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.