THE PAST WEEK: Less than a week ago the Twins came to Tropicana Field atop the AL Central and the most heartwarming success story in the majors this season. But after a four-game sweep by the Rays and two losses to the Indians, Minnesota found itself 3 1/2 games behind Cleveland and four games behind Oakland in the wild-card standings.

SCOUTING REPORT: The Twins' first-half fortune appears to have disappeared as they've lost 22 of 29. Adding insult, outfielder Chad Allen is out for the remainder of the season with a torn ACL and Cristian Guzman and Brad Radke remain on the disabled list. The pitching staff ranks seventh in the AL in ERA. Twins fans are hopeful a turnaround is but one series against the Rays away.

ALL-TIME SERIES: The Rays are 15-6 against the Twins since June 19, 1999, and have won 8 of 9 to take a 19-16 lead.

TAMPA BAY CONNECTIONS: Pitcher Joe Mays is a product of Bradenton Southeast High and Manatee Community College. Radke attended Jesuit and lives in Largo. Former Rays MVP Quinton McCracken is with Triple-A Edmonton. Catcher A.J. Pierzynski played youth league baseball in Brooksville.

WHO'S HOT: Doug Mientkiewicz is 41-for-112 (.366) with six doubles, 3 home runs and 9 RBI in his past 30 games.

WHO'S NOT: The team. It is 9-24 since the All-Star break.

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