Starter wanted.
The Twins need a starter on Friday in Colorado and have a few options.
They could use rigthhander Samuel Deduno or righthander Anthony Swarzak, both long relievers. Swarzak might have an edge here, as GM Terry Ryan said last week that Deduno might have found his niche as an inning-eater in the bullpen. Lefthader Kris Johnson, 8-4, 2.75 at Rochester, is pitching on the same day as Nolasco and could come up for one start.
Nolasco is eligble to come off the DL on July 22. With the All-Star break, the Twins would just need someone to fill in on Friday. But if Nolasco needs longer to recover, the Twins might examine other options.
Going slow with Sano.
The Twins have decided to take things slow with third base prospect Miguel Sano, who has been cleared to begin a throwing program after having Tommy John surgery in March.
Sano will not race to try to play in late-season minor league games, and playing in the offseason Arizona Fall League. He could, however, participate in the second half of the Dominican winter league.
``They just don't want to risk any collisions, sliding into seond base, hitting his elbow," Antony said. ``I don't think they want him to compete before we get to the nine-month mark."