Twins Fall to Yankees, Let Arcia Go

Homer in 7th by Gregorius gives Yankees 4-1 win over Twins

MINNEAPOLIS (AP) — Didi Gregorius hit a tiebreaking three-run homer in the seventh inning, CC Sabathia had another strong start and the New York Yankees stopped a four-game losing streak with a 4-1 victory Thursday night over the Minnesota Twins.

Fernando Abad relieved Twins starter Kyle Gibson (0-5) with one out in the seventh to face the left-handed Gregorius, after an infield single and a walk to start the inning. Abad, who had yet to allow a homer all season and took a 0.79 ERA into the game, threw a first-pitch fastball to Gregorius that landed in the right-field seats.

Gregorius is 6 for 11 with seven RBIs in his last three games. Lefties are batting just .125 (4 for 32) against Abad.

Sabathia (5-4) needing 116 pitches to complete six innings, but he struck out seven and retired the last five batters he faced. Aroldis Chapman pitched the ninth for his 12th save in 13 attempts.

Twins let Arcia go to make room for Santana's return

MINNEAPOLIS (AP) — The Minnesota Twins have designated outfielder Oswaldo Arcia for assignment, making room for the return of utility player Danny Santana from the disabled list.

Manager Paul Molitor made the announcement after Thursday night's 4-1 loss to the New York Yankees. Santana missed 16 games with a strained left hamstring and was on a rehab assignment with Triple-A Rochester. He can play all three outfield positions plus shortstop and second base.

Arcia started 27 of 61 games this season, playing both corner outfield spots, but the 25-year-old had only 11 at-bats in 15 games this month. With eight relief pitchers on the roster, Molitor desired more versatility on the bench. Arcia could be assigned to Triple-A, but other major league teams have the chance to claim him first.

Arcia hit 20 homers in 372 at-bats in 2014.