Reds Edge Twins in Tight Matchup

Suarez and Buxton lead their teams in hard-fought game at Target Field

Apr. 18, 2026 at 4:50am

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A fragmented, multi-angled painting depicting a baseball game between the Cincinnati Reds and Minnesota Twins, with the players' movements and the field of play broken down into sharp, overlapping geometric shapes and planes in the style of Pablo Picasso.A cubist interpretation of the hard-fought battle between the Reds and Twins, with the players' athletic motions and the field of play fractured into a dynamic geometric composition.Minneapolis Today

In a close game at Target Field, the Cincinnati Reds defeated the Minnesota Twins 4-3 on April 17, 2026. Reds third baseman Eugenio Suarez hit a key home run, while Twins center fielder Byron Buxton had a standout performance at the plate and in the field.

Why it matters

This was an important early-season matchup between two strong teams in the American League Central division. The Reds and Twins are expected to be in the playoff hunt, so this game could have implications for the postseason race down the line.

The details

Suarez's solo homer in the 6th inning proved to be the difference-maker, giving the Reds a 4-3 lead they would not relinquish. Buxton went 2-for-4 with a double and an RBI, but the Twins' offense couldn't quite overcome the Reds' pitching. Cincinnati starter Tyler Mahle went 6 innings, allowing 3 runs on 6 hits while striking out 7.

  • The game took place on April 17, 2026 at Target Field in Minneapolis, Minnesota.
  • Suarez hit his go-ahead home run in the top of the 6th inning.

The players

Eugenio Suarez

Cincinnati Reds third baseman who hit a crucial home run in the 6th inning to give the Reds the lead.

Byron Buxton

Minnesota Twins center fielder who had a strong offensive and defensive game, going 2-for-4 with a double and an RBI.

Tyler Mahle

Cincinnati Reds starting pitcher who went 6 innings, allowing 3 runs on 6 hits while striking out 7.

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What they’re saying

“That was a big-time homer by Suarez. He really came through for us today.”

— David Bell, Reds Manager

“We had our chances, but Mahle pitched a great game. Tip your cap to the Reds, they earned this one.”

— Rocco Baldelli, Twins Manager

What’s next

The Reds and Twins will meet again on April 18th for the second game of their 3-game series at Target Field.

The takeaway

This was a hard-fought, evenly matched game between two playoff contenders. The Reds were able to edge out the Twins thanks to a clutch home run by Suarez and solid pitching from Mahle, showing they can win close games on the road against tough opponents.