Guerrier takes another step in comeback bid

ST. PETERSBURG -- Reliever Matt Guerrier, who is attempting to make a comeback after having surgery to fix the flexor mass in his right elbow in August, was promoted to Triple-A Rochester on Wednesday after he threw four scoreless innings at Double-A New Britain.

The right-hander, who pitched with the Twins from 2004-10 before rejoining the club on a Minor League deal this offseason, has an opt-out date in his contract of May 8. Guerrier was given his release in Spring Training on March 24 but re-signed with the Twins on a Minor League deal the next day.

He did not give up an earned run in three appearances at Double-A, striking out five and walking two in four innings of work. Twins assistant general manager Rob Antony said the Twins were pleased with his progress.

"His delivery hasn't changed, and his arm action hasn't changed," Antony said. "Sometimes when guys have injuries, you see the arm action look different, and that will throw up a red flag. He looked the same in Spring Training, and he continues to."

Guerrier replaced right-hander Deolis Guerra on Triple-A Rochester's roster, as Guerra was placed on the seven-day disabled list with a strained hamstring.