Last week, commissioner Bud Selig proposed much tougher penalties for players caught using steroids. He sent a letter to the union calling for a 50-game suspension for first-time steroid offenders, a 100-game penalty for a second offense and a lifetime ban for a third violation under what he called a “three strikes and you are out approach” to doping. Union head Donald Fehr sent a letter to Selig on Monday saying the players’ association was willing to discuss it.

With three straight AL Central titles, the Twins have been lauded for their success in a small market and have received several organization-of-the-year awards from various publications. For a franchise proud of its positive image, it was a bad way to start the week. Though publicly offering support for Rincon, the Twins weren’t happy to hear it, either.

“It’s a tough day,” Gardenhire said. “I think we’re all surprised, but hopefully we’ll get through this thing. We’ll let the process take its place and do the best we can.

“We’re on his side. We’ve always stood by our players. They make mistakes. They’re humans. It’s a learning process for everybody.”

Right-hander Scott Baker, one of the team’s top minor-league prospects, was brought up from Triple-A Rochester to fill Rincon’s roster spot. The bullpen responsibilities of lefty J.C. Romero and righty Jesse Crain will increase, as will the pressure on the starters to last longer in games.

“Obviously that’s going to put a little strain on the staff,” said right-hander Kyle Lohse, who is the team’s union representative.

Lohse said he called Rincon to hear his teammate’s side of the story. Because of the pending grievance, everyone was reluctant to divulge details.

“He doesn’t want to affect the team like that,” Lohse said. “It’s surprising to have a teammate come up positive. Hopefully we can clear it up and move along.”

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