For the first time in my big-league career, I'll be starting a rehab assignment to return to the Tigers as soon as possible. My first game will be in Grand Rapids, Michigan, where I will play for the West Michigan Whitecaps. I'm nervous and excited all wrapped up in one.
This is almost going to be like the first day of spring training games in terms of seeing what I have skill-wise. I haven't seen a live pitch since the injury. I also haven't caught or fielded a live ball in the outfield since the injury, and I haven't run the bases in a game since the injury, so all of these things will be test for me.
I have never played in Grand Rapids, but I hear the fans pack the stadium and hopefully it will be packed this Friday as well. Every player who has come through there has told me they enjoyed it, so I'm looking forward to it. After the game on Friday, I will be heading to Toledo to play pn Saturday and Sunday. Being in Toledo will bring back some fond memories for me. I had a great time playing for the Mud Hens in 2005. Toledo is a great city that doesn't get too much attention. The fans come out in large numbers, the ballpark is great and it's right in the heart of downtown Toledo. It has the city skyline feel to it.
I'm looking forward to playing in both Grand Rapids and Toledo. I'm also looking forward to seeing how my hand/finger will hold up and respond to the first few games, at-bats and throws from the outfield. I'm hoping all goes well soon, but I still have to be cautious because I have to get my timing down against pitchers and get my confidence at the plate back before I return to the Tigers' lineup. The frustrating thing about it is that there is no set date on when I'm supposed to return to the Tigers' lineup. Each day I play on the rehab assignment will put me one day closer to that answer. So all I can really do is go out there, play, and hope for the best.
Curtis Granderson
