Liriano heats up as workout progresses

Last update: February 29, 2008 - 10:04 PM

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Liriano heats up as workout progresses

It's difficult to gauge lefthander Francisco Liriano's progress because he's been asked to hold back during his initial bullpen sessions.

However, he showed better command of his pitches near the end of his 12-minute bullpen session on Friday.

He's scheduled to throw batting practice on Sunday and could make his spring debut sometime next week.

"I think he's more pleased,'' Twins pitching coach Rick Anderson said. "He probably felt he got after it a little more [at the end], and he feels great.

"His biggest thing is overcoming the mental block. He did it at the end today, throwing the ball down and located it. He didn't think about it, he just did it and that's good.''

Liriano is back in training camp after missing 2007 because of elbow surgery.

Liriano said he was throwing harder back in the Dominican Republic, while he waited for his visa to be approved, because he was pitching in games.

"You know I can throw harder, but they tell me to take it easy,'' he said. "I'm a month away [from Opening Day]. Got plenty of time to get ready.''

Media service

Twins closer Joe Nathan has taped a message to the top of this clubhouse stall.

'Nothing Yet ... Thank You.'

Nathan has been questioned during camp about contract negotiations that appear to be at a standstill. Indications are that the Twins are offering a three-year deal and thjat Nathan wants something longer.

Dave Pepe, Nathan's agent, said on Friday that no meetings have been scheduled.

Coaches don helmets

Major League Baseball is requiring all base coaches to wear batting helmets this season, and Twins third base coach Scott Ullger isn't thrilled.

The requirement is in response to the death of Colorado Rockies minor league coach Mike Coolbaugh, who died last year after being hit with a line drive.

"I think they should leave it up to the individual," Ullger said. "I'm aware of the tragedy that happened last year. It's a terrible thing that happened. Personally, I think they should do something about the safety of fans in the front rows, and the safety of the players in the dugout."

Etc.

• Righthander Jesse Crain, easing his way back after shoulder surgery last season, threw in the bullpen on Thursday and is scheduled to pitch in a 'B' game on Monday against Boston.

• Righthander Boof Bonser threw two scoreless innings. He said the nearly 30 pounds he lost during the offseason has made a difference. "It feels a lot easier, just being able to explode, I guess,'' he said. "I don't really remember that from last year.''

Upcoming

The Twins will host the Red Sox today, with the first pitch scheduled for 12:05 p.m. Lefthander Randy Keisler will start for the Twins. Righthander Nick Blackburn will be among several pitchers following Keisler. Lefthander Jon Lester will start for Boston.

LA VELLE E. NEAL

AND JOE CHRISTENSEN

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