Santana, who had not lost at the Metrodome in his last 23 starts, was also in superb form, yielding two runs, five hits and striking eight.

"First blood, I think, means a lot ... especially when you're playing on the road," said Zito.

Post-season action continues on Wednesday with the Mets opening up their best-of-five series at home against the Los Angeles Dodgers while the Yankees and Tigers, and Twins and Athletics will meet in Game Two.

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