NEW YORK (Reuters) - The Minnesota Twins mauled Texas Rangers starter Cliff Lee to avoid a series sweep with a 6-4 victory on Thursday.
Lee was chased after conceding seven hits and five runs over five innings as the AL Central-leading Twins built a 6-0 lead going into the seventh and withstood a late fightback.
Delmon Young hit a three-run homer for Minnesota in the second inning, and veteran designated hitter Jim Thome followed up with a solo shot in the sixth.
Vladimir Guerrero hit his second consecutive homer for the Rangers who rallied to 6-4 before the Twins' Matt Capps closed out the game.
Francisco Loriano, starting his first game in eight days for the Twins, allowed five hits and two runs over seven innings.
(Editing by Ian Ransom)
