The Twins have lost six consecutive games against the Mariners, scoring a total of eight runs in that span, heading into Tuesday's matchup at Target Field.
Hisashi Iwakuma is back on the mound for Seattle. The Twins have had interest in him in the past, and he's a pending free agent, so that's something to keep in mind. Iwakuma's split-fingered fastball gave the Twins fits on Aug. 17, as he held them to one run (unearned) on four hits over seven innings.
The Twins counter with Scott Diamond, who has appealed his suspension for throwing a ball near Josh Hamilton's head. Regardless of what MLB does with that appeal, Diamond likely will begin serving the suspension after this start.
Note: According to the Twins game notes, Liam Hendriks on Monday became the first Twins pitcher to pitch nine innings in a 1-0 loss since Scott Erickson lost to Roger Clemens on July 18, 1992.
Update: Denard Span has been scratched because of shoulder soreness. Revised lineup below:
MARINERS (62-67)
1. Dustin Ackley, 2B
2. Carlos Gutierrez, CF
3. Kyle Seager, 3B
4. Jesus Montero, DH
5. Justin Smoak, 1B
6. Miguel Olivo, C
7. Eric Thames, RF
8. Trayvon Robinson, LF
9. Brendan Ryan, SS
Starting pitcher: RH Hisashi Iwakuma (4-3, 3.64 ERA)
