Twins manager Ron Gardenhire said during a conference call with season-ticket holders Thursday that he's thought about giving Joe Mauer some playing time at third base next season. Gardy has yet to approach Mauer, so obviously it's not an idea that's far along. Perhaps it will gain more steam next spring. "That's the first I've heard of it today," Mauer said. "I haven't even wrapped my head around it, so if that is the case, hopefully I have some time to prepare for it. But I think, and I've said this all along, I think we're a better team when I'm behind the plate."