Twins rally in 12th to defeat Red Sox and secure playoff spot

On Friday night in Boston, the Minnesota Twins secured a crucial victory against the Boston Red Sox, winning 4-2 in a dramatic 12-inning game. The Twins' Trevor Larnach and Matt Wallner each contributed with key RBI singles in the 12th, allowing the team to clinch the American League's third wild-card spot. This win was particularly significant as it came during a critical stretch of the season, with only eight games remaining for the Red Sox, who are struggling with a 7-14 record in their last 21 games. The game featured a standout performance from Red Sox rookie pitcher Richard Fitts, who made history by not allowing an earned run in his first three major league starts. Fitts pitched five shutout innings, striking out three and walking one, showcasing his potential as a valuable asset for the team. However, despite his efforts, the Red Sox's offense faltered, striking out 20 times and leaving 17 runners on base throughout the game. The Twins managed to tie the game in the seventh inning when Byron Buxton scored on a fielder's choice by Carlos Correa. The late-game heroics from Larnach and Wallner ultimately sealed the victory, with Scott Blewett earning the win and Griffin Jax securing the save. The Red Sox's struggles continued as they fell further behind in the playoff race, trailing the Twins by five games. In the aftermath of the game, the Red Sox placed outfielder Rob Refsnyder on the 10-day injured list due to a strained right forearm, further complicating their efforts to turn the season around. The Twins' victory not only boosts their playoff hopes but also highlights the challenges faced by the Red Sox as they navigate the final stretch of the season.