Tough Break

Just when it was time to celebrate, the Twins' spirits were dampened by news of Michael Cuddyer's non-displaced fracture sustained last night during his rehab assignment for Triple-A Rochester. This, in the wake of a nicely pitched 4-1 win over the Royals in Kansas City in the opener of a three-game set. Kevin Slowey (7 hits, 2K) tossed 5 2/3 innings of one-run ball, then five relievers including closer Joe Nathan sealed up the team's 64th victory of the year.

Denard Span banged out two more hits as the leadoff man, and Joe Mauer drove in a team-high two runs as the Twins kept pace with White Sox, who recorded a hard-fought 5-3 decision over Boston.

This was the "gimme" game in the series, and now Minnesota faces Zack Greinke and Gil Meche on consecutive days. Winning one of those two could be considered a nice accomplishment, but I'm sure the team is looking for a sweep after the debacle in Seattle just a few days ago.

A few brief Minor League Notes:

• No. 1 and no. 2 hitters Jason Pridie and Alejandro Machado (17-game hitting streak) went 2-for-4 in Rochester's 3-2 win over Indianapolis. Garrett Jones added three singles in four at bats as well for the Red Wings.

Much more coming Sunday, including another Alexi Casilla update! Thanks for reading!