"Twins righthander Carl Pavano was on the mound Wednesday, so Drew Butera started behind the plate because the pair have clicked in the past.

Rene Rivera was the starting catcher Tuesday as Liam Hendriks made his major league debut. That made sense, since they have worked together at Class AAA Rochester.

Rivera and Butera have worked behind the plate for more than two weeks now. Where, oh where, is Joe Mauer?

He hasn't caught a game since Aug. 20. Wednesday's 5-4 victory over the White Sox marked the 10th game in a row where he started either at first base or DH.

"I'm still working through this illness," said Mauer, who went 1-for-2 with a walk and a run as the Twins ended a five-game losing streak. "I'm going to catch again.""