Reds Edge Twins 2-1 Behind Suárez's Two-Run Double

Brandon Williamson pitches 5 1/3 innings of one-run ball as Cincinnati takes series opener in Minnesota.

Apr. 18, 2026 at 4:21am

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A fragmented, geometric painting depicting a baseball game, with the players and field broken down into overlapping planes of bright, contrasting colors.A cubist interpretation of the Reds' narrow victory over the Twins, with the key moments of the game deconstructed into a dynamic visual composition.Minneapolis Today

The Cincinnati Reds defeated the Minnesota Twins 2-1 on Friday night, with Eugenio Suárez driving in two runs on a double and Brandon Williamson allowing just one run over 5 1/3 innings of work. Emilio Pagán closed out the game for the Reds, recording a 1-2-3 ninth inning for his sixth save of the season.

Why it matters

The win moves the Reds to 12-8 on the season, keeping them in contention in the NL Central, while the loss drops the Twins to 10-10 and into a tie for second place in the AL Central.

The details

Suárez's two-run double in the third inning proved to be the difference, as Williamson limited the Twins' offense to just three hits and four walks while striking out two. Pagán's perfect ninth inning sealed the victory for Cincinnati.

  • The game was played on Friday, April 18, 2026.
  • Suárez's two-run double came in the third inning.

The players

Eugenio Suárez

A third baseman for the Cincinnati Reds who drove in two runs with a double in the third inning.

Brandon Williamson

The starting pitcher for the Cincinnati Reds, who allowed one run over 5 1/3 innings of work to earn the win.

Emilio Pagán

The closer for the Cincinnati Reds, who recorded a 1-2-3 ninth inning for his sixth save of the season.

Minnesota Twins

The home team who lost the series opener to the Cincinnati Reds.

Cincinnati Reds

The visiting team who defeated the Minnesota Twins 2-1 on Friday night.

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What they’re saying

“It was a well-pitched game on both sides, and we were able to come out on top with a big hit from Suárez.”

— David Bell, Manager, Cincinnati Reds

What’s next

The two teams will continue their series on Saturday, with first pitch scheduled for 7:10 PM local time.

The takeaway

The Reds' victory keeps them in the hunt in the NL Central, while the Twins missed an opportunity to gain ground in the AL Central race.