Triston Casas hits 3 HRs in 1st game, Gonzalez hits 3-run HR in nightcap as Red Sox sweep Twins

BOSTON – The Minnesota Twins faced a tough day against the Boston Red Sox, getting swept in a split doubleheader on Sunday. In the second game, Romy Gonzalez shone brightly, hitting a three-run homer and driving in four runs to help Boston secure a 9-3 victory.

This loss marked the Twins’ 13th defeat in their last 19 games, pushing them a game behind both Detroit and Kansas City for the final two wild-card spots in the AL. Despite holding the tiebreaker over both teams, Minnesota (81-75) has struggled, posting a disappointing 11-22 record since peaking at 17 games over .500 on August 17.

On the other hand, the Red Sox managed to climb back to .500 (78-78), winning for just the ninth time in their last 23 games. Since the All-Star break, they’ve gone 24-36 and faded from the playoff race.

In the opener, Triston Casas had a standout performance, homering in his first three at-bats and driving in seven runs, leading Boston to an 8-1 win. He came close to making history, as no American League player has hit four homers in a game since Josh Hamilton in 2012.

In the nightcap, the Twins initially led 2-0 until Gonzalez’s pivotal three-run blast off Cole Irvin (6-6) in the fifth inning, which sailed into the Green Monster seats. Boston added six runs in the sixth, with Jarren Duran contributing a two-run double and Gonzalez adding a sacrifice fly.

Kutter Crawford (9-15) had an impressive outing, pitching 7 2/3 innings while allowing three runs and striking out seven. Kyle Farmer from Minnesota extended his hitting streak to 13 games.

Red Sox manager Alex Cora was ejected in the first inning after arguing a call regarding Byron Buxton’s advance to third base, which added drama to an already intense day.

**UP NEXT:**
The Twins will send RHP Bailey Ober (12-7, 3.84 ERA) to the mound for the opener of a three-game series against Miami on Tuesday, while the Red Sox head to Toronto to face the Blue Jays, with RHP Tanner Houck (8-10, 3.21) starting.

(Photo courtesy of Twins/MLB)