Denard Span is back in the starting lineup for the first time since Aug. 13 as the Twins prepare to face the Mariners.
For how long tonight, we're not sure.
Span said that he's scheduled to play a few innings tonight, and it sounds like Twins manager Ron Gardenhire will limit his time on the field in other games this week. Seems like the right thing to do. Span hasn't played in over a month because of migraine symptoms. With the minor league season over, he's been unable to play in any rehab games. He's coming into tonight's game without a sharp bat.
But Span feels this hurdle needs to be cleared so he can go into the offseason feeling better about his chances in 2012.
So it's Ben Revere in left, Span in center and Joe Benson in right. It could be the No. 1 outfield before 2012 is over. Michael Cuddyer and Jason Kubel are free agents after this season and both could sign elsewhere.The way things look now, I don't see how the Twins bring both back and I think there's an increasing chance both walk.
But I'm also the guy who thought the Twins had no chance of bringing Carl Pavano back.
Mariners (65-89)
1. Ichiro, RF
2. Kyle Seager, SS
3. Dustin Ackley, 2B
4. Make Carp, LF
5. Justin Smoak, DH
6. Miguel Olivo, C
7. Adam Kennedy, 1B
8. Alex Liddi, 3B
9. Trayvon Robinson, CF
