Morneau not in lineup tonight against Rangers

Justin Morneau is not in the starting lineup today to rest a sore left wrist and pinched nerve in neck that affects his left shoulder.

He is doing all he can to stay off the disabled list.

Joe Mauer is scheduled to catch for the third straight game with Class A Fort Myers, another signal that he's nearing a return to the Twins.

UPDATES Sorry for the delay. The internet went out in the press box, so I turned attention to the notes for the dead tree edition.

I also kept track of Class A Fort Myers' game. Joe Mauer hit a three-run homer in the first inning.Yes, it was to the opposite field.

Sounds like he wants to come back Tuesday and Nishioka will head to Rochester for a few days.

Both could be here by the end of next week.

Infielder Tsuyoshi Nishioka (broken left fibula) started at short on Friday and could move to Class AAA Rochester as soon as Saturday to face tougher competition before being activated.

Outfielder Jason Kubel (left foot sprain) hit in the cage and ran on Friday. He's eligible to be activated next Friday.

Designated hitter Jim Thome (left quadriceps, back) received an epidural on Friday. The Twins will know more Saturday. He also can be activated Friday.

Outfielder Denard Span (concussion) is getting treatment for whiplash and being tested for concussion symptoms.

Lefthander Glen Perkins (right oblique strain) will pitch one inning for Class AAA Rochester on Saturday.

Morneau is getting a day off to rest his wrist and should return to the lineup tomorrow.

Rangers (35-29)

1. Elvis Andrus,SS
2. Craig Gentry, CF
3. Josh Hamilton,LF
4. Michael Young, DH
5. Adrian Beltre, 3B
6. Nelson Cruz, RF
7. Mike Napoli, 1B
8. Yorvit Torrealba, C
9. Andres Blanco, 2B

Pitching: C.J. Wilson, LHP

Twins (24-38)