IMPACT PLAYER: Jim Thome, Twins

The veteran's three-run homer in the first inning turned out to be enough for the Twins to win.

BY THE NUMBERS

34 Plate appearances between homers by Thome.

107 Plate appearances between homers from the DH spot for the Twins.

.400 Batting average for Joe Mauer over his past six games. He had three hits.

ON DECK

Look for Mauer to be the designated hitter on Saturday so Drew Butera can catch Carl Pavano, who starts opposite Chris Narveson.

LA VELLE E. NEAL III