"We're going to give him today obviously and see how he responds with an off-day tomorrow. We'll re-evaluate when we regroup on Tuesday. The trainers don't really have a gut [feeling]. But we don't think it's too severe. My guess is 3-5 [days], but I don't have the medical background." - Twins manager Paul Molitor via MLB.com
The Minnesota Twins feel that rookie slugger Miguel Sano will not need a trip to the disabled list after rolling his ankle on Saturday. Sano suffered the injury on Saturday during batting practice. A wayward ball ended up in the first base area where he was taking fielding practice and he stepped on it, resulting in some soreness.
According to MLB.com, Sano actually played through the injury Saturday before informing manager Paul Molitor that it was getting worse. After the game he was seen on crutches, however, that was for precautionary purposes to force him to keep his weight off of it.
The Twins face an uphill climb to contend for the American League Central crown, with the defending American League Champion Kansas City Royals owning the best record in the league so far and showing no signs of slowing down. The Twins trail the Royals by five games coming into Sunday, but currently hold on to the top American League Wild Card spot.
Sano has been a welcome addition to a team without proven offense. Called up on July 2nd, he has six extra base hits in 13 games, mostly as the designated hitter. The 22-year old from the Dominican Republic also has nine RBI and a .326 batting average. He shows all the signs of being a middle of the lineup player during the crucial pennant stretch.
He was working out at first base and he has one game at third base (his only appearance in the field). The 6'4", 260 pound slugger would benefit the team with some defensive utility. For now, they just hope the ankle heals quickly.