Matthews dazzles in debut as defense, bats provide support

MINNEAPOLIS, MN – In his major league debut, Zebby Matthews dazzled with five scoreless innings, leading the Minnesota Twins to a commanding 13-3 victory over the Kansas City Royals on Tuesday night. Matthews (1-0) surrendered just two runs on five hits, walking none and striking out five. The 24-year-old right-hander, who began the season in Class A, made an impressive start by striking out All-Star Bobby Witt Jr.

The Twins’ offense was relentless against Seth Lugo, who had a tough outing, giving up nine hits and a career-high-tying eight runs. Matt Wallner, who contributed three runs and two hits, and Jose Miranda, who had three hits and two RBIs, spearheaded the attack. Max Kepler and Kyle Farmer each hit home runs off the bullpen, and Christian Vázquez added another, showcasing the Twins’ offensive depth with eight extra-base hits among their 15 total hits.

Minnesota’s win kept them within striking distance of AL Central leader Cleveland, trailing by 3½ games. Kansas City, meanwhile, fell six games behind and both teams hold the second and third wild-card spots. Lugo, who had consistently pitched at least six innings in his previous starts, struggled from the outset. He allowed four consecutive batters to reach base in the first inning and was pulled after giving up three hits and a walk in the fifth.

The Royals’ third baseman, Maikel Garcia, made a throwing error that contributed to an unearned run, making Lugo’s performance even more challenging. Wallner made a highlight-reel catch in left field to rob Michael Massey of a home run, and Matthews showcased strong control, allowing only a solo homer to M.J. Melendez and an RBI double to Massey. In his 102 innings pitched across four levels this season, Matthews has only walked seven batters while striking out 119.

With Joe Ryan and Chris Paddack currently sidelined, the Twins might keep Matthews in their rookie-filled rotation. The Twins have dominated the Royals at Target Field, winning 18 of their last 20 matchups there, outscoring them 123-56 during this stretch. Overall this season, the Twins are 7-2 against the Royals.

**UP NEXT**

*Royals:* Left-hander Cole Ragans (9-7, 3.27 ERA) will start on Wednesday afternoon. He ranks sixth in the MLB in strikeouts.

*Twins:* Right-hander Louie Varland (0-4, 6.46 ERA) is scheduled to pitch in the series finale. He last appeared in a 4 2/3-inning stint during a doubleheader sweep of Cleveland.

(Photo courtesy of Twins/MLB)