CLEVELAND — As expected, the Twins cut reliever Juan Rincon today.

No announcement has been made, but Rincon’s locker has been cleaned out here at Progressive Field, and he left the ballpark before the media was allowed into the clubhouse.

The Twins had planned to make an announcement after tonight’s game, as they prepare to add a position player from Class AAA Rochester. No official word yet, but it’s expected to be infielder Brian Buscher.

I’ll give you the specifics as they come.

Update (2:52 p.m.): La Velle just heard from a Rochester source that Brian Buscher is indeed getting promoted.

Update (2:55 p.m.): Also a busy day on the Cleveland side today. The Indians have placed catcher Victor Martinez (inflamed right elbow) and second baseman Josh Barfield (strained finger) on the 15-day disabled list.

Update (5:45 p.m.): The Twins offered Rincon an outright assignment to Class AAA Rochester, and he now has 72 hours to decide whether to accept the assignment or become a free agent.

Most players in Rincon’s position take free agency.

Buscher will meet the Twins in Milwaukee on Friday.

Twins (32-34)

1. Carlos Gomez, CF

2. Alexi Casilla, 2B

3. Joe Mauer, C

4. Justin Morneau, 1B

5. Michael Cuddyer, RF

6. Jason Kubel, LF

7. Craig Monroe, DH

8. Brendan Harris, SS

9. Matt Macri, 3B

Starting pitcher: RH Livan Hernandez

Indians (30-36)

1. Grady Sizemore, CF

2. Jamey Carroll, 2B

3. Ben Francisco, LF

4. Ryan Garko, 1B

5. David Dellucci, DH

6. Jhonny Peralta, SS

7. Shin-Soo Choo, RF

8. Casey Blake, 3B

9. Kelly Shoppach, C

Starting pitcher: LH Aaron Laffey

Progressive Field. First pitch: 6:05 p.m. (Central)

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