Minnesota Twins 4, Chicago Cubs 2

Wednesday, July 9th, 2025

MINNEAPOLIS – The Minnesota Twins defeated the Chicago Cubs 4-2 on Wednesday night, July 9, 2025, securing a victory where they scored early for the second consecutive game.

Ryan Jeffers and Carlos Correa each contributed an RBI as the Twins jumped out to a first-inning lead. Matt Wallner extended the lead with a solo home run in the third inning.

Twins right-hander David Festa earned the win (3-3), pitching 5 1/3 innings and allowing two runs in the fourth inning. The Minnesota bullpen was effective, tossing 3 2/3 scoreless innings. Closer Jhoan Duran, returning after an illness, earned his 14th save of the season.

A significant moment for the Twins occurred in the first inning when All-Star center fielder Byron Buxton was hit in the hand. He initially stayed in the game but was removed in the second inning. The team announced Buxton suffered a left hand contusion.

Cubs starter Cade Horton (3-3) struggled, lasting only 4 2/3 innings. He surrendered four runs on six hits. This marks the third time in his last four starts that Horton failed to complete five innings.

The Twins added an insurance run in the fourth inning. Royce Lewis scored during a rundown between first and second base involving Matt Wallner, who extended the play long enough for Lewis to cross home plate.

Key moment

The injury to Byron Buxton in the first inning is a major concern for the Twins. The severity of the left hand contusion could impact his playing time and potentially his participation in the Home Run Derby during All-Star weekend in his home state of Georgia.

Key stat

Before exiting the game due to injury, Byron Buxton stole his 17th base of the season in the first inning, maintaining a perfect 17-for-17 record on steal attempts this year.

Up next

The Cubs will send right-hander Colin Rea (6-3, 4.13 ERA) to the mound for the series finale. The Twins counter with right-hander Chris Paddack (3-7, 4.64 ERA).

In summary

The Minnesota Twins defeated the Chicago Cubs 4-2 on July 9, 2025. The Twins were led offensively by RBI contributions from Ryan Jeffers and Carlos Correa and a solo homer by Matt Wallner. David Festa earned the win, and Jhoan Duran recorded his 14th save. The Twins lost Byron Buxton to a left hand contusion in the first inning. Cubs starter Cade Horton took the loss.

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