DETROIT -- Three players who began the season on the disabled list are each making progress toward returning to the lineup.
Outfielder Carl Crawford is set to begin getting some at-bats in extended spring training games "very soon,'' according to manager Bobby Valentine.
'I heard he's progressing really nicely,'' said manager Bobby Valentine. "There was a conversation about whether he would want to come up for the (home opener) and he's rather get the DH appearances that are scheduled. He's feeling good.''
If Crawford experiences no setbacks in the extended spring games in Fort Myers, he could begin his rehab assignment with a minor league affiliate.
The plan calls for Crawford to get some at-bats as a DH, then have him graduate to some time in the outfield and running the bases.
"We're trying to get a comprehensive, but not rushed program for him,'' said Valentine.
The expectation is that Crawford will need approximately 50 at-bats between extended spring games and rehab games before being activated.
Rich Hill (Tommy John surgery) and Andrew Miller (hamstring) are both scheduled to pitch for Single A Greenville Saturday.
Hill is scheduled to start and pitch the first inning, with Miller coming in for the second inning.
Miller, who started some games in spring training, will be used exclusively out of the bullpen for the time being.
"We don't have the time to stretch him out now,'' said Valentine.