MINNEAPOLIS – After scoring just one run through eight innings, the never-say-die Reds rallied late twice to complete a three-game sweep at Target Field with a 7-4 victory over the Twins in 10 innings on Sunday.\n\nThe sweep was already the second in three road series this year for the Reds, who at 14-8 are off to their best start since 2006. And their 8-2 record on the road is the best since 1990, when the future World Champions also started 8-2.
All of the key elements to the Reds’ success were on display Sunday, including a strong start from Brady Singer, more outstanding work from the bullpen and a near-flawless game on defense. The batters managed only three hits through the first eight innings, but they came through when they had to against Minnesota’s bullpen.\n\n“Our game is so much about how you handle frustration,” Reds manager Terry Francona said. “And we didn't have a whole lot going on. And then they kept plugging away, and giving us a chance.”
The key hits were provided by two players who had been struggling of late –
Twins reliever Garrett Acton (1-1) struck out
That was the Reds’ second three-run inning in a row. Trailing 3-1 in the top of the ninth, Steer led off with a single to right off reliever Andrew Morris, who was beginning his second inning of work in just his second Major League appearance.\n\n
The Twins managed to tie it at 4 in the ninth against Reds closer Emilio Pagán (2-0), who gave up doubles to James Outman and Martin before retiring the side.\n\nIt was Pagán’s second blown save of the season – his first since the Reds’ second game of the year against Boston on March 28.\n\n