Rivera could be off DL by this weekend

St. Petersburg, Fla. New York Yankees closer Mariano Rivera reported no problems after throwing 31 pitches in batting practice Tuesday and could be activated from the disabled list by this weekend.

Rivera, who has been sidelined by a strained shoulder, is to throw in the bullpen Thursday and might be activated before the three-game weekend series at Detroit.

Rivera is 1-4 with 27 saves and a 2.85 ERA this season.

Finalists announced for Marvin Miller Award

New York Alex Rodriguez, Derek Jeter and John Smoltz were among the six finalists selected by fans for the Marvin Miller man of the year award, to be presented by the players’ association.

Luis Gonzalez, Torii Hunter and Fred McGriff also were selected by fans, who voted on the Internet from Sept. 9-15. The award goes to a player whose performance and contributions to his community inspire others.

Twins’ outfielders Hunter, Jones injured

Detroit In the first game after clinching the AL Central title, two Minnesota Twins outfielders were hurt Tuesday night against Detroit.

Torii Hunter left in the sixth inning because of a bruised left arm after being hit by a pitch, and Jacque Jones came out in the seventh inning after injuring his left ankle during an awkward slide into second base.