FORT MYERS — Twins manager Ron Gardenhire said today that the team is leaning toward Livan Hernandez for an Opening Night starter.

“We’re kind of trying to go with [Hernandez], but we’ll see how everything goes,” Gardenhire said. “He should be the guy. … I was kind of leaning that way, but wait and see what happens as we go along here.”

Hernandez, who makes his third start of the spring today against Tampa Bay, is 1-0 with a 10.80 ERA.

“Actually, the first couple times [including live batting practice sessions] we enjoyed the heck out of it. Last time was what you see a veteran sometimes going up and trying to work on grips and spinning the ball, and so we’ll just move past that.

“He knows how to pitch. He’s done it, he’s proven himself in this league, and I think he probably has another level. I hope. I think. … We’ve seen it before so we’ve kind of learned not to panic.”

NOTE: Brittni Wangsness, 17, from Geneva, Minn., is throwing out a ceremonial first pitch before today’s game.

Brittni was on a trip with her family arranged by “Wishes and More,” an organization that makes wishes come true for youngsters with serious ailments.

Brittni’s wish was to come to spring training and meet Joe Mauer, her sports hero. Brittni was able to have a long conversation with Mauer this morning. He gave her a signed bat and other souvenirs.

She presented him with a favorite food: white cupcakes with white frosting. Brittni went to the nearby Food Fresh market early this morning to help decorate the cupcakes.

Jack Nelson, the Twins’ coordinator of community relations in spring training, said: “We’re lucky to have Joe and so many other great guys on this team. Sometimes, I feel like Santa Claus, when we’re able to help arrange a meeting like this.”

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