When we left the clubhouse late last night, Joe Mauer looked like he was still in some discomfort from back spasms.
And he is not in the lineup today. Drew Butera is behind the plate as P.J. Walters makes his second start since being activated from the disabled list.
As for Mauer, he's played in 35 of the Twins' last 36 games. Some will grumble about him not being able to deal with injuries well. Well, back spasms aren't pleasant to deal with. And also keep in mind that Mauer still has a chance to set a personal-best for plate appearances in a season. His high is 633 in 2008. He's at 569 now.
You can grumble about his lack of power, but he's stayed on the field this season.
Denard Span, by the way, is off the DL and back in the lineup.
Royals (64-77)
1. David Lough, RF
2. Alcides Escobar, SS
3. Alex Gordon, LF
4. Billy Butler, DH
5. Salvador Perez, C
6. Mike Moustakas, 3B
7. Lorenzo Cain, CF
8. Eric Hosmer, 1B
9. Johnny Giavotella, 2B
Pitching: Luke Hochevar, RHP
Twins (59-83)
