Leyland hints Jackson could return Saturday

CINCINNATI -- Jim Leyland brought the Tigers to Cincinnati for Interleague Play without the full positional roster he wanted for games without the designated hitter in a National League park. He won't have that until Austin Jackson returns from the disabled list.

That's likely to come Saturday. Leyland's hints to that effect have been stronger with each passing day.

"I don't have that [full bench] tonight. Hopefully, I will tomorrow," Leyland said Friday night. "But I can't swear to that."

Jackson was scheduled to play long enough for three plate appearances Thursday night for Triple-A Toledo, but stretched it out to a full game because he felt good. He's scheduled to get a full game for the Mud Hens Friday night as they close out their homestand.

From there, the Mud Hens head to Durham, N.C. on Saturday night. Unless something unexpected happens, Jackson won't be traveling with them.