DETROIT -- The calendar turned to September on Thursday, and the Tigers wasted little time taking advantage of the expanded roster opportunity.
Right-hander Jacob Turner, Detroit’s top prospect, will make a spot start in the rotation today – the second start of his career. He is expected to remain with the club following Thursday’s start.
The Tigers promoted infielder Will Rhymes, outfielder Andy Dirks and right-hander Luis Marte for the first day of expanded rosters. Second baseman Carlos Guillen was activated from the disabled list Thursday and rejoined the Tigers, too.
Turner, 20, made his first start July 30 and allowed two runs over 5 1/3 innings in a 5-1 loss to Los Angeles. Marte made the jump from Double-A Erie and will pitch out of the bullpen. He has allowed just 29 hits while striking out 68 in 53 innings pitched for Erie this season. He has a 3-0 record and a 1.70 ERA in 23 games for Erie.
Other September callus will likely take place after Triple-A Toledo's regular season concludes Monday. Manager Jim Leyland acknowledged Thursday that a catcher, presumably Omir Santos, will be recalled when he is eligible to return.
Santos was optioned to Toledo last week -- a day after being called up from Triple-A last Thursday. A player must remain on optional assignment for 14 days, unless replacing an injured player. Infielder Danny Worth, who was optioned to Triple-A Toledo on Saturday, falls under such a rule and is expected to be recalled early next week, too.