Mauer still has symptoms, but hopes to return soon

MINNEAPOLIS -- Joe Mauer took batting practice on the field before Friday's game against the Blue Jays, but said he's not ready to make his return, as he's still feeling concussion-like symptoms.

Mauer, who suffered a concussion on a foul tip while catching on Aug. 19 and was placed on the disabled list the next day, has been working out at Target Field for the last week. The original hope was that he would be ready to rejoin the Twins on Friday.

"We don't really have a timetable -- hopefully sooner than later," Mauer said. "It's been a process. I'm just trying to get back out there as soon as I can. It was a good day today."

Mauer also ruled out the possibility of shutting it down for the season; he wants to play as soon as he's cleared by doctors.

"I'm not programmed that way," Mauer said. "I want to go out there as soon as I can. I love this game. Hopefully, I can be out there soon."

Twins general manager Terry Ryan echoed Mauer's statement, as he said he believes Mauer will return this year and added that Mauer will remain at catcher upon returning.

"I don't think there's any doubt that's going to happen," Ryan said. "He hasn't had any setbacks. He's making progress every day. We certainly have our sights set on some point here in the month of September."