Tigers optioned RHP Brayan Villarreal to Triple-A Toledo.
Villarreal was terrific for the Tigers last season, but he's struggled mightily in the early going this year, posting a 20.77 ERA over his first seven appearances. He'll get another shot later this summer.

Brayan Villarreal walked all three batters he faced and was charged with three runs Wednesday against the Blue Jays.
Villarreal forced an inherited runner in with the third walk. After he left, Octavio Dotel immediately gave up a three-run double to score all of Villarreal's runners and leave the right-hander with a 54.00 ERA after three appearances. Villarreal threw really well this spring to perhaps enhance his status as a sleeper saves candidate, but now it's time to wonder if he might get sent down to get straightened out.

Brayan Villarreal worked a scoreless eighth inning on Friday, lowering his spring ERA to 1.80.
Villarreal and Joaquin Benoit aren't supposed to be in the mix for saves, but they've been the Tigers' two best relievers this spring. Villarreal, who was left off the postseason roster despite a successful 2012, has allowed two runs and posted a 12/3 K/BB ratio in 10 innings. His bullpen spot should be secure, but he'll probably be a middle reliever initially.

Brayan Villarreal (elbow) has resumed his throwing program.
Villarreal declared himself "full-go" for spring training after being shut down from pitching in the Venezuelan Winter League due to elbow soreness. The 25-year-old right-hander is expected to to open the season in the Tigers' bullpen, and will be a candidate to take on a more prominent role in 2013.

Brayan Villarreal has been shut down from pitching in the Venezuelan Winter League due to elbow soreness.
Villarreal tossed three scoreless innings with Caribes de Anzoategui before complaining of elbow soreness in mid-December. He was sent back to the United States for tests, which revealed inflammation but no structural damage. Still, the Tigers want him to play it safe and focus on being ready for spring training. The 25-year-old right-hander posted a 2.63 ERA and 66/28 K/BB ratio over 54 2/3 innings last season and should be a solid lock for a bullpen spot if healthy.