Minneapolis, MN (Sports Network) – Jim Thome scored the go-ahead run on Danny Valencia’s infield hit during a three-run sixth inning, boosting the Twins over the White Sox, 7-6, as Minnesota increased its lead to a season-high five games over Chicago in the AL Central.
Joe Mauer had four hits and finished a triple shy of the cycle, while Michael Cuddyer ended 3-for-4 with an RBI for the Twins, who won their ninth straight at Target Field and moved a season-high 20 games over .500 (70-50).
Denard Span had a pair of hits and scored twice, as Minnesota captured its sixth in a row overall.
Andruw Jones belted a three-run homer for Chicago, which lost its fourth straight game. Gordon Beckham doubled off Matt Capps with one out in the ninth inning and scored on Juan Pierre’s base hit. Alexei Ramirez was retired on a ground ball and Alex Rios’ game-ending grounder was captured by first baseman Cuddyer, who flipped to Capps for the final out.