Target Field, Minneapolis, MN
First pitch is scheduled for 7:40 PM EDT
TV: Twins.TV, NESN+, MLB.TV
This early-season AL matchup is Game 2 of a three-game series at Target Field. The Twins took Game 1 in convincing fashion (13-6 on Monday) and look to extend their winning streak and AL Central lead, while the Red Sox—struggling at the bottom of the AL East—seek a bounce-back victory behind one of their ace arms. Minnesota boasts the better record, home dominance, and run differential edge; Boston has shown flashes but remains one of the league’s weakest clubs through two weeks.
Team Records & Recent Form
Red Sox (6-10, 5th AL East): Boston is 3-7 on the road and has lost three of its last four overall (including Monday’s blowout loss to these Twins). Recent results include a strong series split against St. Louis (wins of 7-1 and 9-3) but early-season woes with a 3-7 road mark. Offense has been inconsistent (averaging ~4.5 runs/game), while the pitching staff has been vulnerable outside of top starters.
Twins (10-7, 1st AL Central): Minnesota is rolling with a three-game win streak and a 6-2 home record. They are 5-2 in their last seven and have outscored opponents significantly in recent victories (including 13 runs Monday). The lineup features timely power and contact, and they rank top-10 in team ERA early while averaging ~5.1 runs scored per game.
Weather Updates
Mild and neutral-to-slightly hitter-friendly conditions at Target Field: temperatures around 65–68°F with moderate humidity (~50-55%), light north winds 5–8 mph (minimal impact on fly balls), and only a ~10% chance of precipitation. Partly cloudy skies with no rain delays expected. The setup supports a standard 2.5–3 hour pace without extreme wind, cold, or dome-like effects.
Injury Report
Boston Red Sox
Justin Slaten (RP): 15-Day IL.
Patrick Sandoval (SP): 15-Day IL.
Kutter Crawford (SP): 15-Day IL (return target early May).
Triston Casas (1B): 10-Day IL (left patellar tendon repair).
Additional rotation/bullpen depth pieces remain sidelined, thinning Boston’s options behind Gray.
Minnesota Twins
Royce Lewis (INF): 10-Day IL (knee).
Cody Laweryson (P): 15-Day IL (forearm).
Other depth arms on the shelf, but the lineup and bullpen remain relatively intact for tonight.
Key
Player Matchups to Watch / Probable Pitchers
Sonny Gray (BOS, RHP, 2-0, 2.76 ERA, 0.98 WHIP, 10 K in 16.1 IP) vs. Mick Abel (MIN, RHP, 0-2, 6.08 ERA, 2.10 WHIP, 13 K in 13.1 IP)
Gray has been outstanding early with elite command and strike-throwing ability. Abel has struggled with hard contact and walks (high WHIP) in three starts and will be tested by Boston’s veteran bats.
Red Sox key hitters (Rafael Devers, Jarren Duran, Willson Contreras) vs. Abel’s arsenal: Boston can capitalize on Abel’s elevated ERA with extra-base opportunities if he leaves pitches up.
Twins lineup (Byron Buxton, recent hot bats) vs. Gray’s slider/fastball mix: Minnesota’s offense has been aggressive at home; they must generate early pressure against Gray’s strong recent form.
Bullpens: Both have been used recently, but Minnesota’s relief corps has more margin given the home edge and recent offensive support. Defense and baserunning favor the Twins in Target Field.
Series History
Twins lead the 2026 season series 1-0 after Monday’s 13-6 rout. Historically the clubs have been competitive, but Minnesota has owned recent home matchups. The current form, pitching mismatch, and home advantage tilt heavily toward the Twins in this early set.
Betting Trends
Twins are strong at home (6-2) and coming off a blowout win.
Red Sox are 3-7 on the road and vulnerable despite Gray’s start.
Gray’s low ERA gives Boston the pitching edge, but Abel’s struggles and Twins’ momentum point to middle-inning scoring.
espn.com +2
Game Odds
Boston Red Sox – 143
Minnesota Twins 8
Odds Courtesy of Sports Odds Direct as of Monday, April 13, 2026
