Boston Red Sox vs Minnesota Twins Picks and Predictions May 3rd 2025

Boston Red Sox Rally for Emotional Win to Open Series

The Boston Red Sox started their six-game homestand with a decisive 6-1 win over the Minnesota Twins on Friday, blending offensive firepower with another quality start on the mound. However, the mood at Fenway Park quickly shifted from celebration to concern as first baseman Triston Casas went down with a severe knee injury in the second inning.

The victory marked a critical bounce-back for Boston after two gut-wrenching losses to the Toronto Blue Jays earlier in the week. It also showcased the team’s resilience—both physically and emotionally—on the heels of mounting pressure and injuries.

Rafael Devers, David Hamilton Lead Offensive Charge

The Red Sox bats came alive early and often, notching 13 hits in the game. Both Rafael Devers and David Hamilton recorded three hits apiece, with Devers delivering a crucial two-RBI single to put Boston ahead.

Alex Bregman also contributed with a solo home run in the first inning, helping to set the tone for the team before tragedy struck just an inning later.

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Casas Injury Casts Shadow Over Fenway Victory

In a freak play during the second inning, Triston Casas suffered what manager Alex Cora described as a “significant knee injury.” The incident occurred when Casas beat out a slow grounder that was mishandled by Twins pitcher Joe Ryan. As Casas stepped hard on first base, he collided awkwardly with Minnesota’s Ty France, twisting his knee and immediately collapsing in pain.

He was carted off the field on a stretcher and transported to a local hospital for further evaluation. The team has yet to confirm the severity, but early indications suggest a potentially lengthy absence.

“It seemed like he was in shock,” said manager Alex Cora. “It’s tough. He works so hard and we want him on the field.”

Teammate Alex Bregman echoed that emotion:

“We’re a big family in here … to see one of your guys go down like that, it’s really tough.”

Brayan Bello Continues Quality Pitching Streak

Brayan Bello extended Boston’s impressive streak of six consecutive quality starts, going 6 2/3 innings while allowing just one run. Bello kept the Twins’ bats silent, giving Boston a much-needed performance on the mound.

With Walker Buehler sidelined due to right shoulder bursitis, the Red Sox rotation is under strain. Hunter Dobbins will step in on Saturday for his third major league start. Don’t miss out on our Daily Baseball Picks from MLB Expert Handicappers

Red Sox Rotation Adjusts with Dobbins Next Up

The 25-year-old Hunter Dobbins, recalled from Triple-A Worcester, is 2-0 with a 2.45 ERA. He last pitched on April 18, delivering a strong six-inning outing against the White Sox. While he hasn’t faced Minnesota before, his early performance suggests he’s ready for the challenge.

“We don’t think [Buehler’s injury] is that serious,” Cora added. “Miss two starts and hopefully be back soon.”

Twins Struggle Offensively Despite Recent Momentum

Minnesota entered the series on a 6-5 stretch but has now lost four straight games. Their road woes continue with a 4-14 record away from home. The offense has sputtered, managing just seven runs across the last four games.

Ryan Jeffers’ solo home run was the only bright spot in an otherwise quiet night for the Twins’ bats.

“It hasn’t connected well for us to score runs,” said Twins manager Rocco Baldelli. “You’re always going to end up talking about the little things when you’re trying to win a one-run game.”

Bailey Ober Aims to Stop the Bleeding for Minnesota

Scheduled to start on Saturday, Bailey Ober (3-1, 4.13 ERA) has turned his season around after a rough debut. He’s allowed just one run in four of his last five starts and looked sharp in a recent outing in Cleveland.

Though 0-2 against the Red Sox, Ober has pitched well in those matchups, giving up only three earned runs in 17 innings with 14 strikeouts.

Looking Ahead: Key Storylines for Game 2

• Can the Red Sox maintain momentum despite injuries?
• Will Dobbins rise to the occasion in a high-pressure start?
• Can the Twins snap their four-game skid and revive their offense?

Conclusion: A Win with a Heavy Cost

The Red Sox showed resilience with a big win over the Twins, but Triston Casas’ injury adds uncertainty to what could have been a purely celebratory night. With Hunter Dobbins stepping into the spotlight and Bailey Ober aiming to bounce back for Minnesota, Game 2 promises high emotion and high stakes.