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MINNEAPOLIS, Minnesota (Reuters) - Justin Verlander's career-best season continued to soar as he become the first 20-game winner in the Majors Saturday in Detroit's 6-4 victory over the Minnesota Twins.

Verlander (20-5) did not have his best stuff against the Twins, allowing four runs in six innings, but he was good enough to capture his eighth consecutive victory.

He also set a personal best in wins with over a month still remaining in the season.

"It feels great," Verlander told reporters. "There's been times I've picked these guys up, there's been times they've picked me up.

"To get to 20 at this point in the season, obviously you can't do it all on your own. You've got to have a lot of help."

Detroit's dominant right-hander became the first pitcher to win 20 games before the end of August since Curt Schilling accomplished it in 2002 while playing for Arizona.

Verlander struck out six batters to increase his Major League lead in that category and he now owns three more wins than his closest pursuer, New York Yankees' left-hander CC Sabathia.

Verlander exited Saturday's start in the bottom of the seventh after the Tigers scored twice in the top of the inning to break a 4-4 tie and ensure their ace was slated to record the victory.

With the win, Detroit (73-59) maintained their 6 (half) game lead in the American League Central.

(Writing by Jahmal Corner in Los Angeles; Editing by Alastair Himmer)