Joe Mauer made his first career start in right field on Thursday night against the Yankees. Mauer also made his debut at first base this season as Minnesota looks to ease the physical demands on the catcher. He had three putouts in the game. Mauer was forced to play in the outfield as the Twins have been hit by a recent rash of injuries, including Michael Cuddyer (neck herniation), Matt Tolbert (sprained left wrist) and Denard Span (migraines). He said before the game that he never even played outfield in high school, but remembers playing outfield in amateur town ball games in Minnesota. "I can probably count on one hand how many times I've played in the outfield, ever," Mauer said. "It's been an interesting year. Hopefully, it's just today and we can get some guys in here, and it's just a one-time deal."