Michael Cuddyer was called up for several reasons, mostly because he hit .301 with 30 homers and 87 RBI for Class AA New Britain and looks close to being ready for the majors.

The right- handed hitter also can fill in at three positions and give Twins manager Tom Kelly some flexibility. He is scheduled to participate in the Arizona Fall League for top prospects, so this is a way to keep him sharp before the league starts in October.

The Twins' right field job also will be wide open in 2002. So Cuddyer will be able to get a taste of the majors while the Twins see if their 1997 first-round pick deserves to compete for a roster spot in the spring.

'If you look at what already is in place here and what could be the best situation for him, his best position is probably the outfield,' General Manager Terry Ryan said.

Cuddyer was drafted as a shortstop but was moved to third base in the minors. Ryan credited Kelly for encouraging Cuddyer in spring training to try other positions since Corey Koskie is coming into his own at third. Cuddyer played 81 games at third, 57 at first and 19 in left field for New Britain this season.

Cuddyer said he has been working with outfielders coach Jerry White on playing right field. 'It was definitely a learning experience, playing different positions,' Cuddyer said. 'It has gone well, and I definitely feel like I've learned a lot.'

Bobby Kielty started in right on Tuesday, but no one has stepped up to claim the job that was created when Matt Lawton was traded to the Mets on July 30.