Avila awaiting birth of first child

MINNEAPOLIS -- Alex Avila went to Spring Training worrying whether he might have to fly home on Opening Day to be with his wife for the birth of their first child. That wasn't a concern on Monday. It might be a worry next week.

Avila's wife, Kristina, is at home in Detroit preparing for her final doctor's appointment before she's due.

"I'll be waiting for a call this weekend," Avila said.

The Tigers are at home from Friday until next Thursday, when they have a getaway matinee against the Blue Jays before flying to Oakland. As much of a concern as Opening Day was, a short flight from Minneapolis to Detroit would be easy. Getting back from the West Coast in time would be a little tougher.

It's already on his mind.