CHICAGO -- The Detroit Tigers announced Thursday pitcher Dontrelle Willis will be activated from the disabled list (anxiety disorder) and will start Wednesday at Minnesota.
Zach Miner, who started during the first month of the season, will return to the bullpen to make room for Willis. "They think he doesn't benefit anymore from being down there," Tigers manager Jim Leyland said of Willis' two rehabilitation outings with the Toledo Mud Hens. "So, it's time to find out. I agree. It's time to find out."
Willis, 27, had been placed on the disabled list March 29.
He allowed two runs in 7 2/3 innings on five hits and four walks Wednesday against Pawtucket. He had a respectable 3.55 ERA in two outings with Toledo, but walked six in 12 2/3 innings.
Willis has yet to win a game for the Tigers since being obtained before the 2008 season from the Florida Marlins. He signed a three-year contract for $29 million shortly after the trade.
Bonderman progressing
Jeremy Bonderman (shoulder) is throwing his fastball between 89 and 91 mph without pain in Lakeland, Fla., and nearing a rehabilitation assignment.
"He's stretched out to 70 pitches and throwing well," Tigers general manager Dave Dombrowski said. "He'll pitch again (in an extended spring training game) Monday, and we will go from there."
