Twins consulting other doctors about Mauer; Opening Day uncertain
Posted on March 11th, 2009 – 6:38 PMBy Joe Christensen
FORT MYERS, FLA. — The Twins are consulting other doctors about the latest test results on Joe Mauer’s lower back, and General Manager Bill Smith could not say for certain Wednesday night that the catcher will be ready for the April 6 season opener.
“I don’t know that it is in question; I don’t know that it isn’t in question,” Smith said, briefing reporters.
Mauer had dye injected into his back Tuesday for a magnetic resonance arthrogram, which showed inflammation of the right sacroiliac joint, according to the Twins.
The sacroiliac joint, or SI joint, connects the spine to the pelvis, and the Twins said Mauer has been bothered with pain in that area when he runs.
Twins manager Ron Gardenhire said earlier Wednesday that the Twins would take a more aggressive course with medication to treat the inflammation, but Smith said that will depend on the team’s consultation with other doctors.
Smith said Mauer would continue doing his core strength training, while the other doctors study his test results and help the Twins form a plan.
“We are going to look at possibly changing to a different medicine,” Smith said. “They have been treating the SI joint. They’re in the right spot, but it’s too early to tell. I hate to say it. Everyone wants an answer now.”
Asked for a timetable, Smith said, “I can’t give you a timetable when the doctors are going to talk.”
Smith did say the Twins don’t believe Mauer’s current back pain is related to his Dec. 22 surgery to remove a kidney obstruction.
“I do not believe that this is kidney related,” Smith said. “This is the SI joint. The surgery was definitely for his health, not his playing.”
Mauer was at Twins camp on Wednesday but told a team spokesman he would prefer to get more information before commenting.
I’ll have more on this for first editions.


