Twins first baseman Justin Morneau will be shut down for the rest of the series against the Rangers while his troublesome left wrist is examined.
Morneau, who has been playing with a sore wrist for about two weeks, will be examined by Twins' hand specialist Dr. Tom Varecka and could be a candidate for a cortisone shot. Twins manger Ron Gardenhire said he needs to know what Morneau is dealing with before he's comfortable putting him in the starting lineup.
``It makes no sense for me to stick him back in the lineup before Dr. Varecka sees him and makes sure we're on the right path,'' Gardenhire said. ``Take today and tomorrow and Monday's day off. By Tuesday. I think he'll regroup.
``This is a good time, whether he likes it or not. We know he likes to be in there and is trying to play through this thing but the results haven't been very good.''
Morneau also has been battling a pinched nerve in his neck that affects his shoulder, although he said the wrist injury is a bigger issue. He's been doing all he can to stay off the disabled list. He said earlier in the week that the wrist hurts whenever he uses it.
Rehab updates
Jason Kubel said his sprained foot is doing better. He's taking batting practice with the team today, then will head inside for more rehab.
Ian Kinsler is back from paternity leave and in the Rangers' lineup.
Rangers (36-29)
