Jim Thome’s three-run homer in the third inning lifted the Phillies over the Twins, 6-1 Thursday night at Target Field. The game was tied, 1-1 before Thome’s second homer in as many days. Trevor Plouffe homered for a third straight game for the Twins.
Thome’s homer was his 27th career long ball at Target Field — the most in the young venue’s history. Plouffe now has 12 homers, one behind Josh Willingham for the team lead.
The Phillies took two of three games, sending Minnesota to its first series loss since being swept by the Tigers in late May.
Joe Blanton pitched a complete game for Phillies.
Scott Diamond fell to 5-2 with the loss, his first since May 23. He allowed four runs on five hits in six innings of work.
Willingham’s 15 game hitting streak came to an end. He went 0-4 with three strikeouts.
