Pitchers and catchers report in 14 days...Pitchers and catchers report in 14 days.....
GARDY WANTS TO GIVE SPAN A BREAK
Twins manager Ron Gardenhire has had to keep Denard Span, his best leadoff hitting option, in the lineup while making sure other players get occasional breaks.
``At the beginning of the season, everyone else was getting breathers. (Joe) Mauer, (Justin) Morneau,'' Span said. ``(Gardy) just couldn't. I was fine with that. I had to play through couple nicks but that is part of the game."
Looking back at last season, Gardenhire wonders if he made a mistake. Span batted .264 with a .331 on base percentage, his lowest in two-plus seasons in both categories. With Jason Repko slated to open the season as the reserve outfielder, Gardenhire is going to give Span more time off.
``Obviously his batting average dipped a little last year, but you know what, I can do a better job as a manager giving him breaks,'' Gardenhire said. ``We didn't have Repko for half a season last year, that's huge for me. (Span) does a lot of things for his teammates. Sees a lot of pitches. I think he wore down by the end of the season. ``I think I'm going to do a better job.
Span has never thought of asking for a day off. He enters each year expecting to play every game. If he's going to get days off, it will be because Gardenhire ordered it ``I will never go into his office and ask for a day off.'' Span said.
Gardy could use Alexi Casilla or Tsuyoshi Nishioka in the leadoff spot when Span needs a day off.