Correa Returns After Back Injury, Twins Face More Injuries

Minnesota Twins shortstop Carlos Correa missed three games due to back tightness, which he said was caused by slipping in the batter's box at the Athletics' temporary minor-league ballpark in West Sacramento. Correa could not switch to more grippy cleats because of his history with plantar fasciitis, and both he and team management opted for rest to avoid more serious injury. He sat out the final two games against the Athletics and Friday's opener against the Blue Jays but returned to the lineup at shortstop and batting third on Saturday. Despite a slow start, Correa has been improving offensively since May and remains strong defensively. The poor field conditions have also contributed to other injuries on the team, including a shoulder issue for pitcher Pablo Lopez. Manager Rocco Baldelli expressed little concern about long-term effects for Correa.