The Twins seemed cautiously optimistic after Saturday’s 4-3 victory. Yes, they’ve defeated Oakland three times since the All-Star break and returned to five games over .500 (at 48-43) for the third time this season.

But every time they’ve reached that high-water mark (at 11-6 and 42-37) they’ve fallen right back down. And on Sunday, they’ll face American League All-Star starter Dan Haren. Haren (10-3, 2.30 ERA) has at least looked human in his past three starts, going 1-1 with a 5.40 ERA and 23 hits allowed in 18 1/3 innings.

This will be an important day for Boof Bonser (5-6, 4.70 ERA). The Twins are 0-5 in his past five starts after going 9-4 in his first 13 starts.

On Saturday, Carlos Silva was the latest to shut down an Oakland offense that has scored three runs or fewer in nine straight games.

“We needed that,” Manager Ron Gardenhire said. “Obviously, it’s a good step up, and now we’ll see what Boof can do tomorrow.”