Crow-Armstrong Powers Cubs to 8-1 Victory Over Twins

Pete Crow-Armstrong showcased his power at the plate, launching two home runs as the Chicago Cubs defeated the Minnesota Twins 8-1 on Thursday. This marked Crow-Armstrong's fifth multi-homer game of the season, further solidifying his status as a key player for the Cubs.

With a stellar performance, Crow-Armstrong went 3 for 4, contributing three runs and three RBIs. His efforts were crucial in helping the Cubs avoid a three-game sweep. Colin Rea, the winning pitcher with a record of 7-3, delivered an impressive outing, allowing just three hits over seven innings, his longest start of the season.

Rea's only blemish came in the fifth inning when Kody Clemens hit a home run. The 35-year-old right-hander's performance was reminiscent of his seven shutout innings for Milwaukee last August. Meanwhile, Michael Busch added two RBIs to the Cubs' tally.

In the second inning, Dansby Swanson doubled and scored on a single from Nico Hoerner, giving the Cubs their first lead of the series. They continued to apply pressure on Twins starter Chris Paddack, who struggled throughout the game.

Paddack, who has looked to Rea for mentorship since their time together in San Diego, allowed 11 hits and six runs during his outing. His recent form has been concerning, with a record of 1-5 in his last ten starts.

Crow-Armstrong's first home run came in the third inning—a two-out, two-run shot that traveled 414 feet, just out of reach of center fielder Harrison Bader. Later, he added a solo homer in the seventh against Anthony Misiewicz, tying teammate Seiya Suzuki for sixth place in MLB with 25 home runs.

Looking ahead, the Cubs are set to face the New York Yankees in a three-game series starting Friday, with both teams yet to announce their starting pitchers. The Twins will host the Pittsburgh Pirates for their own three-game series, featuring a matchup between All-Star pitchers Paul Skenes and Joe Ryan.