Twins righthander Kevin Slowey is 0-2 with a 6.23 ERA in his career against Toronto. B;Blue Jays hitters are an amazing 22-for-44 against him. The Blue Jays lead the majors in homers and extra base hits.

It will say a lot about Slowey if he can find his good form tonight and control a tough lineup.

Jim Thome said his right ankle is better one day after fouling a pitch off of it on Sunday. I'm guessing he's got one good swing in him tonight if needed.

Joe Mauer is catching tonight but it will be a pre-game decision tomorrow on if he catchers, DH's or sits out the midday game here.

The Twins made several minor league moves on Monday, including the demotion of Chris Parmalee and Joe Benson to Class A Fort Myers. The promotions included the move of some kid named Toby Gardenhire from Class AA New Britain to Class AAA Rochester. The Twins never told his father that his son was promoted. Gardy found out from his wife.

Shortstop J.J. Hardy, on the disabled list because of a sore left wrist, will not be ready in time to join the team before the road trip ends.

This is Orlando Hudson's first game in Toronto since leaving the organization after the 2005 season.

Clay Buchholz and Jon Lester are scheduled to face the Twins in Boston later this week.

Just to be clear, the group of Twins personnel that attended Saturday Night Live in New York went to an evening taping of the show and were not there late. My apologies for not being more clear. They returned in time to watch the show at the hotel and figure out which skits made the final cut.

This is Orlando Hudson's first game in Toronto since leaving the organization after the 2005 season.

Clay Buchholz and Jon Lester are scheduled to face the Twins in Boston later this week.

Lineups

Twins (23-14)

1. Denard Span, CF
2. Orlando, Hudson, 2B
3. Joe Mauer, C
4. Justin Morneau, 1B
5. Michael Cuddyer, RF
6. Jason Kubel, DH
7. Delmon Young, LF
8. Brendan Harris, SS
9. Nick Punto, 3B

Pitching: RHP Kevin Slowey

Blue Jays (23-16)

1. Fred Lewis, RF
2. Aaron Hill, 2B
3. Adam Lind, LF
4. Vernon Wells, CF
5. Lyle Overbay, 1B
6. Ale Gonzalez, SS
7. Jose Bautista, 3B
8. John Buck, C
9. Randy Ruiz, DH

Pitching: LHP Dana Eveland