Thome powers Hamels, Phillies past Twins 9-8

MINNEAPOLIS (AP) — Jim Thome drove in four runs against his former team, including a long homer to pad Philadelphia’s lead, and the Phillies hung on for a 9-8 victory over the Minnesota Twins on Wednesday night.

John Mayberry also had four RBIs, including a three-run home run in the first inning to give Cole Hamels (9-3) a six-run lead he barely held. Jonathan Papelbon got the last four outs for his 17th save in as many attempts.

Denard Span had three hits, Joe Mauer drove in two runs and Josh Willingham and Trevor Plouffe both homered for the Twins, who nearly erased deficits of 6-0 and 9-3. Papelbon promptly ended their rally by striking out Mauer in a perfect ninth.

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