From Joe Christensen at the Strib

Getting a growing sense that the Twins will keep Denard Span in the majors when Michael Cuddyer returns from the DL.

Cuddyer will be back in right field, but Span could rotate to all three outfield spots, starting three or four games per week.

It becomes a development question for the Twins. Is it better for Span’s development to start every day for Class AAA Rochester? Yes. But it’s July, and they are right in the race.

I think Span’s impact goes beyond his own performance, which has been solid — .294 batting average, .400 OBP, several terrific catches in right field. Delmon Young and Carlos Gomez seem sharper because there’s another up-and-comer, a 24-year-old around.

No one needs to convince Manager Ron Gardenhire. He was pushing for Span to be in the big leagues even before Cuddyer got hurt. The front office might need some convincing, but I’ve had indications that they’re ready to keep Span, too, even if it means eating salary to cut another player.