Francisco Liriano on the possibility of closing for the Twins

The Twins have yet to approach Francisco Liriano to see if he would like a chance to replace Joe Nathan as the team's closer, but that conversation could happen soon as Nathan contemplates season-ending elbow surgery.

"I'm open to it, but I'd prefer to start," Liriano said Saturday morning.

Liriano is the leading candidate for the team's fifth starter spot, but some team insiders believe he could be a good closer. If the Twins went that route, they could use Brian Duensing or Glen Perkins in the No. 5 spot.

"I want to be a starter," Liriano said. "Being a closer, I've never had experience before, but I'd try it."