Yankees hammer Twins to win fourth in a row

NEW YORK: The New York Yankees routed the Minnesota Twins 12-4 on Monday to record their fourth consecutive victory and keep pace in the race for the American League East.

Third baseman Alex Rodriguez homered and drove in three runs to help the Yankees move a season-high nine games over .500 and stay four games behind AL East leader Tampa Bay. The victory was also their eighth in a row at Yankee Stadium.

Derek Jeter and Robinson Cano also homered for the Yankees, who placed catcher Jorge Posada on the 15-day disabled list with an injured throwing shoulder before the game.