Shakespearean Drama

Root, root, root for the home team:

Down 9-4, the Twins scored four runs in the sixth inning, chasing Angels starter Ervin Santana. The Angels made it 10-8 in the seventh, but Torii Hunter homered, trimming the lead back to one. Leading 10-9 in the ninth, the Angels turned to Rodriguez, the wunderkind closer from Venezuela.

The Twins immediately loaded the bases, but Rodriguez promptly retired Justin Morneau and Tony Batista for the next two outs. Lew Ford worked the count full, and watched a slider in the dirt for ball four. Tie game.

The Twins used closer Joe Nathan to pitch a scoreless 10th, and in came (former Twins reliever J.C.) Romero, who had turned some heads with his old teammates recently when he said the Angels bullpen is the best he's ever been a part of. Luis Castillo drew a one-out walk, stole second base and was standing on third with two outs.

With Nick Punto due up, Twins manager Ron Gardenhire turned to (Michael)Cuddyer. Cuddyer looked at the first strike. With a 0-1 count, Romero tried a change-up. Cuddyer hit it over the center field wall.

Twins 12, Angels 10 . . . good night everybody, drive friendly.