It appears possible that Francisco Liriano could be a candidate to replace Joe Nathan as Minnesota's closer if the latter's elbow injury is as serious as has been reported. Twins manager Rod Gardenhire said that a potential replacement will need the ability to rack up strikeouts and show mental fortitude. The Pioneer Press points out Liriano's strikeout ability, but his mental fortitude may hold him back. "Everybody's considered that's not in the rotation," Gardenhire said when asked if Liriano was a candidate.