The Twins’ three game winning streak came to a screeching halt last night as they were routed by the Royals, 9-to-1 at Target Field. Royals starter Will Smith shutout the Twins over the first seven innings. Minnesota didn’t score until the eighth inning when Ryan Doumit singled in a run.
Joe Mauer didn’t play in the game. He was originally scheduled to start at catcher and bat third, but back spasms forced Ron Gardenhire to scratch him from the lineup card. It was a tough break for Mauer, who is trying to chase down another batting title — he is hitting .455 against the Royals this season.
