The Twins plan to activate Scott Baker from the disabled list in time to make Saturday's start against the first-place Tigers, pitching coach Rick Anderson said Wednesday, after Minnesota's 7-5 victory over Cleveland at Target Field.
Baker, who has been on the DL with a strained flexor muscle in his right elbow, tested it today in a bullpen session and said he felt great. He said barring an unforeseen development, he should be ready to go Saturday.
Baker is 7-5 with a 3.01 ERA. The Twins probably would have used Anthony Swarzak (2-3, 3.52 ERA) in Baker's place again, but now Swarzak can return to a long-relief role.
Pitching matchups vs. Detroit:
Thurs: Carl Pavano (6-6, 4.08 ERA) vs. Justin Verlander (12-5, 2.29)
Friday: Brian Duensing (7-7, 4.14) vs. Max Scherzer (10-5, 4.53)
Saturday: Baker vs. RH Brad Penny (7-6, 4.47)
Sunday: Francisco Liriano (6-7, 4.56) vs. Rick Porcello (9-6, 4.76)
