MINNEAPOLIS -- Prior to Sunday’s game against the Blue Jays, Twins general manager Jeremy Zoll provided updates on the status of several of the team’s injured players and prospects. Here are some of the most notable developments.
David Festa, who had been trending toward a return to action after suffering a shoulder injury in Spring Training, encountered renewed discomfort following a recent throwing session. Festa was on his third live batting practice, indicating he was likely close to going on a Minor League rehabilitation assignment, but instead is currently being re-evaluated to determine his next steps.
Emmanuel Rodriguez is dealing with a muscle strain in his left thumb, which is encouraging and among the better news he could’ve gotten. Rodriguez was removed from Friday night’s game with what was only called a left thumb injury. Imaging on Saturday revealed a muscle strain and Rodriguez is considered day to day.
“That was good news on a relative basis,” Zoll said. “Of all the possible outcomes, no fractures, no tears of thumb UCLs or things along those lines. Day to day as of now. We’ll have a better sense of how his symptoms respond over the next couple of days.”
Rodriguez has not been placed on the seven-day injured list at Triple-A St. Paul.
Mick Abel came through his bullpen session Saturday well as he works to come back from elbow inflammation. His next step will be to throw another bullpen, after which the club will likely start looking at options for him to face hitters.
Cole Sands, the most recent Twin to hit the injured list, is officially considered to have a mild flexor strain in his right forearm. He should be able to begin a throwing program within the next two weeks.