Peralta learning left field in instructional league

DETROIT -- Jhonny Peralta has started working out with the Tigers' instructional league team in Florida in anticipation of his return from suspension next weekend, taking fly balls in left field.

Instructional league workouts began on Thursday. Once games begin Monday, Peralta is expected to see his first live pitching since accepting a 50-game suspension last month for his role in the Biogenesis scandal.

"He's doing fine. He's doing everything that he's supposed to be doing, getting some work," manager Jim Leyland said. "He's probably not a Gold Glover just yet, but he's doing what he's supposed to be doing, and I think that's the best way to look at it.

"People sometimes read into it more than there is. It's a potential option. That's what this is. We have no idea how this is going to play out."

Peralta is eligible to join the active roster next Friday for the three-game series against the Marlins to end the regular season. Leyland said earlier this week that he anticipates Peralta being brought back for that, though he has left the postseason roster question open.

That said, Leyland repeated his phrase that he anticipates decisions on a potential playoff roster to be a "no-brainer."