Carpenter Nears Return, Tigers Lead AL Central

Detroit Tigers outfielder Kerry Carpenter has started a multi-game rehab assignment with Triple-A Toledo after a right hamstring strain sidelined him since late June. He played as a designated hitter in his first game and seven innings in right field in his second, with the team wanting to see him handle a full nine innings in the outfield before activation. Carpenter, 27, was hitting .257 with 16 home runs and a .780 OPS in 78 games before the injury, transitioning from a platoon to an everyday role. Despite a recent slump, he remains a crucial bat for the Tigers, who have lost seven of their last ten games but still top the AL Central. Manager A.J. Hinch reports that Carpenter's recovery is on track and he could return within the next week. His return is considered the Tigers' most significant impending lineup upgrade as the trade deadline nears.