The Chicago Cubs delivered a commanding performance on July 10, 2025, cruising to an 8-1 victory over the Minnesota Twins at Target Field to avoid a series sweep. Fueled by a spectacular two-homer game from National League All-Star Pete Crow-Armstrong and a dominant pitching outing from veteran Colin Rea, the Cubs showcased a balanced attack that overwhelmed the Twins and kept their playoff hopes alive.
Crow-Armstrong’s Power Display
Pete Crow-Armstrong was the star of the night, going 3-for-4 with three runs scored and three RBIs. His two home runs marked his fifth multi-homer game this season, underscoring his breakout first half that earned him a starting spot in the All-Star Game. Crow-Armstrong’s first blast came in the third inning a towering 414-foot two-run homer that just cleared the wall over center fielder Harrison Bader’s leaping attempt. Later, he led off the seventh inning with a solo shot, tying teammate Seiya Suzuki for sixth place in MLB with 25 home runs.
“Pete’s been a force all season,” said Cubs manager David Ross. “His ability to deliver in big moments gives our lineup a huge boost.”
Rea’s Masterful Start
On the mound, Colin Rea turned in a masterful performance, pitching seven innings of three-hit ball while allowing just one run. The 35-year-old right-hander struck out six and walked two, turning in his longest outing since a seven-inning shutout with Milwaukee last August. Rea’s efficient command kept the Twins’ hitters off balance, limiting their opportunities and setting the tone for the Cubs’ offense.
“Colin was sharp tonight,” Ross added. “He kept us in the game early and gave us a chance to build a lead.”
Supporting Cast Steps Up
The Cubs’ offense was not a one-man show. Minnesota native Michael Busch contributed two RBIs, adding to the home crowd’s disappointment. Dansby Swanson doubled and scored in the second inning, setting up an early lead when Nico Hoerner followed with a single. The Cubs steadily chipped away at Twins starter Chris Paddack, who struggled with command and surrendered 11 hits and six runs over five innings.
Paddack, who has a mentor-mentee relationship with Rea dating back to their time in San Diego, has struggled recently, dropping to 1-5 in his last 10 starts. His difficulties continued as the Cubs relentlessly attacked his pitches.
Twins’ Lone Highlight
The Twins’ only run came via a fifth-inning home run by Kody Clemens, extending his career-high to 11 homers this season. Despite this, Minnesota’s offense was largely stifled, managing just four hits against a Cubs pitching staff that executed their game plan flawlessly.
Implications and Outlook
This win improves the Cubs’ record to 55-38, keeping them atop the National League Central and maintaining pressure on the Milwaukee Brewers. For the Twins, now 45-48, the loss deepens their struggles in a tightly contested American League Central division.
Baseball analyst Trevor Sikkema remarked, “The Cubs showed why they’re contenders tonight power hitting combined with veteran pitching. Crow-Armstrong’s emergence as a consistent threat and Rea’s steady presence on the mound are key factors in Chicago’s success.”
What’s Next?
The Cubs head to New York for a three-game series against the Yankees starting Friday, while the Twins prepare to host the Pittsburgh Pirates in a matchup featuring All-Star pitchers Paul Skenes and Joe Ryan.
Chicago’s comprehensive 8-1 victory over Minnesota was a showcase of offensive firepower and pitching dominance. Pete Crow-Armstrong’s two home runs and Colin Rea’s seven strong innings set the tone, while contributions from the supporting cast sealed the deal. This performance not only denied the Twins a series sweep but also reinforced the Cubs’ status as a formidable force in the 2025 MLB season.
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