MLB: Minnesota 3, Texas 2

The Twins moved past the Chicago White Sox into second place in the American League Central, 4 1/2 games behind division-leading Detroit.

Joe Mauer, Jason Kubel and Michael Cuddyer had run-scoring hits in the first inning, and Minnesota starting pitcher Brian Duensing easily protected the lead.

Duensing (2-1), making only his second start since being called up from Class AAA Rochester, allowed a run on three hits and struck out eight over seven innings.

Nathan came on in the ninth to protect a 3-1 advantage, but gave up a two-out double to Ivan Rodriguez. David Murphy drove in Rodriguez with a double, and Hank Blalock walked.

That brought up Chris Davis, who worked the count full, then took a pitch that appeared to be well outside. It was called a strike, however, allowing Nathan to earn his 33rd save.

The loss went to Tommy Hunter (6-3), who gave up three runs on seven hits in seven innings.

Copyright 2009 by United Press International.