SEATTLE -- Danny Valencia will start at third base tonight in his major league debut, and J.J. Hardy, who still has soreness in his left wrist, is getting a night off with the Twins facing Felix Hernandez.

Updates to come...

Update: Manager Ron Gardenhire said Valencia likely will return to Class AAA Rochester after the weekend series in Oakland. The Twins will need the roster spot when Michael Cuddyer returns from the bereavement list.

"Maybe things can change, they always do, but yes, I would think he'd go right back," Gardenhire said.

J.J. Hardy said a day off today, and taking fewer swings in batting practice, should help him be able to play through the soreness in his left wrist.

Orlando Hudson is taking ground balls at second base during batting practice but there were no plans for him to start swinging a bat. Gardenhire said Hudson is day-to-day.

TWINS (31-22)

1. Denard Span, CF
2. Matt Tolbert, 2B
3. Joe Mauer, C
4. Justin Morneau, 1B
5. Jim Thome, DH
6. Jason Kubel, RF
7. Delmon Young, LF
8. Danny Valencia, 3B
9. Nick Punto, SS

Starting pitcher: RH Carl Pavano (5-5, 3.99 ERA)

MARINERS (21-31)

1. Ichiro Suzuki, CF
2. Chone Figgins, 2B
3. Franklin Gutierrez, CF
4. Jose Lopez, 3B
5. Milton Bradley, DH
6. Casey Kotchman, 1B
7. Josh Wilson, SS
8. Rob Johnson, C
9. Michael Saunders, LF

Starting pitcher: RH Felix Hernandez (2-4, 3.50 ERA)

Safeco Field. First pitch: 7:10 p.m. TV: FSN. Twins Radio Network