A's won't turn to Colon on short rest

DETROIT -- Though Tigers manager Jim Leyland expects to have Max Scherzer available out of the bullpen for an elimination Game 4 on Tuesday in Detroit, A's manager Bob Melvin has ruled out the possibility of utilizing his Game 1 starter in the contest.

Asked if Bartolo Colon, who lost to Scherzer in Game 1 of the American League Division Series on Friday, is an option for him Tuesday, Melvin answered, "Not today."

"In the bullpen, everyone is available today," he continued, "so I don't think that dynamic is there for us in this game."

That's not to say Melvin, whose club holds a 2-1 series advantage, is without a proven option should starter Dan Straily struggle to get through enough innings. Lefty Brett Anderson, who started Game 3 of the ALDS last year, remains available out of the bullpen.

"That's kind of the wild card," said Melvin. "He can give you length. He's been a starter and he gets righties and lefties out, and I think similar in the Scherzer situation for them, he does give us that dynamic. He certainly could give you three or three-plus."