Twins concerned Cuddyer’s strained finger could linger, and Crede sits again with swollen knee

Cuddyer’s finger hurting, Crede’s knee is swollen

MINNEAPOLIS — The Minnesota Twins are missing third baseman Joe Crede and right fielder Michael Cuddyer due to injuries.

Crede and Cuddyer were not in the lineup for Tuesday night’s game against Cleveland, leaving manager Ron Gardenhire with a two-man bench.

Gardenhire is concerned Cuddyer’s strained right index finger could linger. Last season, Cuddyer dislocated the same finger and was placed on the disabled list. He isn’t sure how he hurt it this time, but he woke up Sunday with discomfort and was forced out of the game that afternoon at Tampa Bay when the pain increased after a swing in his only at-bat.

Crede fouled a ball off his left knee and left Saturday’s game at Tampa Bay. It’s still swollen, but he’s expected back for Wednesday’s game.