Minnesota Twins Injury Update: Blackburn's MRI, Morneau's Foot and Notes

Injuries have plagued the Twins most of the this season.

Although most of the core has returned—Joe Mauer, Jason Kubel and now Michael Cuddyer are all healthy and swinging the bat—an injury list that includes Scott Baker, Delmon Young, and many other key players continues to grow.

The following is an injury update provided by Twins trainer Rick McWane prior to the Baltimore Orioles series at Target Field.

Tom Schreier is a Featured Columnist for Bleacher Report. Unless otherwise noted, all quotes were obtained firsthand or from official interview materials from the Minnesota Twins.

Nick Blackburn

Blackburn left in the second inning of his last outing against the Yankees, leaving Anthony Swarzak and the rest of the bullpen to finish up the game for him.

According to McWane, the pitcher had an MRI on his right forearm and is set to see a specialist on Tuesday.

"We'll know more about the length of time and diagnosis when he sees a specialist tomorrow morning," said McWane.

As far as long relievers go, manager Ron Gardenhire does not have much to offer.

"We don't have any 'long men.' We could get a tall guy," said Gardenhire in jest. "If something happens to Pavano (the starter on Monday), we're up s**t creek without a paddle."

Tsuyoshi Nishioka

"Nishioka's lower-back and oblique is much better," said McWane.

The shortstop is listed as day-to-day.

"He says he can play," says McWane. "We'll try, for a couple days, to keep him from swinging, but he says he's available."

Justin Morneau

Morneau has a bruised foot and was wearing soft shoes, as opposed to cleats, today during batting practice.

"He's a lot better today," says McWane, who says that the slugger is wearing softer shoes for "comfort."

"He's available to pinch hit," he continued. "Hopefully we'll have him back in the lineup [on Tuesday]."

Alexi Casilla

Casilla started on-the-field running and agility drills for his hamstring, according to McWane.

"No problems," he says of the speedy Casilla. "We'll progress him as he tolerates (the pain)."

Scott Baker

Baker will begin a throwing program on Tuesday.

"He's been feeling really good for the past week," says McWane. "[He's] kinda anxious to get back out there."

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