MINNEAPOLIS (AP) Zebby Matthews pitched a two-hitter over six scoreless innings in one of the best begin of his profession and the Minnesota Twins began a pivotal homestand with a 1-0 victory over a wild MacKenzie Gore and the Washington Nationals on Friday evening.

All-Star Byron Buxton ‘s sacrifice fly within the fifth was all Matthews (2-2) wanted for his first win after a six-week stint on the injured listing with a shoulder pressure.

The 25-year-old right-hander departed with a shutout for the primary time in 15 main league begins whereas permitting the fewest hits of his profession, with six strikeouts and no walks. Matthews didn’t let a ball out of the infield till a two-out double within the fourth inning by Luis García Jr.

The Nationals have been held scoreless over 21 straight innings.

Gore (4-10) matched his profession excessive with six walks, permitting only one hit in 5 innings. He threw two wild pitches after strolling Matt Wallner within the fifth, permitting him to maneuver to 3rd in place to attain on Buxton’s fly to left.

The Twins, who entered the night 5 video games out of the final AL wild-card spot with 5 groups in entrance of them, received for the ninth time of their final 12 video games at Goal Discipline. They’ve 5 extra video games at house, the place they’re 29-20 this season, earlier than the commerce deadline.

Key second

Daylen Lile hit a one-out double within the eighth off Griffin Jax, however the right-hander responded by fanning Riley Adams on three pitches. Jax walked Jacob Younger however received CJ Abrams to fly out to complete the inning.

Key stat

The Nationals haven’t scored because the sixth inning of a 6-1 win over Cincinnati on Tuesday.

Up subsequent

Mitchell Parker (6-10, 5.00 ERA) pitches on Saturday evening for the Nationals. All-Star Joe Ryan (10-4, 2.63 ERA) takes the mound for the Twins.

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AP MLB: https://apnews.com/hub/MLB