You have to win crucial games down the stretch on the road to reach the postseason.
The Twins did that, winning 12-2 and 12-6 over the Baltimore Orioles, who have been a welcome change from the Toronto Blue Jays, who have been beating everybody.
In the first game, Justin Morneau went four for five with two runs and two RBIs; Denard Span was two for five with four RBIs and two runs; Carlos Gomez was two for four with four RBIs and a run; and Scott Baker had a solid outing, allowing just one run in six innings.
In the second game, Span, Matt Tolbert and Brendan Harris each had two outs. Morneau drove in two more, improving to 124. (MVP anyone? At least if the Twins win the division, I think he'd be a great choice.)
It's a good thing the Twins bashed the ball in that second game -- Glen Perkins had a weak start, allowing six runs in three innnings. For once the bullpen was perfect. Bobby Korecky, Craig Breslow, Dennys Reyes and Philip Humber pitched six innings of scoreless relief.
The White Sox were rained out, so the two teams are tied. This one could go down to the wire.
On Sunday, Nick Blackburn starts against Radhames Liz. The advantage would figure to go to the Twins, but who knows.
The White Sox have a doubleheader Sunday, with the second game vs. the Tigers on ESPN.
Notes: Michael Cuddyer had a pinch-hit at-bat in the first game. He will be used to hit but not in the field.
