--RHP Joe Nathan has just three saves in five appearances this season. He hasn't blown a save but has been forced to pitch in a couple of non-save situations to get work in. Through April 23 last season, Nathan had six saves in seven appearances.

--RHP Kevin Slowey will be on the mound at Cleveland on Friday in the opener of a three-game series. Slowey has labored early this season. In three starts, he has a 5.89 ERA, and opposing batters are hitting .354 against him.

MEDICAL WATCH:

RHP Jesse Crain (right shoulder inflammation) went on the 15-day disabled list retroactive to April 18. He is expected to return as soon as he is eligible.

C Joe Mauer (inflamed sacroiliac joint in his lower back) went on the 15-day disabled list April 2. He began running, a key step in his recovery, in mid-April, and was scheduled to begin a rehab assignment on April 24. The Twins hope he can return by May 1.

RHP Boof Bonser (torn right labrum and rotator cuff surgery in February 2009) went on the 15-day disabled list April 2. He is out for the season.

RHP Pat Neshek (right elbow surgery) went on the 60-day disabled list Feb. 21. He will remain in Florida all summer and targets a return by next spring.

ROTATION:

LHP Francisco Liriano

RHP Nick Blackburn

RHP Kevin Slowey

LHP Glen Perkins

RHP Scott Baker

BULLPEN:

RHP Joe Nathan (closer)

RHP Matt Guerrier

LHP Craig Breslow

RHP Luis Ayala

RHP R.A. Dickey

RHP Juan Morillo

LHP Jose Mijares

CATCHERS:

Mike Redmond

Jose Morales

INFIELDERS:

1B Justin Morneau

2B Alexi Casilla

SS Nick Punto

3B Joe Crede

INF Brian Buscher

INF Brendan Harris

OUTFIELDERS:

LF Delmon Young

CF Denard Span

RF Michael Cuddyer

DH Jason Kubel

OF Carlos Gomez