Nick Castellanos came through with a two-run double in the ninth inning, helping the Philadelphia Phillies secure a 3-0 win over the Minnesota Twins on Tuesday night.
The game was a pitching duel between Phillies ace Zack Wheeler and Twins rookie Simeon Woods Richardson until the ninth inning. Philadelphia broke the deadlock against Twins closer Jhoan Duran (5-5) in the final frame.
Wheeler, making his first start since July 9 after dealing with a sore back, pitched seven strong innings. He struck out seven batters, allowed three hits, and walked two.
“Everything felt good today, which was encouraging,” Wheeler commented. “Missing a start isn’t ideal, but sometimes it’s necessary for my long-term health.”
Manager Rob Thomson praised Wheeler’s performance, noting his effectiveness as the game progressed.
“It took him 18 pitches to get through the first two batters, and then he settled in nicely,” Thomson remarked.
On the other side, Woods Richardson pitched six innings, giving up three hits and one walk while striking out five. Despite his efforts, the Twins, who are in contention for a playoff spot, have now lost three of their last four games since the All-Star break.
In the decisive ninth inning, Bryce Harper started the rally with a double, followed by a walk to Alec Bohm. With Phillies fans cheering loudly, J.T. Realmuto drew another walk before Brandon Marsh hit a sacrifice fly.
Castellanos then sealed the win with his double down the right-field line on a 3-2, 101 mph fastball, adding to his recent streak of strong performances with seven extra-base hits and nine RBIs in his last seven games.
