It's been a busy day at Twins Nation. Since releasing my vote Neshek script late last night the traffic has been about 5x what it typically is. The response has been pretty good and I know several people are using it. Although Pat Neshek was still in third place, there still may be hope with almost a full day of voting left.

Now let's get back to some real game talk...

The Twins had scored just 1 run in the 3 prior games heading into the Independence day matchup with the Yankees. The Twins desperately needed a win and fortunately they had the right guy on the mound to get that.

Johan Santana allowed just 2 runs on 4 hits and the Twins scored a couple runs in the seventh just in time to give Santana his fourth straight win. Pat Neshek pitched a dominate eighth inning, striking out 2 of the 3 batters he faced including Derek Jeter to end the inning. Jeter gave Neshek a weird look after the K and Pat explained it later on his forum.

I was just amped like I always am and in the zone...he actually thought I was pointing him...shooting him down which if you have ever seen me before is my follow through...we sent a message to him after saying I didnt even know I did something and basically was pitching like I always do.

The Twins added a couple extra runs in the top of the ninth, but Joe Nathan came on anyway and pitched a perfect ninth inning.

The Twins' lead came in the seventh when Jason Kubel followed up Torii Hunter's double with a 2-run home run. It was Kubel's first home run since June 15th.

The Twins had a different batting order with Luis Castillo out. Jason Bartlett led off with Joe Mauer batting second as the DH. Luis Rodriguez played 3rd and batted 8th with Nick Punto at 2nd base and batting ninth.

Game Notes

• The Twins are 3 games over .500. The Yankees are 3 games under.
• Torii Hunter and Justin Morneau each had 2 hits including a double each.
• L-Rod homered in the ninth to give the Twins the 6-2 lead.
• Punto was hitless and dropped his average even closer to the Mendoza line at .202.

It's another day game on Thursday. Kevin Slowey (3-0, 5.13) will face off against Kei Igawa (2-2, 6.91). Slowey needs to start improving or Matt Garza might find himself with a permanent job following his spot start on Friday.