Reds Edge Twins in Pitchers' Duel

Brandon Williamson earns the win in his homecoming start against Minnesota.

Apr. 18, 2026 at 8:35am

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A fragmented, geometric painting depicting a baseball game, with sharp planes of color representing the players and field in an abstract, Cubist style.A cubist interpretation of the tense pitchers' duel between the Reds and Twins.Fairmont Today

The Cincinnati Reds defeated the Minnesota Twins 2-1 in a tight pitchers' duel on Friday night. Reds starter Brandon Williamson, a native of Fairmont, Minnesota, pitched 5.1 innings and allowed just one run. Eugenio Suarez hit a two-run double in the fourth inning to provide the offense for the Reds, who held on for the victory.

Why it matters

This was an important win for the Reds, who are looking to bounce back after a slow start to the season. The Twins, meanwhile, missed an opportunity to gain ground in the competitive AL Central division.

The details

Reds starter Brandon Williamson, pitching in his home state, was solid, allowing just three hits and one run over 5.1 innings. Eugenio Suarez provided the key hit, a two-run double in the fourth inning that proved to be the difference. Twins starter Joe Ryan also pitched well, going six innings and allowing just two runs. The Reds bullpen, led by closer Emilio Pagan, was able to hold the slim lead and secure the victory.

  • The game was played on Friday, April 18, 2026.
  • Brandon Williamson, a native of Fairmont, Minnesota, was making his homecoming start.

The players

Brandon Williamson

The Cincinnati Reds starting pitcher, who is from Fairmont, Minnesota.

Eugenio Suarez

The Cincinnati Reds third baseman who hit a key two-run double in the fourth inning.

Joe Ryan

The Minnesota Twins starting pitcher, who had a solid outing despite the loss.

Emilio Pagan

The Cincinnati Reds closer who recorded the save.

Josh Bell

The Minnesota Twins first baseman who had two of the team's five hits.

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What they’re saying

“It was great to come back home and get the win for the team. The crowd really gave me a boost out there.”

— Brandon Williamson, Reds Pitcher

“We just couldn't get the big hit when we needed it. Credit to Williamson and the Reds bullpen, they made the plays to win the game.”

— Rocco Baldelli, Twins Manager

What’s next

The two teams will continue their three-game series on Saturday night in Minneapolis.

The takeaway

This was an evenly matched pitchers' duel that came down to a timely hit by Eugenio Suarez. The Reds were able to hold on for the victory, which could provide a boost as they look to climb back into contention in the NL Central.