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Igawa returns when Yankees visit Tigers

May 9, 2008 - 1:20 PM NY Yankees (18-18) at Detroit (15-21) 7:05 pm EDT

DETROIT (Ticker) - The New York Yankees will recall lefthander Kei Igawa from Class AAA Scranton/Wilkes-Barre when they visit the Detroit Tigers in the opener of a three-game series Friday.

The Yankees much-publicized pitching woes have them short two members of the Opening Day rotation. Youngsters Phil Hughes and Ian Kennedy combined to post an 0-6 record and an 8.76 ERA before heading to the disabled list and the minor leagues, respectively.

That has opened the door for Igawa, who flamed out in his first season in the Bronx last season. The former Japanese star was signed by the club with much fanfare in December of 2006 after New York paid a posting fee of $26 million to the Hanshin Tigers to negotiate with him.

The Yankees then signed Igawa to a five-year, $20 million contract only to watch him post a 2-3 mark with a 6.25 ERA in 14 games - 12 starts - with the major league club, allowing 15 homers in 67 2/3 innings.

Igawa has performed well at Scranton this season, however, going 3-3 with a 3.86 ERA and striking out 40 batters in 39 2/3 innings. He has allowed three homers in seven starts and limited opponents to a .223 average.

New York avoided a sweep Thursday with a 6-3 victory over the Cleveland Indians. Johnny Damon, Jason Giambi, Robinson Cano and Wilson Betemit each homered in the win.

The Tigers are coming of a 5-1 loss to the Boston Red Sox and have dropped six of their past seven games overall.

They will counter with veteran Kenny Rogers (2-3, 6.27 ERA). The lefthander has yet to find any rhythm this season, failing to put together two solid starts in a row.

Rogers did not factor in the decision Sunday at Minnesota, surrendering five runs - three earned - and six hits in 6 2/3 innings. Usually solid with his command, Rogers has been poor so far - walking 19 batters in 37 2/3 frames this season.