Liriano has sore shoulder

FORT MYERS, FLA. — Lefthander Francisco Liriano was unable to throw in the bullpen Friday because of a sore shoulder that developed in recent days. Liriano said he's thrown about 12 bullpen sessions since the beginning of the year but experienced some discomfort after the most recent one."Shoulder's been sore for the last three or four days, so I've just been working in the training room," Liriano said. "Feels a little bit tight. Nothing big, it's just real tight."

Twins manager Ron Gardenhire said Liriano's work will be limited for a few days until he's ready to resume throwing.

"That happens during the winter when these guys are throwing on their own and getting ready for spring training and get sore," he said. "From what we know it shouldn't be a big deal; we'll go from there."

Liriano recently agreed to a one-year deal worth $4.3 million to avoid arbitration, but it has been reported that Liriano might not be in the Twins' long-term plans.

He learned of the report through a friend but said on Friday that he wants to remain with the Twins "my whole career."

"Whatever happens, happens," he said. "I'm just happy to be here."

Other ouches

And Joe Mauer will watch his left knee.

Gardenhire said Mauer still has some soreness to work out as he recovers from surgery, so he won't be catching many bullpen sessions right away.

"There is no sense pushing him," Gardenhire said.

There would see to be little sense in making Mauer do much of anything in spring training, even if fully healthy.

As for Morneau

Outfielder Rene Tosoni, who has worked out with Morneau, spoke favorably of a return.

"He said he wanted to finish up his last week and take his time to get down here," Tosoni said. "Nothing is holding him back. Seems like he's working out just as hard as anyone else. He's not complaining about anything.

"I worked with him last year and he seems like the same guy. Seems like nothing has held him back."

THREE THINGS ABOUT ... JOE BENSON