The Minnesota Twins have scratched designated hitter Jim Thome from Wednesday's lineup against Detroit because of tightness in his back.

Thome told manager Ron Gardenhire he felt fine swinging, but he felt tightness jogging before the American League Central Division matchup. Jose Morales replaced Thome, who hasn't played since leaving Saturday's game due to discomfort.

Second baseman Orlando Hudson and right-fielder Jason Kubel were also out. Kubel was hit on the left wrist by a pitch Tuesday and Hudson's foot is hurting. Hudson's MRI test showed no damage.

Kubel's X-rays were negative. Both players are day to day.

Also, reliever Brian Fuentes reported improvement in his back after it locked up in the bullpen Tuesday.

Morales and shortstop Trevor Plouffe were recalled from AAA before the game.

Minnesota entered play Wednesday atop the Central standings with a 76-56 record and four-game lead over the second-place Chicago White Sox.

The Twins remain without first baseman Justin Morneau of New Westminster, B.C.

He continues to recover from a concussion suffered while sliding into second base in Toronto on July 8.

Morneau has experienced lingering symptoms from the concussion ever since, but many were encouraged when he started taking swings and joining the team in the dugout for some home games a few weeks ago.

Morneau was absent at Target Field when his Minnesota Twins returned home to open a three-game series against Detroit on Monday.

Doctors told Morneau to stay at home until at least Friday, manager Ron Gardenhire said Tuesday. Gardenhire said it wasn't a setback and that Morneau would continue to do some cardio work and other workouts from home.