Quick hits

• Andy Dirks, who underwent back surgery earlier this month, returned to the Tigers' clubhouse for the first time Thursday, wearing a brace to keep his back in position to heal. He has not yet resumed any physical activity, Ausmus said.

• With Interleague Play coming in the second week of the schedule, Tigers starting pitchers -- with the exception of Thursday starter Max Scherzer -- began taking batting practice in the cages Thursday after three days working on bunts with coach Omar Vizquel.

"Today was the first time they swung the bat," Ausmus said.