Mauer takes groundballs before game at 1st base

MINNEAPOLIS (AP) - Joe Mauer is still catching for the Minnesota Twins.

But the 2009 American League Most Valuable Player has, at least, begun to take groundballs at first base. Mauer got some work in at that position before Monday’s game against the Los Angeles Dodgers.

Mauer says he’s willing to play first base from time to time to help the team. He says he still considers himself a catcher.

But with teammate Justin Morneau out for several weeks following neck surgery, the Twins could use first base as a way to keep Mauer’s bat in the lineup when he needs a break from behind the plate.