Zimm’s sim game doesn’t clarify situation

MINNEAPOLIS — Daniel Norris’ leaping catch at the center-field fence during Jordan Zimmermann’s simulated game Tuesday afternoon at Target Field was a good sign of Norris’ athleticism and the camaraderie Tigers pitchers feel to play defense for their teammate. It was not as good of a sign for Zimmermann.

Zimmermann’s second such performance — 68 pitches over four simulated innings to a handful of Tigers batters — went about the same as the first, according to manager Brad Ausmus. The right-hander had some good swing-and-miss pitches and improved as he went on, but also gave up some solid contact. 

“He feels fine, he feels healthy,” Ausmus said. “He just feels inconsistent with his mechanics.” 

Considering Zimmermann’s previous simulated game prompted a repeat simulated game rather than a return to the Tigers’ rotation, the next step is unclear. Ausmus said he needed to talk with pitching coach Rich Dubee before determining the next step in the next day or two. 

Zimmermann, who wasn’t available for comment afterward, has made two outings for the Tigers since the end of June, spending two different stints on the disabled list with what the Tigers labeled a right neck strain. He gave up six runs on four hits, three of them home runs, over 10 batters against the Orioles on Sept. 10, prompting the simulated games. 

With Zimmermann on simulated game duty …

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