Twins 4, White Sox 1: Francisco Liriano pitched seven strong innings and the host Twins spoiled Kevin Youkilis’ debut with visiting Chicago.

Liriano (2-7) gave up one run on four hits with five strikeouts and Jared Burton worked around a one-out walk in the ninth for his second career save.

Youkilis started at third base and batted second, going 1-for-4 in his first game since being acquired from the Boston Red Sox on Sunday.

The Twins scored once in the first inning and twice in the second on RBI singles by Brian Dozier and Jamey Carroll off Jake Peavy (6-4), who allowed three runs over six frames.

Chicago cut into Minnesota’s lead in the seventh, when Alex Rios scored on Alexei Ramirez’s sacrifice fly.

Ben Revere matched a career high with four hits for the Twins, who added an insurance run in the bottom of the seventh.

Chicago, which has scored one run or less in five of its last eight games, was outhit 14-5 and remained one-half game ahead of Cleveland in the American League Central.

GAME NOTEBOOK: Liriano was making his first start against the White Sox since tossing a no-hitter at U.S. Cellular Field last May 3. … The Twins recalled reliever Tyler Robertson and placed closer Matt Capps on the 15-day disabled list with right shoulder inflammation. … White Sox DH Adam Dunn went 0-for-4 with four strikeouts. … DH Joe Mauer had three hits for the Twins, who have won three of their last four games.