Veteran infielder Carlos Guillen is dealing with a knee injury that will force him to the DL and start the season on the DL. This will be the first time that Guillen will miss an Opening Day since 2004.

The problem is that it’s still uncertain when he will return. Tom Gage asked Lynn Henning of the Detroit News when he believes Guillen will be back to the team.

“Not to be flippant, but I don’t think he will,” said Henning. “Too much lingering discomfort. The Tigers will need to get on with their lives. Guillen probably gets bought out even if he escapes the DL.”

Will Rhymes will be Guillen’s replacement when the season begins and depending on how he performs it could accelerate Guillens departure.

Guillen though remains focused on coming back and according to Jason Beck of MLB.com (via Ormuz Jesus Sojo of LiderEnDeportes.com), he’s ready to start working out again. He has been limited so far to hitting from a batting tee.

“I don’t feel frustrated,” said Guillen. “Every time that my body says I’m ready, I’m ready.”

“He’s a good player…” said Guillen about Rhymes. “I like the way he plays. He’s probably 5 feet tall, but plays like a man. He does the rutine plays as well as the double plays. He’s tough.”