JUPITER, Fla. — There's lots going on at Hammond Stadium back in Fort Myers today, but it's not a ballgame. There were several hundred people at the complex when I arrived at 7:30 this morning, preparing for a 5K race that started at 8.
By the time they finished, the racers might have gotten a good look at Twins closer Glen Perkins, who threw in the bullpen this morning and reported no problems. If the oblique strain in his right side isn't sore again tomorrow, Perkins will throw again soon, probably Tuesday. Sounds like the Twins might not have to worry about him being ready for the start of the regular season.
Here on the Atlantic coast of Florida, the Twins have three catchers in the lineup today, which manager Paul Molitor assured us is not a record. Chris Herrmann, who is learning to play first base and continuing his work in the outfield, gets his first start behind the plate, catching Ricky Nolasco. Josmil Pinto is the designated hitter again, and Dan Rohlfing is at first base as the Twins play the first of two weekend games against the Cardinals.
It was interesting to watch all the fans trying to get Shane Robinson's autograph. They were calling for him from the moment he stepped on the field. Once a Cardinal, always a Cardinal, it appears.
Here are the lineups for today's game, which is being televised by Fox Sports North:
TWINS
Hicks CF
Escobar SS
