Hardy took a cortisone shot on Tuesday, hoping that would alleviate the lingering pain. But manager Ron Gardenhire said it was still sore on Thursday night after he took some swings in batting practice, so the Twins decided to shut him down for a second time this season.
Hardy missed 13 games in May with the same injury. He hasn't played in a full game since June 4. But the injury-depleted Twins were forced to use him as a pinch runner on June 5 and 6, which increases the time he has to remain on the DL.
Hardy is hitting .217 with three home runs this season.
The Twins recalled infielder Trevor Plouffe from Rochester of the International League to take Hardy's place.
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