Twins Shut Out Cubs 3-0 with Festa's 9 Strikeouts

The Minnesota Twins have closed the gap in the American League Central, now trailing the Cleveland Guardians by just 3.5 games, marking their closest position to first place since May 18. Twins pitcher Festa expressed satisfaction with his recent performance, noting improvements in executing crucial pitches. Manager Rocco Baldelli praised Festa's ability to maintain control throughout the game, highlighting his sharpness and versatility on the mound. The Twins' bullpen, featuring Caleb Thielbar, Jorge Alcala, Jhoan Duran, and Griffin Jax, effectively limited the Chicago Cubs to just four hits. Jax secured his eighth save of the season, demonstrating the team's strong late-game performance. Offensively, Royce Lewis contributed with a sacrifice fly, while Manuel Margot hit a home run off Cubs starter Kyle Hendricks, who allowed five hits over six innings. In a tense ninth inning, Ryan Jeffers grounded into a double play that added to the Twins' score. A notable play occurred when right fielder Mike Tauchman misjudged a ball, allowing Trevor Larnach to attempt to score from first base. However, a well-executed relay from the Cubs' defense resulted in a crucial out at home plate. Meanwhile, the Cubs are dealing with injury concerns, as Cody Bellinger continues to struggle defensively after returning from a fractured finger. Additionally, RHP Adbert Alzolay is set to undergo forearm surgery, further impacting the team's pitching depth. LHP Shota Imanaga is scheduled to start for the Cubs, seeking to break a streak of three consecutive no-decisions.