In a lively Friday night at Target Field, the Chicago White Sox extended their AL Central lead with a 7-4 triumph over the Minnesota Twins. The decisive moment came early when rookie outfielder Colson Montgomery launched his 28th career home run, a three‑run shot that put Chicago up 4-0 in the first inning.
Key offensive highlights
Montgomery’s blast came off Twins starter Dean Kremer, who struggled to find his command and ultimately allowed six runs in just four innings. The White Sox capitalized on the early pressure, adding a two‑run double from veteran outfielder Andrew Benintendi in the third inning to cement the lead.
The Twins answered back with first‑inning homers of their own from prospects Brooks Lee and Kody Clemens, tying the game at 4‑4 before Benintendi’s double restored Chicago’s advantage.
Pitching performances
Both starters were limited to four innings. Chicago right‑hander Luis Castillo surrendered four runs on eight hits, while Kremer gave up five earned runs before exiting. Reliever Grant Taylor delivered 2 2/3 shutout innings, earning the win and showcasing the depth of the White Sox bullpen. Bryan Hudson closed out the ninth for his sixth save of the season.
Notable individual notes
White Sox center fielder Tristan Peters saw his five‑game home run streak end, matching a franchise record. He finished 1‑for‑4 with a single, contributing to the team’s offensive flow.
For Minnesota, top prospect Walker Jenkins made his major‑league debut, batting ninth and playing center field. He earned a warm ovation after a deep flyout to the warning track in his first at‑bat and recorded his first hit with a single to right in the fourth inning.
Implications for the standings
The victory solidifies Chicago’s position atop the AL Central, while the Twins continue to slide, now 8‑14 since the trade deadline. Minnesota remains four games out of the final wild‑card spot, with four teams ahead in the American League.
Looking ahead, Chicago RHP Erick Fedde (6‑8, 4.18 ERA) is slated to start Saturday’s series finale against Minnesota RHP Bailey Ober (7‑4, 4.49 ERA), a matchup that could further define the division race as the regular season heads toward its climax.
Original reporting: Alexandria, VA News – WTOP News — read the source article.
