Tigers DH Victor Martinez expected to begin rehab assignment Sunday

Detroit Tigers designated hitter Victor Martinez is expected to begin a rehab assignment on Sunday.

Detroit Tigers designated hitter Victor Martinez is expected to begin a minor league rehab assignment on Sunday, according to MLB.com writer Jason Beck.

Martinez has not played since May 18 after being put on the 15-day disabled list due to inflammation in his surgically-repaired left knee. He is scheduled for four minor league games, according to Beck.

The 36-year-old underwent meniscus surgery on his knee in February and was ready in time for Opening Day.

Prior to going on the DL, Martinez was hitting only .216 with one home run and 15 RBIs in 34 games on the season, including a .143 average against right-handed pitching. 

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Tigers manager Brad Ausmus was concerned about Martinez's struggles against right-handers as well as the injury, however said last month that changing the way Martinez bats was not in the discussion at the time.

Last November, the Tigers re-signed Martinez to a four-year, $68 million contract.

[Hardball Talk]

- Molly Geary