Sabathia (4-8), the 2007 AL Cy Young winner who had lost his previous three decisions, didn't walk a batter and allowed just five hits while striking out five.

Ryan Garko accounted for the only run in the game, as he and David Dellucci were the only players with more than one hit.

Minnesota pitcher Scott Baker (2-1) scattered eight hits and a walk. The Twins, who have lost six straight games, had only one base runner reach second.

Sabathia, who retired 17 straight batters, allowed back-to-back singles to open the game.

The Indians got their run when Ben Francisco doubled and Garko singled with two outs.