Cleveland, OH (Sports Network) – J.J. Hardy’s run-scoring single in the seventh inning proved to be the difference, as the Minnesota Twins defeated the Cleveland Indians, 7-2, in the second test of a three-game series at Progressive Field.
Jason Kubel and Trevor Plouffe both homered for the Twins, who bounced back from a 7-6 loss in the series opener. Joe Mauer went 4-for-5 with an RBI and two runs scored.
Carl Pavano (14-7) was solid in seven innings against his former club, allowing two runs on seven hits to improve to 9-1 over his last 12 starts. The right-hander is 2-1 in four career starts against Cleveland.
Jordan Brown had three hits and drove in a run for the Indians, who inducted outfielder Kenny Lofton and former GM Cy Slapnicka into their Hall of Fame prior to the game. Matt LaPorta knocked in the other run.
Fausto Carmona (11-9) went 7 1/3 frames in the start, giving up five runs on 10 hits to take the loss. He had won four of his last five starts.