Minneapolis, MN (Sports Network) - Carl Pavano gave up just two runs in the start to help the Minnesota Twins down the Oakland Athletics, 4-3, in the opener of a three-game set.
Pavano (15-7) went 6 1/3 innings and was charged with 10 hits and a walk along with four strikeouts for the Twins, who have won five of their last six. Danny Valencia went 2-for-4 with two RBI and a run scored while Jason Kubel and Drew Butera each drove in a run.
Gio Gonzalez (10-8) was charged with four runs -- two earned -- on three hits with four walks and seven strikeouts over six innings for the Athletics, who have dropped three of four. Daric Barton and Jack Cust each drove in a run in the loss.