MLB Game Preview: Minnesota Twins (13-19) vs. Boston Red Sox (17-16)

The Minnesota Twins and Boston Red Sox are set to open a three-game series on May 2, 2025, at Fenway Park in Boston, Massachusetts. First pitch is scheduled for 7:10 p.m. ET, with the game broadcast live on NESN and MNNT.

Both teams enter the matchup looking to rebound from recent losses. The Twins have dropped three straight games, while the Red Sox have lost two in a row.

Starting Pitchers

Minnesota Twins – Joe Ryan (2-2, 3.18 ERA)

Ryan has been a reliable arm for Minnesota, striking out 39 batters in 34.2 innings this season. He is coming off a dominant seven-inning shutout performance against the Los Angeles Angels, where he recorded 11 strikeouts.

Ryan has a 3-2 career record against Boston, with a 3.38 ERA in five starts.

Boston Red Sox – Brayan Bello (2-0, 3.27 ERA)

Bello has been solid since returning from a season-opening shoulder injury, delivering six innings of three-run ball in his last start against Cleveland.

The 25-year-old right-hander has faced Minnesota once before, back in 2022, allowing three runs over five innings.

Team Form and Key Players

Minnesota Twins (13-19 Record)

Minnesota has struggled offensively, ranking 22nd in slugging percentage (.369) and 25th in home runs (25).

Key Players:

• Ty France – Went 3-for-5 in Minnesota’s last game against Cleveland.
• Harrison Bader – Also recorded three hits in the previous game.
• Ryan Jeffers – Catcher who praised Ryan’s fastball, calling it one of the best in the game.

Boston Red Sox (17-15 Record)

Boston has been strong offensively, ranking fourth in MLB in runs scored (166) and eighth in home runs (40).

Key Players:

• Alex Bregman – Leads the Red Sox with seven home runs and 26 RBIs, batting .326.
• Jarren Duran – Has been consistent at the plate, hitting .279.
• Wilyer Abreu – Expected to play a key role in Boston’s lineup.

Key Matchups and Strategies

1. Ryan vs. Red Sox’s Power Hitters – Boston ranks fifth in slugging percentage (.423), making Ryan’s ability to limit extra-base hits crucial.
2. Bello vs. Twins’ Offense – Minnesota has struggled to generate runs, ranking 18th in total hits (249).
3. Bullpen Battle – Both teams have had inconsistent relief pitching, making late-game execution critical.
4. Home vs. Away Performance – Boston has been strong at home, while Minnesota has struggled on the road.

Game Odds

Minnesota Twins             9

Boston Red Sox                 – 110

Odds Courtesy of Sports Odds Direct as of Thursday, May 1, 2025