Joe Mauer was given the day off Wednesday against the A’s. The Twins lost a grueling matchup 1-0 when Jay Payton hit a RBI double to give the A’s their only run. Mauer did come in the game to pinch hit late in the game, but did not end up with a hit. More devestating news than losing the game, is that the Twins number 2 pitcher Liriano reaggrevated his injury and will sit out the rest of the year.
Francisco Liriano left the game early after only 2 innings with left elbow pain, the same injury that has kept him sidelined for the last 5 weeks. This really puts a damper on the Twins chances of making a deep playoff push. I have no doubt that the Twins can still make the playoffs because they have been winning without Liriano for the past month.

The Twins travel to Cleveland tonight for a 4 game series against the Indians.