Tigers Blog

Category: Tigers' Spring Training

What's up with Bonderman?

Jeremy Bonderman will not make his scheduled start Saturday against the Mets in Lakeland. He has "normal stiffness" from throwing, manager Jim Leyland said. Bonderman will throw in a simulated game instead.

The Tigers want Bonderman to throw in a more monitored situation than an exhibition game, and they don't want him to overexert himself. He will be limited to 30 pitches.

"But there are no red flags here," said Leyland. "This is just a precautionary measure."

Bonderman wanted to pitch, wasn't happy at the switch, but Leyland called it "common sense. We have to do what's best for him and for the ballclub."

No guarantee Bonderman won't have another such session before his first start in an exhibition. "Sometimes those things take a little time," said Leyland, "but we think he's right on schedule."

According to the trainer's report, Leyland said, Bonderman complained of stiffness. "So if you're complaining, I want to take all the doubt away, and not get him out there in a competitive situation trying to do too much."

Raburn starts in center
Ryan Raburn started in center Thursday. Does he have to prove this spring he can play center or do the Tigers already know he can? A backup role could depend on it. "I want to see more of him in center," Leyland said, not elaborating, which sounds as if he still has something to prove.

Watch out for the sun

Advisory: I'm not saying it's going to happen, but if there's an outfield problem Thursday, like a ball getting lost in the sun, don't be alarmed. This is a brutal sky here in Viera. "Willie Mays could misjudge one today," said Leyland. "That's just the way it is here."

• Spring training photos: Check out the latest shots