MLB: Minnesota 11, Tampa Bay 8

ST. PETERSBURG, Fla., Sept. 18 (UPI) -- Alexi Casilla ignited a five-run ninth inning with a two-run homer Thursday, rallying Minnesota to an 11-8 triumph over Tampa Bay.

The Twins halted a four-game losing streak and lifted them within 1 1/2 games of the Chicago White Sox for the lead in the American League Central. Tampa Bay's advantage over idle Boston in the AL East was trimmed to 1 1/2 games.

The Rays took an 8-6 lead into the ninth thanks to five home runs -- three of them from Evan Longoria.

Dan Wheeler (5-6) came on to protect the advantage, but he gave up an infield single to Denard Span to open the inning and Casilla followed with a home run to right that tied the game.

Joe Mauer then doubled to right on a ball that glanced off the glove of Fernando Perez and Justin Morneau drew an intentional walk. Trever Miller relieved Wheeler and pinch-hitter Adam Everett greeted him with a double that scored Mauer and put the Twins in front.

Delmon Young next had an RBI single and Matt Tolbert's sacrifice fly drove in the fifth run of the inning.

Eddie Guardado (4-4) got the win by pitching the eighth and Joe Nathan recorded his 37th save.