RHP Kevin Slowey (0-4, 5.49 ERA) vs. RHP Armando Galarraga (3-1, 3.06)
RHP Boof Bonser (2-5, 5.25) vs. LHP Nate Robertson (1-5, 6.08)
LHP Glen Perkins (1-1, 3.44) vs. RHP Justin Verlander (2-7, 5.61)
Manager Ron Gardenhire used Justin Morneau as the designated hitter Thursday, giving Michael Cuddyer his first start of the season at first base. Morneau requested a day at DH to give his legs and back a break, Gardenhire said. Morneau has started all 47 games this season, including 45 at first base and two as DH. He went 1-for-3 and hit a two-run tying single off Rangers reliever Joaquin Benoit in the eighth inning. ... The Twins are 3-2 against Detroit this season with the two losses coming after they held late-inning leads at Comerica Park in mid-April.
Dontrelle Willis returned from the disabled list Tuesday after missing five weeks because of a hyperextended knee and was placed in the bullpen, enabling the Tigers to keep Armando Galarraga in the rotation. Willis could be called upon to face Joe Mauer and Justin Morneau, and neither has faced the lefthander. ... Manager Jim Leyland called a pregame meeting Tuesday and said the main point was "accountability." The Tigers went on to sweep three games from the Mariners, outscoring them 30-14. Curtis Granderson was 7-for-46 before going 2-for-5 in Thursday's clincher.
JOE CHRISTENSEN
See thousands of photos from other StarTribune.com readers and share your own photos and video today.
![]() Open positions!A new career awaits. Look through thousands of listings to find your new job. Start now!![]() Save Your $$ With CouponsDiscounts on services, entertainment, dining, gifts, and more. Start saving! |
Comment on this story | Be the first to comment | Hide reader comments