Manager Ron Gardenhire rested Punto (bruised left knee) a third consecutive game but was hopeful Punto would be available for the three-game series against the Chicago White Sox that begins Friday. "If he's still gimpy, I'll have to take a look at if I have to make adjustments," said Gardenhire, who indicated that the Twins could call up an infielder from the minor leagues but wouldn't put Punto on the DL.
(Updated 8/18/2006)

Analysis: Punto is batting .312 with 31 RBIs in 93 games.