Twins manager Ron Gardenhire was on the field early today with Matt Tolbert, Trevor Plouffe and Michael Cuddyer, working on double plays and other things. Tolbert gets the start at short today.

Tsuyoshi Nishioka has a hit in each of his last four games and has made more solid contact lately, but he's starting today on the bench.

UPDATES

Barring any more injuries, Gardenhire is looking at tough daily lineup decisions when Justin Morneau returns from the disabled list. He pointed out that playing first base has allowed Joe Mauer to remain in the lineup after getting beat up behind the plate. That option won't be there as much when No. 33 returns.

``How many times you'll be able to play Mauer at first base with Morneau (here)?" Gardy asked. ``If you're going to DH Mourny a few times and play Mauer at first base you can do that to give Mourny a break every once in awhile.

``It's going to be interesting. Do I put Cuddy at short to keep his bat in the lineup? I'll entertain myself again."

Gardenhire did say that Mauer playing first base has, ``helped him immensely. And knowing that will help him next year and down the road."

That was a joke.....we think.

  • Gardy wants to give Nishioka a break today despite his four-game hitting streak.
  • The Twins will learn Monday about the condition of righthander Kyle Gibson, but there remain concerns that he might need elbow surgery.
  • Morneau was 0-for-4 yesterday and is scheduled to play at least seven innings tonight for Rochester. He's expected to play at least a week's worth of game before a decision to activate him will be made.

White Sox (53-58)

1. Juan Pierre, LF
2. Alexei Ramirez, SS
3. Paul Konerko, DH
4. Adam dunn, 1B
5. Alex Rios, CF
6. A.J., C
7. Gordon Beckham, 2B
8. Alejandro De Aza, RF
9. Brent Morel, 3B

Pitching: Zach Stewart, RHP

Twins (51-61)

1. Denard Span, CF
2. Joe Mauer, C
3. Michael Cuddyer, 2B
4. Jason Kubel, RF
5. Jim Thome, DH
6. Danny Valencia, 3B
7. Delmon Young, LF
8. Matt Tolbert, SS
9 Drew Butera, C

Pitching: Carl Pavano, RHP