Slumping Twins bring Mauer back from rehab

CLEVELAND — The Minnesota Twins have returned first baseman Joe Mauer from his rehab assignment and reinstated him from the disabled list after a 25-game absence because of a neck strain and concussion-like symptoms resulting from a dive for a foul ball.

The move was made on Friday before Minnesota’s game at Cleveland. Third baseman Miguel Sano was sent to Class A Fort Myers on Thursday.

Mauer went hitless in 10 at-bats over three games with Triple-A Rochester, but the Twins lineup badly needs a boost from the three-time American League batting champion. They’re in the bottom third of the major leagues in most offensive categories.

The Twins also recalled infielder Taylor Motter from Rochester after sending outfielder Jake Cave down on Thursday.

[relatedlinks]

When submitting content, please abide by our submission guidelines, and avoid posting profanity, personal attacks or harassment. Should you violate our submissions guidelines, we reserve the right to remove your comments and block your account. Sportsnet reserves the right to close a story’s comment section at any time.