The Twins scored in just one inning Tuesday night against the Cleveland Indians.
Thanks to Ervin Santana and two relievers, that brief outburst was enough to propel them to a 3-1 win over their fellow wild-card contenders.
Improving to 8-5 against the Indians with six games remaining in the season series, the Twins needed the Los Angeles Angels to hold a late lead over the Houston Astros to move within two games of the second AL wild-card spot.
Santana (6-4) produced his fifth straight quality start since an epic bullpen session with Twins pitching coach Neil Allen on Aug.