OAKLAND, Calif., May 19 (UPI) -- Trevor Plouuffe's three-run home run highlighted a six-run eighth inning for Minnesota Thursday and the Twins routed Oakland 11-1.
Justin Morneau had three hits, including a two-run homer, and scored twice for the Twins, who swept a two-game set against the Athletics and won their third straight overall following a nine-game losing streak. Rene Rivera hit a solo home run.
Minnesota starter Nick Blackburn (3-4) went seven innings, giving up one run on five hits with two walks and one strikeout.
Oakland starter Tyson Ross (3-3) left the game with a left oblique strain after throwing just seven pitches. David Purcey came on to pitch 3 2/3 innings of relief, allowing one run on four hits.
The Twins broke the game open against reliever Trystan Magnuson, who gave up six runs on five hits in two innings of relief.
Mark Ellis drove in one run for the A's, who finished a seven-game homestand at 3-4.
