ST. PETERSBURG, Fla., Matt Capps is taking over as the Twins' closer so Joe Nathan can work on regaining his form in non-save situations as he comes back from elbow surgery.
The change was announced before Sunday's game against Tampa Bay.
Nathan had blown save opportunities Thursday and Saturday in games eventually won by the Rays. The right-hander missed all of last season after having right elbow ligament replacement surgery, and has been inconsistent this year.
"Until I start getting that back, and I know I will at some time, I don't want to put this team at any risk and cost them ballgames right now," Nathan said.
Inside pitch
• The San Francisco Giants placed pitcher Barry Zito on the 15-day disabled list Sunday, a day after the left-hander sprained his right foot attempting to field a bunt.
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• Tampa Bay left fielder Johnny Damon left Sunday's game against Minnesota with a bruise on the tip of his left ring finger.
