"Using an old first baseman's mitt owned by Michael Cuddyer, Joe Mauer took grounders at first base Monday afternoon as manager Ron Gardenhire looked on and offered some tips.

Mauer has agreed to provide Gardenhire with another option on days he's not catching. Mauer hasn't played first base since 2002 when he was in the minors.

"I haven't played there in 10 years," Mauer said. "It's been a while. I'm trying to learn the best I can, that if the situation comes up then I'll be comfortable out there."

Mauer took grounders during early workouts and regular batting practice. Gardenhire stood nearby both times. Jason Kubel also took grounders at first during BP and could be an option as well.

"I think the thing is that everyone sees me with a first baseman's mitt, and it's not a position change," Mauer said. "I'm a catcher. That's what I signed to do and things like that. Given the circumstances, [if] I can play over there a couple days, here and there, that would be a good thing."