Twins win again, thanks to Monroe

MINNEAPOLIS -- Craig Monroe is growing into his new role as a reserve.

Monroe hit a three-run homer Tuesday and just missed a second, and Justin Morneau had three hits to help the Minnesota Twins beat the Detroit Tigers, 6-4.

Mike Redmond had two runs batted in for Minnesota, which has won eight of 10 and 12 of its last 14. The Twins remain 2 1/2 games behind Chicago in the AL Central; Detroit is six back.

Marcus Thames hit his second homer in as many games for the Tigers, who lost for the first time in seven games.

Monroe was acquired in November as a potential primary left fielder. Instead he has had to adjust to being a bench player and occasional designated hitter against left-handed pitchers.

“All these things you talk about trying to be a good bench player, I wasn’t allowing myself to do it because I had so much success playing every day and having the high leg kick,” Monroe said. “Now it’s a new chapter in my career where I’ve got to find a way to be a better bench player. I think now I’m starting to take all the strides in the right direction.”

Minnesota starter Scott Baker (5-2) wasn’t sharp but won his third straight game for the first time in his 60-start career. He retired 10 of the first 11 Detroit batters before getting roughed up a bit in the middle innings. He gave up three earned runs in six innings.