Twins move Liriano to bullpen, demote Valencia

Angels beat Twins 6-2 Wednesday night

Published On: May 10 2012 02:35:40 PM CDT
Minnesota Twins
MINNEAPOLIS -

The struggling Minnesota Twins are shaking things up, moving Francisco Liriano to the bullpen and optioning third baseman Danny Valencia to Triple-A Rochester.

The Twins announced the moves on Wednesday night after a 6-2 loss to the Los Angeles Angels that dropped them to an MLB-worst 8-22.

Liriano is 0-5 with a 9.45 ERA in six starts this season. Manager Ron Gardenhire said they are hoping he regains some confidence in the bullpen and they still view him as a starter for the long term. The Twins selected the contract of right-hander P.J. Walters from Rochester.

He will start on Saturday against Toronto.

Valencia is hitting .190 with one homer and 11 RBIs.

The Twins also recalled outfielder Darin Mastroianni and designated left-hander Matt Maloney for assignment.

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