Maybe Jordan Zimmermann can end his Tigers career on a high note.
The veteran righty was reinstated from the injured list Wednesday and will start the second game of Thursday's doubleheader against the Cardinals. Detroit enters play 1.5 games out of the final AL playoff spot.
Zimmermann has been sidelined since summer camp due to a forearm strain, but he's worked his back onto the mound. He's stretched out to about 50-60 pitches, Ron Gardenhire said Wednesday.
"I know he's anxious to get here, anxious to go with us, and I think he's very excited. He's feeling good right now, so you're going to get to see it like I'm going to get to see it," Gardenhire said.
How Zimmermann Saved A Career On The Brink
Zimmermann, 34, hasn't appeared in a game for the Tigers since September of last season. He went 1-13 with a 6.91 ERA in 2019, riddled by injuries throughout the year.
Injuries have been the story of Zimmermann's career since signing a five-year, $110 million contract with Detroit in 2016. So has perseverance.
The Tigers are hoping his final impression will be a good one.
Boyd Defends Zimmermann From Flak From Fans
"It's awesome to have him in the clubhouse," Matthew Boyd said Wednesday. "He's been in it multiple times, so to have him here is going to be huge for us. We're excited to see him pitch. He's been working so hard to get back and contribute. It's much needed."
The Tigers also added left-hander Nick Ramirez to the 40-man roster Wednesday, while sending relievers Kyle Funkhouser and John Schreiber to the alternate training site in Toledo.
The team moved Ivan Nova and JaCoby Jones to the 45-day injured list to make room for Zimmermann and Ramirez on the 40-man roster.
