The Minnesota Twins opened their series with the Texas Rangers on a positive note Friday night. A three-run third inning and a solid showing from Francisco Liriano powered Minnesota to a 5-1 win.
Joe Mauer, getting the start as the designated hitter, and Justin Morneau produced most of the Twins' offense. Mauer drove in two with a single and a sac fly, raising his batting average to a team-best .330, the third-best mark in the American League. Morneau singled in a run and belted a solo shot, his 11th of the season, in the seventh inning to extend the lead. It was Morneau's first homer since June 4.
Liriano, making his eighth start since returning to the rotation on May 30, was not flawless, but he was effective. The lefty walked six and allowed five hits through six and two thirds innings, but allowed only one run while striking out six. Since returning to the rotation, Liriano has a 2.74 ERA.
Minnesota is back in action behind Samuel Deduno on Saturday at 7:15 p.m. Eastern.
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