DETROIT (AP) -- Tigers manager Jim Leyland says he's skipping Rick Porcello's next turn in the rotation and insists the rookie's last two starts did not factor in the decision.
Leyland said Monday the team is trying to protect the 20-year-old right-hander by not scheduling him to start against the Cleveland Indians later this week. Leyland said he will be back in the rotation after next week's All-Star game.
Porcello, who is 8-6 this season, gave up nine earned runs in his last two outings after allowing eight earned runs in a four-start stretch.
Detroit drafted him 27th overall in 2007 and he spent only one season in the minors before earning a spot on the team this year.
Leyland said resting Porcello has always been part of the plan.