Reds top Twins 6-5 on June 18, 2025, as TJ Friedl's clutch double and Andrew Abbott's gritty start fuel a wild card push. Read how they did it!
StatPro MLB Beat Reporter
Just when you think you've seen it all, these Cincinnati Reds find another way to win. In a gritty, back-and-forth affair at Great American Ball Park, the Reds once again proved their resilience, storming back to defeat the Minnesota Twins 6-5. The victory, their third straight and eighth in the last 11 games, wasn't just another mark in the win column; it was a statement that this team is for real, now sitting just two games out of a National League wild-card spot.
Andrew Abbott pitched six innings, allowed five runs (only ONE earned), and somehow *lowered* his ERA to a stunning 1.84.
The game hung in the balance in the bottom of the sixth. Down a run with two outs, the Reds needed a hero, and team captain TJ Friedl answered the call. Facing reliever Brock Stewart, Friedl laced a scorching double into the gap, plating two runs and sending the GABP crowd into a frenzy. It was the decisive blow in a game full of them, following up earlier multi-run hits from Will Benson and Jake Fraley. When the pressure is highest, Friedl continues to be the man for the moment.
Andrew Abbott's final line might look confusing: six innings, five runs allowed. But look closer, and you see the story. Only one of those runs was earned, as a costly throwing error by Christian Encarnacion-Strand opened the floodgates for a Twins rally. Despite the defensive lapse behind him, Abbott battled, striking out five and issuing zero walks. Incredibly, the messy inning actually *lowered* his season ERA to a sparkling 1.84, a testament to just how dominant he's been all year. The young lefty continues to be the ace of this staff.
With the lead secured, the bullpen did what it does best: shut it down. Scott Barlow (2-0) came on to put out the fire, earning the win with 1 1/3 innings of stellar relief work, including two strikeouts. Then, in the ninth, it was time for Emilio Pagán. He calmly worked a scoreless frame to lock down his 17th save of the season, putting a final stamp on the hard-fought victory.
This isn't just a nice little run; it's a legitimate surge into postseason contention. Winning eight of their last 11 has transformed the Reds' season. They are no longer just a fun story; they are a threat. Now sitting only two games back of the third NL wild-card spot, every game feels bigger, every win more meaningful. The energy is palpable, and the rest of the league is starting to take notice.
The Reds will look to keep the momentum rolling and secure the series win in the next game. Lefty Nick Lodolo (4-5, 3.76 ERA) gets the ball, facing off against the Twins' Bailey Ober (4-3, 4.40 ERA). With the offense clicking and the pitching staff dealing, this team is a must-watch right now. Buckle up, Reds Country, the hunt for October is officially on.
