Drew VerHagen to make debut; Andy Dirks suffers setback

The Tigers will call up starting pitcher Drew VerHagen from AAA-Toledo this weekend for his MLB debut. He will start on Saturday in the 2nd game of the Tigers-Indians doubleheader that day. Many thought Robbie Ray would be summoned to make the start, but his ERA has skyrocketed of late, including his last start in which he allowed 8 runs on 11 hits.Since the Tigers are playing a doubleheader that day, they are allowed to have 26 men on the active roster, so nobody will need to be sent down. VerHagen is 6-7 overall with a 3.67 ERA in Toledo this season and the 12th ranked prospect in the Tigers system.

In other Tigers news, Andy Dirks has suffered a setback and has been recalled from his injury rehab assignment. Reports say he’s suffering from inflammation in his lower back due to increased activity. He will remain on the 60-day disabled list. Dirks had back surgery and has been suffering from minor setbacks in his effort to return to the lineup. He was scheduled for a return to the lineup in late July, but that option appears to be gone. It’s unclear when he’ll make his season debut for the Tigers. The Tigers outfield is already stacked, with JD Martinez, Rajai Davis, Austin Jackson, and Torii Hunter all playing well this season, so all this will do is delay Brad Ausmus’ decision making.

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