MINNEAPOLIS, June 16 (UPI) -- Scott Baker struck out a career-best 12 Wednesday and did not allow a runner past first during seven shutout innings, carrying Minnesota past Colorado 2-1.
Baker (6-5) had only one 10-strikeout game in his 122 career starts coming into Wednesday's contest. He gave up just two singles and a walk to the Rockies.
Both Minnesota runs came in the second, when the Twins loaded the bases with nobody out against Jhoulys Chacin (3-6). Danny Valencia and Nick Punto then came through with RBI singles.
Baker was replaced by Matt Guerrier in the eighth and the Rockies promptly put runners on second and third with one out. Jose Mijares relieved Guerrier and held Colorado to a lone run, which scored on a passed ball.
Jon Rauch came on to work a perfect ninth for his 17th save.
