MILWAUKEE -- Jim Thome took batting practice and was activated from the DL following Friday's game. Thome has been out because of a strained quadriceps muscle and back issue.

Rene Tosoni was sent back to Rochester. That means the Twins have decided to keep three catchers on the roster, with both Drew Butera and Rene Rivera staying with the team.

Etc.

• Outfielder Denard Span played catch and took swings off a batting tee for the first time in nearly three weeks and reported no concussion symptoms.

• Jason Kubel (sprained left foot) also had a good day, running without pain. Trainer Rick McWane said the outfielder is close to being game-ready. The Twins plan to have Kubel run the bases this weekend and then re-evaluate him Monday.

• Kevin Slowey (strained abdomen) is scheduled to pitch two or three innings for Class A Fort Myers on Saturday night in Bradenton, Fla.