Twins Defeat Athletics 9-6 Behind Strong Pitching From Matthews

The Minnesota Twins defeated the Oakland Athletics 9-6 on Monday, August 24, 2026, in Sacramento, establishing an early lead behind a four-run initial surge and seven strong innings from starting pitcher Zebby Matthews.

Matthews earned his eighth victory of the season after allowing just one run on six hits and one walk while striking out seven batters across seven innings. The right-hander has posted a 4-0 record with a 3.57 ERA over four starts in August, bringing his overall season record to 8-8.

Minnesota took a 1-0 lead just four batters into the game via an RBI double from Josh Bell. The victory dropped the Athletics to a 2-9 record in home series openers in Sacramento this season, while extending their slide to 15-45 since June 16.

Athletics starter Jeffrey Springs surrendered four earned runs on seven hits over 4⅔ innings. Offensively for Oakland, Henry Bolte finished 3-for-4 with three runs scored, while Jeff McNeil recorded three hits and two RBIs. Zack Gelof broke an 0-for-18 slump with an eighth-inning single and added an RBI double during a four-run rally in the ninth frame.

Off the field, Oakland catcher Shea Langeliers has initiated a hitting and throwing progression following right knee surgery performed on July 28. The team has kept Langeliers off the 60-day injured list to maintain potential availability before the regular season concludes.

Athletics manager Mark Kotsay provided an update regarding the catcher's recovery process prior to Monday's contest.

"Baseball activity is a good sign," said Mark Kotsay, Athletics manager. "Obviously he's not one of the guys on the [60-day IL]. I would never want to put out a statement that says 'he's going to make it back.'"

Meanwhile, top prospect Leo De Vries remains sidelined in Arizona due to right shoulder soreness. The shortstop is restricted from throwing for four weeks, effectively ending his campaign prior to the Double-A regular season conclusion on September 13.