The Detroit Tigers are getting close to seeing Kerry Carpenter back in the lineup.
The Tigers outfielder has started hitting, running and defense work, the team announced on Monday. Carpenter has been on the injured list since July 26, managing pain in his left foot due to plantar fasciitis.
The 29-year-old exited the July 26 game against the Kansas City Royals early after aggravating his foot, landing on the 10-day IL the following day after further testing revealed the injury was more serious than just a heel bruise. He has since received a cortisone injection and was even fitted for special shoes to help manage some pain.
Surprisingly, the absence has not impacted the Tigers too much. The club is still fighting for a postseason spot even after trading away star ace Tarik Skubal as well as Casey Mize, sitting at a 58-60 record.
Even so, the Tigers would appreciate any positive news on Carpenter's condition, as his bat would help strengthen the lineup and provide some help as the team pushes for the postseason.
Carpenter has been one of Detroit's more reliable power bats since debuting with the club in 2022, but his numbers have fallen considerably since heading to the IL in the middle of a difficult season, slashing .208/.276/.416 with 13 home runs.
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The next steps for Carpenter would be to continue working and advancing in his current program before possibly rejoining the lineup within the next several days, giving the Tigers a lift as they try to close the gap in a very tight American League Central race.
