Zimmermann activated, will start Saturday

CHICAGO — Jordan Zimmermann is ready for his next chance to reboot an injury-plagued season.

The veteran Tigers right-hander, who’s been on the 15-day disabled list three times, was activated Tuesday and will make his next start Saturday against the Orioles at Comerica Park.

“I’m pain-free, I feel great and the ball is coming out good,” said Zimmermann, who made his third rehab start with Triple-A Toledo on Monday and allowed seven runs (two earned) in 4 2/3 innings. “I have pretty good command of the offspeed pitches, so it’s way, way better than when I was rehabbing the first time and tried coming back [in August]. I feel as strong or if not stronger than I did in April. I’m excited to get back out there.”

Zimmermann has missed time with a groin strain that landed him on the DL in May followed by a neck strain that sidelined him at the beginning of July. While attempting to return from the neck issue, he aggravated it and felt tightness in his right lat muscle.

As a result of his absences, Zimmermann said he’s lost some zip on his fastball, which was clocked at 90-93 mph Monday. He doesn’t anticipate the lost velocity returning this season, but remains optimistic about helping the Tigers make a push to qualify for the postseason in the stretch run.

Detroit entered …

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