Twins pitching held the Tigers lineup to only one run for the second game in a row. Though the team did not score as much as yesterday, they still won 4-1 to put them atop the AL Central. Even though starter Scott Baker had to leave after 3 innings, reliever Brian Bass came in and pitched several scoreless innings in relief to hold the Tigers in check.
The Twins got the runs they needed, both by moving runners over and the long ball. Mike Lamb, who was moved up to 2nd in the batting order, scored 2 runs, being driven in by Michael Cuddyer in both the 4th and 6th innings. 2 runs would be all that was needed, but Craig Monroe added to the total with a 2 run shot in the 7th. Joe Mauer continues to hit well, getting 3 tonight.
Baker was pitching scoreless baseball, but had to leave because he re-aggravated his previous groin injury. No problem because Bass came in and pitched 4 scoreless innings, allowing only 3 hits, for his 1st career win. Joe Nathan pitched a scoreless ninth with 2 punchouts for his 10th save of the season.
The Twins have their longest winning streak of the year at 4 and everything seems to be going right for them. They are getting the pitching they need to shut down opposing teams and are also getting the runs when they are needed. The team goes for the series sweep tomorrow of the presumed AL Central champs.
