MINNEAPOLIS — Lucas Giolito was in complete control against the hard-hitting Twins Wednesday, outpitching fellow All-Star right-hander Jake Odorizzi with a three-hit shutout for a 4-0 win.
It was Giolito’s second shutout and third complete game of the season, the most complete games by a Sox pitcher in a season since Chris Sale had six in 2016. Giolito blanked the Astros in Houston May 23.
Giolito became the first Sox pitcher since Gary Peters in 1963 to pitch nine innings with no walks and no runs and 12 or more strikeouts, the latest gem in a remarkable breakout season after he struggled last year. He showed his exuberance on the mound and between innings in the dugout.
“I’m a big caffeine guy,” he said. “So getting my Red Bulls in and kind of bouncing around the dugout. I used to be like all serious coming up as a kid and in the minor leagues, I would take everything so seriously and I would sit there and think and be on the bench in between innings and I realize ... why not be myself at all times and that’s usually dancing around, bouncing around, acting a little crazy sometimes.”
Giolito (14-6, 3.20 ERA) has nine road wins, the most by a Sox pitcher since Jon Garland was 12-4 on the road in 2006. The result gave the Sox their first series win at Target Field since 2017.
“I like pitching on the road,” he said. “I don’t know what it is. Whatever the routine, being in the hotel, coming different ballparks, I don’t know. I enjoy it.”
Giolito threw 115 pitches, 82 for strikes. He finished the game by striking out Nelson Cruz.
Throwing his fastball, changeup and curve for strikes, Giolito and did not allow a Twin to reach second base until Jonathan Schoop doubled to left with one out in the eighth inning. Giolito then struck out Jason Castro and Jake Cave, his ninth and 10th victims making him the first Sox to strike out 10-plus batters over three consecutive starts since Sale in 2015 (eight times).
Jose Abreu had three hits including a double, two RBI and a run scored and Leury Garcia and Tim Anderson had singles apiece and combined to score three runs. Matt Skole drove in a run with a single.
Cease remains poised
Greater things from Dylan Cease were expected over the top pitching prospect’s first eight career starts. He’s 2-6 with a 5.93 ERA and 10 home runs allowed over 44 innings.
“Less than ideal,” Cease said.
But the 23-year-old right-hander seems to be taking it in stride with an eye on 2020 when he’ll be counted on to hold down an important spot in the starting rotation.
“It’s not something I’m freaking out about,” Cease said. “It’s just learning from what’s happening and taking in all the information I can for the following year.
“I’m getting a better feel for my stuff and learn a better process. The results aren’t what I’ve wanted but I feel I’m trending in the right direction.”
Moncada expected Thursday
Ryan Cordell was optioned to Class AAA Charlotte after the game, making room for third baseman Yoan Moncada’s expected return Thursday when the Sox host the Rangers. Moncada (right hamstring) has completed an injury rehab assignment at Charlotte and will play his first game since July 30.
