From the Strib:

Catcher Joe Mauer was being interviewed on Wednesday when former Twin Corey Koskie walked over to listen to his answers.

"I've been working with him on improving his interviewing," said Koskie, who signed with Toronto during the offseason. "I'm trying to get him off the Doug Mientkiewicz program."

Then, Koskie turned to Mauer and said: "And the next time you get a game ball, give it back."

That referred to Mientkiewicz keeping the ball used for the final out of last year's World Series, angering Red Sox officials and fans.

Koskie has a home in Fort Myers and worked out at the Twins' complex before heading to Dunedin, Fla., to report to Blue Jays camp. Former Twins A.J. Pierzynski, Dustan Mohr and Brian Buchanan also worked out at the Lee County Sports Complex during the week.

No, we never get tired of making really dumb Canada jokes. Also, check out this Cool Strib Multimedia Thingy where Jim Souhan interviews LaVelle E. Neal, who is fresh off the plane to Ft. Meyers. Neal believes this will be the best Twins line-up in years and is very optimistic about the entire starting ro' as well, because "Lohse can't possibly have a worse year than he did last year."

And, in other Canadian news, playing the role of Job this offseason was one Justin Morneau:

Manager Ron Gardenhire said that since last season ended, Morneau had appendicitis, chicken pox and a lung infection that led to pneumonia.

"He's been sicker than a dog all winter long," Gardenhire said. "He's got to be behind. There's no doubt in my mind."

The club wanted to fly Morneau into camp over the weekend, but he was too sick to travel. Not good for someone expected to start at first base and hit at least 30 homers.

"He's had a heck of a winter," Gardenhire said. "We have to see how he is."

History suggests that Morneau should consider freezing himself in November and thawing out in February. A viral infection during the 2002 offseason caused him to lose 20 pounds. He then suffered a broken toe just before camp in 2003, causing Gardenhire to nickname him "Mour-toe."

It seems the good Doctor could use a good doctor.

(Thank you! I'll be here all week!)