Josh Bell has early 2-run double and Twins bullpen makes lead hold up for 4-2 win over Braves

Josh Bell ignited the scoring in a four-run first inning, leading the Minnesota Twins to a 4-2 victory over the Atlanta Braves on Tuesday night. The Twins' bullpen solidified the lead, securing their win. The first six batters faced Atlanta starter Martín Pérez (8-7) achieved a combined scoring, with Bell's ground-rule double and RBI singles from Royce Lewis and Kody Clemens.

Pérez was eventually relieved in the fifth inning by Taylor Rogers. Bell and Clemens each finished the game with two hits. The bullpen's strong performance after starter Bailey Ober lasted only 4 1/3 innings proved crucial. Ronald Acuña Jr.'s two-run single in the fifth inning chased Pérez, but left-hander Rogers ended the inning strong.

Travis Adams pitched two perfect innings with three strikeouts, while Jeff Hoffman allowed two runners in the eighth inning. Yoendrys Gómez walked the leadoff batter in the ninth but secured his 17th save in as many chances. Pérez, who had pitched 18 straight scoreless innings, allowed nine hits and two walks in five innings, striking out three.

The game's start was delayed by 51 minutes, but no rain fell. Minnesota's starting pitcher for the game was right-hander Zebby Matthews (6-8, 5.34 ERA), while Atlanta will utilize RHP Tyler Mahle (4-9, 4.64), a trade-deadline acquisition from San Francisco.