Kwan, Bazzana help Guardians beat Twins 9-2, pull within 1/2 game of AL Central-leading White Sox

Steven Kwan's homer in the first inning set the tone for the Cleveland Guardians as they defeated the Minnesota Twins 9-2 on Sunday. Tanner Bibee contributed to the victory with seven strikeouts in 6 2/3 innings pitched. The Guardians' win brings them within a half-game of the American League Central-leading Chicago White Sox.

The Guardians now stand one game ahead of Toronto and hold a 5 1/2-game lead over Minnesota in the pursuit of the final AL wild-card spot. Cleveland is set to host the White Sox for a three-game series starting Monday.

Travis Bazzana played a crucial role in the win for the Guardians, driving in three runs, including a two-run homer in the sixth inning. Bibee displayed strong pitching, allowing only two runs on four hits throughout the game. The 27-year-old right-hander had been struggling in his previous two September starts, giving up 10 runs over 8 1/3 innings.

Meanwhile, Minnesota All-Star Joe Ryan continued his second-half struggles, making his second start since returning from the injured list. Ryan (6-10) allowed four runs on seven hits over four innings, dropping his ERA to 8.48 in his five starts since the All-Star Game. He had previously given up eight runs on six home runs allowed in a start against the Guardians on July 20.

Kwan's second pitch to Ryan found its mark in the right-field overhang, giving the Guardians first-baseman his third homer of the season. Jo Adell added a solo home run in the third inning, while Kody Clemens and Trevor Larnach contributed with doubles and a solo homer, respectively, for the Twins.