DETROIT -- When Drew Smyly was removed from Tuesday night's Mud Hens game after one inning, it was a natural conclusion to draw that the Tigers might need him.
Manager Jim Leyland revealed Tuesday that Doug Fister was dealing with a groin issue that might prevent him from making his next start, scheduled for Saturday.
When asked Wednesday whether Smyly was removed from the game in case he needs to start in Detroit Saturday, Leyland said, "I would say that's probably true."
Although Leyland said Fister was feeling better Wednesday, athletic trainer Kevin Rand didn't sound quite so sure.
"I'd say still pretty much the same," Rand said. "There's still some soreness there. We're going to treat him multiple times again today.
"He's going to go out and play catch. But it'll be just catch. We're not ready to put him up on the mound."
Rand said they have started contrast treatments on Fister, adding heat to the ice and electric stimulation mix.
Rand said they're being very careful with Fister's adductor strain.
"We're aggressive, but we've got to be smart aggressive," Rand said. "There's still some soreness in there, still pretty tender, so we've got to be smart with it."
