Lars Nootbaar hits a key 2-run single as the Cardinals rally past the Twins 3-2

MINNEAPOLIS, MN – On Sunday, Lars Nootbaar’s clutch two-run single with two outs in the ninth inning propelled the St. Louis Cardinals to a thrilling 3-2 victory over the Minnesota Twins. The Cardinals have been in strong form, winning four of their last five games.

Victor Scott II contributed to the win with a solo homer, while Nolan Arenado and Brendan Donovan helped set the stage for the game-winning rally. Arenado’s one-out single and Donovan’s fielder’s choice error led to the bases being loaded for Nootbaar, who delivered the decisive hit.

For the Twins, Willi Castro’s leadoff homer and Royce Lewis’ RBI double had put them ahead 2-1, but the loss snapped their remarkable streak of 60 games without a defeat when leading after the eighth inning. They now trail the Cleveland Guardians by three games in the AL Central race.

Erick Fedde and Zebby Matthews both had solid performances on the mound, with Fedde striking out seven and Matthews also fanning seven. Fedde, in particular, has been strong against the Twins this season, with a 1.06 ERA in three starts.

Defensively, both teams made impressive plays, including Austin Martin’s diving catch and Alec Burleson’s near-miss over the dugout railing.

Looking ahead, the Cardinals return home to start a four-game series against San Diego with Kyle Gibson on the mound, while the Twins will face Atlanta in a three-game series featuring Bailey Ober against Max Fried.