MLB: Minnesota 7, Kansas City 2

MINNEAPOLIS, Sept. 9 (UPI) -- Justin Morneau had a two-run homer and Joe Mauer also drove in two runs Tuesday in the Minnesota Twins' 7-2 decision over the Kansas City Royals.

Brian Buscher was 3-for-4 with an RBI and scored for the Twins, who, despite only having two wins in their last seven games, pulled within a game of the Chicago White Sox for the top spot in the American League Central.

Nick Blackburn (10-8) got the win after lasting seven innings and giving up two runs on five hits.

Miguel Olivo homered for the Royals. Jose Guillen went 3-for-4 and drove in the other run in defeat.

Brian Bannister (7-15), who hasn't won since June 23, took the loss after allowing seven runs on 10 hits in 3 2/3 innings.