Mauer could return to lineup on Saturday

MINNEAPOLIS -- Catcher Joe Mauer missed his fourth straight game with a sprained right thumb on Friday, but could return on Saturday.

Mauer, who sprained his thumb while taking a swing last Sunday, took batting practice for the first time on Friday.

Twins manager Ron Gardenhire said there was even a chance that Mauer could be available as a pinch-hitter.

"His thumb is actually pretty good," Gardenhire said. "He's swinging on the field for the first time. We'll get him through today and see how he's doing. Maybe he'll pitch-hit. We'll probably get him in there [Saturday] if everything goes OK today."