Tigers vs. Twins - Game 1

Detroit Tigers relief pitcher Phil Coke walks to the dugout after being pulled after just five pitches during the Tigers' 6-3 loss against the Minnesota Twins at Comerica Park on Aug. 20.

(Mike Mulholland | MLive.com)

DETROIT -- The Detroit Tigers are expected to carry at least seven relievers on their roster in the American League Division Series.

That roster won't include right-hander Bruce Rondon or left-hander Phil Coke.

Tigers manager Jim Leyland confirmed Tuesday that Rondon and Coke, both of whom are dealing with discomfort in their arms, won't be available for the Tigers in the ALDS.

"They're not going to be ready for the first round," Leyland said prior to the team's workout at Comerica Park.

It's unclear whether either pitcher will be added to the roster if the Tigers advance to the American League Championship Series.

"I feel bad because I wanted to be able to help this team in the first round," Rondon said through a translator.

Rondon experienced tenderness in his right elbow last Wednesday, a day after striking out the side in order in Minnesota. He had missed two weeks prior to his last appearance due to a similar bout of tenderness.

"Rondon would've been a nice piece without any question about it," Leyland said. "His performance in Minnesota was lightning. But, hey, that's the way it is. This who we are and this is what we've got and we're going to play."

Rondon, 22, has been shut down and hasn't participated in any baseball-related activities.

"It was difficult for me because I thought I was going to feel after that," Rondon said of his appearance in Minnesota. "It was great outing, but I felt the discomfort again and it was very disappointing."

Coke left the team in Minnesota and returned to Detroit last week to get an MRI exam after being shut down by the team. He was diagnosed with inflammation in the flexor area.

With Rondon and Coke out of the equation, the question now turns to who will be added. The Tigers are expected to carry at least two left-handed relievers. Drew Smyly is a surefire lock, leaving Darin Downs and Jose Alvarez in the mix for at least one spot.

As for Rondon's replacement? Leyland didn't name names Tuesday, but it seems likely that Luke Putkonen and Evan Reed will both be strongly considered. A final division-series roster must be submitted to Major League Baseball before midnight on Thursday.

"We're not ready to finalize the roster yet, but I'm sure you can do some figuring if you know Rondon and Coke are not available," Leyland said. "It looks like they won't be available. That should help you, all you mathematicians."

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