Plouffe not in Boston, could play in Cleveland

BOSTON -- Third baseman Trevor Plouffe did not make the trip to Boston, as he's continuing to rehab his bruised right thumb.

Plouffe, who is on the disabled list retroactive to July 21, is eligible to return on Sunday. He originally injured his thumb when he was jammed by a pitch against the Royals on July 20.

Twins assistant general manager Rob Antony said there's a chance Plouffe could rejoin the Twins on their current road trip that continues with a three-game series in Cleveland starting on Monday.

"He could join the team on this trip if he's ready," Antony said. "He'll continue to work out with Tony Leo back in Minnesota and, yeah, that's a possibility."

Antony added there also remains a chance that Plouffe will go on a rehab assignment, but that the club will make that decision once Plouffe is healthy enough to play.