Twins fall to the Dodgers on July 21, 2025, despite Byron Buxton's efforts. Read how Zebby Matthews' return from injury provides a silver lining to the loss.
StatPro MLB Beat Reporter
It was a classic 'good news, bad news' day for Twins Territory. While the team stumbled out of the gate in their high-stakes series against the Los Angeles Dodgers, a significant piece of the puzzle clicked back into place. The return of starter Zebby Matthews from the injured list provides a massive shot in the arm, even as the team grapples with another tough loss on the road.
In his final rehab start, Zebby Matthews struck out nine batters over four scoreless innings for the St. Paul Saints.
The Twins opened their three-game set at Dodger Stadium with a familiar result for their 2025 road trips: a loss. The defeat drops Minnesota to 48-51 on the season, with a frustrating 20-31 record away from Target Field. Facing a Dodgers lineup featuring the likes of Shohei Ohtani (34 HR, 65 RBI), the Twins couldn't find the winning formula. Despite another solid season from Byron Buxton, who boasts a .289 average with 22 homers, the team needs to find a way to win these crucial games on the road if they hope to stay in the postseason picture.
The biggest bright spot of the day came off the field. Right-handed starter Zebby Matthews was officially reinstated from the 15-day injured list after being sidelined with a right shoulder strain since June 8. His return couldn't be more timely. Matthews looked absolutely dominant in his final rehab appearance for the St. Paul Saints, carving up hitters with ease. His presence provides a much-needed boost to a rotation that has weathered its share of injuries. With the Twins just five games out of the final AL Wild Card spot, a healthy and effective Matthews could be the key to a late-season surge.
To make room for Matthews on the active roster, the Twins optioned their No. 21 prospect, right-hander Travis Adams, back to Triple-A St. Paul. Adams gained valuable experience during his latest big-league stint, making three appearances and logging nine innings. While his 6.00 ERA shows there's still room for development, the experience is invaluable. Adams will now head back to the Saints, where he has posted a solid 3.68 ERA this season, to continue refining his craft.
While the loss in Los Angeles stings, the war is far from over. The Twins have two more chances to steal a game from the Dodgers and build momentum. All eyes will now be on the upcoming schedule to see when manager Rocco Baldelli slots Zebby Matthews into the rotation. His first start back will be a must-watch event, and could very well set the tone for the team's final push toward October baseball.
