White Sox explode for season-high 16 runs against Twins

[May 18, 2021]  Rookie Nick Madrigal, Leury Garcia and Yermin Mercedes each had three hits to lead the Chicago White Sox's offensive onslaught during a 16-4 victory over the Minnesota Twins on Monday in Minneapolis.

Even with three-time All-Star Jose Abreu ruled out for the series due to left ankle inflammation, the White Sox recorded season highs in runs and hits (18) to win their ninth game in their past 11.

Madrigal hit his first career home run, a leadoff shot in the third inning, and Danny Mendick's grand slam in the fifth off Minnesota reliever Derek Law was part of his five-RBI game. The 401-foot homer broke the game open for the White Sox, who began a six-game road trip.

The spiraling Twins lost for the 10th time in their past 12 games.

Mendick was one of only two batters in Chicago's starting lineup who didn't record two or more hits. The other, Yasmani Grandal, walked four times.

Twins starter J.A. Happ (2-2) lasted just 3 2/3 innings and gave up six runs on seven hits and three walks while recording only one strikeout.

Dallas Keuchel (3-1) delivered a quality start for Chicago, pitching seven innings and allowing three runs on seven hits with six strikeouts and no walks.

Chicago's rotation has played a major role in the team's hot start, producing a 3.03 ERA.

Chicago White Sox shortstop Tim Anderson (7) and second baseman Nick Madrigal (1) score during the first inning against the Minnesota Twins at Target Field. Mandatory Credit: Jordan Johnson-USA TODAY Sports

The White Sox poured it on with another four runs in the sixth inning off reliever Shaun Anderson, highlighted by a two-run double by Garcia, who went 3-for-5.

Rob Refsnyder provided the Twins with some offense, going 4-for-4 with an RBI, and Josh Donaldson hit a two-run homer off Keuchel in the sixth inning.

Minnesota catcher Mitch Garver was struck by a foul tip for the second consecutive game and was replaced in the fourth inning by Willians Astudillo. Garver was diagnosed with a right knee contusion.

Astudillo pitched the ninth inning and gave up one run on a solo home run by Mercedes (3-for-6, 3 RBIs), which came on a 3-0 pitch.

Chicago's Andrew Vaughn, Tim Anderson, Yoan Moncada and Billy Hamilton each had two hits.

--Field Level Media

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