Hunter returns to Tigers' lineup vs. Padres

SAN DIEGO -- Torii Hunter returned to the Tigers' lineup Saturday after missing the previous two games with a bruised left knee.

"We were hoping he would play yesterday, but it was just a case where his knee wouldn't allow him to play right field," manager Brad Ausmus said. "As the old saying goes, [he was] day to day, and today's the day that he can play. Like Dr. Seuss."

Hunter's return brought a cascade effect down the rest of the lineup. With Hunter batting third after Rajai Davis and Ian Kinsler, Miguel Cabrera moved back to cleanup. It also gave the Tigers a little flexibility to sit Victor Martinez, who had been shuffling between catcher and first base with no DH slot in National League parks.