Max Kepler’s timely return from injury helped the Minnesota Twins secure a resounding 7-0 victory over the Chicago White Sox on Monday night.
Kepler, who missed the past 13 games with a knee contusion, made an immediate impact in his return. He doubled home two runs in the first inning and added an RBI single in the third to give the Twins a 3-0 lead.
Chris Paddack, making his second start for Minnesota, was dominant on the mound. The right-hander struck out 10 batters in seven shutout innings, allowing only six hits and no walks. Paddack’s performance marked his first starting win since May 2022, a significant milestone in his comeback from Tommy John surgery.
Edouard Julien also played a key role in the Twins’ victory, contributing three hits, including a solo home run. Minnesota’s offense, which entered the game struggling with runners in scoring position, managed to capitalize on two of six opportunities.
On the other side, the White Sox offense continued to sputter, scoring only 45 runs this season, the worst in MLB. Chicago has now lost 10 of its last 11 games.
The teams will meet again on Tuesday in the second game of their four-game series. Chicago will send right-hander Erick Fedde to the mound, while Minnesota will counter with Pablo López.
