Tigers' Avila Remains Sidelined With Dizziness; McCann To Start

KANSAS CITY (AP) — Tigers catcher Alex Avila remained sidelined by concussion-like symptoms Friday, and manager Brad Ausmus was uncertain when the veteran backstop will be able to return to the lineup.

Rookie catcher James McCann started in Avila's place as Detroit began a crucial three-game series against the Royals, who were a half-game back in the AL Central.

Avila took a foul ball off his mask two weeks ago in Cleveland and didn't catch the next four games. He then left Sunday's game against the Indians with some light-headedness.

He tried to work out the past two days but the symptoms returned.

In a bit of positive news, right-hander Anibal Sanchez felt good after a bullpen session Thursday. He's expected to throw a simulated game Sunday as he rehabs a strained chest muscle.

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