Glen Perkins expected to join Twins in New York, could pitch by Friday
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Good news for a depleted Minnesota Twins pitching staff.
After being temporarily held back from the Twins' road trip to New York, left-hander Glen Perkins is expected to rejoin the team prior to Wednesday night's game, a league source said.
Barring any last-minute setback, Perkins is expected to be able to pitch by Thursday or Friday.
Perkins experienced some discomfort around his left forearm late last week, and an MRI on Monday revealed no ligament damage -- only inflammation and tenderness stemming from his left radial nerve, which is an ailment treatable with medication and rest.
The Twins will be forced to make a roster move of some kind to clear room for Jason Marquis, who is scheduled to make his first start of the season on Wednesday night. It's possible Nick Blackburn (shoulder stiffness) could be placed on the disabled list. Otherwise the Twins would likely need to send a relief pitcher to Triple-A Rochester, which would thin out the bullpen even more.
