Gary

Knotts

He pitched an acceptable game this past Saturday against Minnesota which earned him another start this week.

The Tigers, who don’t need a fifth starter until a week from Saturday, could use Esteban Yan in that role, or promote one of Toledo’s starters, namely Pat Ahearne or Shane Loux. There is plenty of time before manager Alan Trammell needs to make a decision here.

Detroit manager Alan Trammell wants a right-handed starter to start between lefthanders Mike Marroth (Thursday) and Nate Robertson (Saturday). Look for Knotts to get the assignment.

He will pitch in a simulated game this week while the Tigers are in Oakland, and then the team will likely send him out on a rehab assignment.

He will pitch in long relief after missing the past two weeks with a sore right shoulder.

It’s the first win for Knotts since July 9.

Manager Alan Trammell has a sick sense of humor. Jamie Walker picked up the win in relief.

Knotts had an awful spring, but he really got the job done today. He’s still someone to avoid in AL-only leagues.

Someone has to come out of the bullpen to pitch the first three to five innings on Saturday, and Knotts is the most likely candidate.

Knotts gave up one run and two hits in his second career save.