CINCINNATI — The Cincinnati Reds edged the Minnesota Twins 2-1 on Thursday night at Great American Ball Park, securing a narrow victory in a tightly contested American League Central matchup.
The Reds improved to 12-8 on the season with the win, while the Twins fell to 8-12. Cincinnati struck early, scoring both of their runs in the second inning to build a lead they would hold onto for the remainder of the game.
Minnesota managed only a single run, which came in the seventh inning, but it was not enough to overcome Cincinnati’s early advantage. The Twins threatened in the later innings but were unable to produce the timely hits needed to tie or take the lead.
Starting pitcher for the Reds delivered a solid performance, working six innings and allowing just one run on five hits while striking out seven. He received no decision as the game remained close throughout, but his effort kept the Twins off balance long enough for Cincinnati’s bullpen to close out the win.
On the offensive side, two Reds players combined for the team’s two runs, each contributing an RBI single in the second inning. The Twins’ lone run came on a sacrifice fly in the seventh, which plated their only score of the evening after a leadoff double and a groundout moved the runner into scoring position.
The game remained within one run after the seventh inning, setting up a tense final two frames. Cincinnati’s closer was called upon in the ninth and recorded the final three outs to preserve the victory, earning his second save of the season.
With the win, the Reds gain ground in the tightly packed National League Central standings, where every game carries heightened importance early in the 2026 campaign. The Twins, meanwhile, will look to regroup as they prepare for a weekend series against a division rival.
Both teams return to action Friday, with Cincinnati hosting the Pittsburgh Pirates for a three-game set beginning at 6:40 p.m. ET, while Minnesota travels to face the Cleveland Guardians in a weekend series that could shape early-season positioning in the AL Central.
Fans seeking updates on upcoming games, ticket information, or league-wide standings can visit MLB.com for the latest news and schedules as the 2026 season progresses.
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