Rays

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SCOUTING REPORT: The Indians threw a wrench into Minnesota's pennant chase, taking three of four in a series at Minnesota to drop the Twins four games out of first place in the AL Central.

The Indians dropped the series opener, then won three straight and nearly had back-to-back shutouts. Five pitchers combined to shut out the Twins on Wednesday before Thursday's starter Brian Anderson came within two outs of a shutout in an 8-3 victory. The highlight, though, was Travis Hafner hitting for the cycle.

Thursday's victory gave the Indians eight in the past 10 games.

On the downside, Milton Bradley, who is hitting .321, has not played since Saturday because of back spasms.

The Indians also are missing outfielder Matt Lawton, who has a dislocated finger on his right hand. He started taking batting practice this week and could return this weekend for the first time since July 11.

DISABLED LIST: RHP Jason Bere, RHP Bob Wickman, RHP Mark Wohlers, SS Omar Vizquel, OF Ellis Burks, OF Matt Lawton.

CONNECTIONS: Rays manager Lou Piniella played six games with the Indians in 1968.

SEASON SERIES: This is the first meeting of the season. The Indians have dominated the all-time series 29-12, including 16-5 in Cleveland.