Detroit Tigers shortstop Jhonny Peralta was suspended 50 games in August for violating the MLB’s policy on performance-enhancing drugs, but his return to the diamond could come soon.
Tigers general manager Dave Dombrowski said on Wednesday (via Chris Iott of MLive.com) that “Jhonny Peralta will be activated for the game Friday.”
This would allow the 31-year-old to get some at-bats prior to the playoffs, but with the Tigers likely to use trade-deadline acquisition Jose Iglesias at shortstop during the postseason because of his exceptional defense, Peralta may find himself playing one of the corner outfield positions.
Peralta was sent to an instructional league during his suspension, where he played left field. Detroit does not have a power bat at this position right now, which is why moving Peralta to left field in October makes sense.
The Tigers have clinched a spot in the ALDS and need one more victory to capture a third straight AL Central title. They will finish the regular season with a three-game series against the Miami Marlins beginning on Friday.
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