Gabe Kapler's two-run single capped a five-run seventh inning as the Tampa Bay Rays held on for a 7-4 victory over the Minnesota Twins on Saturday.

Tampa extended its 2-1 lead in the seventh when a throwing error by Twins starter Nick Blackburn brought home Carlos Pena. Even Longoria doubled home a pair of runs to make it 5-1 and Kapler followed with a double into the center-field gap to put the game out of reach.

Minnesota answered in the bottom of the inning by closing to within three runs on a Jim Thome two-run single and a RBI hit by Delmon Young, but Rays reliever Grant Balfour escaped further damage.

The Twins didn't challenge the rest of the way as they dropped three of four to visiting Tampa.

James Shields (7-8) struggled in the seventh but was otherwise solid as he earned his first victory in a starting role since May 20. He allowed four runs on eight hits, walking one and striking out two.

Rafael Soriano pitched a scoreless ninth inning for his 21st save.

Blackburn (7-6) was saddled with the loss after giving up seven runs on nine hits over 6 1/3 innings. He walked two and struck out three.