"Rod Carew, who started his 19-year Hall of Fame baseball career with the Twins as a second baseman, switched positions and played most of the last half of his career as a first baseman.

Carew, who played his final seven seasons with the California Angels, said playing first base shouldn't be a problem for Joe Mauer if the four-time all-star catcher moves there temporarily to fill in for injured Justin Morneau and help preserve his tender knees.

"It's not bad; it's a very fun position to play because you're handling the ball from everybody when you're at first base," Carew said. "It was easy for me because I played second base, and the footwork that I had to do at second base really helped me at first base. (Manager) Gene Mauch took me over there and really worked hard with me.

"I'm sure (Twins special assistant) Tom Kelly, who was a first baseman in the Twins organization, will be able to help Joe."

Carew won the AL batting championship seven times. Mauer is a three-time batting champion who took a six-game hitting streak and .241 average into Saturday's game against Milwaukee.

"Joe just has to get more playing time," Carew said. "This kid is a very good hitter, and once everything starts to click, he's going to be right back where he's accustomed to be.""