Miggy to start at third, Peralta in left for Game 5

OAKLAND -- Jim Leyland often likes to stick with a regular lineup when he can, but the Tigers manager can sometimes be a tinkerer. When Detroit makes an offseason acquisition, Leyland inevitably sits down and starts writing out batting orders and positions to figure out a fit.

As of Wednesday evening, Leyland gave the distinct impression he's still going over potential lineups for Game 5 of the American League Division Series on Thursday vs. the A's.

"I'm really not sure what my lineup is going to be just yet," Leyland said on a conference call. "Originally, we weren't sure who was going to pitch. We were a little suspicious that we might get [Sonny] Gray, so I was fooling around with [lineups] in my room just before the call, but I don't have a lineup just yet."

Miguel Cabrera definitely will be in his usual spot, batting third and playing third, Leyland confirmed. Cabrera looked noticeably affected at third base by his lingering groin injury, leading to some speculation whether he could get a game at designated hitter.

"He will play Game 5 at third base," Leyland said.

Jhonny Peralta will also be in the lineup, Leyland confirmed. Peralta started both games at Comerica Park in left field, driving in five runs and giving Detroit's lineup a desperately-needed jolt.