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Nunez declares himself ready to return to lineup

Infielder runs bases, takes grounders at third base before series finale

BOSTON -- Twins infielder Eduardo Nunez ran the bases and took ground balls at third base without any issues before Wednesday's game and said he's ready to make his return.

Nunez, who suffered a hamstring strain in Saturday's game, tested it out under the watchful eyes of Twins manager Ron Gardenhire, assistant trainer Tony Leo and strength and conditioning coordinator Perry Castellano before Wednesday's game at Fenway Park.

Nunez was held out of the lineup for a fourth straight game, but told Gardenhire he believes he'll be ready to start again Thursday, when the Twins return home to play the White Sox.

There's a chance the Twins will remain cautious with Nunez, as it didn't appear he was running full speed in his baserunning drills from first to third. But he's expected to avoid the 15-day disabled list.

Rhett Bollinger is a reporter for MLB.com. Read his blog, Bollinger Beat, and follow him on Twitter @RhettBollinger.
Read More: Minnesota Twins, Eduardo Nunez