Momentum Keeps Going for Twins

MINNEAPOLIS —  For the first time in nearly three years, the Minnesota Twins are playing above .500 ball.

“That’s two good series in a row,” reliever Mike Trombley said after Wednesday’s 5-3 victory over the Oakland Athletics. “We need to get to the point where we expect to do this and not be surprised when it happens.”

Corey Koskie hit a go-ahead single in the fifth inning and Trombley worked out of a jam in the ninth.

After an 18-36 start, the Twins are 24-22 since June 5, including 13-11 this month. They haven’t finished with a winning record in a month since going 16-14 in August 1996.

Twin starter LaTroy Hawkins (7-8) gave up three runs and four hits in 5 1/3 innings, but only one run was earned.

Trombley, the Twins’ fourth pitcher, relieved to start the ninth with a two-run lead. Mike Macfarlane and Eric Chavez singled, but pinch-hitter Tony Phillips flied out and Miguel Tejada grounded into a double play. Trombley got his 16th save in 23 chances.