MLB: Minnesota 6, Detroit 2

MINNEAPOLIS, Sept. 19 (UPI) -- Michael Cuddyer's key three-run homer Saturday helped Minnesota beat Detroit 6-2, reducing its deficit to two games behind the AL Central-leading Tigers.

Cuddyer's 28th homer this season capped a five-run outburst and led to Minnesota's sixth straight victory, a season high despite having lost starting first baseman Justin Mourneau, who had 30 homers and 100 RBI, for the season..

Joe Mauer hit a solo homer, also his 28th, Jason Kubel hit a two-run eighth-inning single, and three others had two hits for the Twins, who have won nine of 13 in the season series.

The winner in relief was Jesse Crain (6-4).

Miguel Cabrera had three hits and one RBI for Detroit, while Aubrey Huff hit an RBI single and Placido Polanco had four hits and scored both runs for the Tigers, who have lost three of four and will try to avert a three-game sweep Sunday.

The losing pitcher was starter Justin Verlander (16-9).