Chicago White Sox at Minnesota Twins

MINNEAPOLIS – August began with Zebby Matthews in the Minor Leagues. It ended with him looking like the Twins’ best starter. Matthews kept up his scorching run of form with the longest and arguably best start of his young career on Sunday, smothering the White Sox over 8 1/3 innings as Minnesota secured a desperately needed 5-1 win in the finale of a three-game series. The Twins snapped a four-game losing streak, averted a sweep and delivered a boost to their dwindling playoff chances. He was efficient, getting into the ninth with 89 pitches, allowing him the chance to try to finish the shutout. And though he didn’t get it, the crowd at Target Field made sure to show its appreciation all the same. Matthews received a boisterous ovation as he took the mound for the ninth, and another as he walked off the field after allowing a couple of hits one out later. “It was really cool,” Matthews said of the ovations. “I don’t know if I’ve ever had an experience like that. So yeah, it was really cool to have.” For Matthews, it was the continuation of a great month in which he’s made the most of a second chance. Following a strong start against the Mariners on July 31, he was optioned to Triple-A St. Paul to make roster room as the Twins acquired three pitchers at the Trade Deadline. He didn’t actually make a start for the Saints, though, as Joe Ryan went on the injured list soon thereafter. Matthews had a couple of somewhat scruffy starts upon his return, but over his last three games, he’s been outstanding. Over his last seven starts dating back to July 24, he has a 3.21 ERA over 42 innings.  “Extremely impressive,” said manager Derek Shelton. “I mean, you're talking about a White Sox lineup that we've seen that can do a lot of damage, and they can do a lot of damage quickly, and extremely left-handed. … He was really impressive. 
He kept them off balance. He was efficient. He set the tone.”