Minnesota moved to within one game of second-placed Chicago in the American League Central with a 4-3 win over the White Sox. A competent outing from starter Glen Perkins and a two-run home run by Michael Cuddyer in the sixth inning made the difference for the Twins. Central pacesetters Detroit came undone against Texas, slipping to their second successive defeat at the expense of the Rangers. The Tigers again failed to take their home momentum on the road and a three-run sixth, inspired by Hank Blalock's two-run double, sent Detroit spinning to a 5-2 loss. The New York Yankees continue to march on at the top of the East division, although Boston kept in touch with a win at Oakland.
The Yankees were convincing 11-4 conquerors of Tampa Bay, with Nick Swisher hitting two home runs to back up a strong effort from starter AJ Burnett. Josh Beckett shone again for Boston and was helped as the offence clicked for the Red Sox in an 8-3 win over Oakland Athletics. Beckett notched his American League-leading 12th win by striking out 10 and allowing three runs over seven innings. Toronto finished strongly to defeat Seattle 11-4. Rod Barajas and Lyle Overbay homered for the Canadians to help Ricky Romero to his ninth win. Cleveland also turned a losing situation into victory over Los Angeles, with a four-run ninth inning sealing an 8-6 success over the Angels.
Victor Martinez hit a three-run homer off Angels closer Brian Fuentes, and Johnny Peralta followed with one of his own to help the Indians to a fifth successive win. * PA Sport
