Jesse

Crain

He didn’t take part in fielding drills, but he’s keeping his arm in shape. ''I should be fine with my arm and throwing program,’' he said. ''I have a week or so to get ready for a game. Hopefully, I’ll be 100 percent, or close to 100 percent by then.’'

The Twins thought they entered camp with all 11 spots on the pitching staff set, but with Grant Balfour and Crain already hurting, they might want to keep their options open.

Crain, who has been impressive at Class AAA this season, would replace the struggling Aaron Fultz (67.75 ERA in his last four appearances) in the Twins’ bullpen.

Crain has struggled since the start of July, going 2-2 with a 7.90 earned-run average in 16 appearances — after a 7-0, 0.99 start through June.

Crain pitched an inning Thursday and two on Friday, so he needed the break anyway. He’s day-to-day.

Crain was held out of a scheduled appearance Wednesday due to a slight right oblique strain and is currently considered “day-to-day.” Assuming he doesn’t suffer any setbacks, he still has enough time to get ready for Opening Day.

It’s a significant step forward for the right-handed setup man, who suffered a right oblique strain last week. Crain should be back on track by the start of the season.

Obviously, it’s not what fantasy owners want to hear, and it’s the opposite of what pitching coach Don Cooper said in the Chicago Sun-Times. “No, we are not doing committee,’’ Cooper said. “There will be a set closer.’’ Matt Thornton is still probably the best bet for saves, but Jesse Crain, Addison Reed and Hector Santiago could all be in the mix.

Crain hasn’t pitched since March 12 due to a slight right oblique strain. He’s making progress, but still feels some tightness when he gets throwing past 100 feet. There’s still time for him to get ready for the season, but the White Sox likely won’t rush him back.

He also made 20 tosses in front of the mound. Crain suffered a right oblique strain last week, but hopes to throw a bullpen session Friday. Barring any setbacks, he still has enough time to get ramped up for the start of the season.