By: Kelly Thesier/MLB.com

MINNEAPOLIS — Joe Mauer is back behind the plate today for the Twins after catching last night’s game.

Mauer hasn’t played many day games after night games recently, so it seems to be a sign that the catcher is feeling better. Manager Ron Gardenhire said that Saturday’s quick game and the lack of foul tips played a role in Mauer getting the start behind the plate as well.

Delmon Young is getting the day off today with Jason Repko starting in left field. Young had  started 56 straight games for the Twins and played every inning in those games, so Gardenhire felt that Young needed a rest. He said that Young looks to be fighting his swing a little bit right now, following a really hot stretch at the plate, and it could be due to the outfielder’s arms and legs being a little weary.

So Young will rest today and during Monday’s off day before returning to the lineup on Tuesday, but Gardenhire said Young is available off the bench if needed.

J.J. Hardy is getting one final day to rest his left wrist, but Gardenhire said Hardy will be back in the lineup on Tuesday. Hardy’s wrist has been feeling a lot better after taking a few days off.

A roster move is expected after the game to activate infielder Nick Punto. Gardenhire said on his weekly radio show on ESPN 1500 that the Twins will likely send out a catcher. So that means Jose Morales is likely headed back to Triple-A Rochester.

One other news note, the Twins activated Matt Tolbert from the disabled list and optioned him to Triple-A Rochester.

Athletics (57-58)

Coco Crisp, CF
Daric Barton, 1B
Kurt Suzuki, C
Jack Cust, DH
Kevin
Kouzmanoff, 3B
Mark Ellis, 2B
Rajai Davis, RF
Chris
Carter, LF
Cliff Pennington, SS

Pitching: RHP Vin Mazzaro (6-4, 3.86 ERA)


Twins

(67-50)

Denard Span, CF

Orlando Hudson, 2B
Joe Mauer, C
Jason Kubel, RF
Michael Cuddyer, 1B
Jim Thome, DH
Danny Valencia, 3B
Jason Repko, LF
Alexi Casilla, SS

Pitching: RHP Kevin Slowey

(10-5, 4.45 ERA)

A
reminder
you
can follow me on Twitter  @kellythesier