Crede's back takes turn for worse

The third baseman missed a third consecutive game, and the Twins are a little concerned.

By LA VELLE E. NEAL III, Star Tribune

Last update: August 26, 2009 - 7:12 AM

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Twins third baseman Joe Crede, who has had two surgeries on his back, learned Tuesday that he's had post-operative changes to his back. It's unknown when, or if, he'll return to action.

The condition was discovered during an MRI exam, which was ordered after Crede was unable to get his back loose for a third day in a row.

Twins manager Ron Gardenhire said team physicians will consult with Dallas spine specialist Dr. Andrew Dossett, who performed the second surgery on Crede during the offseason. The goal is to determine what has happened to Crede's back since the surgery, then devise a treatment plan.

Gardenhire refused to speculate on if Crede will land on the disabled list, although the news sounded troubling as Gardenhire read the report. He said the club needs more information before it proceeds.

Gardenhire didn't paint a pretty picture when discussing Crede's back before Tuesday's game, which was before the Twins learned of the MRI results.

"It's locked up right now," Gardenhire said. "His back doesn't feel very good. I'll let the doctors tell me where to go from there."

This potentially is the time of the season when someone with big-game experience such as Crede, a member of the White Sox's 2005 World Series championship team, can make a big difference.

Liriano checked out

Lefthander Francisco Liriano, on the 15-day disabled list because of a tired arm, also underwent a MRI.

But his news was better than Crede's.

"Everything checked out really good with his elbow," Gardenhire said. "Everything is good. Now it's about getting set with a program where he's going to play catch."

Liriano is expected to start playing catch in a few days as he builds toward a bullpen session.

Cuddyer makes history

After checking with the Elias Sports Bureau, the Twins discovered that Michael Cuddyer is the only player in major league baseball history to hit for the cycle and have two homers in one inning in the same season.

Cuddyer was humbled when he learned of the news.

"It's special," Cuddyer said. "You think of all the people who have slipped on a uniform in this game, and to be the only one to hit for the cycle and hit two homers in the same inning is special."

Cuddyer hit for the cycle on May 22 against Milwaukee. On Sunday, he became the 55th player ever to hit two homers in one inning.

Bonser progresses

Righthander Boof Bonser can take the next step in his quest to pitch for the Twins before the end of the season. Bonser, on the 60-day disabled list following shoulder surgery during spring training, has been cleared to throw to hitters. Bonser, who's working out at the Twins' facility in Fort Myers, Fla., is expected to throw batting practice a few times before beginning a minor league rehabilitation stint.

Etc.

• Orioles outfielder Adam Jones might miss the entire series because of back spasms.

• Here are the matchups for the Twins' weekend series against Texas: Friday: Brian Duensing vs. Tommy Hunter. Saturday: Scott Baker vs. Scott Feldman. Sunday: Carl Pavano vs. Kevin Millwood.

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