Victor Martinez returns to the lineup as Detroit Tigers take on Tampa Bay Rays

Jun 25, 2014; Arlington, TX, USA; Detroit Tigers designated hitter

(41) looks into the stands after hitting a home run in the fifth inning against the Texas Rangers at Globe Life Park in Arlington . Mandatory Credit: Tim Heitman-USA TODAY Sports

After missing three straight games, the entire sweep of the Oakland Athletics–Victor Martinez will return to the lineup Thursday night as his Detroit Tigers face the Tampa Bay Rays.

It seemed the Tigers were being overly cautious for Martinez’s status and had it been September or later, he probably would be playing. Manager Brad Ausmus stated that V-Mart was battling through a strain of his side, but had been taking batting practice on many of the days he didn’t play. He took BP today and is ready to go.

This will slide J.D. Martinez back to his customary position at fifth, and he’ll start in left with Rajai Davis the odd man out tonight.

More from Detroit Tigers News

• Detroit Tigers: Victor Reyes finding ways to get the job done
• The Detroit Tigers must cut their losses and release Jonathan Schoop
• Detroit Tigers: Garrett Hill’s new role and changed delivery are excellent
• Detroit Tigers: Joe Jiménez has rebounded in 2022
• Detroit Tigers: Is it finally time to move the fences in at Comerica Park?

Full Lineup:

1. Austin Jackson-CF
2. Ian Kinsler-2B
3. Miguel Cabrera-1B
4. Victor Martinez-DH
5. J.D. Martinez-LF
6. Torii Hunter-RF
7. Nick Castellanos-3B
8. Alex Avila-C
9. Eugenio Suarez-SS

Max Scherzer gets the start.

For a more in-depth preview, see our earlier post.