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White Sox vs Twins action on Friday delivered an emphatic early statement, with Colson Montgomery launching a three-run homer that helped Chicago defeat Minnesota, 7-4, at Target Field. The blast capped a four-run first inning and gave the White Sox control before the Twins had a chance to settle into the game.
The victory, played on August 28, was Chicago’s 71st of the season. That win total carries added significance because the White Sox had endured three consecutive seasons with at least 100 losses. According to MLB.com, no team with that history had previously surpassed 70 wins in a season, making Chicago’s rapid turnaround one of the most notable developments of the 2026 campaign.
White Sox vs Twins: Montgomery Delivers an Explosive Start
Twins starter Dean Kremer retired the first two White Sox hitters in the opening inning, but the Chicago offense quickly changed the momentum. Miguel Vargas singled, moved to second on a wild pitch and scored when Andrew Benintendi delivered a base hit.
Braden Montgomery then added another single, bringing Colson Montgomery to the plate with two runners aboard. Montgomery worked into a 1-2 count before driving a splitter from Kremer deep into the right-field seats. The three-run shot put Chicago ahead 4-0 and immediately energized the visiting dugout.
It was Montgomery’s 28th home run of the season. He also added a single later in the game, giving him two hits while striking out twice. His performance showed the type of game-changing power that has made him such an important part of Chicago’s lineup, even during a difficult individual season.
A Difficult Season, Followed by a Crucial Surge
Montgomery entered the year after a highly promising rookie campaign. He posted an .840 OPS and hit 21 home runs in only 283 plate appearances, creating high expectations for his second season.
However, his 2026 numbers have not matched that early production. His OPS is 117 points lower than it was during his rookie season, and his average remained below .200 three weeks into the campaign. His best batting average so far has been .239, reached on April 24.
The shortstop has also experienced more difficult at-bats. He has recorded five four-strikeout games this season after having none as a rookie. His walks are down as well, with two games featuring multiple walks compared with three such games last year.
Despite those struggles, Montgomery has continued to show resilience. His fifth-inning single against Minnesota gave him 11 hits over his last 11 games, a stretch in which he has batted .262. While that average may not appear overwhelming, it represents encouraging progress for a player trying to regain consistency at the plate.
“For me to come out tonight and be productive and drive in runs, it means a lot,” Montgomery said after the game. He acknowledged that he has not performed at the level he expects but added that he is trying not to become overly discouraged late in the season.
Chicago’s Offense Keeps Passing the Baton
The White Sox have developed into one of baseball’s most dangerous offenses, and manager Will Venable emphasized that the team’s success is not dependent on one hitter. Chicago’s ability to string together singles, walks and timely extra-base hits has helped create pressure throughout the lineup.
That approach was evident in the first inning against Minnesota. Vargas reached base, Benintendi brought him home, Braden Montgomery extended the inning and Colson Montgomery supplied the decisive power. The sequence demonstrated how the White Sox can combine contact hitting with significant slugging ability.
Venable said Montgomery is a major part of the offense and that getting on base more frequently could unlock another level for the club. Reaching base would also ease the pressure on the middle of the order, where power hitters often carry much of the run-producing responsibility.
“When you have guys getting on base and taking a walk and just passing the baton, it means a lot,” Venable said. “For Colson to be in that mode is going to be impactful for our offense.”
Why the 71st Win Matters
Chicago’s 7-4 win was more than another entry in the schedule. The 71st victory confirmed that the White Sox have moved beyond the depths of their recent rebuilding period. After three straight 100-loss seasons, reaching this milestone reflects improved production, stronger game management and a more competitive roster.
The White Sox passed several teams that had previously won 70 games after similar stretches of poor results, including the 2014 Houston Astros, the 1965 Senators and the 1925 Boston Braves. That historical comparison puts Chicago’s progress into broader perspective.
For the Twins, the loss highlighted the danger of falling behind early. Minnesota faced a four-run deficit before its offense could establish a rhythm, while Chicago’s pitching and timely hitting protected the lead. The result also gave the White Sox another important late-season win as they continue building momentum.
FAQs About the White Sox vs Twins Game
Who won the White Sox vs Twins game?
The Chicago White Sox defeated the Minnesota Twins, 7-4, at Target Field on August 28, 2026.
What was the key moment of the game?
Colson Montgomery’s three-run home run in the first inning was the key moment. It capped a four-run rally and gave Chicago an early 4-0 advantage.
How many home runs does Colson Montgomery have this season?
Montgomery’s home run against Minnesota was his 28th of the 2026 season.
Why was Chicago’s 71st win historically significant?
The White Sox became the first team to win more than 70 games after posting three consecutive seasons with at least 100 losses.
