Next step in Dirks' rehab could be Triple-A Toledo

DETROIT -- Andy Dirks could be in line to have his rehab assignment transferred to Triple-A Toledo later this week. The Tigers outfielder, who had surgery on his back, went 2-for-7 in his first two games for low Class A West Michigan before entering what is expected to be his final home start for the Whitecaps on Sunday.

The Whitecaps hit the road Monday for Lake County, Ohio, just outside Cleveland. They'll play three games there before returning to Michigan for four games against Lansing next weekend. However, Toledo -- a relatively short drive from Lake County -- returns home Thursday for a 10-game, 11-day homestand.

Dirks began his rehab assignment on Friday, going 1-for-3 as the Whitecaps' left fielder before going 1-for-4 as their DH on Saturday. He can rehab for up to 18 more days before the Tigers have to make a move with him. If he needs longer than that, they could use a Minor League option on him.