Taylor Pendrith Leads 3M Open with Stellar Performance

Taylor Pendrith took a two-stroke lead over Matt NeSmith in the 3M Open with a remarkable 7-under 64 shot. Pendrith, who won his first PGA Tour title in May at the CJ Cup Byron Nelson, maintained his lead amidst challenging windy conditions. The tournament progresses into the weekend.

Taylor Pendrith shot a 7-under 64 to take a two-stroke lead over Matt NeSmith going into the weekend at the 3M Open.

Despite windier afternoon conditions, Pendrith made a 30-foot birdie putt on the par-4 16th and tapped in for another birdie on the par-5 18th. He completed 36 holes without a bogey, totaling 12-under 130 at the TPC Twin Cities.

The 33-year-old Canadian, who secured his first PGA Tour title at the CJ Cup Byron Nelson in May, recently tied for fifth at the Barracuda Championship. Pendrith remarked on the challenging wind, staying patient and executing crucial birdies despite tough conditions.

Matt NeSmith, who seeks his first PGA Tour victory, managed a 64 in morning conditions and highlighted the importance of patience in overcoming the windy course. First-round leader Jacob Bridgeman slipped to three strokes behind at 9 under following a 70, sharing the position with Andrew Putnam. Doug Ghim, Lanto Griffin, Alex Smalley, and Jhonattan Vegas were 8 under.

The 3M Open marks the second last tournament before the FedEx Cup playoffs, leaving players near the 70-player cutoff hustling to advance, with some failing to qualify for the weekend.