DETROIT -- Tigers star Miguel Cabrera, who was said to be day-to-day after suffering a left biceps strain, will not play against the Kansas City Royals on Tuesday night, the team announced.
According to manager Brad Ausmus, the club is erring on the side of caution. Cabrera reported to the ballpark Tuesday feeling much better; Ausmus said he had to be talked out of playing.
"It's better to be cautious. If this were the last week of the season, I promise you Miggy would be playing," Ausmus said.
Ausmus said the maximum amount of time he expects the former Triple Crown winner to miss is two to three days. Asked if there has been any discussion about a potential stint on the disabled list, Ausmus responded: "Absolutely zero."
Cabrera, the Tigers' lone All-Star this season, was removed from Monday's 3-1 loss in the top of the fifth inning and replaced by catcher Jarrod Saltalamacchia at first base.
Saltalamacchia again will replace Cabrera at first base Tuesday.
Ausmus said Cabrera experienced a similar issue with his biceps muscle earlier this season.
"He did, a few weeks ago," Ausmus said. "He said that he felt similar, but it wasn't as bad and he could play through it."
Cabrera is batting .310 with 27 home runs and 77 RBIs. He has 999 RBIs in nine seasons with the Tigers.
The Tigers already are without three key position players: center fielder Cameron Maybin (thumb), third baseman Nick Castellanos (hand) and shortstop Jose Iglesias (hamstring). The club is down a pair of pitchers as well, with Jordan Zimmermann (neck strain) and Mike Pelfrey (back) also on the disabled list.
