Kepler (hamstring) is starting Saturday's game against the Royals, Betsy Helfand of the St. Paul Pioneer Press reports.

EDGE Analysis

Kepler was held out of Friday's lineup due to a lingering hamstring issue, but he'll play right field and lead off Saturday. Manager Rocco Baldelli is hopeful that Kepler can avoid a trip to the injured list, and the Twins could monitor his playing time in the coming days to prevent against a long-term issue.