Nearly a week and counting since Mauer's injury

Last update: August 30, 2007 - 8:59 PM

CLEVELAND -- Twins catcher Joe Mauer could attempt some baseball-related activities today as the Twins open a four-game series against Kansas City.

Mauer hasn't played since straining his left hamstring on Saturday in Baltimore. The Twins opted against placing him on the disabled list because they thought he could be ready in a few days.

Mauer told the medical staff on Wednesday that his hamstring felt better, but it's unclear how much he's able to do.

Twins General Manager Terry Ryan said he had heard Mauer was improving but was waiting to hear from the medical staff.

No deals likely

Ryan said he doesn't expect to make a deal before today's 11 p.m. deadline.

"I would say it's unlikely," Ryan said. "You're relying on the waiver wire, and at this stage it's pretty much exhausted."

Ryan is meeting with Twins manager Ron Gardenhire to determine September call-ups. Class AAA Rochester enters today one game back in the International League wild-card race with six games to go. That will affect the Twins' plans.

Hunter sighting

Torii Hunter was spotted at the Metrodome on Thursday before the Vikings-Cowboys game; across town the Twins were breaking ground on their new ballpark. Several players who attended the groundbreaking ceremony were headed to the Vikings game as well.

LA VELLE NEAL, JOE CHRISTENSEN