Twins’ Cruz sent to IL at critical time

Minnesota Twins designated hitter Nelson Cruz was placed on the 10-day injured list Friday because of a ruptured tendon in his left wrist, but the team is optimistic about his eventual return.

Cruz was injured on a swing Thursday night in a 7-5 loss to Cleveland that cut Minnesota’s American League Central lead to a single game. Tests revealed a rupture of the extensor carpi ulnaris tendon, but Cruz reported feeling no pain in the wrist when he arrived at Target Field on Friday.

“I can grab the bat,” Cruz said. “It feels good. Monday, I’m going to go to New York and see a specialist. We’ve got to go from there. But it looks as if it’ll be good in 10 days.”

Cruz has been a major piece in the Twins’ resurgence this season, hitting .294 with 32 home runs and 76 RBIs while being a steadying influence on the team’s younger players.

Tigers

Detroit released second baseman Josh Harrison after reinstating him from the injured list. The former Pirate signed a one-year deal with the Tigers for 2019, but he hit just .176 in 136 at-bats. He’s had to deal with shoulder and hamstring problems and hasn’t played in a major league game since May 27.

Phillies

Outfielder Jay Bruce has been placed on the injured list, only one day after he returned following a threeweek absence for a different injury Bruce is out this time with strained left flexor.

Mets

New York signed second baseman Joe Panik before their series opener with the wild card-leading Washington Nationals, a homecoming for the New York native.The 28-year-old Panik was released by San Francisco this week.

Rangers

A fan who directed racist comments and derogatory gestures at a Hispanic family during a game has been indefinitely banned from the team’s games at Globe Life Park.