Globe iconLogin iconRecap iconSearch iconTickets icon

Pavano's Thursday start uncertain

Pavano's Thursday start uncertain

MILWAUKEE -- The Twins will decide by Tuesday whether right-hander Carl Pavano will start against the White Sox on Thursday, or if they'll use a spot starter with right-hander Nick Blackburn on the disabled list with a left quad strain.

With Monday's off-day, Pavano would be starting on regular rest, but with Pavano dealing with a strain in the front of his throwing shoulder, the Twins could opt to give him an extra day.

"We're still working on that," Twins manager Ron Gardenhire said. "We have a little bit of time here. Originally, the plan was for Pavano to take an extra day, so we're still waiting on that. We might need a Thursday starter, and if we do, it'll be in this clubhouse."

Gardenhire wouldn't give specific names on who would make that start, but likely candidates include Anthony Swarzak, Brian Duensing and Francisco Liriano.

If Pavano goes on regular rest on Thursday, the Twins could wait until Saturday to use a spot starter, as right-hander Jason Marquis could start on regular rest on Friday against the Tigers.

Blackburn, meanwhile, is still getting work done on his injured quad in Minnesota, and there's no specific timetable for his return.

"He's back home getting treatment," Gardenhire said. "I haven't heard a word since. The DL is good for him. He had the knife feeling going in his left thigh and he needs that to get better before he pitches."