Australian rookie Travis Bazzana launched his first major league home run, a two-run blast that ignited a four-run first inning, propelling the Cleveland Guardians to a 6-4 win over the visiting Minnesota Twins on Friday night.
Bazzana, the No. 1 overall pick in the 2024 draft by Cleveland, crushed a 427-foot drive to center field off Connor Prielipp (1-1). The 23-year-old also stole two bases and scored twice in his ninth game since being recalled from Triple-A Columbus on April 28.
Guardians starter Parker Messick (4-1) worked 5 2/3 innings, allowing one run on seven hits. The left-hander struck out seven and walked one, helping AL Central-leading Cleveland secure its third straight win.
Closer Cade Smith pitched for the third consecutive day, notching his 11th save in 13 opportunities despite giving up a single and a run to Byron Buxton in the ninth.
Minnesota cut the deficit to 4-3
