Twins place Mike Pelfrey on DL, Deduno will start Tuesday

The fourth place Minnesota Twins (12-14) will close out their handstand this weekend in a three game series against the Baltimore Orioles.

With that being said, right-handed pitcher Mike Pelfrey will be placed on the 15-day disabled list with a left groin strain. Pelfrey has struggled so far as he has given up 21 earned runs over 23 and two-third innings of work. Right now he’s carrying a 7.99 ERA, so he could be on his way out of the rotation whenever he’s able to return.

The 30 year old veteran only made it through four innings in a 9-4 loss against the Los Angeles Dodgers on Thursday night. He was pulled after four innings after giving up five earned runs on seven hits.

Now that Pelfrey has landed on the disabled list and possibly out of the starting rotation, right-hander Samuel Deduno will pick up his next start on Tuesday against the Cleveland Indians.

Deduno has a solid chance at making that final spot in the rotation his as long as he’s able to provide the team with solid outings. He currently holds a 2.89 ERA out of the bullpen.

Minnesota will begin a seven game road trip beginning in Cleveland (four games) on Monday, then landing in Detroit (three games) to take on the Tigers over the weekend. They’ll pick up an off-day on May 12 before taking on the Boston Red Sox at home.