensive struggles of the White Sox.
With this defeat, Chicago's road record stands at 1-10 this season, and they are 1-9 against teams in the AL Central. The White Sox have now lost 22 of their last 25 games, being outscored 157-83 by the Twins, and they have suffered 13 consecutive losses at Target Field.
Looking ahead, rookie right-hander David Festa (0-0, 0.00 ERA) is set to make his third start of the season for Minnesota. Meanwhile, Chicago's Bryse Wilson (0-0, 4.50 ERA) will be making his first start of the season, marking his return since June 20 of last year when he played for Milwaukee against San Diego.
