Johnny Cueto shines again, Luis Robert hits slam in opener of key series for White Sox

White Sox pitcher Johnny Cueto throws during the first inning Thursday, July 14, 2022, in Minneapolis. (AP) (AP Photos)

MINNEAPOLIS — Reliever Joe Kelly has pitched in eight postseasons. So he understands the importance of games in July.

“It’s a big series,” Kelly said of the White Sox’ four-game set against the first-place Twins at Target Field, which opened Thursday with the Sox five games off the lead. “We don’t have that much time left. And these games count as two.”