Ausmus OK with Tigers hitting in Home Run Derby

DETROIT -- While Miguel Cabrera waits to decide whether he'll take part in the Home Run Derby, and Victor Martinez waits to see whether he'll make the All-Star team to be around for the Derby, their manager said he has no problem with any of his players taking their hacks at the outfield seats at Target Field.

Brad Ausmus knows the theory that a Home Run Derby can mess with a hitter's swing, but he doesn't buy it.

"I find it hard to believe that one round of batting practice is going to ruin your swing for the next three months," Ausmus said. "I guess if you advance, it's more."

That said, Ausmus admitted, "You can swing a little bit different if you're trying to only hit home runs."

Cabrera said earlier this week that he had heard from American League Derby captain Jose Bautista asking if he wanted to take part. He said he'd like to see Martinez take part in it. But while Cabrera is a lock to make the All-Star team, Martinez is going to have to wait until the reserves are announced Sunday evening before he knows whether he's going.